U.S. patent application number 11/873976 was filed with the patent office on 2009-04-23 for gaming system, gaming device and gaming method providing player physical activation of the symbol generator.
This patent application is currently assigned to IGT. Invention is credited to Richard N. Snow.
Application Number | 20090104964 11/873976 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40563988 |
Filed Date | 2009-04-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090104964 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Snow; Richard N. |
April 23, 2009 |
GAMING SYSTEM, GAMING DEVICE AND GAMING METHOD PROVIDING PLAYER
PHYSICAL ACTIVATION OF THE SYMBOL GENERATOR
Abstract
A gaming device and method which includes a symbol generator
which includes a plurality of symbols. The gaming device enables
the player to actuate or to physically move the symbol generator.
After the symbol generator is moving, the gaming device randomly
determines a symbol to indicate on the symbol generator. The gaming
device then continues the movement of the symbol generator to
indicate the determined symbol and provides any awards associated
with the indicated symbol to the player.
Inventors: |
Snow; Richard N.; (Reno,
NV) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BELL, BOYD & LLOYD LLP
P.O. Box 1135
CHICAGO
IL
60690
US
|
Assignee: |
IGT
Reno
NV
|
Family ID: |
40563988 |
Appl. No.: |
11/873976 |
Filed: |
October 17, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/20 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/32 20130101;
G07F 17/3209 20130101; G07F 17/3223 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/20 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A gaming system comprising: at least one display device; at
least one input device; at least one processor; a wheel having a
plurality of sections, a plurality of the sections each including
at least one of a plurality of symbols; and at least one memory
device which stores 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 display device, the at
least one input device and the wheel to: (a) display a play of a
primary game upon a wager by a player; (b) upon an occurrence of a
triggering event, enable the player to directly physically engage
the wheel to cause the wheel to move; (c) randomly determine one of
said sections of the wheel to indicate; (d) cause the wheel to slow
down and stop the movement the wheel to cause an indication of the
determined section based on the player's movement of the wheel and
the determined section; and (e) provide the player a game outcome
based on said symbol of said determined section.
2. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein said at least one
processor is operable with said wheel and a handle attached to the
wheel to enable the player to move the wheel after the occurrence
of a triggering event in the primary game.
3. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the wheel is configured to
rotate around a substantially vertical axis.
4. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein the wheel is configured to
rotate around a substantially horizontal axis.
5. The gaming system of claim 1, which includes a protective cover
that at least partially covers the wheel.
6. The gaming system of claim 1, wherein when the instructions are
executed by the at least one processor, the instructions cause the
at least one processor to, after the wheel starts moving, randomly
determine one of said sections of the wheel to indicate.
7. The gaming system of claim 1, which includes a handle attached
to and extending from the wheel.
8. A multi-player gaming system comprising: a plurality of
individual gaming devices, each individual gaming device including
at least one display device configured to display a primary game
operable upon a wager by a player, each primary game including a
triggering event; a symbol generator shared by the plurality of
gaming devices, said shared symbol generator including a plurality
of symbols; at least one processor configured to operate with said
gaming devices and said shared symbol generator to: (a) after an
occurrence of one of the triggering events, enable a player of one
of the gaming devices to physically move the shared symbol
generator; (b) randomly determine one of said symbols to indicate;
(c) cause the shared symbol generator to continue moving to and
then cause the shared symbol generator to stop moving to indicate
said determined symbol based on the player's movement of the wheel
and the determined section; and (d) provide said player a bonus
game outcome based on said determined symbol.
9. The multi-player gaming system of claim 8, wherein the shared
symbol generator is configured to rotate around a substantially
vertical axis.
10. The multi-player gaming system of claim 8, wherein the shared
symbol generator is configured to rotate around a substantially
horizontal axis.
11. The multi-player gaming system of claim 8, wherein when the
instructions are executed by the at least one processor, the
instructions cause the at least one processor to after said shared
symbol generator starts moving randomly determine one of said
sections of the shared symbol generator to indicate.
12. The multi-player gaming system of claim 8, which includes at
least one handle attached to and extending from said shared symbol
generator.
13. The gaming device of claim 8, wherein the shared symbol
generator is selected from the group consisting of a wheel, a cone,
a sphere, a reel, a ring, a disk and a die.
14. A gaming system comprising: at least one input device; at least
one display device; at least one processor; a wheel including a
plurality of sections, a plurality of the sections each including
at least one of a plurality of symbols; an indicator; and at least
one memory device which stores 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 display device, the at
least one input device, the wheel and the indicator to: (a) display
a play of a primary game upon a wager by a player; (b) upon an
occurrence of a triggering event, enable the player to: (i)
physically engage the wheel to cause the wheel to move, or (ii) to
physically engage the indicator to cause the indicator to move; (c)
if the player physically engages the wheel, cause the indicator to
move; (d) if the player physically engages the indicator, cause the
wheel to move; (e) randomly determine one of said sections of the
wheel to indicate; (f) cause at least one of the wheel and the
indicator to keep moving and stop any movement of the wheel and the
indicator to cause an indication of the determined section based on
the determined section and the movement of one of the indicator and
wheel by the player; and (g) provide the player a game outcome
based on said symbol of said determined section.
15. The gaming system of claim 14, wherein when the plurality of
instructions are executed by the at least one processor, cause the
at least one processor to, while at least one of the indicator or
the wheel is moving, randomly determine one of said sections of the
wheel to indicate.
16. The gaming system of claim 14, wherein when the plurality of
instructions are executed by the at least one processor, cause the
at least one processor to operate with the wheel and the indicator
to stop the movement of the wheel or the indicator while the other
of the wheel or indicator is moving.
17. The gaming system of claim 14, wherein when the plurality of
instructions are executed by the at least one processor, cause the
at least one processor to operate with the wheel and the indicator
if the player physically engages the wheel, to stop the movement of
the indicator.
18. The gaming system of claim 14, wherein when the plurality of
instructions are executed by the at least one processor, cause the
at least one processor to operate with the wheel and the indicator
if the player physically engages the indicator, to stop the
movement of the wheel.
Description
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
or may contain material which is subject to copyright protection.
The copyright owner has no objection to the photocopy reproduction
by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure in
exactly the form it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office
patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights
whatsoever.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Gaming device manufacturers strive to make gaming devices
that provide as much enjoyment, entertainment and excitement as
possible. Providing interesting and exciting primary games and
secondary games in which a player has an opportunity to win
potentially large awards or credits is one way to enhance player
enjoyment and excitement.
[0003] Certain known gaming devices use mechanical devices such as
mechanical reels, mechanical wheels and mechanical dice to enhance
player attraction of these gaming machines and also to enhance the
player's game playing experience. Such mechanical devices enable a
player to see physical movements of the mechanical device
displaying a game, a portion of a game, symbols of a game or a
functional game event or element which increases the player's
enjoyment of the game. However, the player is not allowed to
physically touch the mechanical device (such as a reel, a wheel or
a dice) to actuate or activate the mechanical device. The gaming
devices typically require the player to touch or activate a button
or touch screen to actuate or activate the mechanical device. These
gaming machines typically make a random determination of a game
outcome and cause the mechanical device to indicate the game
outcome or part of the game outcome.
[0004] To increase player enjoyment and excitement and provide
increased player interaction with gaming devices, it is desirable
to provide new and different display devices for gaming devices and
systems.
SUMMARY
[0005] The present disclosure is directed towards a gaming system,
gaming device and method which includes a mechanical symbol
generator which displays a plurality of symbols. The gaming system
or device enables the player to initiate the movement of the
mechanical symbol generator by physically touching the symbol
generator to start or cause the movement of the symbol generator.
In one embodiment, after the mechanical symbol generator is moving,
the gaming system or device determines a symbol to indicate on the
symbol generator. The gaming system or device controls the movement
of the symbol generator to indicate the determined symbol and
provides any awards associated with the indicated symbol to the
player.
[0006] More specifically, in one embodiment, the gaming device
includes a mechanical wheel which includes a plurality of sections,
each section including a symbol or an outcome. Upon game
initiation, the gaming device enables the player to physically
actuate or initiate the movement of the mechanical wheel. That is,
the gaming device enables the player to grasp the wheel or a handle
or other attachment of the wheel to spin the wheel. After the
player initiates the movement of the wheel, the gaming device
randomly determines one of the sections or symbols to indicate on
the wheel. In other embodiments, the gaming device randomly
determines one of the sections or symbols to indicate on the wheel
before the player initiates movement of the wheel or while the
player is initiating movement of the wheel. The gaming device stops
the movement of the wheel to indicate the determined symbol or
section. That is, the gaming device then determines the symbol or
section to indicate and terminates movement of the wheel to stop.
The gaming device indicates the determined symbol or section. The
gaming device provides any awards associated with the indicated
symbol or section to the player. Enabling the player to physically
actuate the mechanical wheel and determine the speed of the
movement of the wheel provides players with a sense of control over
the game results. However, after the player physically initiates
the movement of the wheel, the gaming device randomly determines
the game result which in one embodiment is independent of the
player input. In an alternative embodiment, the gaming device at
least partially bases the game result on the player movement of the
mechanical devices.
[0007] In one embodiment, the symbol generator is a mechanical
symbol generator that includes one or more position sensors, such
as an optical sensor, and a drive motor. The gaming device monitors
each sensor using a suitable algorithm. Upon initiation of the
symbol generator by the player, the gaming device determines if a
predetermined amount of movement is made by the symbol generator.
For example, the symbol generator must complete three full
rotations. After the predetermined amount of movement is made, the
gaming device determines a stop position or a section or an outcome
to indicate. In one embodiment, the gaming device uses the drive
motor to continue the movement of the symbol generator. In one
embodiment, the gaming device monitors the movement of the symbol
generator using one or more position sensors. In one embodiment,
the gaming device uses a suitable brake which is coupled to the
symbol generator to stop the movement of the symbol generator at
the determined stop position, section or outcome.
[0008] In one embodiment, if upon initiation of the symbol
generator by the player, the gaming device determines that a
predetermined amount of movement is not made by the symbol
generator, the gaming device instructs the player to move or spin
the symbol generator again. For example, the gaming device
instructs the player to re-spin the symbol generator and to use
more force when spinning the symbol generator. It should be
appreciated that the player may be required to cause any suitable
amount of movement to continue the game including the symbol
generator.
[0009] In one embodiment, the gaming device enables the player to
initiate movement of an indicator or a symbol generator. The gaming
device initiates movement of the other of the devices. For example,
a player initiates movement of the symbol generator. The gaming
device then initiates movement of the indicator. The gaming device
determines one of the symbols or sections to indicate before,
during or after at least one of the indicator or the symbol
generator moves. In one embodiment, the gaming device stops or
slows the movement of at least one of the indicator or the symbol
generator to indicate the determined symbol or section. The gaming
device then provides the player any award associated with that
symbol or section.
[0010] In one embodiment, the symbol generator is a shared symbol
generator or community award generator associated with a plurality
of gaming devices. In this embodiment, upon a triggering event at
one of the gaming devices, the gaming system enables one of the
players to physically move or spin the shared symbol generator. In
one embodiment, while the shared symbol generator is moving as a
result of the player, the gaming system determines one of the
symbols or sections to indicate when the shared symbol generator
stops spinning. The gaming system continues to move or rotate the
shared symbol generator and stops the movement of the shared symbol
generator to indicate the determined symbol or section. The gaming
system provides at least the player that spins the shared symbol
generator an award.
