U.S. patent application number 11/573690 was filed with the patent office on 2007-08-23 for gaming machine interfaceable with collectible gaming token.
Invention is credited to Mark B. Gagner.
Application Number | 20070197275 11/573690 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35908157 |
Filed Date | 2007-08-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070197275 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gagner; Mark B. |
August 23, 2007 |
Gaming machine interfaceable with collectible gaming token
Abstract
A gaming machine for conducting a wagering game controlled by a
processor dispenses, receives, and interacts with collectible
portable tracking devices, or tokens. The gaming machine includes a
token dispenser, a token receiver and an interface. Each token is
equipped with a computer readable storage medium adapted to either
directly store game play information or store a player identifier
which can be used to retrieve game play information from the game
machine. The interface of the gaming machine facilitates
communication between the computer readable storage medium and the
processor. The token has a theme associated with the theme of the
gaming machine. The token also includes a receiver and an
information indicator for receiving and communicating gameplay or
casino information to the player.
Inventors: |
Gagner; Mark B.; (West
Chicago, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
NIXON PEABODY LLP
161 N CLARK ST.
48TH FLOOR
CHICAGO
IL
60601-3213
US
|
Family ID: |
35908157 |
Appl. No.: |
11/573690 |
Filed: |
August 10, 2005 |
PCT Filed: |
August 10, 2005 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US05/28645 |
371 Date: |
February 13, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60601735 |
Aug 13, 2004 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/16 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3218 20130101;
G07F 17/3239 20130101; G07F 17/32 20130101; G07F 1/06 20130101;
G07F 17/3251 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/016 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A gaming machine for conducting a wagering game, comprising: a
processor for executing the wagering game, and; a dispenser for
dispensing at least one of a voucher and a collectible token, the
token having a theme associated with a theme of the gaming machine,
the voucher redeemable for the collectible token.
2. The gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the token is an article
of jewelry.
3. The gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the token is
wearable.
4. The gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the token is a figurine
associated with the theme of the gaming machine.
5. The gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the token is a three
dimensional character of the theme of the gaming machine.
6. The gaming machine of claim 1, wherein the token has a computer
readable storage medium which communicates with the processor.
7. The gaming machine of claim 6, wherein the computer readable
storage medium stores gameplay information received from the
processor.
8. The gaming machine of claim 7, wherein the gameplay information
is selected from the group consisting of jackpot information,
progressive information, player information and gaming machine
availability information.
9. A gaming machine for conducting a wagering game, comprising: a
processor for executing the wagering game, and; an interface
connecting the processor with a portable tracking device, the
tracking device having a computer readable storage medium, the
tracking device further having a theme associated with a theme of
the gaming machine.
10. The gaming machine of claim 9, wherein the computer readable
storage medium stores gameplay information.
11. The gaming machine of claim 9, wherein the computer readable
storage medium stores an account identifier.
12. The gaming machine of claim 11, wherein the account identifier
is associated with gameplay information stored on the gaming
machine.
13. The gaming machine of claim 10, wherein the gameplay
information is selected from the group consisting of jackpot
information, progressive information, player information and gaming
machine availability information.
14. The gaming machine of claim 12, wherein the gameplay
information is selected from the group consisting of jackpot
information, progressive information, player information and gaming
machine availability information.
15. The gaming machine of claim 9, further comprising a
dispenser.
16. The gaming machine of claim 15, wherein the dispenser dispenses
at least one of a voucher and the portable tracking device, wherein
the voucher is redeemable for the portable tracking device.
17. The gaming machine of claim 9, wherein the theme of the gaming
machine is selected from the group consisting of a board game, a
game show, a television show, and a movie.
18. A method of conducting a wagering game on a gaming machine
controlled by a processor, comprising: receiving a wager from a
player to play the game; and dispensing a portable tracking device
to the player, the portable tracking device having a computer
readable storage medium in communication with the processor.
19. The method of claim 18 further comprising the step of
transferring gameplay information to the computer readable storage
medium through the processor.
20. The method of claim 18 further comprising the step of storing a
player identifier in the computer readable storage medium.
21. The method of claim 20, wherein the player identifier is
associated with gameplay information stored within the gaming
machine.
22. The method of claim 19, wherein the gameplay information is
selected from the group consisting of jackpot information,
progressive information, player information and gaming machine
availability information.
23. The method of claim 21, wherein the gameplay information is
selected from the group consisting of jackpot information,
progressive information, player information and gaming machine
availability information.
24. The method of claim 18, wherein the portable tracking device is
dispensed from the gaming machine.
25. The method of claim 18, wherein the portable tracking device
has a theme associated with a theme of the gaming machine.
26. The method of claim 24, wherein the portable tracking device
has a theme associated with a theme of the gaming machine.
27. The method of claim 26, wherein the theme of the gaming machine
is selected from the group consisting of a board game, a game show,
a television show, and a movie.
28. The method of claim 18, further comprising receiving the
portable tracking device, transferring information from the
computer readable storage medium to the processor, and adjusting
the status of the gaming machine based upon the information
received.
29. The method of claim 28, wherein the information transferred
from the computer readable storage medium to the processor is one
of gameplay information and a player identifier.
30. A method of notifying a player of gameplay information
pertaining to a gaming machine, comprising: providing the player a
token having a receiver and an information indicator; transmitting
gameplay information to the receiver; and activating the
information indicator to notify the player regarding the gameplay
information.
31. The method of claim 30, wherein the gameplay information is
selected from the group consisting of jackpot information,
progressive information, player information and gaming machine
availability information.
32. The method of claim 30, wherein the information indicator is a
visual display.
33. The method of claim 32, further comprising the step of
displaying the gameplay information on the visual display.
34. The method of claim 30, wherein the providing step includes
dispensing the token from the gaming machine.
35. The method of claim 34, wherein the token has a theme
associated with a theme of the gaming machine.
36. The method of claim 30, wherein the receiver is a radio
frequency identification transponder.
37. The method of claim 30, wherein the token includes a computer
readable storage medium, wherein the computer readable storage
medium stores a player identifier.
38. The method of claim 37, wherein gameplay information associated
with the player identifier is transmitted to the receiver.
39. The method of claim 37, wherein the token includes a visual
display, wherein gameplay information associated with the player
identifier is displayed on the visual display.
40. The method of claim 32, wherein the visual display includes at
least one LED.
41. The method of claim 32, wherein the visual display is an
LCD.
42. The method of claim 30, wherein the token is a
telecommunications device.
43. The method of claim 42, wherein the telecommunications device
is selected from the group consisting of a mobile telephone, a
pager, a personal daily assistant, and a text communication
device.
44. The method of claim 30, wherein the information indicator
comprises a vibration device.
45. The method of claim 30, wherein the information indicator emits
an auditory signal.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to gaming machines
and, more particularly, to a gaming machine which interfaces with a
collectible gaming token capable of storing game play information,
and notifying players of gaming information.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Gaming machines, such as slot machines, video poker machines
and the like, have been a cornerstone of the gaming industry for
several years. Generally, the popularity of such machines with
players is dependent on the likelihood (or perceived likelihood) of
winning money at the machine and the intrinsic entertainment value
of the machine relative to other available gaming options. Where
the available gaming options include a number of competing machines
and the expectation of winning each machine is roughly the same (or
believed to be the same), players are most likely to be attracted
to the most entertaining and exciting of the machines. Shrewd
operators consequently strive to employ the most entertaining and
exciting machines available because such machines attract frequent
play and hence increase profitability to the operator.
[0003] One concept which has been successfully employed to enhance
the entertainment value of a game is the concept of a "secondary"
or "bonus" game which may be played in conjunction with a "basic"
game. The bonus game may comprise any type of game, either similar
to or completely different from the basic game, which is entered
upon the occurrence of a selected event or outcome of the basic
game. Generally, bonus games provide a greater expectation of
winning than the basic game and may also be accompanied with more
attractive or unusual video displays and/or audio. Because the
bonus game concept offers tremendous advantages in player appeal
and excitement relative to other known games, and because such
games are attractive to both players and operators, there is a
continuing need to develop gaming machines with new types of bonus
games to satisfy the demands of players and operators.
[0004] Gaming machines reward players by granting and distributing
a payout when a predetermined winning combination is achieved.
