U.S. patent application number 11/952730 was filed with the patent office on 2008-04-17 for gaming device including movable symbol indicator plates.
This patent application is currently assigned to IGT. Invention is credited to Jamie J. Goins, Joseph E. Kaminkow.
Application Number | 20080090647 11/952730 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33490435 |
Filed Date | 2008-04-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080090647 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kaminkow; Joseph E. ; et
al. |
April 17, 2008 |
GAMING DEVICE INCLUDING MOVABLE SYMBOL INDICATOR PLATES
Abstract
A gaming device including a first and second indicator plate
which are adjacent to each other and on the same axis where the
second plate overlaps at least a portion of the first plate and the
first and second plates are in different planes. In one embodiment,
the first plate includes at least one symbol where one or more
awards are associated with the symbol. The second plate is composed
at least in part of a substantially transparent material, which
enables a player to see through at least a portion of the second
plate to view one or more symbols on the first plate. The second
plate also includes a plurality of sections, which indicate one or
more symbols on the first plate. In one embodiment, the second
plate includes at least one transparent section and at least one
non-transparent section.
Inventors: |
Kaminkow; Joseph E.; (Reno,
NV) ; Goins; Jamie J.; (Reno, NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BELL, BOYD & LLOYD LLP
P.O. Box 1135
CHICAGO
IL
60690
US
|
Assignee: |
IGT
9295 Prototype Drive
Reno
NV
89521-8986
|
Family ID: |
33490435 |
Appl. No.: |
11/952730 |
Filed: |
December 7, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10458444 |
Jun 9, 2003 |
7306520 |
|
|
11952730 |
Dec 7, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/25 ;
463/31 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/34 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/025 ;
463/031 |
International
Class: |
A63F 13/00 20060101
A63F013/00 |
Claims
1. A gaming system comprising: at least one display device
including a first plate and a second plate, the first plate
including a plurality of first codes, the second plate including a
plurality of sections, at least one of the sections being
substantially transparent, the second plate positioned adjacent to
and overlapping at least a portion of the first plate, and the
first plate and second plate positioned in different planes; at
least one input device; at least one processor; and at least one
memory device storing a plurality of instructions, which when
executed by the at least one processor, cause the at least one
processor to operate with the at least one input device and the at
least one display device to, after a wager by a player: (i) cause
the first plate to move; (ii) cause the second plate to move; (iii)
stop the movement of the first and second plates to indicate at
least one first code with at least one designated substantially
transparent section of the second plate; (iv) display a decoded at
least one first code; (v) determine an award based on at least the
decoded at least one first code; and (vi) display the award.
2. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of
instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause
the at least one processor to operate with the at least one input
device and the at least one display device to randomly determine
the at least one designated substantially transparent section.
3. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the at least one
designated substantially transparent section is pre-determined.
4. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of
instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause
the at least one processor to operate with the at least one input
device and the at least one display device to determine the at
least one designated substantially transparent section based on the
player's wager.
5. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of
instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause
the at least one processor to operate with the at least one input
device and the at least one display device to enable the player to
select the at least one designated substantially transparent
section.
6. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the sections of the second
plate include a plurality of second codes and wherein the plurality
of instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause
the at least one processor to operate with the at least one input
device and the at least one display device to determine the award
based on a combination of at least one of the first codes of the
first plate and at least one of the second codes of the second
plate.
7. The gaming system of claim 6, wherein the combination includes
at least one of the first codes and a plurality of the second
codes.
8. The gaming system of claim 6, wherein the combination includes a
plurality of the first codes and at least one of the second
codes.
9. The gaming system of claim 6, wherein the combination includes a
plurality of the first codes and a plurality of the second
codes.
10. A method of operating a gaming system, the method comprising:
(a) moving a first plate, the first plate including a plurality of
first codes; (b) moving a second plate, the second plate including
a plurality of sections, at least one of the sections being
substantially transparent, the second plate positioned adjacent to
and overlapping at least a portion of the first plate, and the
first plate and second plate positioned in different planes; (c)
stopping the movement of the first and second plates to indicate at
least one first code with at least one designated substantially
transparent section of the second plate; (d) displaying a decoded
at least one first code; (e) determining an award based on at least
the decoded at least one first code; and (f) displaying the
award.
11. The method of claim 10, which includes randomly determining the
at least one designated substantially transparent section.
12. The method of claim 10, which includes predetermining the at
least one designated substantially transparent section.
13. The method of claim 10, which includes determining the at least
one designated substantially transparent section based on a
wager.
14. The method of claim 10, which includes enabling a player to
select the at least one designated substantially transparent
section.
15. The method of claim 10, wherein the sections of the second
plate include a plurality of second codes and which includes
determining the award based on a combination of at least one of the
first codes of the first plate and at least one of the second codes
of the second plate.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the combination includes at
least one of the first codes and a plurality of the second
codes.
17. The method of claim 15, wherein the combination includes a
plurality of the first codes and at least one of the second
codes.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein the combination includes a
plurality of the first codes and a plurality of the second
codes.
19. The method of claim 10, which is provided through a data
network.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the data network is an
internet.