[0011] It should be appreciated that the symbol generator may be
any suitable mechanical symbol generator, including but not limited
to, a wheel, a cone, a sphere, a reel, a ring, a disk and a die. It
should also be appreciated that the symbol generator may be any
suitable shape including but not limited to a cone, a circle, a
semi-circle, an oval, a rectangle, a triangle, a hexagon, an
octagon, a pentagon, a diamond, a linear configuration, an indented
oval, and a curved configuration.
[0012] It should be appreciated that the symbol generator may be
employed in a primary game and/or a secondary game.
[0013] Additional features and advantages are described herein, and
will be apparent from, the following Detailed Description and the
figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0014] FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C are diagrammatic front perspective views
of alternative embodiments of gaming devices disclosed herein.
[0015] FIG. 2A is a schematic block diagram of the electronic
configuration of one embodiment of a gaming device disclosed
herein.
[0016] FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram of the central server in
communication with a plurality of gaming devices in accordance with
one embodiment of the gaming system disclosed herein.
[0017] FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating one method of one
embodiment of a play of the game enabling the player to initiate
movement of a symbol generator, determining a stop position for the
symbol generator and then continuing movement of the symbol
generator to the determined stop position.
[0018] FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D are diagrammatic front perspective
views of one embodiment of the present disclosure which includes a
mechanical symbol generator having a handle that enables the player
to physically spin the symbol generator.
[0019] FIGS. 5A and 5B are diagrammatic front perspective views of
one embodiment of a gaming device of the present disclosure that
enables the player to physically move the symbol generator and then
moves the symbol generator backwards to protect the symbol
generator from a player further actuating the symbol generator.
[0020] FIGS. 6A and 6B are side diagrammatic views one embodiment
of a gaming device of the present disclosure that enables the
player to physically move the symbol generator and then retracts
the handle and closes the protective cover to protect the symbol
generator from a player further actuating the symbol generator.
[0021] FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C and 7D are diagrammatic front perspective
views of one embodiment of a gaming device of the present
disclosure that enables the player to physically move the
indicator.
[0022] FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D and 8E are diagrammatic front
perspective views of one embodiment of a gaming device of the
present disclosure that enables the player to physically move the
indicator or the symbol generator, and where the gaming device
initiates movement of the non-initiated indicator or symbol
generator.
[0023] FIG. 9A is a diagrammatic top perspective view of one
embodiment of a shared display and associated system of the present
disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 9B is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment
of the electronic configuration for a shared display system.
[0025] FIGS. 10A, 10B and 10C are diagrammatic perspective views of
one embodiment of the shared display with a top portion of the
display removed to show a supporting frame, and portions thereof,
respectively.
[0026] FIGS. 11A and 11B are bottom and top perspective views of
one embodiment of an award or outcome displaying part of the shared
display having replaceable award or outcome display panels.
[0027] FIG. 11C is a fragmentary perspective view of the award or
outcome display panels attached to the frame of the shared
display.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] The present disclosure may be implemented in various
configurations for gaming machines, gaming devices or gaming
systems, including but not limited to: (1) a dedicated gaming
machine, gaming device, or gaming system wherein the computerized
instructions for controlling any games (which are provided by the
gaming machine or gaming device) are provided with the gaming
machine or gaming device prior to delivery to a gaming
establishment; and (2) a changeable gaming machine, gaming device,
or gaming system where the computerized instructions for
controlling any games (which are provided by the gaming machine or
gaming device) are downloadable to the gaming machine or gaming
device through a data network when the gaming machine or gaming
device is in a gaming establishment. In one embodiment, the
computerized instructions for controlling any games are executed by
at least one central server, central controller or remote host. In
such a "thin client" embodiment, the central server remotely
controls any games (or other suitable interfaces) and the gaming
device is utilized to display such games (or suitable interfaces)
and receive one or more inputs or commands from a player. In
another embodiment, the computerized instructions for controlling
any games are communicated from the central server, central
controller or remote host to a gaming device local processor and
memory devices. In such a "thick client" embodiment, the gaming
device local processor executes the communicated computerized
instructions to control any games (or other suitable interfaces)
provided to a player.
[0029] In one embodiment, one or more gaming devices in a gaming
system may be thin client gaming devices and one or more gaming
devices in the gaming system may be thick client gaming devices. In
another embodiment, certain functions of the gaming device are
implemented in a thin client environment and certain other
functions of the gaming device are implemented in a thick client
environment. In one such embodiment, computerized instructions for
controlling any primary games are communicated from the central
server to the gaming device in a thick client configuration and
computerized instructions for controlling any secondary games or
bonus functions are executed by a central server in a thin client
configuration.
[0030] Referring now to the drawings, three example alternative
embodiments of the gaming device of the disclosed herein are
illustrated in FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C, as gaming device 10a and gaming
device 10c, respectively. Gaming device 10a and/or gaming device
10b and/or gaming device 10c are generally referred to herein as
gaming device 10.
[0031] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C,
gaming device 10 has a support structure, housing or cabinet which
provides support for a plurality of displays, inputs, controls and
other features of a conventional gaming machine. It is configured
so that a player can operate it while standing or sitting. The
gaming device may be positioned on a base or stand or can be
configured as a pub-style table-top game (not shown) which a player
can operate preferably while sitting. As illustrated by the
different configurations shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C, the gaming
device may have varying cabinet and display configurations.
[0032] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, the gaming
device preferably includes at least one processor 12, such as a
microprocessor, a microcontroller-based platform, a suitable
integrated circuit or one or more application-specific integrated
circuits (ASIC's). The processor is in communication with or
operable to access or to exchange signals with at least one data
storage or memory device 14. In one embodiment, the processor and
the memory device reside within the cabinet of the gaming device.
The memory device stores program code and instructions, executable
by the processor, to control the gaming device. The memory device
also stores other data such as image data, event data, player input
data, random or pseudo-random number generators, pay-table data or
information and applicable game rules that relate to the play of
the gaming device. In one embodiment, the memory device includes
random access memory (RAM), which can include non-volatile RAM
(NVRAM), magnetic RAM (MRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM) and other
forms as commonly understood in the gaming industry. In one
embodiment, the memory device includes read only memory (ROM). In
one embodiment, the memory device includes flash memory and/or
EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read only memory). Any
other suitable magnetic, optical and/or semiconductor memory may
operate in conjunction with the gaming device disclosed herein.
[0033] In one embodiment, part or all of the program code and/or
operating data described above can be stored in a detachable or
removable memory device, including, but not limited to, a suitable
cartridge, disk, CD ROM, DVD or USB memory device. In other
embodiments, part or all of the program code and/or operating data
described above can be downloaded to the memory device through a
suitable network.
[0034] It should be appreciated that a gaming device or gaming
machine as disclosed herein may be a device that has obtained
approval from a regulatory gaming commission or a device that has
not obtained approval from a regulatory gaming commission. It
should be appreciated that the processor and memory device may be
collectively referred to herein as a "computer" or
"controller."
[0035] In one embodiment, as discussed in more detail below, the
gaming device randomly generates awards and/or other game outcomes
based on probability data. In one such embodiment, this random
determination is provided through utilization of a random number
generator (RNG), such as a true random number generator, a pseudo
random number generator or other suitable randomization process. In
one embodiment, each award or other game outcome is associated with
a probability and the gaming device generates the award or other
game outcome to be provided to the player based on the associated
probabilities. In this embodiment, since the gaming device
generates outcomes randomly or based upon one or more probability
calculations, there is no certainty that the gaming device will
ever provide the player with any specific award or other game
outcome.
[0036] In another embodiment, as discussed in more detail below,
the gaming device employs a predetermined or finite set or pool of
awards or other game outcomes. In this embodiment, as each award or
other game outcome is provided to the player, the gaming device
flags or removes the provided award or other game outcome from the
predetermined set or pool. Once flagged or removed from the set or
pool, the specific provided award or other game outcome from that
specific pool cannot be provided to the player again. This type of
gaming device provides players with all of the available awards or
other game outcomes over the course of the play cycle and
guarantees the amount of actual wins and losses.
[0037] In another embodiment, as discussed below, upon a player
initiating game play at the gaming device, the gaming device
enrolls in a bingo game. In this embodiment, a bingo server calls
the bingo balls that result in a specific bingo game outcome. The
resultant game outcome is communicated to the individual gaming
device to be provided to a player. In one embodiment, this bingo
outcome is displayed to the player as a bingo game and/or in any
form in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0038] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2A, the gaming
device includes one or more display devices controlled by the
processor. The display devices are preferably connected to or
mounted to the cabinet of the gaming device. The embodiment shown
in FIGS. 1A and 1B includes a central display device 16 which
displays a primary game. This display device may also display any
suitable secondary game associated with the primary game as well as
information relating to the primary or secondary game. The
alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 1C includes a central display
device 16 and an upper display device 18. The upper display device
may display the primary game, any suitable secondary game
associated or not associated with the primary game and/or
information relating to the primary or secondary game. These
display devices may also serve as digital glass operable to
advertise games or other aspects of the gaming establishment. As
seen in FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C, in one embodiment, the gaming device
includes a credit display 20 which displays a player's current
number of credits, cash, account balance or the equivalent. In one
embodiment, the gaming device includes a bet display 22 which
displays a player's amount wagered. In one embodiment, as described
in more detail below, the gaming device includes a player tracking
display 40 which displays information regarding a player's playing
tracking status.
[0039] In another embodiment, at least one display device may be a
mobile display device, such as a PDA or tablet PC, that enables
play of at least a portion of the primary or secondary game at a
location remote from the gaming device.
[0040] The display devices may include, without limitation, a
monitor, a television display, a plasma display, a liquid crystal
display (LCD) a display based on light emitting diodes (LED), a
display based on a plurality of organic light-emitting diodes
(OLEDs), a display based on polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs),
a display based on a plurality of surface-conduction
electron-emitters (SEDs), a display including a projected and/or
reflected image or any other suitable electronic device or display
mechanism. In one embodiment, as described in more detail below,
the display device includes a touch-screen with an associated
touch-screen controller. The display devices may be of any suitable
size and configuration, such as a square, a rectangle or an
elongated rectangle.
[0041] The display devices of the gaming device are configured to
display at least one and preferably a plurality of game or other
suitable images, symbols and indicia such as any visual
representation or exhibition of the movement of objects such as
mechanical, dynamic lighting, video images, images of people,
characters, places, things and faces of cards, and the like.
[0042] In one embodiment, the symbols, images and indicia displayed
on or of the display device are in mechanical form 210a as
illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B. That is, the display device may
include any electromechanical device, such as one or more
mechanical objects, such as one or more rotatable wheels, reels or
dice, configured to display at least one or a plurality of game or
other suitable images, symbols, outcomes or indicia.
[0043] In one embodiment, the mechanical symbol generator is
coupled to a motor controlled by a controller or processor. In one
embodiment, the motor is a stepper motor or other servo-type motor
that can with a brake accurately position the symbol generator to
indicate the randomly determined outcomes for the symbol generator.
In another embodiment, the gaming system does not include a brake.
For example, in one embodiment, the symbol generator includes pegs
and the gaming system includes one or more devices that slows the
movement of the symbol generator by creating resistance to the
pegs. A stepper or servo motor is controllable to set one or more
accelerations and/or decelerations, one or more velocities, a
number of spins or distance traveled, and a number of directional
changes. The symbol generator can perform a complex sequence of
stops, starts and direction changes, or simply spin at different
rates of speed and, for example, ramp up and ramp down from and to
a zero angular velocity, according to a desired linear or bell-type
velocity curve. In another embodiment, the motor is a gear drive
motor that runs until a signal tells a controller of the motor to
stop.
