U.S. patent application number 11/752409 was filed with the patent office on 2008-11-27 for method of controlling out of order mode on a game.
Invention is credited to Thomas Scott Molina, Robert M. Pickus.
Application Number | 20080293483 11/752409 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40072922 |
Filed Date | 2008-11-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080293483 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Pickus; Robert M. ; et
al. |
November 27, 2008 |
METHOD OF CONTROLLING OUT OF ORDER MODE ON A GAME
Abstract
A casino gaming apparatus is provided that allows the user to
lock the casino gaming apparatus for a predetermined amount of time
in order to hold the casino gaming apparatus until the user returns
from a break. The invention provides for an identification reader
such as a card reader for reading user information, and for setting
the casino gaming apparatus in an out of order mode for a
predetermined amount of time. The predetermined amount of time can
be based on the length of play of the user on the casino gaming
apparatus, or on a status of the user. The user can request an
amount of time to set the casino gaming apparatus to an out of
order mode, and if the user does not return in the predetermined
amount of time, the casino gaming apparatus can be set back to a
stand by mode.
Inventors: |
Pickus; Robert M.;
(Northfield, NJ) ; Molina; Thomas Scott; (Linwood,
NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SILLS CUMMIS & GROSS P.C.
ONE ROCKEFELLER PLAZA, IP DEPARTMENT - 25TH FLOOR
NEW YORK
NY
10020
US
|
Family ID: |
40072922 |
Appl. No.: |
11/752409 |
Filed: |
May 23, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/29 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3269 20130101;
G07F 17/32 20130101; G07F 17/3232 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/29 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A method of operating a casino gaming apparatus, the method
comprising: reading information associated with a user of the
casino gaming apparatus; and automatically setting the casino
gaming apparatus to an out of order mode for a predetermined amount
of time based on the user information.
2. The method of operating a casino gaming apparatus of claim 1,
further comprising: determining whether the user is eligible to set
the casino gaming apparatus to an out of order mode for the
predetermined amount of time.
3. The method of operating a casino gaming apparatus of claim 2,
wherein the predetermined amount of time is based on the user's
length of play on the casino gaming apparatus.
4. The method of operating a casino gaming apparatus of claim 1,
further comprising: allowing the user to request an amount of time
as the predetermined amount of time to put the casino gaming
apparatus in an out of order mode.
5. The method of operating a casino gaming apparatus of claim 1,
further comprising: providing a display indicating that the casino
gaming apparatus is in an out of order mode.
6. The method of operating a casino gaming apparatus of claim 1,
further comprising: storing information on the user and on the
length of play of the user on the casino gaming apparatus.
7. The method of operating a casino gaming apparatus of claim 1,
further comprising: setting the casino gaming apparatus to a stand
by mode after the predetermined amount of time expires.
8. The method of operating a casino gaming apparatus of claim 1,
further comprising: allowing the user to set the casino gaming
apparatus from the out of order mode to a stand by mode based on
information entered by the user.
9. The method of operating a casino gaming apparatus of claim 8,
wherein the information entered by the user is a card associated
with the user.
10. The method of operating a casino gaming apparatus of claim 8,
wherein the information entered by the user is a personal
identification number.
11. A casino gaming system, the system comprising: a casino gaming
apparatus; a card reader for reading a card associated with a user;
a keypad for entering a personal identification number associated
with the user and sending a request to setting the casino gaming
apparatus in an out of order mode for a predetermined amount of
time; and a server system for determining whether the user can set
the casino gaming apparatus to an out of order mode.
12. The casino gaming system of claim 11, wherein the server system
allows or denies the user's request to set the casino gaming
apparatus to an out of order mode.
13. A casino gaming apparatus, the apparatus comprising: an
identification reader for reading user information; and means for
automatically setting the casino gaming apparatus in an out of
order mode for a predetermined amount of time based on the user
information.
14. The casino gaming apparatus of claim 13, wherein the means for
automatically setting the casino gaming apparatus in an out of
order mode comprises: a keypad for entering a personal
identification number in order to set the casino gaming apparatus
in an out of order mode.
15. The casino gaming apparatus of claim 14, wherein the means for
automatically setting the casino gaming apparatus in an out of
order mode further comprises: a computer interface connecting the
casino gaming apparatus to a server; wherein the server determines
if the user can set the casino gaming apparatus to an out of order
mode for the predetermined amount of time.
16. The casino gaming apparatus of claim 15, wherein the user can
request an amount of time on the keypad for setting the casino
gaming apparatus to an out of order mode.
17. The casino gaming apparatus of claim 15, wherein the server
stores information on the user and on the length of play of the
user on the casino gaming apparatus.