21. A gaming system comprising: at least one input device; at least
one display device; at least one processor; and at least one memory
device storing a plurality of instructions, which when executed by
the at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to
operate with the at least one input device and the at least one
display device to, after a wager by a player: (i) display movement
of a first plate and a second plate, the first plate including a
plurality of first codes and the second plate including a plurality
of sections, at least one of the sections being substantially
transparent, the second plate overlapping at least a portion of the
first plate, and the first plate and second plate positioned in
different planes; (ii) stop the displayed movement of the first and
second plates to indicate at least one first code with at least one
designated substantially transparent section of the second plate;
(iii) display a decoded at least one first code; (iv) determine an
award based on at least the decoded at least one first code; and
(v) display the award.
22. The gaming system of claim 21, wherein the plurality of
instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause
the at least one processor to operate with the at least one input
device and the at least one display device to randomly determine
the at least one designated substantially transparent section.
23. The gaming system of claim 21, wherein the at least one
designated substantially transparent section is pre-determined.
24. The gaming system of claim 21, wherein the plurality of
instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause
the at least one processor to operate with the at least one input
device and the at least one display device to determine the at
least one designated substantially transparent section based on the
player's wager.
25. The gaming system of claim 21, wherein the plurality of
instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause
the at least one processor to operate with the at least one input
device and the at least one display device to enable the player to
select the at least one designated substantially transparent
section.
26. The gaming system of claim 21, wherein the sections of the
second plate include a plurality of second codes and wherein the
plurality of instructions, when executed by the at least one
processor, cause the at least one processor to operate with the at
least one input device and the at least one display device to
determine the award based on a combination of at least one of the
first codes of the first plate and at least one of the second codes
of the second plate.
27. The gaming system of claim 26, wherein the combination includes
at least one of the first codes and a plurality of the second
codes.
28. The gaming system of claim 26, wherein the combination includes
a plurality of the first codes and at least one of the second
codes.
29. The gaming system of claim 26, wherein the combination includes
a plurality of the first codes and a plurality of the second codes.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/458,444, filed on Jun. 9, 2003, entitled
"Gaming Device Including Movable Symbol Indicator Plates," the
entire contents of which are hereby fully incorporated by
reference.
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0002] This application relates to the following co-pending,
commonly owned application: "GAMING DEVICE HAVING A DISPLAY DEVICE
HAVING MULTIPLE ROTATABLE MEMBERS," Ser. No. 11/470,167, Attorney
Docket No. 112300-3135.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Gaming device manufacturers strive to make gaming devices
that provide as much enjoyment and excitement as possible.
Providing a secondary or bonus game in which a player has an
opportunity to win potentially large awards or credits in addition
to the awards associated with the primary or base game of the
gaming device is one way to enhance player enjoyment and
excitement.
[0004] Gaming devices having bonus games generally employ a
triggering event that occurs during the base game operation of the
gaming device. The triggering event temporarily stalls or halts the
base game play and enables a player to enter a second, different
game, which is the bonus game. The player plays the bonus game,
likely receives an award, and returns to the base game.
[0005] One known gaming device is the "WHEEL OF FORTUNE" gaming
device manufactured by the assignee of this application. In this
game, a multi-colored award wheel is attached to a gaming device.
The award wheel is divided into several sections. Each section
includes an award that ranges in value from twenty to one thousand.
In this game, a player plays a base game that includes spinning
reels and a central payline. When the wheel symbol is positioned
along the central payline on the third reel, the player enters the
bonus game.
[0006] In the bonus game, the player obtains one opportunity or
spin of the award wheel. The player spins the award wheel by
pressing a button on the gaming device. Once the award wheel starts
spinning, the player waits until it stops. An indicator located at
the top of the award wheel points to a section of the wheel. The
player receives the award on that section for the bonus game. After
the player receives that award, the bonus game ends and the player
can resume playing the base game.
[0007] Another known bonus game is described in U.S. Pat. No.
6,059,658. This patent discloses a spinning award wheel bonus game.
The bonus game includes a display having five concentrically
arranged wheels. Each wheel has indicia designated with an Ace,
King, Queen, Jack, Ten and a wild symbol along the outer edge of
the circles. Once a player enters the bonus game, the player
initiates the spinning of the wheels. Each wheel rotates
independently of the other wheels. The object of the bonus game is
to align winning combinations of indicia, which in this game are
winning hands in poker. An indicator points to a sequence of five
indicia formed from each of the five rotating wheels. If the
sequence equals a winning combination, the player receives an
award. The award from the bonus game can be an additional award or
multiplied by the award from the primary game.
[0008] Another bonus game is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,089,978.
This patent discloses a bonus game which is triggered when a player
obtains a winning combination of symbols on a plurality of reels.
The bonus game is initiated and includes an award wheel with
different bowling awards such as a spare and strike, indicated on
the wheel. The gaming device provides the player with ten frames in
the bonus game. The player presses a "Roll the Ball" button to
initiate the spinning of the wheel. Once the wheel stops spinning,
the player receives the score indicated on the wheel for a
particular frame. The player spins the award wheel to obtain a
score for each frame until all of the frames are completed. After
the tenth and final frame is completed, the player's scores from
all of the frames are totaled and provided to the player as a bonus
award for the bonus game.
[0009] To increase player enjoyment and excitement, therefore, it
is desirable to provide new bonus games having award wheels that
provide larger awards to players with minimal risk.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] One embodiment of the present invention provides a gaming
device including two movable symbol indicator plates. The first
symbol indicator plate or first plate includes a plurality of
symbols. The symbols may be numbers, letters, characters or any
suitable images, representations or symbols. In one embodiment, a
plurality of awards are associated with the symbols. A second
symbol indicator plate or second plate is positioned adjacent to
the first plate and overlaps at least a portion of the first plate.