[0044] In one embodiment, the symbol generator includes dividers
between each of the sections that can provide pulses or signals
when sensed by a positioning device that is situated in a fixed
relationship to the symbol generator. In one embodiment, one or
more of dividers passing by the sensor can be sensed to determine
an actual position and/or number of rotations of the symbol
generator. The actual positional feedback can be used alone or in
combination to determine when and where to stop the movement of the
symbol generator. For example, the positional feedback can be used
to tell the controller of the gear drive motor to stop the motor.
In an alternative embodiment, the pulses generated from the sensing
of one of the dividers are used to compare against a number of step
pulses or other electronic signals sent to the motor driving shaft
and the symbol generator. Control of the symbol generators of the
present disclosure can be open loop, closed loop and/or a
combination of both.
[0045] In one embodiment, an optical wheel is connected directly or
indirectly to and spins with an output shaft of the motor. An
optical sensor is fixed to a structural area around the motor and
is used in combination with the optical wheel to send a signal to a
controller. The signal can be analog or digital and is indicative
of the position of the symbol generator with respect to a home
position. In one embodiment, the optical wheel that includes a
circumferential series of notches of differing widths and
frequencies, which create unique patterns of light detected by the
optical sensor for various positions of the symbol generator with
respect to the optical sensor and/or the home position. The optical
wheel and the optical sensor in one embodiment form an absolute or
incremental encoder as known to those of skill in the art.
[0046] The signal is used in one embodiment in combination with a
brake or clutch-brake assembly to stop the motor and the symbol
generator at the desired and randomly determined position, symbol
or section. The brake or clutch brake assembly may be any suitable
device operable to stop or slow the movement of the symbol
generator.
[0047] As illustrated in FIG. 2A, in one embodiment, the gaming
device includes at least one payment device 24 in communication
with the processor. As seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B, a payment device
such as a payment acceptor includes a note, ticket or bill acceptor
28 wherein the player inserts paper money, a ticket or voucher and
a coin slot 26 where the player inserts money, coins, or tokens. In
other embodiments, payment devices such as readers or validators
for credit cards, debit cards or credit slips may accept payment.
In one embodiment, a player may insert an identification card into
a card reader of the gaming device. In one embodiment, the
identification card is a smart card having a programmed microchip
or a magnetic strip coded with a player's identification, credit
totals (or related data) and other relevant information. In another
embodiment, a player may carry a portable device, such as a cell
phone, a radio frequency identification tag or any other suitable
wireless device, which communicates a player's identification,
credit totals (or related data) and other relevant information to
the gaming device. In one embodiment, money may be transferred to a
gaming device through electronic funds transfer. When a player
funds the gaming device, the processor determines the amount of
funds entered and displays the corresponding amount on the credit
or other suitable display as described above.
[0048] As seen in FIGS. 1A, 1B and 2A, in one embodiment the gaming
device includes at least one and preferably a plurality of input
devices 30 in communication with the processor. The input devices
can include any suitable device which enables the player to produce
an input signal which is received by the processor. In one
embodiment, after appropriate funding of the gaming device, the
input device is a game activation device, such as a play button 32
or a pull arm (not shown) which is used by the player to start any
primary game or sequence of events in the gaming device. The play
button can be any suitable play activator such as a bet one button,
a max bet button or a repeat the bet button. In one embodiment,
upon appropriate funding, the gaming device begins the game play
automatically. In another embodiment, upon the player engaging one
of the play buttons, the gaming device automatically activates game
play.
[0049] In one embodiment, one input device is a bet one button. The
player places a bet by pushing the bet one button. The player can
increase the bet by one credit each time the player pushes the bet
one button. When the player pushes the bet one button, the number
of credits shown in the credit display preferably decreases by one,
and the number of credits shown in the bet display preferably
increases by one. In another embodiment, one input device is a bet
max button (not shown) which enables the player to bet the maximum
wager permitted for a game of the gaming device.
[0050] In one embodiment, one input device is a cash out button 34.
The player may push the cash out button and cash out to receive a
cash payment or other suitable form of payment corresponding to the
number of remaining credits. In one embodiment, when the player
cashes out, a payment device, such as a ticket, payment or note
generator 36 prints or otherwise generates a ticket or credit slip
to provide to the player. The player receives the ticket or credit
slip and may redeem the value associated with the ticket or credit
slip via a cashier (or other suitable redemption system). In
another embodiment, when the player cashes out, the player receives
the coins or tokens in a coin payout tray. It should be appreciated
that any suitable payout mechanisms, such as funding to the
player's electronically recordable identification card may be
implemented in accordance with the gaming device disclosed
herein.
[0051] In one embodiment, as mentioned above and seen in FIG. 2A,
one input device is a touch-screen 42 coupled with a touch-screen
controller 44, or some other touch-sensitive display overlay to
allow for player interaction with the images on the display. The
touch-screen and the touch-screen controller are connected to a
video controller 46. A player can make decisions and input signals
into the gaming device by touching the touch-screen at the
appropriate places. One such input device is a conventional
touch-screen button panel.
[0052] The gaming device may further include a plurality of
communication ports for enabling communication of the processor
with external peripherals, such as external video sources,
expansion buses, game or other displays, an SCSI port or a key
pad.
[0053] In one embodiment, as seen in FIG. 2A, the gaming device
includes a sound generating device controlled by one or more sounds
cards 48 which function in conjunction with the processor. In one
embodiment, the sound generating device includes at least one and
preferably a plurality of speakers 50 or other sound generating
hardware and/or software for generating sounds, such as playing
music for the primary and/or secondary game or for other modes of
the gaming device, such as an attract mode. In one embodiment, the
gaming device provides dynamic sounds coupled with attractive
multimedia images displayed on one or more of the display devices
to provide an audio-visual representation or to otherwise display
full-motion video with sound to attract players to the gaming
device. During idle periods, the gaming device may display a
sequence of audio and/or visual attraction messages to attract
potential players to the gaming device. The videos may also be
customized for or to provide any appropriate information.
[0054] In one embodiment, the gaming machine may include a sensor,
such as a camera in communication with the processor (and possibly
controlled by the processor) that is selectively positioned to
acquire an image of a player actively using the gaming device
and/or the surrounding area of the gaming device. In one
embodiment, the camera may be configured to selectively acquire
still or moving (e.g., video) images and may be configured to
acquire the images in either an analog, digital or other suitable
format. The display devices may be configured to display the image
acquired by the camera as well as display the visible manifestation
of the game in split screen or picture-in-picture fashion. For
example, the camera may acquire an image of the player and the
processor may incorporate that image into the primary and/or
secondary game as a game image, symbol or indicia.
[0055] Gaming device 10 can incorporate any suitable wagering
primary or base game. The gaming machine or device may include some
or all of the features of conventional gaming machines or devices.
The primary or base game may comprise any suitable reel-type game,
card game, cascading or falling symbol game, number game or other
game of chance susceptible to representation in an electronic or
electromechanical form, which in one embodiment produces a random
outcome based on probability data at the time of or after placement
of a wager. That is, different primary wagering games, such as
video poker games, video blackjack games, video keno, video bingo
or any other suitable primary or base game may be implemented.
[0056] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, a base
or primary game may be a slot game with one or more paylines 52.
The paylines may be horizontal, vertical, circular, diagonal,
angled or any combination thereof. In this embodiment, the gaming
device includes at least one and preferably a plurality of reels
54, such as three to five reels 54, in either electromechanical
form with mechanical rotating reels or video form with simulated
reels and movement thereof. In one embodiment, an electromechanical
slot machine includes a plurality of adjacent, rotatable reels
which may be combined and operably coupled with an electronic
display of any suitable type. In another embodiment, if the reels
54 are in video form, one or more of the display devices, as
described above, display the plurality of simulated video reels 54.
Each reel 54 displays a plurality of indicia or symbols, such as
bells, hearts, fruits, numbers, letters, bars or other images which
preferably correspond to a theme associated with the gaming device.
In another embodiment, one or more of the reels are independent
reels or unisymbol reels. In this embodiment, each independent or
unisymbol reel generates and displays one symbol to the player. In
one embodiment, the gaming device awards prizes after the reels of
the primary game stop spinning if specified types and/or
configurations of indicia or symbols occur on an active payline or
otherwise occur in a winning pattern, occur on the requisite number
of adjacent reels and/or occur in a scatter pay arrangement.
[0057] In an alternative embodiment, rather than determining any
outcome to provide to the player by analyzing the symbols generated
on any wagered upon paylines as described above, the gaming device
determines any outcome to provide to the player based on the number
of associated symbols which are generated in active symbol
positions on the requisite number of adjacent reels (i.e., not on
paylines passing through any displayed winning symbol
combinations). In this embodiment, if a winning symbol combination
is generated on the reels, the gaming device provides the player
one award for that occurrence of the generated winning symbol
combination. For example, if one winning symbol combination is
generated on the reels, the gaming device will provide a single
award to the player for that winning symbol combination (i.e., not
based on the number of paylines that would have passed through that
winning symbol combination). It should be appreciated that because
a gaming device with wagering on ways to win provides the player
one award for a single occurrence of a winning symbol combination
and a gaming device with paylines may provide the player more than
one award for the same occurrence of a single winning symbol
combination (i.e., if a plurality of paylines each pass through the
same winning symbol combination), it is possible to provide a
player at a ways to win gaming device with more ways to win for an
equivalent bet or wager on a traditional slot gaming device with
paylines.
[0058] In one embodiment, the total number of ways to win is
determined by multiplying the number of symbols generated in active
symbol positions on a first reel by the number of symbols generated
in active symbol positions on a second reel by the number of
symbols generated in active symbol positions on a third reel and so
on for each reel of the gaming device with at least one symbol
generated in an active symbol position. For example, a three reel
gaming device with three symbols generated in active symbol
positions on each reel includes 27 ways to win (i.e., 3 symbols on
the first reel.times.3 symbols on the second reel.times.3 symbols
on the third reel). A four reel gaming device with three symbols
generated in active symbol positions on each reel includes 81 ways
to win (i.e., 3 symbols on the first reel.times.3 symbols on the
second reel.times.3 symbols on the third reel.times.3 symbols on
the fourth reel). A five reel gaming device with three symbols
generated in active symbol positions on each reel includes 243 ways
to win (i.e., 3 symbols on the first reel.times.3 symbols on the
second reel.times.3 symbols on the third reel.times.3 symbols on
the fourth reel.times.3 symbols on the fifth reel). It should be
appreciated that modifying the number of generated symbols by
either modifying the number of reels or modifying the number of
symbols generated in active symbol positions by one or more of the
reels, modifies the number of ways to win.
[0059] In another embodiment, the gaming device enables a player to
wager on and thus activate symbol positions. In one such
embodiment, the symbol positions are on the reels. In this
embodiment, if based on the player's wager, a reel is activated,
then each of the symbol positions of that reel will be activated
and each of the active symbol positions will be part of one or more
of the ways to win. In one embodiment, if based on the player's
wager, a reel is not activated, then a designated number of default
symbol positions, such as a single symbol position of the middle
row of the reel, will be activated and the default symbol
position(s) will be part of one or more of the ways to win. This
type of gaming machine enables a player to wager on one, more or
each of the reels and the processor of the gaming device uses the
number of wagered on reels to determine the active symbol positions
and the number of possible ways to win. In alternative embodiments,
(1) no symbols are displayed as generated at any of the inactive
symbol positions, or (2) any symbols generated at any inactive
symbol positions may be displayed to the player but suitably shaded
or otherwise designated as inactive.