Gaming machines frequently have a payout schedule providing a
variety of payouts for various winning combinations. However,
traditional gaming machines fail to provide the player with
desirable intangible awards or prizes.
[0005] Furthermore, traditionally, a player playing a gaming
machine is largely anonymous to the gaming machine. Although player
tracking cards and similar devices evolved, these devices generally
track only information relating to casino operations. For example,
a player tracking card may track how long a player plays at a
particular gaming machine. However, these technologies do not store
and track game play information, which is extremely valuable to
gaming machine producers. These technologies also do not
communicate with the gaming machine's processor, and exchange
information with the gaming machine's system memory.
[0006] Thus, a need exists for a portable tracking device which
interacts with the processor controlling the gaming machine, and
allows gaming machines to track, store, and restore game play
information. A need also exists for a gaming machine which
dispenses an aesthetically pleasing, collectible game token to a
player, wherein the token stores game play information.
Additionally, a need exists for a portable tracking device which is
capable of remotely receiving notifications and other information
relating to gaming machines, game play, or casino information. The
present invention is directed to satisfying these needs and solving
other problems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In accordance with the foregoing, a gaming machine for
conducting a wagering game includes a game display for displaying
the wagering game. The gaming machine is controlled by a processor.
The gaming machine further includes a token interface connecting
the processor with a collectible portable tracking device or token.
According to one aspect of the invention, the token is collectible
by the player and has a theme associated with the theme of the
gaming machine. The collectible token can take on many forms
including tickets, cards, charms, clothing accessories, jewelry or
other objects.
[0008] According to another aspect of the invention, the gaming
machine further includes a token dispenser. The dispenser dispenses
tokens to the player based upon predetermined winning outcomes of
the gaming machine or other criteria executed by the processor.
Alternatively, the dispenser dispenses vouchers that the player can
redeem for a portable tracking device or token.
[0009] According to another aspect of the invention, the token
includes a computer readable storage medium for storing game play
information. The processor can interact with the computer readable
storage medium, via the interface, to both store and retrieve game
play information from the token.
[0010] According to yet another aspect of the invention, the token
includes a receiver and an information indicator. The receiver
receives game play information transmitted to the token, while the
information indicator notifies the player of the game play
information received by the token.
[0011] Additional aspects of the invention will be apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the detailed
description of various embodiments, which is made with reference to
the drawings, a brief description of which is provided below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the gaming machine of the
present invention;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a control system suitable for
operating the gaming machine of FIG. 1;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the portable tracking
device, or token, of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a flow chart of the operation of the gaming
machine of FIG. 1, showing the interaction of the portable tracking
device, or token, with the gaming machine; and
[0016] FIG. 5 is a flow chart of the operation of the gaming
machine of FIG. 1, showing the gaming machine notifying the player
of gaming information through the portable tracking device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many
different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be
described in detail preferred embodiments of the invention with the
understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an
exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not
intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the
embodiments illustrated.
[0018] Referring to FIG. 1, a gaming machine 10 is used in gaming
establishments such as casinos. With regard to the present
invention, the gaming machine 10 may be any type of gaming machine
and may have varying structures and methods of operation. For
example, the gaming machine 10 may be a mechanical gaming machine
configured to play mechanical slots, or it may be an
electromechanical or electrical gaming machine configured to play a
video casino game, such as blackjack, slots, keno, poker, etc.
[0019] The gaming machine 10 comprises a housing 11 and includes
input devices, including a value input device 20 and a player input
device 16. For output the gaming machine 10 includes a primary
display 12 for displaying information about the basic wagering
game. The primary display 12 can also display information about a
bonus wagering game and a progressive wagering game. The gaming
machine 10 also includes a secondary display 14 for displaying the
bonus wagering game, or for displaying award amounts of a
progressive game. The gaming machine 10 may also utilize the
secondary display 14 for displaying game events, game outcomes,
and/or signage information. While these typical components found in
the gaming machine 10 are described below, it should be understood
that numerous other elements may exist and may be used in any
number of combinations to create various forms of a gaming machine
10.
[0020] The value input device 20 may be provided in many forms,
individually or in combination, and is preferably located on the
front of the housing 11. The value input device 20 receives
currency and/or credits which are inserted by a player. The value
input device 20 may include a coin acceptor 20a for receiving coin
currency (see FIG. 1). Alternatively, or in addition, the value
input device 20 may include a bill acceptor 20b for receiving cash.
Furthermore, the value input device 20 may include a ticket reader,
or barcode scanner, for reading information stored on a credit
ticket, a card, or other tangible portable credit storage device.
The credit ticket or card may also authorize access to a central
account, which can transfer money to the gaming machine 10.
[0021] The player input device 16 comprises a plurality of push
buttons on a button panel for operating the gaming machine 10. In
addition, or alternatively, the player input device 16 may comprise
a touch screen mounted by adhesive, tape, or the like over the
primary display 12. The touch screen contains soft touch keys 18
denoted by graphics on the underlying primary display 12 and used
to operate the gaming machine 10. The touch screen provides players
with an option on how to make their game selections. A player
enables a desired function either by touching the touch screen at
an appropriate touch key 18 or by pressing an appropriate push
button 16 on the button panel. The touch keys 18 may be used to
implement the same functions as push buttons 16. Alternatively, the
push button panel 16 provides inputs for one aspect of the
operating the game, while the touch screen keys 18 allow for input
needed for another aspect of the game.
[0022] Continuing with FIG. 1, the gaming machine 10 also includes
a token dispenser 30, preferably mounted on a front side of the
housing 11. The token dispenser 30 is controlled by a processor of
the gaming machine 10 to dispense a token 40 or portable tracking
device (see FIG. 3), upon the occurrence of certain predefined
criteria or game outcomes in the playing of the wagering game on
the gaming machine 10. In this way, the gaming machine 10 dispenses
a token 40 to the player through the token dispenser 30 on the
gaming machine 10. Preferably, the token 40 is dispensed by the
gaming machine 10 as a reward or prize associated with certain
winning game outcomes or award accumulations. In the alternative,
the gaming machine 10 may dispense a voucher, in the form of a
ticket, card, coupon, or other device, which the player can redeem
elsewhere to receive the token 40. Redemption may be accomplished
directly in the casino, or host, or indirectly through remote
redemption locations, either in person or through the mail or other
commercial means (Internet, e-mail, etc.) The gaming machine 10
also includes a token interface 32, also preferably mounted on the
front side of the housing 11, preferably proximate the token
dispenser 30. The token interface 32 receives and interfaces with a
token 40, or portable tracking device (see FIG. 3) inserted or
connected by the player and places the token 40 in communication
with the processor of the gaming machine 10, such that the
processor 15 may communicate with at least one computer readable
storage medium 44 on board of the token 40 (described in greater
detail in relation to FIG. 3). It should be recognized that
depending upon the configuration of the token 40, the token
interface 32 and token dispenser 30 may be configured to be
integral, or even the same device.
[0023] The various components of the gaming machine 10 may be
connected directly to, or contained within, the housing 11, as seen
in FIG. 1, or may be located outboard of the housing 11 and
connected to the housing 11 via a variety of different connection
methods well known in the art, including network connections,
wireless connections, or other hardwired or remote connections.
Thus, the gaming machine 10 comprises these components whether
housed in the housing 11, or outboard of the housing 11 and
connected remotely. Preferably, the primary display 12, secondary
display 14, value input device 20, player input device 16, token
dispenser 30, and token receiver 32 of the gaming machine 10 are
visible from outside of the housing 11 of the gaming machine 10, as
seen in FIG. 1.
[0024] The operation of the basic wagering game is displayed to the
player on the primary display 12. The primary display 12 can also
display the bonus game associated with the basic wagering game. The
primary display 12 may take the form of a cathode ray tube (CRT), a
high resolution LCD, a plasma display, a LED, or any other type of
video display suitable for use in the gaming machine 10. As shown,
the primary display 12 includes the touch screen overlaying the
entire monitor (or a portion thereof) to allow players to make
game-related selections. Alternatively, the gaming machine 10 may
have a number of mechanical reels to display the outcome. In the
illustrated embodiment, the gaming machine 10 is an "upright"
version in which the primary display 12 is oriented vertically
relative to the player. Alternatively, the gaming machine may be a
"slant-top" version in which the primary display 12 is slanted at
about a thirty-degree angle toward the player of the gaming machine
10.
[0025] A player begins play of the basic wagering game by inserting
a wager input into the value input device 20 of the gaming machine
10. A player can select play by using the player input device 16 or
the touch screen keys 18. The basic game consists of a plurality of
symbols on reels that are displayed along at least one payline 13,
yielding a plurality of outcomes of the basic game. Such outcomes
are randomly selected in response to the wagering input by the
player. At least one of the plurality of randomly-selected outcomes
is a start-bonus outcome, which can include any variations of
symbols or symbol combinations triggering a bonus game.
[0026] Turning now to FIG. 2, the various components of the gaming
machine 10 are controlled by a central processing unit (CPU) 15,
also referred to as a processor (such as a microprocessor or
microcontroller). To provide gaming functions, the processor 15
executes one or more game programs. The processor 15 performs the
random selection (using a random number generator (RNG)) of an
outcome from the plurality of outcomes of the wagering game.
Alternatively, the random event may be generated remotely at a
remote computer. The remote computer may use either an RNG or
pooling schema for its central determination of a game outcome. It
should be appreciated that the processor 15 may include one ore
more microprocessors, including but not limited to a master
processor, a slave processor, and a secondary or parallel
processor.
[0027] The processor 15 is also coupled to or includes a system
memory 19 and a money/credit detector 17. The system memory 19 may
comprise a volatile memory (e.g., a random-access memory (RAM)) and
a non-volatile memory 34 (e.g., an EEPROM). The money/credit
detector 17 signals the processor 15 that money and/or credits have
been input via the value input device 20. The system memory 19 may
include multiple RAM and multiple program memories. Preferably,
these components are located within the housing 11 of the gaming
machine 10 and not visible externally. However, as explained above,
these components may be located outboard of the housing 11 and
connected to the remainder of the components of the gaming machine
10 via a variety of different connection methods well known in the
art, including network connections, wireless connections, or other
hardwired or remote connections.
[0028] As seen in FIG. 2, the processor 15 is also connected to,
and controls, the primary display 12, the player input device 16,
and a pay off mechanism 22. The pay off mechanism 22 is operable in
response to instructions from the processor 15 to award a payoff to
the player in response to certain winning outcomes that might occur
in the basic or the bonus game. The payoff may be provided in the
form of points, bills, tickets, coupons, cards, etc. For example,
in FIG. 1, the payoff mechanism 22 includes both a ticket printer
22a and a coin outlet 22b. However, any of a variety of pay off
mechanisms 22 well known in the art may be implemented, including
cards, coins, tickets, smartcards, cash, etc. The pay off amounts
distributed by the payoff mechanism 22 are determined by one or
more pay tables stored in the system memory 19.
[0029] The processor 15 is connected to the token interface 32
which in turn may be placed in communication with a token 40. In
this way, the token interface 32 signals the processor 15 that a
token 40 has been received in the token interface 32, and permits
communication between the token 40 and the processor 15, which may
be either wired or wireless communications. The processor 15 is
also connected to the token dispenser 30, to signal the dispenser
30 to dispense a token 40 upon the occurrence of a predetermined
winning outcome. The token dispenser 30 also interfaces with the
token 40 prior to dispensing the token 40, such that the processor
15 may communicate gaming information to the token 40, to be stored
on the computer readable storage medium 44 (see FIG. 3). In one
embodiment, the token 40 does not store game related information
directly, but rather only stores a player or account identifier
which is associated with certain game related information stored
elsewhere.
[0030] Communications between the peripheral components of the
gaming machine 10 and the processor 15 occur through input/output
(I/O) circuits 23a. As such, the processor 15 also controls and
receives inputs from the peripheral components of the gaming
machine 10. Further, the processor 15 communicates with external
systems 50 via the I/O circuits 23b. Although the I/O circuits 23
may be shown as a single block, it should be appreciated that the
I/O circuits 23 may include a number of different types of I/O
circuits.
[0031] The gaming machine 10 dispenses a collectible gaming token
40 capable of storing game play information and notifying players
of gaming information. An example of the token 40 is depicted in
FIG. 3. The token 40 comprises a body 42, a computer readable
storage medium 44, a receiver 46, and an information indicator 48.
As seen in FIG. 3, the body 42 of the token 40 comprises a
three-dimensional, portable object. Preferably, the body 42 of the
token 40 includes features or portions decorated with the theme of
the gaming machine 10. In this way, the token 40 has a theme and
the gaming machine 10 has a theme, and the two themes are similar,
shared, or complementary. For example, the theme of the gaming
machine 10 may be related to a particular board game such as the
popular MONOPOLY.TM. board game. MONOPOLY.TM. is a registered
trademark owned by and used with permission by Hasbro, Inc. and
Hasbro International, Inc., Pawtucket, R. I. Nevertheless, it will
be appreciated that the gaming machine 10 may be implemented with
any of several other board game themes other than MONOPOLY.TM.. The
body 42 of the token 40, in such a case, may then be a character,
playing piece, or figurine associated with the MONOPOLY.TM. board
game. As seen in FIG. 3, for example, the token 40 has a body 42
which resembles the Rich Uncle Pennybags character of the
MONOPOLY.TM. board game. In the most preferred embodiment of the
invention, the body 42 of the token 40 comprises a figurine of a
character, game piece, game element, or other object associated
with the theme of the gaming machine 10. However, it should be
understood that the token 40 may take on a variety of
three-dimensional forms without departing from the spirit of the
present invention. The theme of the gaming machine 10 and the theme
of the token 40 may also take on various other themes including
those of board games, game shows, television shows, movies, or
other audio-visual and entertainment devices. Preferably, the theme
of the token 40 is directly related to or associated with the theme
of the gaming machine 10.
[0032] The token 40 further includes a computer readable storage
medium 44 connected to, or embedded within, the body 42. The
computer readable storage medium 44 may be one of many well-known
storage mediums in the art including, but not limited to, RAM, ROM,
magnetic stripes, Smartcard devices, etc. All that is necessary is
that the computer readable storage medium 44 be capable of storing
information and be readable by the processor 15 of the gaming
machine 10.
[0033] As seen in FIG. 3, an information indicator 48 is also
connected to, or embedded within, the body 42 of the token 40. The
information indicator 48 is capable of communicating gaming
information stored in the computer readable storage medium 44 on
the token 40, or received by the token's receiver 46 (described
below). The information indicator 48 conveys gaming information
through the token 40 to the player, either in visual form, auditory
form, or tactile form. In one preferred embodiment, the information
indicator 48 comprises a visual display in the form of text fixed
on the body 42 of the token, along with variable indicators
proximate to the text. For example, the fixed text may be written
on one surface of the body 42, with a corresponding LED serving as
a variable indicator next to the text. Activation of the
information indicator 48 occurs by lighting the LED corresponding
to the fixed text to be conveyed. Alternatively, the information
display 48 may be a video display comprising an LCD or other video
display screen. All that is preferred is that the video display
have at least some variable indicating component such that the
gaming information displayed by the information indicator 48 can be
varied. Furthermore, the information indicator 48 may be a
vibration element providing tactile notification of gaming
information to the player. In yet another embodiment, the
information indicator 48 may convey the information audibly to the
player, for example using a speaker or headphones.
[0034] The token 40 further includes a remote receiver 46 connected
to, or embedded within, the body 42 of the token 40, and in
communication with the information indicator 48. Alternatively, or
additionally, the receiver 46 may be in communication with the
computer readable storage medium 44. The receiver 46 receives
gaming information communications from either the gaming machine 10
or casino thereby allowing the gaming information to be
communicated to the player through the token's information
indicator 48. The receiver 46 may take on one of any variety of
well-known receiving mechanisms in the art, and may be either
wireless or a physical connection. Preferably, the receiver 46a is
a wireless receiver and takes the form of an antenna for receiving
wireless signals (see FIG. 3). In the most preferred embodiment,
the receiver 46 is an RFID transponder. If the receiver 46b employs
a physical connection, the receiver 46b may be appropriately
located on the exterior of the body 42 of the token 40 such that
the receiver 46b may be connected to, or interfaced with, the token
interface 32 (see FIG. 1). In this way, the receiver 46b may be an
Ethernet port, a serial port, a parallel port, or one of many well
known physical connection apparatuses for transferring computer
information. Thus, as seen in FIG. 3, the receiver 46 can either be
a wireless antennae device 46a or a physical coupling port 46b.
[0035] Turning to FIG. 4, the interaction of the gaming machine 10
with the collectible token 40 is depicted. Upon the occurrence of a
certain preselected winning game outcome, gaming machine 10 awards
the player by dispensing a collectible token 40 via the token
dispenser 30. Prior to dispensing, the processor 15 of the gaming
machine 10 may interact with the computer readable storage medium
44 on the token 40 to transfer and store to certain gaming
information onto the token 40. More specifically, gaming
information may be transferred from the system memory 19 to the
computer readable storage medium 44 on the token 40 by the
processor 15. Thus, when the token 40 is dispensed to the player,
the computer readable storage medium 44 may contain gaming
information in a portable format that the player can take away the
machine 10.
[0036] The gaming information that can be stored on the computer
readable storage medium 44 can include any information relating to
the play of the wagering game. For example, information relating to
past plays of the game, including the player's previous wins,
winning hands, bonus awards, prizes collected, etc. may be stored
on the token 40. Other gaming or game play information may include
jackpot information (jackpots won, size of jackpots, etc.),
progressive information (size of progressive jackpots, history of
progressive jackpots awarded, etc.), player information (friends or
associates currently in the casino playing gaming machines, friends
past performance on machines, gatherings of players for play, etc.)
and gaming machine availability information (gaming machines which
are available for play, gaming machine usage data, tournament
information, etc.) In addition to these enumerated forms of gaming
information, those skilled in the art will recognize many different
variations of gaming or game play information desirable to be
transmitted to the collectible token 40.
[0037] The gaming information stored in the computer readable
storage medium 44 on the token 40 can also be displayed on the
display, or information indicator 48, of the token 40. Thus, the
token 40 serves as a portable device for the player to transport
and track gaming information. This provides an attractive feature
in that the player can demonstrate his prowess at a particular game
to his friends, relatives, etc., and thus provides a mechanism for
the player to exercise "bragging rights" relating to the gaming
machine 10. Other gaming information which may be stored on the
token 40 may include collectible game awards, or "assets," which
may be collected over multiple plays of the wagering game may be
stored for use in future sessions. In this way, the token 40 serves
as a memory device which, when reconnected or received by the token
interface 32 of the gaming machine 10, restores certain features of
the wagering game. Therefore, the computer readable storage medium
44 of the token 40 may be used to allow certain features of the
wagering game to persist over multiple gaming sessions.
Alternatively to storing gaming information directly on the token
40, the token 40 may store an account or player identifier which is
associated with a specific player. The account identifier is
transferred from the token 40 to the gaming machine 10, and the
processor 15 associates the identifier with a player's account,
accesses that account, and restores certain gaming information from
the account. Thus, in such an alternate embodiment, the game play
information is stored on the gaming machine 10 (or other remote
location) rather than on the token 40, and is accessed by reading
the account identifier stored on the token 40.
[0038] As seen in FIG. 4, the components of the gaming machine 10
permit the token 40 to be inserted into, or reconnected with, the
gaming machine 10 such that gaming information stored on the
computer readable storage medium 44 of the token 40 may be accessed
by the processor 15. More specifically, a player possessing a
collectible token 40 may insert the token 40 into the token
interface 32 on the gaming machine 10 upon initiating a gaming
session. The token interface 32 accepts and interfaces with the
token 40, and places the token 40 communication with the processor
15, permitting communication between the processor 15 of the gaming
machine 10 and the computer readable storage medium 44 on the token
40. Therefore, gaming information stored on computer readable
storage medium 44 is transferred, via the token interface 32, to
the gaming machine 10, preferably to the system memory 19. As
stated above, the transferred gaming information may be used to
restore certain features or player preferences of the wagering
game. The gaming machine 10 is then ready for play by the player
who inserts money or credits through the value input device 20, and
initiates a play of the game.