The second plate includes a plurality of symbols indicators such as
sections. It should be appreciated that the second plate may
include one or more indicators or sections.
[0011] In one embodiment, the sections on the second plate are
selectable by a player. The player selects at least one of the
sections on the second plate. The second plate moves relative to
the first plate to indicate one of the symbols on the first plate
in the selected section. The gaming device provides the award to
the player, which is associated with the symbol indicated by the
selected selection on the second plate. It should be appreciated
that the first plate may move relative to the second plate, the
second plate may move relative to the first plate, or both plates
may move (at the same or different rates) relative to each other.
Additionally, the first plate and second plate may move
simultaneously or alternately in a game.
[0012] In one embodiment, the second plate includes a substantially
transparent material which enables a player to see through at least
a portion of the second plate to view the symbols on the first
plate. In this embodiment, each of the sections includes a
substantially transparent material having a different color. The
player picks one of the colored sections on the second plate. The
gaming device moves the second plate relative to the first plate to
indicate one of the symbols on the first plate in the colored
section of the second plate, which was selected by the player. When
the second plate stops moving, the colored section on the second
plate selected by the player indicates one of the symbols on the
first plate. The gaming device provides the award associated with
the indicated symbol on the first plate to the player. It should be
appreciated that the colors may be any suitable colors and the
sections on the second plate may include at least two different
colors, a plurality of different colors or all of the sections may
include different colors.
[0013] In a further embodiment, two or more sections on the second
plate include the same colors. In this embodiment, the player picks
one of the colored sections on the second plate. The gaming device
indicates or highlights all of the sections on the second plate
that include the same color as the picked section. The second plate
moves relative to the first plate to indicate one or more of the
symbols on the first plate in the indicated or highlighted sections
of the second plate. The gaming device provides the awards to the
player, which are associated with any symbols indicated by the
highlighted sections on the second plate. Therefore, the player has
a greater opportunity to obtain more awards and larger awards in
the game. It should be appreciated that one or more colors or one
or more sections on the second plate may be selected by a player to
indicate symbols on the first plate in a game.
[0014] In another embodiment of the present invention, the first
plate includes scrambled symbols or symbol codes which represent
one or more symbols in a game. The second plate includes a
substantially transparent or see-through material which reveals or
unscrambles the symbols or codes on the first plate when designated
portions of the first and second plates overlap each other. In a
game, the second plate moves relative to the first plate to
indicate one of the scrambled symbols or codes on the first plate.
The player picks one of the selections on the second plate. The
gaming device activates or spins the second plate. The scrambled
symbol or symbol code indicated by the selected section on the
second plate is revealed or unscrambled so that the indicated
symbol is now viewable by the player. The gaming device provides
any awards associated with the indicated unscrambled symbol to the
player in the game.
[0015] In another embodiment, both the first and second plates
include scrambled symbols or symbol codes. The player picks one of
the sections on the second plate. The gaming device activates or
spins the second plate and displays one of the symbols in the
selected section of the second plate based on the overlapping codes
from the first and second plates. The gaming device provides any
awards associated with the symbol associated with the section on
the second plate picked by the player. It should be appreciated
that the scrambled symbols or codes included on the first and/or
second plates may be any suitable scrambled symbols or codes
desired by the game implementor.
[0016] In one embodiment, the first and second plates are
mechanical wheels that are attached to a cabinet of the gaming
device. In this embodiment, the first plate may rotate relative to
the second plate, the second plate may rotate relative to the first
plate, or both the first and second plates may move simultaneously
or alternatively as desired by the game implementor. In a further
embodiment, the first and second plates are video wheels displayed
by the display device. It should be appreciated that the first
and/or the second plate may be a mechanical and/or a video wheel in
a game. For example, the first plate may be a video wheel and the
second plate may be a mechanical wheel or the first plate may be a
mechanical wheel and the second plate may be a video wheel.
[0017] In another embodiment, the first and second symbol indicator
plates include transparent liquid crystal displays (LCDs). The
transparent LCDs include low-power flat-panel displays made up of a
liquid crystal sandwiched between layers of a suitable material
such as glass or plastic, which become opaque when electric current
passes through the layers. The contrast between the opaque and
transparent areas forms visible symbols, numbers, letters or other
suitable images on one or both of the symbol indicator plates. In
one embodiment, at least one portion of the first symbol indicator
plate overlaps the second symbol indicator plate to indicate
symbols displayed on the second symbol indicator plate. In another
embodiment, at least one portion of the second symbol indicator
plate overlaps the first symbol indicator plate to indicate symbols
on the first symbol indicator plate.
[0018] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the gaming
device includes two symbol indicator plates, where a first symbol
indicator plate or first plate includes a plurality of symbols,
which represent awards provided to the player by the gaming device,
and a second symbol indicator plate or second plate includes a
transparent section. The remaining portion or sections of the
second symbol indicator plate is opaque or substantially
non-transparent such that only the symbols indicated by the
transparent section are visible by a player. In one embodiment, the
second plate rotates in a counter clockwise direction, while the
first plate remains stationary. It should be appreciated that the
first plate may remain stationary while the second plate rotates,
the second plate may remain stationary while the first plate
rotates or both the first and second plates may rotate in the same
or different directions and at the same or different rates. After
the second plate stops spinning, the transparent section of the
second plate indicates one or more symbols on the first plate. The
gaming device then randomly selects one of the indicated symbols in
the transparent section and provides an award associated with the
selected indicated symbol to the player. In another embodiment, the
gaming device provides the awards associated with all of the
indicated symbols in the transparent section to the player. In one
aspect of this embodiment, the gaming device sums the awards
associated with the indicated symbols and provides the summed award
to the player. In another aspect, the gaming device multiplies the
awards associated with the indicated symbols and provides the
multiplied award to the player.