[0060] In one embodiment wherein a player wagers on one or more
reels, a player's wager of one credit may activate each of the
three symbol positions on a first reel, wherein one default symbol
position is activated on each of the remaining four reels. In this
example, as described above, the gaming device provides the player
three ways to win (i.e., 3 symbols on the first reel.times.1 symbol
on the second reel.times.1 symbol on the third reel.times.1 symbol
on the fourth reel.times.1 symbol on the fifth reel). In another
example, a player's wager of nine credits may activate each of the
three symbol positions on a first reel, each of the three symbol
positions on a second reel and each of the three symbol positions
on a third reel wherein one default symbol position is activated on
each of the remaining two reels. In this example, as described
above, the gaming device provides the player twenty-seven ways to
win (i.e., 3 symbols on the first reel.times.3 symbols on the
second reel.times.3 symbols on the third reel.times.1 symbol on the
fourth reel.times.1 symbol on the fifth reel).
[0061] In one embodiment, to determine any award(s) to provide to
the player based on the generated symbols, the gaming device
individually determines if a symbol generated in an active symbol
position on a first reel forms part of a winning symbol combination
with or is otherwise suitably related to a symbol generated in an
active symbol position on a second reel. In this embodiment, the
gaming device classifies each pair of symbols which form part of a
winning symbol combination (i.e., each pair of related symbols) as
a string of related symbols. For example, if active symbol
positions include a first cherry symbol generated in the top row of
a first reel and a second cherry symbol generated in the bottom row
of a second reel, the gaming device classifies the two cherry
symbols as a string of related symbols because the two cherry
symbols form part of a winning symbol combination.
[0062] After determining if any strings of related symbols are
formed between the symbols on the first reel and the symbols on the
second reel, the gaming device determines if any of the symbols
from the next adjacent reel should be added to any of the formed
strings of related symbols. In this embodiment, for a first of the
classified strings of related symbols, the gaming device determines
if any of the symbols generated by the next adjacent reel form part
of a winning symbol combination or are otherwise related to the
symbols of the first string of related symbols. If the gaming
device determines that a symbol generated on the next adjacent reel
is related to the symbols of the first string of related symbols,
that symbol is subsequently added to the first string of related
symbols. For example, if the first string of related symbols is the
string of related cherry symbols and a related cherry symbol is
generated in the middle row of the third reel, the gaming device
adds the related cherry symbol generated on the third reel to the
previously classified string of cherry symbols.
[0063] On the other hand, if the gaming device determines that no
symbols generated on the next adjacent reel are related to the
symbols of the first string of related symbols, the gaming device
marks or flags such string of related symbols as complete. For
example, if the first string of related symbols is the string of
related cherry symbols and none of the symbols of the third reel
are related to the cherry symbols of the previously classified
string of cherry symbols, the gaming device marks or flags the
string of cherry symbols as complete.
[0064] After either adding a related symbol to the first string of
related symbols or marking the first string of related symbols as
complete, the gaming device proceeds as described above for each of
the remaining classified strings of related symbols which were
previously classified or formed from related symbols on the first
and second reels.
[0065] After analyzing each of the remaining strings of related
symbols, the gaming device determines, for each remaining pending
or incomplete string of related symbols, if any of the symbols from
the next adjacent reel, if any, should be added to any of the
previously classified strings of related symbols. This process
continues until either each string of related symbols is complete
or there are no more adjacent reels of symbols to analyze. In this
embodiment, where there are no more adjacent reels of symbols to
analyze, the gaming device marks each of the remaining pending
strings of related symbols as complete.
[0066] When each of the strings of related symbols is marked
complete, the gaming device compares each of the strings of related
symbols to an appropriate paytable and provides the player any
award associated with each of the completed strings of symbols. It
should be appreciated that the player is provided one award, if
any, for each string of related symbols generated in active symbol
positions (i.e., as opposed to being based on how many paylines
that would have passed through each of the strings of related
symbols in active symbol positions).
[0067] In one embodiment, a base or primary game may be a poker
game wherein the gaming device enables the player to play a
conventional game of video draw poker and initially deals five
cards all face up from a virtual deck of fifty-two card deck. Cards
may be dealt as in a traditional game of cards or in the case of
the gaming device, may also include that the cards are randomly
selected from a predetermined number of cards. If the player wishes
to draw, the player selects the cards to hold via one or more input
device, such as pressing related hold buttons or via the touch
screen. The player then presses the deal button and the unwanted or
discarded cards are removed from the display and the gaming machine
deals the replacement cards from the remaining cards in the deck.
This results in a final five-card hand. The gaming device compares
the final five-card hand to a payout table which utilizes
conventional poker hand rankings to determine the winning hands.
The gaming device provides the player with an award based on a
winning hand and the credits the player wagered.
[0068] In another embodiment, the base or primary game may be a
multi-hand version of video poker. In this embodiment, the gaming
device deals the player at least two hands of cards. In one such
embodiment, the cards are the same cards. In one embodiment each
hand of cards is associated with its own deck of cards. The player
chooses the cards to hold in a primary hand. The held cards in the
primary hand are also held in the other hands of cards. The
remaining non-held cards are removed from each hand displayed and
for each hand replacement cards are randomly dealt into that hand.
Since the replacement cards are randomly dealt independently for
each hand, the replacement cards for each hand will usually be
different. The poker hand rankings are then determined hand by hand
and awards are provided to the player.
[0069] In one embodiment, a base or primary game may be a keno game
wherein the gaming device displays a plurality of selectable
indicia or numbers on at least one of the display devices. In this
embodiment, the player selects at least one or a plurality of the
selectable indicia or numbers via an input device such as the touch
screen. The gaming device then displays a series of drawn numbers
to determine an amount of matches, if any, between the player's
selected numbers and the gaming device's drawn numbers. The player
is provided an award based on the amount of matches, if any, based
on the amount of determined matches and the number of numbers
drawn.
[0070] In one embodiment, in addition to winning credits or other
awards in a base or primary game, the gaming device may also give
players the opportunity to win credits in a bonus or secondary game
or bonus or secondary round. The bonus or secondary game enables
the player to obtain a prize or payout in addition to the prize or
payout, if any, obtained from the base or primary game. In general,
a bonus or secondary game produces a significantly higher level of
player excitement than the base or primary game because it provides
a greater expectation of winning than the base or primary game and
is accompanied with more attractive or unusual features than the
base or primary game. In one embodiment, the bonus or secondary
game may be any type of suitable game, either similar to or
completely different from the base or primary game.
[0071] In one embodiment, the triggering event or qualifying
condition may be a selected outcome in the primary game or a
particular arrangement of one or more indicia on a display device
in the primary game, such as the number seven appearing on three
adjacent reels along a payline in the primary slot game embodiment
seen in FIGS. 1A and 1B. In other embodiments, the triggering event
or qualifying condition may be by exceeding a certain amount of
game play (such as number of games, number of credits, amount of
time), or reaching a specified number of points earned during game
play.
[0072] In another embodiment, the gaming device processor 12 or
central server 56 randomly provides the player one or more plays of
one or more secondary games. In one such embodiment, the gaming
device does not provide any apparent reasons to the player for
qualifying to play a secondary or bonus game. In this embodiment,
qualifying for a bonus game is not triggered by an event in or
based specifically on any of the plays of any primary game. That
is, the gaming device may simply qualify a player to play a
secondary game without any explanation or alternatively with simple
explanations. In another embodiment, the gaming device (or central
server) qualifies a player for a secondary game at least partially
based on a game triggered or symbol triggered event, such as at
least partially based on the play of a primary game.
[0073] In one embodiment, the gaming device includes a program
which will automatically begin a bonus round after the player has
achieved a triggering event or qualifying condition in the base or
primary game. In another embodiment, after a player has qualified
for a bonus game, the player may subsequently enhance his/her bonus
game participation through continued play on the base or primary
game. Thus, for each bonus qualifying event, such as a bonus
symbol, that the player obtains, a given number of bonus game
wagering points or credits may be accumulated in a "bonus meter"
programmed to accrue the bonus wagering credits or entries toward
eventual participation in a bonus game. The occurrence of multiple
such bonus qualifying events in the primary game may result in an
arithmetic or exponential increase in the number of bonus wagering
credits awarded. In one embodiment, the player may redeem extra
bonus wagering credits during the bonus game to extend play of the
bonus game.
[0074] In one embodiment, no separate entry fee or buy in for a
bonus game need be employed. That is, a player may not purchase an
entry into a bonus game, rather they must win or earn entry through
play of the primary game thus, encouraging play of the primary
game. In another embodiment, qualification of the bonus or
secondary game is accomplished through a simple "buy in" by the
player, for example, if the player has been unsuccessful at
qualifying through other specified activities. In another
embodiment, the player must make a separate side-wager on the bonus
game or wager a designated amount in the primary game to qualify
for the secondary game. In this embodiment, the secondary game
triggering event must occur and the side-wager (or designated
primary game wager amount) must have been placed to trigger the
secondary game.
[0075] In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, one or more of
the gaming devices 10 are in communication with each other and/or
at least one central server, central controller or remote host 56
through a data network or remote communication link 58. In this
embodiment, the central server, central controller or remote host
is any suitable server or computing device which includes at least
one processor and at least one memory or storage device. In
different such embodiments, the central server is a progressive
controller or a processor of one of the gaming devices in the
gaming system. In these embodiments, the processor of each gaming
device is designed to transmit and receive events, messages,
commands or any other suitable data or signal between the
individual gaming device and the central server. The gaming device
processor is operable to execute such communicated events, messages
or commands in conjunction with the operation of the gaming device.
Moreover, the processor of the central server is designed to
transmit and receive events, messages, commands or any other
suitable data or signal between the central server and each of the
individual gaming devices. The central server processor is operable
to execute such communicated events, messages or commands in
conjunction with the operation of the central server. It should be
appreciated that one, more or each of the functions of the central
controller as disclosed herein may be performed by one or more
gaming device processors. It should be further appreciated that
one, more or each of the functions of one or more gaming device
processors as disclosed herein may be performed by the central
controller.
[0076] In one embodiment, the game outcome provided to the player
is determined by a central server or controller and provided to the
player at the gaming device. In this embodiment, each of a
plurality of such gaming devices are in communication with the
central server or controller. Upon a player initiating game play at
one of the gaming devices, the initiated gaming device communicates
a game outcome request to the central server or controller.
[0077] In one embodiment, the central server or controller receives
the game outcome request and randomly generates a game outcome for
the primary game based on probability data. In another embodiment,
the central server or controller randomly generates a game outcome
for the secondary game based on probability data. In another
embodiment, the central server or controller randomly generates a
game outcome for both the primary game and the secondary game based
on probability data. In this embodiment, the central server or
controller is capable of storing and utilizing program code or
other data similar to the processor and memory device of the gaming
device.
[0078] In an alternative embodiment, the central server or
controller maintains one or more predetermined pools or sets of
predetermined game outcomes. In this embodiment, the central server
or controller receives the game outcome request and independently
selects a predetermined game outcome from a set or pool of game
outcomes. The central server or controller flags or marks the
selected game outcome as used. Once a game outcome is flagged as
used, it is prevented from further selection from the set or pool
and cannot be selected by the central controller or server upon
another wager. The provided game outcome can include a primary game
outcome, a secondary game outcome, primary and secondary game
outcomes, or a series of game outcomes such as free games.
[0079] The central server or controller communicates the generated
or selected game outcome to the initiated gaming device. The gaming
device receives the generated or selected game outcome and provides
the game outcome to the player. In an alternative embodiment, how
the generated or selected game outcome is to be presented or
displayed to the player, such as a reel symbol combination of a
slot machine or a hand of cards dealt in a card game, is also
determined by the central server or controller and communicated to
the initiated gaming device to be presented or displayed to the
player. Central production or control can assist a gaming
establishment or other entity in maintaining appropriate records,
controlling gaming, reducing and preventing cheating or electronic
or other errors, reducing or eliminating win-loss volatility and
the like.
[0080] In another embodiment, a predetermined game outcome value is
determined for each of a plurality of linked or networked gaming
devices based on the results of a bingo, keno or lottery game. In
this embodiment, each individual gaming device utilizes one or more
bingo, keno or lottery games to determine the predetermined game
outcome value provided to the player for the interactive game
played at that gaming device. In one embodiment, the bingo, keno or
lottery game is displayed to the player. In another embodiment, the
bingo, keno or lottery game is not displayed to the player, but the
results of the bingo, keno or lottery game determine the
predetermined game outcome value for the primary or secondary
game.
[0081] In the various bingo embodiments, as each gaming device is
enrolled in the bingo game, such as upon an appropriate wager or
engaging an input device, the enrolled gaming device is provided or
associated with a different bingo card. Each bingo card consists of
a matrix or array of elements, wherein each element is designated
with a separate indicia, such as a number. It should be appreciated
that each different bingo card includes a different combination of
elements. For example, if four bingo cards are provided to four
enrolled gaming devices, the same element may be present on all
four of the bingo cards while another element may solely be present
on one of the bingo cards.
[0082] In operation of these embodiments, upon providing or
associating a different bingo card to each of a plurality of
enrolled gaming devices, the central controller randomly selects or
draws, one at a time, a plurality of the elements. As each element
is selected, a determination is made for each gaming device as to
whether the selected element is present on the bingo card provided
to that enrolled gaming device. This determination can be made by
the central controller, the gaming device, a combination of the
two, or in any other suitable manner. If the selected element is
present on the bingo card provided to that enrolled gaming device,
that selected element on the provided bingo card is marked or
flagged. This process of selecting elements and marking any
selected elements on the provided bingo cards continues until one
or more predetermined patterns are marked on one or more of the
provided bingo cards. It should be appreciated that in one
embodiment, the gaming device requires the player to engage a daub
button (not shown) to initiate the process of the gaming device
marking or flagging any selected elements.
[0083] After one or more predetermined patterns are marked on one
or more of the provided bingo cards, a game outcome is determined
for each of the enrolled gaming devices based, at least in part, on
the selected elements on the provided bingo cards. As described
above, the game outcome determined for each gaming device enrolled
in the bingo game is utilized by that gaming device to determine
the predetermined game outcome provided to the player. For example,
a first gaming device to have selected elements marked in a
predetermined pattern is provided a first outcome of win $10 which
will be provided to a first player regardless of how the first
player plays in a first game and a second gaming device to have
selected elements marked in a different predetermined pattern is
provided a second outcome of win $2 which will be provided to a
second player regardless of how the second player plays a second
game. It should be appreciated that as the process of marking
selected elements continues until one or more predetermined
patterns are marked, this embodiment ensures that at least one
bingo card will win the bingo game and thus at least one enrolled
gaming device will provide a predetermined winning game outcome to
a player. It should be appreciated that other suitable methods for
selecting or determining one or more predetermined game outcomes
may be employed.
[0084] In one example of the above-described embodiment, the
predetermined game outcome may be based on a supplemental award in
addition to any award provided for winning the bingo game as
described above. In this embodiment, if one or more elements are
marked in supplemental patterns within a designated number of drawn
elements, a supplemental or intermittent award or value associated
with the marked supplemental pattern is provided to the player as
part of the predetermined game outcome. For example, if the four
corners of a bingo card are marked within the first twenty selected
elements, a supplemental award of $10 is provided to the player as
part of the predetermined game outcome. It should be appreciated
that in this embodiment, the player of a gaming device may be
provided a supplemental or intermittent award regardless of if the
enrolled gaming device's provided bingo card wins or does not win
the bingo game as described above.
[0085] In another embodiment, one or more of the gaming devices are
in communication with a central server or controller for monitoring
purposes only. That is, each individual gaming device randomly
generates the game outcomes to be provided to the player and the
central server or controller monitors the activities and events
occurring on the plurality of gaming devices. In one embodiment,
the gaming network includes a real-time or on-line accounting and
gaming information system operably coupled to the central server or
controller. The accounting and gaming information system of this
embodiment includes a player database for storing player profiles,
a player tracking module for tracking players and a credit system
for providing automated casino transactions.
[0086] In one embodiment, the gaming device disclosed herein is
associated with or otherwise integrated with one or more player
tracking systems. Player tracking systems enable gaming
establishments to recognize the value of customer loyalty through
identifying frequent customers and rewarding them for their
patronage. In one embodiment, the gaming device and/or player
tracking system tracks any players gaming activity at the gaming
device. In one such embodiment, the gaming device includes at least
one card reader 38 in communication with the processor. In this
embodiment, a player is issued a player identification card which
has an encoded player identification number that uniquely
identifies the player. When a player inserts their playing tracking
card into the card reader to begin a gaming session, the card
reader reads the player identification number off the player
tracking card to identify the player. The gaming device and/or
associated player tracking system timely tracks any suitable
information or data relating to the identified player's gaming
session. Directly or via the central controller, the gaming device
processor communicates such information to the player tracking
system. The gaming device and/or associated player tracking system
also timely tracks when a player removes their player tracking card
when concluding play for that gaming session. In another
embodiment, rather than requiring a player to insert a player
tracking card, the gaming device utilizes one or more portable
devices carried by a player, such as a cell phone, a radio
frequency identification tag or any other suitable wireless device
to track when a player begins and ends a gaming session. In another
embodiment, the gaming device utilizes any suitable biometric
technology or ticket technology to track when a player begins and
ends a gaming session.
[0087] During one or more gaming sessions, the gaming device and/or
player tracking system tracks any suitable information or data,
such as any amounts wagered, average wager amounts and/or the time
these wagers are placed. In different embodiments, for one or more
players, the player tracking system includes the player's account
number, the player's card number, the player's first name, the
player's surname, the player's preferred name, the player's player
tracking ranking, any promotion status associated with the player's
player tracking card, the player's address, the player's birthday,
the player's anniversary, the player's recent gaming sessions, or
any other suitable data. In one embodiment, such tracked
information and/or any suitable feature associated with the player
tracking system is displayed on a player tracking display 40. In
another embodiment, such tracked information and/or any suitable
feature associated with the player tracking system is displayed via
one or more service windows (not shown) which are displayed on the
central display device and/or the upper display device.
[0088] In one embodiment, a plurality of the gaming devices are
capable of being connected together through a data network. In one
embodiment, the data network is a local area network (LAN), in
which one or more of the gaming devices are substantially proximate
to each other and an on-site central server or controller as in,
for example, a gaming establishment or a portion of a gaming
establishment. In another embodiment, the data network is a wide
area network (WAN) in which one or more of the gaming devices are
in communication with at least one off-site central server or
controller. In this embodiment, the plurality of gaming devices may
be located in a different part of the gaming establishment or
within a different gaming establishment than the off-site central
server or controller. Thus, the WAN may include an off-site central
server or controller and an off-site gaming device located within
gaming establishments in the same geographic area, such as a city
or state. The WAN gaming system may be substantially identical to
the LAN gaming system described above, although the number of
gaming devices in each system may vary relative to each other.
[0089] In another embodiment, the data network is an internet or
intranet. In this embodiment, the operation of the gaming device
can be viewed at the gaming device with at least one internet
browser. In this embodiment, operation of the gaming device and
accumulation of credits may be accomplished with only a connection
to the central server or controller (the internet/intranet server)
through a conventional phone or other data transmission line,
digital subscriber line (DSL), T-1 line, coaxial cable, fiber optic
cable, or other suitable connection. In this embodiment, players
may access an internet game page from any location where an
internet connection and computer, or other internet facilitator is
available. The expansion in the number of computers and number and
speed of internet connections in recent years increases
opportunities for players to play from an ever-increasing number of
remote sites. It should be appreciated that enhanced bandwidth of
digital wireless communications may render such technology suitable
for some or all communications, particularly if such communications
are encrypted. Higher data transmission speeds may be useful for
enhancing the sophistication and response of the display and
interaction with the player.
[0090] As mentioned above, in one embodiment, the present
disclosure may be employed in a server based gaming system. In one
such embodiment, as described above, one or more gaming devices are
in communication with a central server or controller. The central
server or controller may be any suitable server or computing device
which includes at least one processor and a memory or storage
device. In alternative embodiments, the central server is a
progressive controller or another gaming machine in the gaming
system. In one embodiment, the memory device of the central server
stores different game programs and instructions, executable by a
gaming device processor, to control the gaming device. Each
executable game program represents a different game or type of game
which may be played on one or more of the gaming devices in the
gaming system. Such different games may include the same or
substantially the same game play with different pay tables. In
different embodiments, the executable game program is for a primary
game, a secondary game or both. In another embodiment, the game
program may be executable as a secondary game to be played
simultaneous with the play of a primary game (which may be
downloaded to or fixed on the gaming device) or vice versa.
[0091] In this embodiment, each gaming device at least includes one
or more display devices and/or one or more input devices for
interaction with a player. A local processor, such as the
above-described gaming device processor or a processor of a local
server, is operable with the display device(s) and/or the input
device(s) of one or more of the gaming devices.
[0092] In operation, the central controller is operable to
communicate one or more of the stored game programs to at least one
local processor. In different embodiments, the stored game programs
are communicated or delivered by embedding the communicated game
program in a device or a component (e.g., a microchip to be
inserted in a gaming device), writing the game program on a disc or
other media, downloading or streaming the game program over a
dedicated data network, internet or a telephone line. After the
stored game programs are communicated from the central server, the
local processor executes the communicated program to facilitate
play of the communicated program by a player through the display
device(s) and/or input device(s) of the gaming device. That is,
when a game program is communicated to a local processor, the local
processor changes the game or type of game played at the gaming
device.
[0093] In another embodiment, a plurality of gaming devices at one
or more gaming sites may be networked to the central server in a
progressive configuration, as known in the art, wherein a portion
of each wager to initiate a base or primary game may be allocated
to one or more progressive awards. In one embodiment, a progressive
gaming system host site computer is coupled to a plurality of the
central servers at a variety of mutually remote gaming sites for
providing a multi-site linked progressive automated gaming system.
In one embodiment, a progressive gaming system host site computer
may serve gaming devices distributed throughout a number of
properties at different geographical locations including, for
example, different locations within a city or different cities
within a state.
[0094] In one embodiment, the progressive gaming system host site
computer is maintained for the overall operation and control of the
progressive gaming system. In this embodiment, a progressive gaming
system host site computer oversees the entire progressive gaming
system and is the master for computing all progressive jackpots.
All participating gaming sites report to, and receive information
from, the progressive gaming system host site computer. Each
central server computer is responsible for all data communication
between the gaming device hardware and software and the progressive
gaming system host site computer. In one embodiment, an individual
gaming machine may trigger a progressive award win. In another
embodiment, a central server (or the progressive gaming system host
site computer) determines when a progressive award win is
triggered. In another embodiment, an individual gaming machine and
a central controller (or progressive gaming system host site
computer) work in conjunction with each other to determine when a
progressive win is triggered, for example through an individual
gaming machine meeting a predetermined requirement established by
the central controller.