[0039] The token dispenser 30 and token interface 32 may take on a
variety of different forms, however, the form of these devices
employed in the gaming machine 10 will depend upon the particular
computer readable storage medium 44 employed by the token 40. For
example, if the computer readable storage medium 44 on the token 40
is a "smart card" storage device, then the token interface 32 will
comprise a "smart card" reader. Similarly, if the computer readable
storage medium 44 on the token 40 is a magnetic stripe, then the
token interface 32 will comprise a magnetic stripe reading device
and associated connector. It should be understood that the
communication between the computer readable storage medium 44 and
the processor 15 may occur through either direct connection or one
of many well-known wireless methods. Thus, the token interface 32
may be a wireless transceiver to send and receive wireless
transmissions of gaming information to and from the token 40.
[0040] Turning now to FIG. 5, the token 40 may also be used to
provide player notification of various gaming events, information,
or casino related information. Player notification may be
accomplished through direct connection of the token 40 with the
gaming machine 10 (via the token interface 32), however, is most
preferably accomplished remotely. Therefore, the receiver 46 on the
token 40 is configured to receive gaming and/or casino information
broadcast wirelessly. The receiver 46 on the token 40 may take on a
variety of different wireless receivers but preferably is an RFID
transponder. Gaming and/or casino information may be broadcast from
either a particular gaming machine 10, or from one or more central
locations within the casino, or host facility. Furthermore, such
information may be broadcast to a specific token 40 using a unique
identifier stored on, or associated with, the token 40, or maybe
globally broadcast to one or more groups of tokens 40. A token 40
receiving a broadcast of gaming and/or casino information receives
the information via its receiver 46. Once received, the information
is either stored in the computer readable storage medium 44 for
later use, or directly forwarded to the information indicator 48
for prompt player notification. Thus, if information received is to
be immediately indicated to the player, the computer readable
storage medium 44 may be bypassed. However, the information may be
simultaneously sent to the information indicator 48 and the
computer readable storage medium 44. Of course, any information
stored within the computer readable storage medium 44 may be sent
to the information indicator 48 for transmission to the player at
any time, regardless of when such information was received. The
token 40 is configured to produce a notification signal, via the
information indicator 48, to the player. As discussed above, the
form of the notification signal will be dependent on form of the
information indicator 48 on the token. If the token 40 employs an
information indicator 48 that is a visual display, a visual signal
is activated. Similarly, if the token 40 employs an information
indicator 48 that is a vibration device or a sound device, a
tactile or auditory signal, respectively, is activated.
[0041] The present invention provides an award system for gaming
machine players that has substantial advantages over traditional
awards. Of significant importance is the collectibility of the
token 40, which is accomplished by the theme incorporated into the
body 42 of the token. The theme provides the token 40 with an
aesthetically pleasing appearance which encourages the player to
carry, wear, or otherwise keep the token 40 on his person. Given
the very small sizes of receivers 46, information indicators 48,
and storage mediums 44 available today, the body 42 of the token 40
can be configured to be quite small. Thus, the body 42 of the token
40 may be configured to be in the three-dimensional shape of
earrings, a necklace, a charm, a ring, a bracelet, or many other
forms of jewelry. The token 40 can also take on forms such that is
an apparel accessory including, but not limited to, a belt buckle,
a pin, a tie clip, a cuff link, etc. This provides the manufacturer
of the gaming machine 10, as well as the casino or host, with an
opportunity for advertising gaming machine product through the
themed token 40, which is carried or worn even outside of the
casino. The opportunities for advertising are further increased
when the player exercises "bragging rights" by using the token 40
to display stored gaming information to friends and family. Using
the information indicator 48, the player may display gaming
information stored on the computer readable storage medium 44 to
whomever he or she chooses. Moreover, the player notification
feature of the token 40 provides an opportunity to advertise to the
player gaming and/or casino information such as sizes of jackpots,
recent payouts, tournament information, etc. The player
notification feature can also be used to notify players when a
player's friends and family are playing certain gaming machines, or
in certain casinos/hosts. In this way, a player will be encouraged
to play a gaming machine 10 with his or her friends, family,
etc.
[0042] Each of these embodiments and obvious variations thereof is
contemplated as falling within the spirit and scope of the claimed
invention, which is set forth in the following claims.
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