[0019] In a further embodiment, the second plate includes a
plurality of transparent sections which indicate one or more
symbols on the first plate. Additionally, a plurality of awards are
associated with the symbols. In this embodiment, the second plate
rotates or spins, while the first plate remains stationary. When
the second plate stops rotating or spinning, the transparent
sections on the second plate indicate one or more symbols on the
first plate. The gaming device then randomly selects one of the
symbols indicated in the transparent sections and provides the
award associated with the selected indicated symbol. It should be
appreciated that one, a plurality or all of the awards associated
with the symbols indicated in the transparent sections may be
provided to the player. In one embodiment, the awards associated
with the indicated symbols in the transparent sections are summed
and provided to the player. In another embodiment, the awards
associated with the indicated symbols in the transparent sections
are multiplied and provided to the player.
[0020] In another embodiment, the gaming device randomly selects
and provides one of the awards associated with the symbols
indicated in an activated transparent section or sections on one of
the symbol indicator plates in one or more spins in a game. In this
embodiment, the gaming device may randomly determine, pre-determine
or determine based on a wager made by a player, the transparent
section or sections which are activated in a spin or spins in a
game. In another embodiment, a player picks the transparent section
or sections that are activated in a spin or spins in the game. In a
further embodiment, the gaming device provides the awards to the
player associated with a plurality of the symbols indicated in the
activated transparent section or sections in a spin or spins. In
another embodiment, the gaming device provides the awards
associated with all of the symbols indicated in the activated
transparent section or sections to the player. In one aspect of
this embodiment, the awards are summed by the gaming device and
provided to the player. In another aspect, the awards are
multiplied and provided to the player.
[0021] In a further embodiment, the symbols on the first plate are
positioned such that one or more areas or quadrants of the first
plate include more symbols than other areas or quadrants on the
first plate. In this embodiment, the transparent section or
sections on the second plate indicate more symbols on the first
plate in the specific areas of the first plate that include more
symbols than the areas that include less symbols. Therefore, the
gaming device provides more awards to the player when the
transparent section or sections of the second plate indicate areas
or quadrants having more symbols.
[0022] It is therefore an advantage of the present invention to
provide a gaming device including overlapping plates which indicate
one or more symbols to a player.
[0023] Another advantage of the present invention is to provide a
gaming device that enables a player to interact with a game.
[0024] Other objects, features and advantages of the invention will
be apparent from the following detailed disclosure, taken in
conjunction with the accompanying sheets of drawings, wherein like
numerals refer to like parts, elements, components, steps and
processes.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0025] FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the
gaming device of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 1B is a front perspective view of another embodiment of
the gaming device of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 2 is a schematic black diagram of the electronic
configuration of one embodiment of the gaming device of the present
invention.
[0028] FIG. 3A is an enlarged elevation view of two symbol
indicator plates of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 3B is an enlarged elevation view of the symbols
indicator plates of the present invention where one plate partially
overlaps the other plate.
[0030] FIG. 4A is an enlarged elevation view of one embodiment of a
first symbol indicator plate of the present invention.
[0031] FIG. 4B is an enlarged elevation view of another embodiment
of the symbol indicator plate of FIG. 4A.
[0032] FIG. 5A is an enlarged elevation view of one embodiment of a
second symbol indicator plate of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 5B is an enlarged elevation view of another embodiment
of the symbol indicator plate of FIG. 5A.
[0034] FIG. 6 is an enlarged elevation view of the symbol indicator
plates of the present invention where the second symbol indicator
plate indicates a symbol on the first symbol indicator plate.
[0035] FIG. 7 is an enlarged elevation view of the symbol indicator
plates of the present invention where the second plate indicates a
plurality of symbols on the first plate.
[0036] FIG. 8 is an enlarged elevation view of the symbol indicator
plates of the present invention where the second plate unscrambles
or decodes one or more scrambled or coded symbols on the first
plate.
[0037] FIG. 9A is an enlarged elevation view of further embodiment
of the symbol indicator plates of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 9B is an enlarged elevation view of another embodiment
of the symbol indicator plates of the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 10A is an enlarged elevation view of another embodiment
of the symbol indicator plates of the present invention where the
second symbol indicator plate includes a transparent section which
indicates a plurality of symbols on the first indicator plate.
[0040] FIG. 10B is an enlarged elevation view of a further
embodiment of the symbol indicator plates of the present invention
where the second symbol indicator plate includes a plurality of
transparent sections which indicate a plurality of symbols on the
first indicator plate.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0041] Referring now to the drawings, two embodiments of the gaming
device of the present invention are illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B
as gaming device 10a and gaming device 10b, respectively. Gaming
device 10a and/or gaming device 10b are generally referred to
herein as gaming device 10. Gaming device 10 in one embodiment has
the controls, displays and features of a conventional slot machine.
It is constructed so that a player can operate it while standing or
sitting, and gaming device 10 is preferably mounted in a cabinet.
However, it should be appreciated that gaming device 10 can be
constructed as a pub-style table-top game (not shown) which a
player can operate preferably while sitting. Furthermore, gaming
device 10 can be constructed with varying cabinet and display
designs, as illustrated by the designs shown in FIGS. 1A and
1B.
[0042] Gaming device 10 can incorporate any primary game such as
slot, poker, blackjack or keno, and any of the bonus triggering
events and bonus games associated with these primary games. The
symbols and indicia used on and in gaming device 10 may be in
mechanical, electrical, electronic or video form.
[0043] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, gaming device 10 includes
a coin slot 12 and bill acceptor 14 where the player inserts money,
coins or tokens. The player can place coins in the coin slot 12 or
paper money or ticket vouchers in the bill acceptor 14. Other
devices could be used for accepting payment such as readers or
validators for credit cards or debit cards. When a player inserts
money in gaming device 10, a number of credits corresponding to the
amount deposited is shown in a credit display 16. After depositing
the appropriate amount of money, a player can begin the game by
pulling arm 18 or pushing play button 20. Play button 20 can be any
play activator used by the player which starts any game or sequence
of events in the gaming device.
[0044] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, gaming device 10 also includes
a bet display 22 and a bet one button 24. The player places a bet
by pushing the bet one button 24. The player can increase the bet
by one credit each time the player pushes the bet one button 24.
When the player pushes the bet one button 24, the number of credits
shown in the credit display 16 decreases by one, and the number of
credits shown in the bet display 22 increases by one. Other bet or
wager indicators such as a bet max button may also be employed in
the gaming device of present invention.
[0045] A player may cash out and thereby receive a number of coins
corresponding to the number of remaining credits by pushing a cash
out button 26. When the player cashes out, the player receives the
coins in a coin payout tray 28. The gaming device 10 may employ
other payout mechanisms such as credit slips redeemable by a
cashier or electronically recordable cards which keep track of the
player's credits.
[0046] Gaming device 10 also includes one or more display devices.
The embodiment shown in FIG. 1A includes a central display device
30, an upper display device 32, and the alternative embodiment
shown in FIG. 1B includes a central display device 30 as well as an
upper display device 32. Gaming device 10 in one embodiment
displays a plurality of reels 34 such as three to five reels 34 in
mechanical or video form at one or more of the display devices. A
display device can be any viewing surface such as glass, a video
monitor or screen, a liquid crystal display or any other display
mechanism. If the reels 34 are in video form, the display device
for the video reels 34 is preferably a video monitor. Each reel 34
displays a plurality of indicia such as bells, hearts, fruits,
numbers, letters, bars or other images which preferably correspond
to a theme associated with the gaming device 10. Furthermore,
gaming device 10 preferably includes speakers 36 for producing
sounds such as music.
[0047] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the general electronic
configuration of gaming device 10 preferably includes: a processor
38; a memory device 40 for storing program code or other data; a
central display device 30; an upper display device 32; symbol
indicator plates or plates 100 and 102; a sound card 42; a
plurality of speakers 36; and one or more input devices 44. The
processor 38 is preferably a microprocessor or
microcontroller-based platform which is capable of displaying
images, symbols and other indicia such as images of people,
characters, places, things and faces of cards. One or more
secondary processors may also be employed in conjunction with the
primary processor to control certain aspects of the game function.
The memory device 40 can include random access memory (RAM) 46 for
storing event data or other data generated or used during a
particular game. The memory device 40 can also include read only
memory (ROM) 48 for storing program code which controls the gaming
device 10 so that it plays a particular game in accordance with
applicable game rules and pay tables.
[0048] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the player preferably uses the
input devices 44, such as pull arm 18, play button 20, the bet one
button 24 and the cash out button 26 to input signals into gaming
device 10. In certain instances it is preferable to use a touch
screen 50 and an associated touch screen controller 52 instead of a
conventional video monitor display device. Touch screen 50 and
touch screen controller 52 are connected to a video controller 54
and processor 38. A player can make decisions and input signals
into the gaming device 10 by touching touch screen 50 at the
appropriate places. As further illustrated in FIG. 2, the processor
38 can be connected to coin slot 12 or bill acceptor 14. The
processor 38 can be programmed to require a player to deposit a
certain amount of money in order to start the game.
[0049] It should be appreciated that although a processor 38 and
memory device 40 are preferable implementations of the present
invention, the present invention can also be implemented using one
or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC's) or other
hard-wired devices, or using mechanical devices (collectively or
alternatively referred to herein as a "processor"). Furthermore,
although the processor 38 and memory device 40 preferably reside on
each gaming device 10 unit, it is possible to provide some or all
of their functions at a central location such as a network server
for communication to a playing station such as over a local area
network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), Internet connection,
microwave link, and the like. The processor 38 and memory device 40
are generally referred to herein as the "computer" or
"controller."
[0050] With reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B and 2, to operate the gaming
device 10, in one embodiment the player must insert the appropriate
amount of money or tokens at coin slot 12 or bill acceptor 14 and
then pull the arm 18 or push the play button 20. The reels 34 will
then begin to spin. Eventually, the reels 34 will come to a stop.
As long as the player has credits remaining, the player can spin
the reels 34 again. Depending upon where the reels 34 stop, the
player may or may not win additional credits.
[0051] In addition to winning credits in this manner, in one
embodiment gaming device 10 also gives players the opportunity to
win credits in a bonus round. This type of gaming device 10 will
include a program which will automatically begins a bonus round
when the player has achieved a qualifying condition in the game.
This qualifying condition can be a particular arrangement of
indicia on a display device. The gaming device 10 may use
mechanical devices or a video-based central display device 30 to
enable the player to play the bonus round. In one embodiment, the
qualifying condition is a predetermined combination of indicia
appearing on a plurality of reels 34. As illustrated in the five
reel slot game shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the qualifying condition
could be the number seven appearing on three adjacent reels 34
along a payline 56. It should be appreciated that the present
invention can include one or more paylines, such as payline 56,
wherein the paylines can be horizontal, diagonal or any combination
thereof.
[0052] Referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B and 3A, one embodiment of the
present invention includes a gaming device having two movable
symbol indicator plates, which indicate one or more symbols in a
game. The symbol indicator plates 100 and 102 are adjacent plates
configured to at least partially overlap each other. The first
symbol indicator plate or first plate 100 includes one or more
symbols. The symbols may be game elements, award symbols, values,
credits or any other suitable symbol or symbols. In FIG. 3A, in one
embodiment, the symbols 110 are values. The first symbol indicator
plate or first plate may be round, square, or any suitable shape as
desired by the game manufacturer. The second symbol indicator plate
102 or second plate overlaps at least a portion of the first plate
100 and preferably completely overlaps the first plate 100. The
second plate 102 is manufactured with a substantially transparent
material which enables a player to see through at least a portion
of the second plate to view one or more of the symbols on the first
plate. In one embodiment, the second plate 102 includes sections
103 which indicate one or more symbols on the first plate 100. In
one embodiment, the sections 103 on the second plate 102 include a
substantially transparent material having different colors. In
another embodiment, the second plate 102 includes sections 103
where at least one of the sections includes a different color than
the other sections on the plate. In one embodiment, the gaming
device provides awards associated with any symbols indicated by a
designated color on the second plate. The designated color may be
pre-determined or randomly determined. In another embodiment, the
gaming device includes an input which enables a player to pick the
designated color or colors.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 3B, in one embodiment, the second symbol
indicator plate or second plate 102 overlaps at least a portion of
the first plate 100 and preferably completely overlaps the first
plate. In another embodiment, the second plate 102 partially
overlaps the first plate 100 as shown in FIG. 3B. In this
embodiment, the gaming device provides any awards associated with
the symbol or symbols indicated by the sections 103 which overlap
the first plate 100.
[0054] In one embodiment, the first and second plates 100 and 102
are mounted to the gaming device on a common axis 108, as shown in
FIGS. 3A and 3B. In this embodiment, the symbol indicator plates
are wheels which rotate about the axis 108. The second plate 102
overlaps the first plate. In one embodiment, the second plate 102
rotates in a clockwise direction as shown by the arrow 112, while
the first plate 100 remains stationary. In another embodiment, the
first plate 100 rotates in a clockwise direction about the axis 108
as indicated by the arrow 114, while the second plate remains
stationary. In a further embodiment, the first and second plates
100 and 102 both rotate in a clockwise direction about the common
axis 108. It should be appreciated that the first and/or second
plates may rotate in a clockwise direction, a counterclockwise
direction, or any combination of clockwise and counterclockwise
directions. Furthermore, the first and second symbol indicator
plates 100 and 102 may rotate simultaneously or alternately in a
game.
[0055] Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, two embodiments of the first
plate 100 are illustrated where the first plate includes one or
more symbols. In FIG. 4A, one embodiment of the first plate is
illustrated where the first symbol indicator plate 100a includes a
plurality of symbols, which are values or credits. The symbols 110a
are positioned on the first plate 100a so that the symbols appear
in one or more of the sections on the second plate. It should be
appreciated that the symbols may be game elements, values, credits,
multipliers, or any suitable symbols in a game. Additionally, the
first plate 100a is shown as a wheel in this embodiment. However,
it should be appreciated that the first symbol indicator plate may
be configured in any suitable shape as desired by the game
manufacturer.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 4B, another embodiment of the first plate
is illustrated where the first plate 100b includes a plurality of
randomly positioned symbols. In this embodiment, the symbols
represent award symbols displaying values or credits to a player.
The values or credits associated with the symbols 110b may be any
suitable values or credits as desired by the game manufacturer. The
gaming device provides the player with the values associated with
the symbols indicated by one or more sections of the second plate.
It should be appreciated that the first plate 100 may include one
or more symbols having one or more award associated with those
symbols.
[0057] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, two embodiments of the second
symbol indicator plate or second plate 102 of the present invention
are illustrated. In FIG. 5A, the second plate is a wheel 102a,
including a plurality of sections 103a. Each of the sections 103a
indicates one or more symbols on the first symbol indicator plate
100 as described in FIGS. 4A and 4B. In FIG. 5B, another embodiment
of the second symbol indicator plate 102b is illustrated where the
sections 103b are configured with a curved shape. In this
embodiment, the symbol or symbols indicated in the designated
section or sections 103b on the plate 102b are the indicated
symbols in the game.
[0058] Referring to FIG. 6, one embodiment of the present invention
is illustrated where the first plate 100 remains stationary and
includes a plurality of symbols, which include values or credits
such as five, one hundred and sixty. The second plate 102
completely overlaps the first symbol indicator plate 100 and
includes a plurality of sections 103 to indicate one or more of the
symbols on the first plate 100. In this example, the first plate
remains stationary while the second plate moves or rotates in a
clockwise direction relative to the first plate. The gaming device
enables a player to pick one of the sections 103 on the second
plate 102. The player picks section 116 which indicates a symbol
including an award or value of sixty as shown in FIG. 6. The gaming
device provides the award of sixty to the player in the game.
[0059] Referring to FIG. 7, an example of one embodiment of the
present invention is illustrated where the first plate includes a
plurality of symbols having values as described by FIG. 4B. The
values associated with each of the symbols 110b on the first plate
100 may be any suitable values and may be randomly determined,
predetermined or determined using any suitable method. A second
plate 102 partially overlaps a portion of the first plate 100 as
shown in FIG. 7. The second plate rotates in a counterclockwise
direction as shown by the arrow 112 while the first symbol
indicator plate 100 remains stationary. The gaming device enables
the player to pick one of the sections 103 on the second plate 102
to indicate one or more of the symbols on the first plate 100. In
this example, the player picks section 118. The gaming device
activates or spins the second plate 102 and the picked section,
section 118, indicates four symbols on the first plate 100. The
four symbols include awards or values of five, ten, thirty and
fifty-five. Therefore, the total award associated with the symbols
indicated by section 118 is one hundred. The award of one hundred
is added to the player's total award in the game. In another
embodiment, the gaming device activates the first symbol indicator
plate 100, while the second symbol indicator plate 102 remains
stationary. As described above, the gaming device provides the
awards associated by the symbols indicated by the section on the
stationary second symbol indicator plate 102 picked by the player.
In a further embodiment, the gaming device activates or spins both
symbol indicator plates 100 and 102 to indicate symbols in the
section picked by the player. It should be appreciated that a
player may pick one or more sections to indicate symbols in a
game.
[0060] Referring to FIG. 8, another embodiment of the present
invention is illustrated where the first plate 100 includes
scrambled or coded symbols 110c (shown in phantom). In one aspect
of this embodiment, the symbols 110c are digitally scrambled and
printed on an opaque material. It should be appreciated that the
symbols may be scrambled or coded according to any suitable
scrambling or coding method. The second plate 102 is made of a
substantially transparent film or material and overlaps at least a
portion of the first plate as shown in FIG. 8. The second plate
includes a plurality of sections 103, where each of the sections
unscrambles or decodes one or more of the symbols on the first
plate when the sections align with the scrambled or coded symbols
on the first plate. In this embodiment, the sections on the first
plate are pie-shaped. However, it should be appreciated that the
sections may be any suitable configuration, pattern or shape.
[0061] In one embodiment, the gaming device enables a player to
pick one of the sections 103 on the second plate 102. The gaming
device activates or spins the second plate 102 and unscrambles or
decodes the symbol or symbols 110c, which are indicated in the
section picked by the player. In FIG. 8, the player picked section
120, which indicates four symbols. The symbols include awards or
values of five, ten, thirty and fifty-five, which are provided to
the player. As illustrated in FIG. 8, only the symbols indicated in
the picked section 120 are decoded and viewable by the player. The
other symbols, which are not indicated by the picked section,
remain scrambled or coded and not viewable by the player. It should
be appreciated that any suitable number of symbols may be indicated
by one or more of the sections on the second plate, and then
unscrambled and decoded in a game.
[0062] In a further embodiment, both the first plate 100 and the
second plate 102 include scrambled or coded symbols or patterns. In
this embodiment, one or more symbols are unscrambled or decoded and
displayed to a player when one or more portions of the first and
second plates align in a game. It should be appreciated that one or
a plurality of symbols may be scrambled or coded on the first
and/or the second plate in a game.
[0063] Referring to FIG. 9A, a further embodiment of the present
invention is illustrated where the first and second plates are
configured as rectangular plates 100d and 102d, where the second
plate 102d overlaps at least a portion of the first plate 100d. The
second plate 102d includes a plurality of sections 103d, which
indicate one or more symbols 110d on the first plate 100d. In this
embodiment, the second plate 102d moves horizontally over the first
plate 100d as indicated by the arrow 122. It should be appreciated
that the second plate 102d may be positioned on either side of the
first plate 100d and may move in any direction desired by the game
implementor. Furthermore, the first plate 100d may remain
stationary while the second plate 102d moves relative to the first
plate, the second plate 102d may remain stationary, while the first
plate 100d moves relative to the second plate, or any combination
therein. Additionally, the first and second plates may move
simultaneously or alternately in a game.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 9B, another embodiment of the present
invention illustrated where the gaming device includes three symbol
indicator plates or a first, second and third plate 100e, 102e and
100f, respectively. The plates 100e and 100f include a plurality of
symbols 110e and 110f, where at least two of the symbols are
different. In another embodiment, all of the symbols are different
on the indicator plates 100e and 100f. In one embodiment, the
symbol indicator plate 102e includes a plurality of sections 103e,
which indicate one or more of the symbols 110e or 110f on the
symbol indicator plates 100e and 100f, respectively. The symbol
indicator plate 102e may move left or right as indicated by the
arrows 124, or in any suitable direction as desired by the game
implementor. In a game, the symbol indicator plate 102e moves left
or right to indicate one or more of the symbols on the plates 100e
and 100f. In one embodiment, a player picks one of the sections
103e on the symbol indicator plate 102e. The symbol indicator plate
102e then moves either left or right to indicate one of the symbols
on the symbol indicator plate 100e or 100f.