[0095] In one embodiment, a progressive award win is triggered
based on one or more game play events, such as a symbol-driven
trigger. In other embodiments, the progressive award triggering
event or qualifying condition may be by exceeding a certain amount
of game play (such as number of games, number of credits, or amount
of time), or reaching a specified number of points earned during
game play. In another embodiment, a gaming device is randomly or
apparently randomly selected to provide a player of that gaming
device one or more progressive awards. In one such embodiment, the
gaming device does not provide any apparent reasons to the player
for winning a progressive award, wherein winning the progressive
award is not triggered by an event in or based specifically on any
of the plays of any primary game. That is, a player is provided a
progressive award without any explanation or alternatively with
simple explanations. In another embodiment, a player is provided a
progressive award at least partially based on a game triggered or
symbol triggered event, such as at least partially based on the
play of a primary game.
[0096] In one embodiment, one or more of the progressive awards are
each funded via a side bet or side wager. In this embodiment, a
player must place or wager a side bet to be eligible to win the
progressive award associated with the side bet. In one embodiment,
the player must place the maximum bet and the side bet to be
eligible to win one of the progressive awards. In another
embodiment, if the player places or wagers the required side bet,
the player may wager at any credit amount during the primary game
(i.e., the player need not place the maximum bet and the side bet
to be eligible to win one of the progressive awards). In one such
embodiment, the greater the player's wager (in addition to the
placed side bet), the greater the odds or probability that the
player will win one of the progressive awards. It should be
appreciated that one or more of the progressive awards may each be
funded, at least in part, based on the wagers placed on the primary
games of the gaming machines in the gaming system, via a gaming
establishment or via any suitable manner.
[0097] In another embodiment, one or more of the progressive awards
are partially funded via a side-bet or side-wager which the player
may make (and which may be tracked via a side-bet meter). In one
embodiment, one or more of the progressive awards are funded with
only side-bets or side-wagers placed. In another embodiment, one or
more of the progressive awards are funded based on player's wagers
as described above as well as any side-bets or side-wagers
placed.
[0098] In one alternative embodiment, a minimum wager level is
required for a gaming device to qualify to be selected to obtain
one of the progressive awards. In one embodiment, this minimum
wager level is the maximum wager level for the primary game in the
gaming machine. In another embodiment, no minimum wager level is
required for a gaming machine to qualify to be selected to obtain
one of the progressive awards.
[0099] In another embodiment, a plurality of players at a plurality
of linked gaming devices in a gaming system participate in a group
gaming environment. In one embodiment, a plurality of players at a
plurality of linked gaming devices work in conjunction with one
another, such as playing together as a team or group, to win one or
more awards. In one such embodiment, any award won by the group is
shared, either equally or based on any suitable criteria, amongst
the different players of the group. In another embodiment, a
plurality of players at a plurality of linked gaming devices
compete against one another for one or more awards. In one such
embodiment, a plurality of players at a plurality of linked gaming
devices participate in a gaming tournament for one or more awards.
In another embodiment, a plurality of players at a plurality of
linked gaming devices play for one or more awards wherein an
outcome generated by one gaming device affects the outcomes
generated by one or more linked gaming devices.
[0100] Player Physical Activation of Mechanical Symbol
Generator
[0101] FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment of a method of randomly
indicating an award of a symbol generator where the player
initiates the movement of the symbol generator. As illustrated in
FIG. 3, in one embodiment, the gaming system enables a player to
physically move, spin or actuate a mechanical symbol generator
which includes a plurality of stop positions as illustrated in
block 100. In one embodiment, a plurality or all of the stop
positions are associated with symbols and/or sections of the symbol
generator. In one embodiment, after the player physically moves the
symbol generator the gaming system determines whether the symbol
generator has moved a required amount, a required number of
rotations or at a required speed. After the symbol generator begins
moving, the gaming system randomly determines a stop position as
illustrated in block 102. That is, after the player physically
initiates movement of the symbol generator, the gaming system
randomly determines a stop position of the symbol generator to be
located in a predetermined location once the symbol generator stops
moving. The gaming system continues movement of the symbol
generator by moving the symbol generator as illustrated in block
104. The gaming system inhibits and stops the movement of the
symbol generator such that the stop position is located in a
predetermined location as illustrated in block 106. In one
embodiment, the predetermined location is associated with an
indicator. For example, the gaming system stops the symbol
generator from moving such that the stop position is aligned with
the indicator. In another embodiment, the gaming system stops the
symbol generator from moving such that the stop position is in a
position separate from an indicator but the indicator indicates a
symbol or section of the symbol generator. It should be appreciated
that the stop positions may be associated with the symbols or
outcomes of the symbol generator. In one embodiment, the stop
positions are each associated with a single section or a single
symbol of the symbol generator.
[0102] As illustrated in FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, and 4D, in one
embodiment, the mechanical symbol generator 60a includes a
plurality of sections 110a, 110b, 110c, 110d, 110e, 110f, 110g, and
110h which each include or are associated with a symbol 112a, 112b,
112c, 112d, 112e, 112f, 112g and 112h. The symbol generator is
associated with an indicator 62a and includes a handle 64. Though
the handle in the illustrated embodiment is parallel to the wheel
it should be appreciated that the handle may be connected to the
wheel in any suitable manner and may be positioned in any suitable
way to the wheel. A drive motor is coupled to the wheel and a
position sensor is coupled to the drive motor or the wheel. As
illustrated in FIG. 4A, the gaming device instructs the player to
spin the wheel. As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the player grasps the
handle of the wheel with his or her hand and spins the wheel. As
illustrated in FIG. 4C, the wheel begins spinning. In one
embodiment, the wheel must spin a certain number of rotations
and/or at a certain speed for the game to occur. In this
embodiment, the gaming device determines if the certain speed or
certain number of rotations has been met. If the certain speed or
certain number of rotations has not been met, the gaming device
instructs the player to spin again. If the certain speed or certain
number of rotations has been met, as the wheel spins, the gaming
device determines one of the symbols or sections to indicate. In
the illustrated embodiment, the gaming device determines to
indicate the 250 symbol 112e or section 110e. The gaming device
continues movement of the wheel. That is, the drive motor of the
wheel continues movement of the wheel and either gradually decays
movement of the wheel or a brake slows or stops movement of the
wheel such that the 250 symbol 112e or section 110 is indicated by
the indicator 62a as illustrated in FIG. 4D. The gaming device then
provides the player an award based on the indicated section and/or
symbol of the wheel. For example, in the illustrated embodiment,
the gaming device provides the player an award of 250 credits.
[0103] In one embodiment, the gaming device includes a plurality of
symbol generators. In one embodiment, the gaming device enables the
player to actuate a plurality of the symbol generators. For
example, in one such embodiment, the gaming device enables the
player to actuate the first symbol generator. In one embodiment,
each of the symbol generators must spin a certain number of
rotations and/or at a certain speed for the game to occur. In this
embodiment, the gaming device determines if the certain speed or
certain number of rotations has been met. If the certain speed or
certain number of rotations has not been met, the gaming device
instructs the player to spin again. If the certain speed or certain
number of rotations has been met, as the symbol generator spins,
the gaming device determines one of the symbols or sections to
indicate. After the symbol generator stops moving and the gaming
device indicates the symbol or section, the gaming device enables
the player to spin the next symbol generator. This process
continues until a player actuates a designated number or all of the
symbol generators.
[0104] In another embodiment, the gaming device includes a
plurality of symbol generators. In one such embodiment, the gaming
device enables the player to actuate less than all of the symbol
generators. In one such embodiment, the player initiates the
spinning of one of the symbol generators and then the gaming
machine initiates the spinning of the other symbol generators,
determines a symbol to indicate for each of the symbol generators
and causes each symbol generator to indicate the determined symbol.
In another embodiment, the gaming device enables the player to
actuate less than all of the symbol generators. In one such
embodiment, the player spins the symbol generator and then the
gaming machine initiates the spinning of some but not all of the
other symbol generators, determines a symbol to indicate for each
of the spinning symbol generators and causes each spinning symbol
generator to indicate the determined symbol. In one embodiment, the
gaming device uses the player's movement of the first symbol
generator to determine a function of the movement of the other
gaming device initiated symbol generators. For example, the gaming
device causes one of the gaming device initiated symbol generators
to spin in the same direction as the player initiated symbol
generator. In another example, the gaming device causes the gaming
device initiated symbol generator to reach a same maximum speed as
the speed reached by the player movement of the player initiated
symbol generator. The gaming device may initiate movement of the
symbol generators in any suitable manner and may base the movement
on any suitable factor.
[0105] In certain embodiments, the gaming device includes one or
more securing devices or mechanisms which prevent the player from
interfering with the movement of the symbol generator after it
begins moving. That is, the gaming device prevents the player from
touching, stopping, further spinning or further actuating the
symbol generator while the symbol generator is moving. As
illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B, in one embodiment, the symbol
actuator is located on cabinet of the gaming device behind a
protective cover 66 such as a plastic cover. The protective cover
66 defines one or more openings 68 that enable the player to
actuate the symbol generator. As illustrated in FIG. 5A, in one
embodiment, the handle 64 extends from the symbol generator 60a
through the opening in the protective cover such that the gaming
device enables the player to actuate the symbol generator using the
handle. As illustrated in FIG. 5B, in one embodiment, the gaming
device retracts or moves the symbol generator such that the handle
of the symbol generator is behind the protective cover and
unreachable. In one such embodiment, the symbol generator moves
back or retracts such that the player cannot touch the symbol
generator at all.
[0106] As illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B, in one embodiment, the
gaming device includes a protective cover defining an opening 68.
After the player initiates movement of the symbol generator, the
gaming device closes the opening so that a player may not interfere
with or influence the movement of the symbol generator. As
illustrated in FIG. 6A, the protective cover 66 defines an opening
68 for the handle 64 to extend through the symbol generator. As
illustrated in FIG. 6B, in one embodiment, after the player
initiates spinning of the symbol generator, the gaming device
retracts the handle behind the protective cover and closes the
opening 68 of the protective cover such that the player may not
touch the symbol generator 60a or the handle 64 of the symbol
generator.
[0107] It should be appreciated that the gaming device may include
any suitable securing mechanism, cover or device to ensure that a
player may not affect the movement of the stopping of the symbol
generator once the symbol generator starts moving. For example, the
gaming device may raise the height of the symbol generator such
that most people would not be able to reach the symbol generator.
In one embodiment, the gaming device includes a locking mechanism
so that a player may not move the symbol generator once the symbol
generator begins moving. In another embodiment, after the player
initiates movement of the symbol generator, the gaming device
surrounds the symbol generator with a protective cover.
[0108] In another embodiment, the gaming device or system includes
at least one mechanical movable indicator or pointer. In one such
embodiment, the gaming device or system enables the player to
physically move the indicator. In one embodiment, the indicator
includes a handle. The gaming device or system enables the player
to move the handle of the indicator to physically and directly move
the indicator.
[0109] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate an embodiment where the gaming
device enables a player to physically move an indicator. In one
such embodiment, the symbol generator does not move. As illustrated
in FIG. 7A, the gaming device enables the player to physically spin
the indicator. As illustrated in FIG. 7B, the player spins the
indicator 62c. In one embodiment, the indicator must spin a certain
number of rotations and/or at a certain speed for the game to
occur. In this embodiment, the gaming device determines if the
certain speed or certain number of rotations has been met. If the
certain speed or certain number of rotations has not been met, the
gaming device instructs the player to spin the indicator again. If
the certain speed or certain number of rotations has been met, as
the indicator spins, in one embodiment the gaming device determines
one of the symbols or sections to indicate. In the illustrated
embodiment, the gaming device determines to indicate the 200 symbol
or section 120.
[0110] As illustrated in FIG. 7C, the indicator spins around the
wheel. As illustrated in FIG. 7D, the indicator stops to indicate
the section 120 associated with the 200 symbol. The gaming device
informs the player that the player wins 200 credits.
[0111] As illustrated in FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D and 8E in one
embodiment, the gaming device enables the player to spin the
indicator or the symbol generator. The gaming device then spins
whichever of the indicator or the symbol generator is not spun by
the player. That is, the gaming device initiates the spinning or
moving of the symbol generator or the stationary indicator,
whichever is stationary. The gaming device may cause or enable the
symbol generator or the indicator to be spun simultaneously or
sequentially. The gaming device determines a section or symbol to
indicate before, during or after the player physically initiates
the movement of the symbol generator or the indicator.
[0112] As illustrated in FIG. 8A, the gaming system instructs the
player to physically spin the wheel or the indicator and that the
gaming device will spin the other or non-spun device. As
illustrated in FIG. 8B, the player uses a handle 130 attached to
the indicator 62c to spin the indicator. It should be appreciated
that the indicator may or may not include or be attached to a
handle and may include or be attached to any suitable device which
enables the player to more easily spin the wheel. As illustrated in
FIG. 8C, the indicator spins. In one embodiment, the gaming device
determines a stop position for the indicator and causes the
indicator to stop at the determined stop position. In another
embodiment, the gaming device enables the indicator to stop moving
on its own. In the illustrated embodiment, the gaming device
determines to indicate an award of 100.
[0113] As illustrated in FIG. 8D, the gaming device causes the
wheel to spin. In the illustrated embodiment, the gaming device
causes the wheel to spin as the indicator is spinning. In one
embodiment, the gaming device spins the other or unspun device at
the speed of the player initiated spun device. That is, if the
player spins the indicator at a high speed, the gaming device spins
the wheel at a high speed.
[0114] As illustrated in FIG. 8E, the indicator and the wheel stop
spinning to indicate an award of 100. The indicator and the wheel
may stop spinning or moving simultaneously or sequentially. The
indicator and the wheel may spin in the same or different
directions.
[0115] It should be appreciated that the gaming device may spin the
wheel and one or more indicators in any suitable manner and in any
suitable directions. The gaming device may cause the indicator
and/or the symbol generator to stop at a certain position. In one
embodiment, the gaming device designates one of the indicator or
the symbol generator for the player to spin. In another embodiment,
the gaming device enables the player to move or spin both the
indicator and the symbol generator. The gaming device causes the
indication of a determined symbol or section by stopping one or
both of the indicator and symbol generator such that the determined
symbol or section is indicated. In one embodiment, the gaming
device causes or enables one of the indicator or symbol generator
to stop before initiating the movement of the unspun device. In
another embodiment, the gaming device initiates movement of one of
the indicator or symbol generator before enabling the player to
move the other of the indicator or symbol generator. In one
embodiment, the gaming device includes one or more devices to slow
the movement of one of the spun devices. It should be appreciated
that the gaming device may determine which symbol or section to
indicate at any suitable time.
[0116] It should be appreciated that the indicator may be any
suitable size and shape. It should also be appreciated that the
gaming device and/or system may include any suitable number of
indicators. The gaming system may enable the player to move one or
a plurality of indicators.
[0117] It should be appreciated that the gaming system or device
may indicate one or more symbols, outcomes or sections of one or
more symbol generators to a player in any suitable manner. In one
embodiment, the symbol generator is associated with multiple
indicators. In one such embodiment, the gaming device or system
indicates multiple outcomes or symbols. In one embodiment, the
gaming device bases an award on all of the indicated symbols. In
another embodiment, the gaming device then further indicates one of
the symbols and bases an award for the player on that indicated
symbol. In one embodiment, the gaming device or system includes
multiple pointers or indicators for simultaneously indicating
different sections or symbols. In another embodiment, the symbol
generator is associated with a single indicator. In one embodiment,
the gaming device indicates a symbol or a section through
illumination of the section or a symbol or an indicator associated
with one of the sections or symbols.
[0118] It should be appreciated that the symbol generator may move
or spin in any direction and for any suitable length of time.
[0119] It should be appreciated that the symbol generator may be
positioned in any suitable manner relative to one or more gaming
devices. In one embodiment, a symbol generator is horizontally
disposed and parallel to the ground. In another embodiment, a
symbol generator is vertically disposed and parallel to the walls.
It should be appreciated that one or more symbol generators may be
associated with one or more gaming devices in any suitable
manner.
[0120] As illustrated in FIG. 9A, in one embodiment, the gaming
system includes an electromechanical shared symbol generator or
display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of
associated gaming devices, such as the symbol generator described
in U.S. Published Patent Application No. 2006/0046821, entitled
"GAMING SYSTEM HAVING MULTIPLE GAMING DEVICES THAT SHARE A
MULTI-OUTCOME DISPLAY."
[0121] As illustrated in FIG. 9A, one embodiment of the gaming
system 200 employs a shared multi-outcome symbol display or shared
symbol generator 202. The primary components of multi-player gaming
system 200 include a plurality of individual gaming devices 212a to
212i. In one embodiment, the gaming devices 212a through 212i are
spaced apart about shared display 202 via spacer assemblies 204a to
204i (referred to herein collectively as spacer assemblies 204 or
generally as spacer assembly 204). In one embodiment, shared
display 202 includes a display top 206, which is viewable by each
of the players playing gaming devices 212. Display top 206 is
divided into a plurality of award, outcome or symbol panels 208a to
208aa (referred to herein collectively as panels 208 or generally
as panel 208).
[0122] A plurality or each of the panels 208 displays one or more
symbols representing an outcome such as an award, which any player
of gaming devices 212 may win via bonus play. In the illustrated
embodiment, the panels 208 and thus the values displayed thereon
are fixed spatially with respect to one another. Thus, while two or
more players may share in a same bonus event, each player playing
the bonus is provided an individual outcome or award from a
separate panel 208. It should also be appreciated from FIG. 9A that
even if a player playing one of the gaming devices 212 is not
participating in a particular bonus, the shared display 202 will
still generate an outcome in association with the non-participating
gaming device 212, increasing fun and excitement for players who
have not even triggered the bonus. In the illustrated embodiment,
each time the shared display is activated it generates an
individual outcome for each gaming device in the system.
[0123] FIG. 9A also illustrates that in one embodiment, the gaming
devices each have an indicator (i.e., indicators 210a to
210i-referred to herein collectively as indicators 210 or generally
as indicator 210). Indicators 210 respectively reside on the top of
each gaming device 212 and point to or indicate one of the awards
or outcomes on top 206 of shared display 202 when the shared
display stops spinning to reveal randomly or otherwise generated
results or outcomes. In different embodiments, indicators 210 are
illuminated differently at different times or states for the gaming
device 212. The illumination of the indicator in one embodiment
depends upon whether the gaming device 210 is playing the base
game, is in a state in which the player is eligible to play the
shared display bonus, is in a state in which the player has
committed to play the shared display bonus or is in a state in
which the player has declined to play a particular upcoming shared
display bonus, as well as other states discussed below.
[0124] If should thus be appreciated thus be appreciated that in
the illustrated embodiment, the shared display or the symbol
generator is a relatively large, substantially horizontally
disposed wheel having a plurality of individual sections and
symbols which represent the individual outcomes in the form of
values displayed on each section. In one such embodiment, the
gaming devices are positioned and spaced apart substantially
equally about the perimeter of the wheel. The individual outcome or
values on the wheel are fixed relative to each other.
[0125] In one embodiment, after at least one of the gaming devices
achieves a certain outcome, such as a bonus trigger, in its
respective base game, the gaming system enables one of the players
(i.e., the player of the triggering gaming machine), to physically
spin the shared symbol generator. It should be appreciated that the
shared symbol generator includes a suitable mechanism or device to
enable each of the players to spin the shared symbol generator. In
one such embodiment, a plurality of handles such as pegs 209a to
209i enable the player to physically move the shared symbol
generator. The gaming system then determines one of the outcomes or
sections of the shared symbol generator to indicate. The gaming
system continues the spinning of the shared symbol generator and
stops the spinning of the shared symbol generator such that the
determined symbol or section is indicated and simultaneously
generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of
the gaming devices.
[0126] More specifically, in one such embodiment, each gaming
device 212 includes a processor. As illustrated in FIG. 9B, the
processor in each gaming device 212 is then linked to a server
computer or central controller 264 via a communication link 262. In
one embodiment, the central controller 264 in turn controls a
shared multi-outcome symbol display controller 220. The display
controller controls such things as the one or more large video
displays 222 and one or more motors or motion producing devices
driving shared display 202.
[0127] In one embodiment, the display controller also controls the
topper lights 226 and a separate topper motor controller 230, for
example, when the game recognition portion of the topper rotates
independent from the display motor controller 230. The display
controller can include an onboard sound chip or alternatively
communicate with a separate sound card 232. In either case, each of
the game-linking systems have in one embodiment a separate set of
speakers 234 from the speakers of the gaming devices to produce
separate audio. In one embodiment, the display controller
communicates via link 236 with central controller 264 through any
of the modes described above for link 262. As seen, the display
controller is an additional spoke along with gaming devices 212a to
212c from central hub or controller 264.
[0128] In an alternative embodiment illustrated by the dashed
serial link 238, display controller is linked serially or in a
daisy chain with gaming devices 212a, 212b, 212c, etc. Here, the
gaming devices communicate with each other and display controller
via the serial link 238, in which each gaming device 212 as well as
display controller has a separate and distinct address along loop
238. It should be appreciated that links 88 and 96 can be any type
of local area link, wide area link, T-1 line, microwave link, radio
frequency link, a fiber-optic link, cable linkage, digital
satellite link, internet link and any suitable combination
thereof.
[0129] It should be appreciated that any of the shared displays can
be controlled and operated from a remote location, the results of
which are displayed at one or more desired places within one or
more casinos or gaming establishments. For example, a central
controller can generate the outcome or outcomes and distribute a
display of those outcomes to multiple banks of gaming devices,
wherein those banks can include an intermediate central controller,
such as controller 264, which then downloads the information (i) to
the display devices of individual gaming devices 212, (ii) to one
of the electromechanical outcome displays 202, or (iii) to a large
display 222 associated with a bank of gaming devices.
[0130] The outcomes can be the same for two or more of the gaming
devices or can be different for two or more or each of the gaming
devices. In one embodiment, the shared symbol generator generates
and associates an individual outcome with each associated gaming
device.
[0131] In one embodiment, the associated gaming devices or gaming
machines are each provided with a bonus indicator, such as one or
more lights, an alarm or siren, which visually and/or audibly
informs the players to watch for an upcoming outcome generation of
the shared symbol generator. When multiple gaming devices are
eligible to participate in the outcome generation, multiple lights,
alarms or sirens are activated, indicating that the next generation
will provide outcomes to multiple eligible gaming devices or that
the shared display will be activated multiple times. In one
embodiment, the gaming system only enables the triggering player to
physically move or spin the shared symbol generator. It should be
appreciated that the gaming system may enable any eligible player
to spin or move the shared symbol generator in accordance with any
suitable criteria. It should be appreciated that the gaming system
may determine which player of a plurality of players spins the
shared symbol generator in accordance with any suitable criteria,
including but not limited to: (a) wagers placed; (b) player
tracking statistics; (c) an order of triggering the bonus event;
(d) a primary game event; (e) a primary game outcome; (f) total
amount wagered by the players; and (g) any suitable combination
thereof.
[0132] Referring now to FIGS. 10A to 11C, embodiments for the
mechanical and structural support, wheel top, the protective cover
and the indicators 210a to 210i of the shared displays 202 and
associated systems of one embodiment are illustrated. The
structural elements are shown for a shared display and system
having nine gaming devices, 212a to 212i, as seen in FIG. 10A and
twenty-seven symbol panels or value areas 208a to 208aa, as seen in
FIGS. 11A and 11B. FIG. 10A has differently configured indicators
illustrating that the indicators, which may be shaped as desired.
The indicators may be configured or shaped in any suitable manner.
The apparatuses can be adapted however for any suitable amount of
gaming devices 212 and display panels 208.
[0133] FIGS. 10A to 10C illustrate a structural framework 220 or
part thereof, which is seen in FIG. 10A when a display top 206
(shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B) is removed. Structural framework 220
includes a plurality of substantially horizontally disposed members
222, a plurality of substantially vertically disposed members 224
and a plurality of stepped supports 226 that are disposed on an
angle with respect to members 222 and members 224. Members 222 and
224 and stepped supports 226 can be any suitable structural
material, such as metal, plastic, wood or any combination thereof.
The material in one preferred embodiment is strong, e.g., steel or
aluminum. For reference, FIG. 10B also illustrates an optical wheel
230, which in one embodiment is located between a motor 244 the top
206 of shared display 202. Optical wheel 230 provides positional
feedback information as discussed below.
[0134] As seen in FIGS. 10A and 10B, framework 220 in general
includes an inner polygonal shell and an outer polygonal shell of
the horizontal members 222 and vertical members 224. In one
embodiment, the inner and outer polygonal shells are fastened
together via additional horizontal members 222. Stepped supports
226 extend from the outer polygonal shell to the inner polygonal
shell. Motor mount 228 can be coupled to the vertical members 224
and/or horizontal members 222 that make up the inner polygonal
shell of frame 220. Motor mount 228 receives a motor 244 extending
downwardly from display top 206 shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B and
supports motor 244 and display top.
[0135] FIG. 10C illustrates one embodiment for constructing
framework 220. Here, framework 220 is made in three sections 220a
to 220c. FIG. 10C illustrates one section 220a, which is
substantially one third of the overall framework 220. Section 220a
includes a section or third of the inner polygonal shell and a
section or third of the outer polygonal shell described above.
Section 220a is easier to ship and transport through the casino
than is full framework 220. Section 220a is likely to better
withstand the rigors of shipping than is full framework 220.
[0136] Sections 220a to 220c are transported to the gaming
establishment and bolted or welded together at the point of use to
form framework 220. In one embodiment, protective cover 238 is also
assembled from three pieces. The gaming devices 212, spacer
assemblies 204, topper 134, protective cover 238, large displays
and other components of shared display 202 or the gaming system can
also be modular or at least partly assembled at the point of use in
one embodiment. Any other suitable modifications can be made to the
system to make shipping and transporting system 200 (referring
collectively to gaming systems 200a to 200f) as easy, safe and
efficient as possible.
[0137] FIG. 10B also illustrates a plurality of elongated lights
232, which can be fluorescent lights, a series of light emitting
diodes ("LED's"), or other suitable type of lighting. Lights 232
can be white or colored and be the same color or different colors.
Lights 232 can be illuminated continuously, semi-continuously or
intermittently as desired. In the illustrated embodiment, lights
232 are positioned generally circumferentially at various radial
lengths from the center of framework 220, which supports lights 232
(contrast with FIG. 10A where the lights extend radially from
center of framework 220). In this manner, lights 232 run generally
perpendicular to the longer dimension of panels 208. Positioning
lights 232 in such a manner produces less shadowing and more even
lighting beneath top 206 of shared display 202 than if lights 232
are positioned radially with respect to framework 220. This
advantage is also evident when top 206 of display 202 is
spinning.
[0138] FIGS. 11A to 11C illustrate the top 206, motor 244 and other
related apparatus. Motor mount 228 of framework 220 (FIG. 10B)
holds and supports motor 244 and any suitable mechanical and
electrical equipment operating with motor 244, such as a motor
drive, a gearbox, and the like. The motor drive can alternatively
be housed inside one of the spacer assemblies 204 wherein the
output of the motor is linked mechanically to top 206.
[0139] In one embodiment, motor 244 is a large stepper motor or
other servo-type motor controlled by controller 224 that can
accurately position top 206 to show outcomes generated randomly for
the shared display. Stepper or servo motor 244 is controllable to
set one or more accelerations and/or decelerations, one or more
velocities, a number of spins or distance traveled, a number of
directional changes, and the like. Top 206 can perform a complex
sequence of stops, starts and direction changes, or simply spin at
different rates of speed and, for example, ramp up and ramp down
from and to a zero angular velocity, according to a desired linear
or bell-type velocity curve. In another embodiment, motor 244 is a
gear drive motor that runs until a signal tells a controller of the
motor to stop. Controller generates such signal in one
embodiment.
[0140] Shared display 202 also includes, in one embodiment, real or
generated sounds, such as ticking sounds, which accompany the
spinning of top 206. The ticking sounds become more and less
frequent as the top 206 accelerates or decelerates, respectively,
so that the player can audibly and visually discern when top 206 is
speeding up or slowing down.
[0141] FIG. 11A shows that top 206 includes nine dividers 240
dispersed radially equally beneath display areas 208a to 208aa.
Dividers 240 serve both structural and strengthening purposes and
can aid in providing feedback information to a controller of the
system.
[0142] Dividers 240 can provide pulses or signals when sensed by a
positioning device that is situated in a fixed relationship to top
206. One or more of dividers 240 passing by the sensor can be
sensed to determine an actual position and/or number of rotations
of top 206. The actual positional feedback can be used alone or in
combination to determine when and where to stop a generation of
outcomes on top 206, for example, to tell the controller of the
gear drive motor to stop the motor. In an alternative embodiment,
the pulses generated from the sensing of one of the dividers 240 is
used to compare against a number of step pulses or other electronic
signals sent to the motor driving shaft 244 and top 206. Control of
the shared displays of the can be open loop, closed loop and/or a
combination of both.
[0143] In one embodiment, an optical wheel 230 is connected
directly or indirectly to and spins with the output shaft of motor
244. An optical sensor 242 is fixed to motor mount 228 of framework
220 is used in combination with optical wheel 230 to send a signal
indicating to control server. The signal can be analog or digital
and is indicative of the position of top 206 with respect to a home
position. Optical wheel 230, in one embodiment, includes a
circumferential series of notches of differing widths and
frequencies, which create unique patterns of light detected by
sensor 242 for various positions of top 206 with respect to the
sensor 242 and/or the home position. Optical wheel 230 sensor 242
in one embodiment form an absolute or incremental encoder as known
to those of skill in the art.
[0144] After the player spins the shared display, the signal is
used in one embodiment in combination with a brake or clutch-brake
assembly to stop motor 244 and top 206 at the desired and generated
position. The brake and optical wheel 230 can also be used in
combination with the gear drive motor or the stepper motor if
needed. In one embodiment, the brake is a fail safe brake that
holds top 206 frictionally in place if power is removed from the
brake or upon a power down situation.
[0145] FIG. 11B illustrates a fully assembled top 206 from the
topside or reverse side shown in FIG. 11A. FIG. 11B illustrates
that panels 208a to 208aa are each separated from one another by an
extruded brace 246. Also, a cover plate 254 is fitted at the end of
each panel 208 to hold panels within braces 246. Panels 208a to
208aa are colored translucent or a light transparent resistant
thermoplastic in one embodiment and allow light from lights 232
(FIG. 10B) to illuminate the panels, selectively, continuously or
semi-continuously.
[0146] Although not illustrated, panels 208a to 208aa display
numbers or symbols corresponding to awards or outcomes that may be
provided to a player. The symbols can represent any suitable type
of outcome, such as a vacation giveaway, merchandise, cash,
monetary units, credits and the like. The replaceable nature of the
panels enables the award pool to be readily updated so that the
bonus game can periodically present a fresh and variable set of
awards. If panels 208 are updated, the paytables of gaming devices
212 are updated accordingly. As discussed below, gaming system 200
provides a mechanism by which the new paytables can be registered
with bonus server 230.
[0147] FIG. 11B illustrates a cap 252, which covers the top and
center of top 206. Cap 252, in one embodiment, is a formed plated
piece, which is at least substantially opaque. Alternatively, cap
252 allows light from lights 232 to illuminate the cap. Cap 252
hides the ends of panels 208 and provides an aesthetically pleasing
finish to top 206, which is a visual centerpiece of the shared
display 202 of gaming system 200.
[0148] FIG. 11C illustrates section XIC taken from FIG. 11B. Panels
208a and 208b, extruded brace 246 and cover plate 254 are shown in
more detail. Extruded brace 246 defines grooves that accept panels
208a and 208b. The wedge shaped panels 208 can slide in and out
when an associated cover plate 254 is removed from an outer
mounting ring 252. Outer mounting ring 252 is fixed to the
spoke-like braces 246. Outer mounting ring 252 extends around the
entire periphery of top 206 and includes holes (where separate
fasteners 250 are used) or studs 250 that mate with aligned holes
of cover plate 254. A finishing or acorn nut threads onto studs or
fasteners 250 to complete the fixing of plate 254 to outer mounting
ring 252, which in turn locks a panel 208 in place. Cover plates
254 are sized to fit between two extruded braces 246. Sectioning
cover plates 254 enables the operator to remove only a desired one
or more cover plate 254 to remove and/or replace a desired one or
more panel 208.
[0149] It should be appreciated that a shared symbol generator may
be but is not limited to a wheel, a cone, a sphere, a reel, a ring,
a disk, a sphere containing a plurality of balls and a die. The
shared symbol generator may have any suitable shape including but
not limited to a cone, a circle, a semi-circle, an oval, a
rectangle, a triangle, a hexagon, an octagon, a pentagon, a
diamond, a linear configuration, an indented oval, and a curved
configuration. In one embodiment, the shared display is a roulette
wheel. In another embodiment, the shared display is a bingo ball
based number generator.
[0150] In another embodiment, the shared display includes a large
sphere or dome surrounded by a bank of gaming machines. Each gaming
machine has an individual bonus game trigger which enables the
player to play a slotto type bonus game. After triggering the bonus
game, as soon as a player presses an activation button, a plurality
of balls in the sphere start moving around inside the sphere. A
blower appears to move the balls. The moving balls are for
aesthetic purposes only and do not determine which outcome a player
will receive. In one embodiment, each gaming machine has a slotto
type apparatus with a predetermined set of balls. After a
designated amount of time of the balls moving around inside the
dome, one of the balls from the predetermined set of balls is
selected by the gaming device or by a central controller and upon a
player input, is indicated to the player via a vertically extending
tube positioned under the dome and in front of that gaming machine.
The player is provided the award associated with the ball indicated
in the tube and the bonus game ends. The player may physically
activate the blower or one or more of the balls in various
embodiments.
[0151] It should be appreciated that the game including the symbol
generator may be a base game or a secondary game. A secondary game
may be triggered based on an occurrence of any suitable triggering
event.
[0152] It should be appreciated that the symbol generator may
display any suitable symbols. In one embodiment, the symbol
generator displays numbers or symbols corresponding to awards or
outcomes that the gaming device or system may provide to the
player. In one embodiment, certain areas or sections of the symbol
generator are blank and do not display symbols. The symbols can
represent any suitable type of outcome, such as free games,
multipliers, vacation giveaways, merchandise, cash, monetary units,
credits and the like.
[0153] It should be understood that various changes and
modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described
herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes
and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the present subject matter and without diminishing its
intended advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and
modifications be covered by the appended claims.
* * * * *