18. The casino gaming apparatus of claim 13, wherein the
identification reader is a card reader.
19. The casino gaming apparatus of claim 13, further comprising: an
indicator indicating the casino gaming apparatus is in an out or
order mode.
20. The casino gaming apparatus of claim 13, wherein the
predetermined amount of time is based on the length of play the
user has played on the casino gaming apparatus.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates generally to gaming, and more
specifically, to a method and apparatus for placing a casino
machine out of order for a predetermined amount of time by a
customer at a casino.
[0003] 2. Prior Art
[0004] A slot machine is a certain type of casino game. Traditional
slot machines are coin-operated machines with three or more reels,
which spin when a lever on the side of the machine is pulled. The
machines include a currency detector that validates the coin or
money inserted to play. The machine typically pays off based on
patterns of symbols visible on the front of the machine when it
stops. Modern computer technology has resulted in many variations
on the slot machine concept. Today, slot machines are the most
popular gambling method in casinos and constitute about 70% of the
average casino's income.
[0005] A person playing a slot machine purchases the right to play
by inserting coins, cash, or in newer machines, a bar-coded paper
ticket (known as "ticket in/ticket out" machines), into a
designated slot on the machine. The machine is then activated by
means of a lever or button, or on newer machines, by pressing a
touchscreen on its face. The game itself may or may not involve
skill on the player's part--or it may create the illusion of
involving skill without actually being anything else than a game of
chance.
[0006] The object of the game is to win money from the machine. The
game usually involves matching symbols, either on mechanical reels
that spin and stop to reveal one or several symbols, or on a video
screen. The symbols are usually brightly colored and easily
recognizable, such as images of fruits, and simple shapes such as
bells, diamonds, or hearts.
[0007] Most games have a variety of winning combinations of
symbols, often posted on the face of the machine. If a player
matches a combination according to the rules of the game, the slot
machine pays the player cash or some other sort of value, such as
extra games. Slot machines common in casinos at this time are more
complicated. Most allow players to accept their winnings as
credits, which may be "spent" on additional spins.
[0008] Slot machines are typically programmed to pay out as
winnings between 82 to 98 percent of the money that is wagered by
players. This is known as the "theoretical payout percentage". The
minimum theoretical payout percentage varies among jurisdictions
and is typically established by law or regulation. For example, the
minimum payout percentage in Nevada is 75 percent and in New Jersey
is 83 percent. The winning patterns on slot machines, the amounts
they pay, and the frequency at which they appear are carefully
selected to yield a certain percentage of the cost of play to the
"house" (the operator of the slot machine), while returning the
rest to the player during play.
[0009] A slot machine's theoretical payout percentage is set at the
factory when the software is written. Changing the payout
percentages after a slot machine has been placed on the gaming
floor requires a physical swap of the software, which is usually
stored on an EPROM but may be downloaded to Non-Volatile Random
Access Memory (NVRAM) or even stored on CD-ROM or DVD depending on
the technological capabilities of the machine and the regulations
of the jurisdiction. Based on current technology, this is a time
consuming process and as such is done infrequently. In certain
jurisdictions, such as New Jersey, the EPROM is sealed with a
tamper-evident seal and can only be chanced in the presence of
Gaming Control Board officials. Other jurisdictions, including
Nevada, randomly audit slot machines to ensure that they contain
only approved software.
[0010] Sometimes, when a customer leaves a particular machine,
another player may come up and immediately hit a jackpot. The
customer may think "If I had played just one more time, I would
have won that jackpot." Because of the significant time a customer
"invests" in a particular slot machine, and a belief that a certain
machine is "due", the customer may be hesitant to leave the slot
machine when the customer is hungry, tired or needs to use the
restroom. Further, because of new smoking laws prohibiting smoking
in some areas of the casino where the slot machines are placed,
smokers may not leave the slot machine when they desire to have a
cigarette. This often causes a difficult situation for the customer
as they are hesitant to leave a particular slot machine in which
they have "invested" significant time and money. Many gamblers
believe that a person should not play more than one machine at a
time.
[0011] Sometimes players taking a break for the rest room will tip
a chair against the machine, leave a coat on the chair, or leave
some other sign that they'll be back. However, these methods are
ineffective and no guarantee of holding a slot machine, especially
when a casino is busy.
[0012] Therefore, there is a need for a method and apparatus where
a customer may be able to leave a particular slot machine to take a
short break, and then be able to return to the same particular slot
machine without anyone else having used that machine.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The present invention provides an apparatus and method for
putting a "hold" on a particular slot machine for a certain period
of time for a customer. The customer is able to "lock" or place the
slot machine "out of order" when they need to take a break and then
unlock the machine upon their return from their break.