[0065] In another embodiment, the first and second symbol indicator
plates include transparent liquid crystal displays (LCDs). The
transparent LCDs include low-power flat-panel displays made up of a
liquid crystal sandwiched between layers of a suitable material
such as glass or plastic, which become opaque when electric current
passes through the layers. The contrast between the opaque and
transparent areas forms visible symbols or characters on one or
both of the symbol indicator plates. Therefore, any suitable
symbols, numbers, letters and other suitable images may be
displayed on one or both of the symbol indicator plates. In one
embodiment, the second symbol indicator plate (second transparent
LCD) includes sections or segments formed on the second LCD display
where at least a portion of the second symbol indicator plate
overlaps the first symbol indicator plate to indicate symbols
displayed on the first symbol indicator plate or first transparent
LCD. It should be appreciated that at least a portion of the first
symbol indicator plate preferably overlaps the second symbol
indicator plate to indicate symbols on the second symbol indicator
plate.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 10A, a further embodiment of the present
invention is illustrated where the gaming device includes two
symbol indicator plates, a first plate 200 and a second plate 202.
The first plate 200 includes a plurality of symbols 204. A
plurality of awards are associated with the symbols. The second
plate 202 includes a transparent section 206 while the remaining
portion or section of the plate is opaque or substantially
non-transparent. As shown in FIG. 10A, the second plate 202
overlaps the first plate 200. In one embodiment, the second plate
202 rotates in a counter clockwise direction as indicated by the
arrow 205, while the first plate 200 remains stationary. After the
second plate stops spinning, the transparent section of the second
plate indicates one or more symbols on the first plate. The gaming
device then randomly selects one of the indicated symbols in the
transparent section and provides an award associated with the
selected indicated symbol to the player. In one example, the gaming
device or the player activates or spins the second plate 202. The
second plate stops spinning and the transparent section 206 on the
second plate indicates two symbols 204 on the first plate 200. The
gaming device then randomly selects one of the indicated symbols,
symbol 208, and provides an award of ten associated with this
symbol to the player. In another embodiment, the gaming device
provides the awards associated with all of the indicated symbols in
the transparent section to the player. In one aspect of this
embodiment, the gaming device sums the awards associated with the
indicated symbols and provides the summed award to the player. In
another aspect, the gaming device multiplies the awards associated
with the indicated symbols and provides the multiplied award to the
player. In addition, it should be appreciated that the first plate
may remain stationary while the second plate rotates, the second
plate may remain stationary while the first plate rotates or both
the first and second plates may rotate in the same or different
directions.
[0067] Referring now to FIG. 10B, another embodiment of the present
invention is illustrated where the gaming device includes a first
symbol indicator plate or first plate 300 and a second symbol
indicator plate or second plate 302. The first plate 300 includes a
plurality of symbols 304. Additionally, a plurality of awards are
associated with the symbols. The second plate 302 includes a
plurality of transparent sections such as transparent sections 306a
and 306b and the remaining sections or portion of the second plate
is opaque or substantially non-transparent. In this embodiment, the
second plate 302 rotates or spins in a counter clockwise direction
as indicated by arrow 305, while the first plate 300 remains
stationary. When the second plate stops rotating or spinning, the
transparent sections 306a and 306b indicate a plurality of the
symbols on the first plate 300. The gaming device then randomly
selects one of the symbols indicated in sections 306a and 306b and
provides the award associated with the selected indicated symbol.
For example in FIG. 10B, the gaming device or player activates or
spins the second plate 302. When the second plate stops spinning, a
plurality of symbols 304 are indicated by the transparent sections
306a and 306b. The gaming device then randomly selects one of the
symbols indicated by the transparent sections, symbol 308, and
provides the award of ten associated with symbol 308 to the player.
It should be appreciated that one, a plurality or all of the awards
associated with the symbols indicated in the transparent sections
may be provided to the player. In one embodiment, the awards
associated with the indicated symbols are summed and provided to
the player. In another embodiment, the awards associated with the
indicated symbols are multiplied and provided to the player.
[0068] In another embodiment, the gaming device randomly selects
and provides one of the awards associated with the symbols
indicated in an activated transparent section or sections in one or
more spins in a game. In this embodiment, the gaming device may
randomly determine, pre-determine or determine based on a wager
made by a player, the transparent section or sections which are
activated in a spin or spins in a game. In another embodiment, a
player picks the transparent section or sections that are activated
in a spin or spins in the game. In a further embodiment, the gaming
device provides the awards to the player associated with a
plurality of the symbols indicated in the activated transparent
sections. In another embodiment, the gaming device provides awards
associated with all of the symbols indicated in the activated
transparent sections to the player. In one aspect of this
embodiment, the awards are summed by the gaming device and provided
to the player. In another aspect, the awards are multiplied and
provided to the player.
[0069] In a further embodiment, the symbols on the first plate are
positioned such that one or more areas or quadrants of the first
plate include more symbols than other areas or quadrants on the
first plate. In this embodiment, the transparent section or
sections on the second plate indicate more symbols on the first
plate in the specific areas or quadrants of the first plate that
include more symbols than the areas that include less symbols.
Therefore, the gaming device provides more awards to the player
when the transparent section or sections of the second plate
indicate areas or quadrants having more symbols. It should be
appreciated that the number of awards provided to the player
depends on the number of symbols included in a particular area or
quadrant on the first plate and the relative position or positions
of the transparent sections on the second plate.
[0070] While the present invention is described in connection with
what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred
embodiments, it should be appreciated that the invention is not
limited to the disclosed embodiments, and is intended to cover
various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within
the spirit and scope of the claims. Modifications and variations in
the present invention may be made without departing from the novel
aspects of the invention as defined in the claims, and this
application is limited only by the scope of the claims.
* * * * *