[0014] Accordingly, a casino gaming apparatus is provided, the
casino gaming apparatus comprising an identification reader for
reading user information, and means for setting the casino gaming
apparatus in an out of order mode for a predetermined amount of
time. The means for setting the casino gaming apparatus in an out
of order mode can comprise a keypad for entering a personal
identification number in order to set the casino gaming apparatus
in an out of order mode. The means for setting the casino gaming
apparatus in an out of order mode can further comprise a computer
interface connecting the casino gaming apparatus to a server,
wherein the server determines if the user can set the casino gaming
apparatus to an out of order mode for the predetermined amount of
time.
[0015] The user can request an amount of time on the keypad for
setting the casino gaming apparatus to an out of order mode. The
server can store information on the user and on the length of play
of the user on the casino gaming apparatus. The identification
reader can be a card reader. The casino gaming apparatus can
further comprise an indicator indicating the casino gaming
apparatus is in an out or order mode. The predetermined amount of
time can be based on the length of play the user has played on the
casino gaming apparatus.
[0016] Also provided is a casino gaming system, the system
comprising a casino gaming apparatus, a card reader for reading a
card associated with a user, a keypad for entering a personal
identification number associated with the user and sending a
request to setting the casino gaming apparatus in an out of order
mode for a predetermined amount of time, and a server system for
determining whether the user can set the casino gaming apparatus to
an out of order mode. The server system allows or denies the user's
request to set the casino gaming apparatus to an out of order
mode.
[0017] Also provided is a method of operating a casino gaming
apparatus, the method comprising, reading information associated
with a user of the casino gaming apparatus, and setting the casino
gaming apparatus to an out of order mode for a predetermined amount
of time. The method further comprises determining whether the user
is eligible to set the casino gaming apparatus to an out of order
mode for the predetermined amount of time. The predetermined amount
of time is based on the user's length of play on the casino gaming
apparatus.
[0018] The method of operating a casino gaming apparatus further
comprises allowing the user to request an amount of time as the
predetermined amount of time to put the casino gaming apparatus in
an out of order mode. The method can also provide a display
indicating that the casino gaming apparatus is in an out of order
mode. The method further comprises storing information on the user
and on the length of play of the user on the casino gaming
apparatus.
[0019] The method of operating a casino gaming apparatus further
comprises setting the casino gaming apparatus to a stand by mode
after the predetermined amount of time expires. The user can set
the casino gaming apparatus from the out of order mode to a stand
by mode based on information entered by the user. The information
entered by the user can be a card associated with the user, or a
personal identification number.
[0020] The above and other features of the invention, including
various novel details of construction and combinations of parts,
will now be more particularly described with reference to the
accompanying drawing and pointed out in the claims. It will be
understood that the particular device embodying the invention is
shown by way of illustration only and not as a limitation of the
invention. The principles and features of this invention may be
employed in various and numerous embodiments without departing from
the scope of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0021] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the
apparatus and methods of the present invention will become better
understood with regard to the following description, appended
claims, and accompanying drawing where:
[0022] FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing a particular embodiment
of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0023] Although this invention is applicable to numerous and
various types of gaming machines, it has been found particularly
useful in the environment of slot machines at gaming casinos.
Therefore, without limiting the applicability of the invention to
the above, the invention will be described in such environment.
[0024] With reference now to the drawing, the method and apparatus
of the present invention will be described. FIG. I illustrates a
schematic representation of an embodiment of the present invention.
A slot machine 100 is provided which a user will be playing on. An
identification reader such as a card reader (not shown) with a
keypad can be provided for on the slot machine 100. A user can
insert his card into the card reader (or other means for
identification) before he begins play so that the casino knows how
long the user is using the slot machine (to determined awards based
on length of play). This information is known as "user
information", and can include information about the user such as
but not limited to identification information (name, address,
number, etc.), customer status (new customer, VIP, frequency of
visits, etc.), awards (points accumulated at the particular casino,
winnings, losings, etc.), length of play on each gaming apparatus,
and/or amount won/lost on each particular gaming machine.
[0025] When the user wants to take a break, the user inserts
his/her card into the card reader, and can be required to enter a
certain personal identification number (PIN) on the keypad. The PIN
can be used as a security measure to ensure that the requesting
player is the owner of the particular card. The user may also at
this time enter the amount of time requested for his/her break.
[0026] At this point, the slot data system (SDS) interface board
110 sends the player information (determined by card inserted into
card reader) through the SDS computer 130, and requests the casino
management system 140 to put the game in an out or order mode. The
user can also input on the keypad entry how long the user wants to
put the game out or order for. The casino management system 140
determines whether the user meets the requirement to put the slot
machine 100 in an out of order mode. If the player meets the
requirement, then the casino management system 140 communicates to
the SDS computer 130 to put the game in an out of order mode. An
out of order mode is defined as a mode in which the gaming
apparatus will not allow any play on the gaming apparatus, it is
"locked" so that it will not accept any coins/tokens, and any
remaining credits cannot be used either, until it is "un-locked",
which will be described below.
[0027] The SDS computer 130 communicates to the slot saver
interface board 120 to put the game in an out of order mode and the
game is put into an out of order mode for a predetermined amount of
time (discussed below). The display on the slot machine can show
that the game is in an out of order mode, or a light indicator can
display it is in an out of order mode. When the player returns
within the predetermined amount of time, the player inserts his
card into the card reader. This information is again communicated
over the SDS interface board and back to the casino management
system 140, which determines if the card information is correct,
and then the game is returned to a stand by mode (ready to accept
bills, tickets or coins). If the user has a certain number of
credits remaining, this information can also be saved so that the
same amount of credits remain when the user returns from his/her
break. If the player does not return within the predetermined
amount of time, the game automatically goes into stand by mode so
that anyone is free to use it.
[0028] Different criteria can be used for determining the amount of
time a user can put the game into an out of order mode. This can
depend on the particular "user information". For example, for a 15
minute break (restroom, cigarette, phone call, etc.), the
requesting player may be required to have a minimum of one hour of
play on the particular slot machine 100. The requesting player may
also be required to have a minimum average daily theoretical (ADT)
of two hundred dollars or another predetermined amount. The
requesting player can also be required to not put more than eight
games down in an eight hour period.
[0029] For a two to three hour break (to have lunch, dinner, rest,
etc.), the requesting player may be required to have a minimum of
two hours of play on the particular slot machine 100. The
requesting player may also be required to have a minimum average
daily theoretical (ADT) of four hundred dollars or another
predetermined amount. The requesting player can also be required to
not put more than two games down in an eight hour period.
[0030] For a longer break, such as seven to eight hours (sleep,
shop, etc.), the requesting player may be required to have a
minimum of two hours of play on the particular slot machine 100.
The requesting player may also be required to have a minimum
average daily theoretical (ADT) of four hundred dollars or another
predetermined amount. The requesting player can also be required to
not put more than one game down in a twenty four hour period.
Further, the requesting player may not put any machine down prior
to 12:00 a.m. or other predetermined time.
[0031] Of course, these values are all arbitrary and not restricted
to the above, and the numbers can be set accordingly by the
particular casino depending on their requirements. Factors such as
length of play, customer status (VIP, etc.), ADT, number of games,
time of day, day of the week, holidays, etc. can all be evaluated
in determining the length of time a player can put a game in an out
of order mode.
[0032] The present invention provides several advantages that solve
the problems with prior art methods. It provides a slot machine 100
that allows a customer to put a game in an out of order mode that
guarantees it will hold the game for a certain length of time for
the customer. Prior art methods such as tipped chairs, leaving
jackets, etc, would not guarantee a hold on the machine and the
user could often lose the particular slot machine being used. With
the present invention, the user can guarantee a hold is placed for
the length of time requested if approved by the casino management
system. The user can either input how long the slot machine should
be put on hold, or allow the casino management system to hold the
machine for a length of time based on the card information provided
by the user. This length of time can be displayed to the customer
before the customer leaves so the customer knows when to
return.
[0033] The above description of the present invention is only the
preferred embodiment of the invention. Embodiments may include any
currently or hereafter-known versions of the elements described
herein. Other electronic or wireless components known in the art in
order to identify a user may be used besides a card reader to
obtain the user's information, such as but not limited to
Bluetooth.RTM. devices, radio frequency identification (RFID)
devices, personal identification numbers (PIN) assigned to
customers, etc. The invention may also be used on other gaming
machines, such as black jack tables, poker tables, etc., and is not
limited to slot machines. Therefore, persons skilled in the art
will recognize from this description that other embodiments may be
practiced with various modifications and alterations.
[0034] While there has been shown and described what is considered
to be preferred embodiments of the invention, it will, of course,
be understood that various modifications and changes in form or
detail could readily be made without departing from the spirit of
the invention. It is therefore intended that the invention be not
limited to the exact forms described and illustrated, but should be
constructed to cover all modifications that may fall within the
scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *