U.S. patent application number 12/267521 was filed with the patent office on 2009-05-14 for system for tracking system generated winnings.
This patent application is currently assigned to BALLY GAMING, INC.. Invention is credited to Paul C. McLaughlin, Ryan Randazzo, Wayne W. Walkwitz.
Application Number | 20090124370 12/267521 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40624250 |
Filed Date | 2009-05-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090124370 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Walkwitz; Wayne W. ; et
al. |
May 14, 2009 |
SYSTEM FOR TRACKING SYSTEM GENERATED WINNINGS
Abstract
One or more gaming machines include an external attendant paid
bonus win meter. More particularly, when the casino gaming system
generates a jackpot, and awards the jackpot to a player at a gaming
machine, the amount of the winning jackpot is recorded on the
external attendant paid bonus win meter. Otherwise stated, the
system-based jackpot is awarded to a player at a gaming machine,
and the amount of the winning jackpot is recorded on a gaming
machine-based meter. The player may be randomly determined.
Additionally, the trigger for awarding the jackpot may be randomly
determined based on predetermined criteria set by the casino or
gaming system manufacturer. Once the jackpot win occurs, the player
at the selected gaming machine is notified, usually by a visible
sign or message. In one embodiment, the amount of the jackpot win
(or bonus win) is recorded on the external attendant paid bonus win
meter.
Inventors: |
Walkwitz; Wayne W.;
(Waterford Works, NJ) ; McLaughlin; Paul C.;
(Brigantine, NJ) ; Randazzo; Ryan; (Glendora,
NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
STEPTOE & JOHNSON, LLP
2121 AVENUE OF THE STARS, SUITE 2800
LOS ANGELES
CA
90067
US
|
Assignee: |
BALLY GAMING, INC.
Las Vegas
NV
|
Family ID: |
40624250 |
Appl. No.: |
12/267521 |
Filed: |
November 7, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60987029 |
Nov 9, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/27 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3244 20130101;
G07F 17/3223 20130101; G07F 17/3258 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/27 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24; A63F 13/00 20060101 A63F013/00 |
Claims
1. A system for tracking system generated jackpot amounts on gaming
machines in a casino gaming system, wherein a casino gaming server
generates a system-based jackpot winning time and jackpot award
value, the system comprising: a casino gaming server; one or more
gaming machines connected to the casino gaming server via a
network, wherein each gaming machines include an external attendant
paid bonus win meter; wherein the casino gaming server generates a
jackpot, and awards the jackpot to a player at a gaming machine,
the amount of the winning jackpot is recorded on the external
attendant paid bonus win meter, wherein the casino gaming server
sends a message to a gaming machine, wherein the message contains
information including a winning jackpot amount and instructions for
transferring a jackpot win amount from a host to a gaming machine;
wherein the jackpot amount is applied to the game on the gaming
machine, the gaming machine is locked into a hand pay condition for
the amount of the jackpot and requires an employee to perform a
jackpot reset on the gaming machine; and wherein an external
attendant paid bonus win meter associated with the winning game is
incremented after an attendant resets the gaming machine.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the jackpot winning time is
randomly determined based on criteria set by the casino or gaming
system manufacturer.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the jackpot award value is
randomly determined based on criteria set by the casino or gaming
system manufacturer.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein casino gaming system includes a
plurality of gaming machines connected via a network to a back end
server.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein a router connects one or more
gaming machines to the back end server.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the router directs information
from a game monitoring unit in each gaming machine to the back end
server.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the back end server includes a
slot accounting system, a slot marketing system, and a casino
management and accounting system.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the winning jackpot is funded by
marketing dollars and not by funds directly received from a winning
player in exchange for game play.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the winning player is selected
from a group of player that each have a player tracking card
inserted into a gaming machine at a time the winning jackpot is
awarded.
10. The system of claim 1, wherein a group of jackpot-eligible
players is restricted to a specific number of gaming machines by
gaming machine denomination, gaming machine manufacture, gaming
machine zone, gaming machine asset numbers, or combinations
thereof.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein a casino operator determines
criteria for triggering a jackpot award.
12. The system of claim 1, wherein a casino operator enters an
average jackpot win amount, an average award time, and an average
reset time.
13. The system of claim 1, wherein an actual award grows from a
reset value towards a desired value.
14. The system of claim 1, wherein progressive growth is not linked
to wagering activity on an associated casino floor.
15. The system of claim 1, wherein a random time during progressive
growth of the jackpot award is triggered as the jackpot winning
time.
16. The system of claim 1, wherein the casino gaming system
includes a controller board that accepts transactions from the back
end server.
17. The system of claim 1, wherein the casino gaming system
includes a controller board that accepts transactions from a back
end system main frame.
18. The system of claim 1, wherein, in response to receiving
information containing the jackpot award value from the back end
server, a controller board transfers jackpot winnings to a gaming
machine at which the winning player is located.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the controller board uses a
long poll command with a transfer code to transfer bonus jackpot
win amount from host to gaming machine and force attendant pay
lockup.
20. The system of claim 19, wherein, in response to an attendant
resetting a winning gaming machine, the gaming machine's external
attendant paid bonus win meter is incremented for the jackpot award
value, and a message is sent to the controller board notating the
meter incrementation.
21. The system of claim 1, wherein a player is eligible for a
consolation prize if the player has a player card inserted in a
qualified gaming machine and has activated game play on the
qualified gaming machine at a jackpot winning time.
22. The system of claim 21, wherein the back end server identifies
eligible players for the consolation prize, and transfers a
consolation prize amount to a consolation account that is
accessible to each qualifying player via a user interface.
23. The system of claim 21, wherein each qualifying player may
access the account via the user interface.
24. The system of claim 1, wherein a consolation prize is
awarded.
25. The system of claim 22, further comprising a consolation prize
award system, the consolation prize award system comprising: means
for identifying one or more players who have player cards inserted
into gaming machines at the time the system generated jackpot
occurs; means for awarding a consolation prize amount for each
identified player in a consolation bucket, wherein the identified
player can access the consolation prize via an input mechanism;
means for transferring the consolation prize to the identified
player's gaming machine after receiving input information from the
player, wherein the gaming machine transfers the prize to the game
such that the amount of the consolation prize is added to a game
credit meter; means for incrementing the external machine paid
bonus meter for the amount of the credit applied to the game as the
credits are applied to the game; and means for sending data to a
controller on the gaming machine and to the back end server,
wherein the data includes the amount incremented on the meter.
26. A system for tracking system generated jackpot amounts in
casino gaming system, the system comprising: a casino gaming
server; and one or more gaming machines connected to the casino
gaming server via a network, wherein each gaming machines include
an external attendant paid bonus win meter; wherein the casino
gaming server generates a system-based jackpot winning time and
jackpot award value, randomly determines a winning player at a
gaming machine, and awards a winning jackpot to a winning player at
the gaming machine; and wherein the casino gaming server awards the
winning jackpot to the winning player at the gaming machine,
records the jackpot award value on the external attendant paid
bonus win meter, and notifies the winning player at the selected
gaming machine of the jackpot win, via a visible sign or
message.
27. The system of claim 26, wherein the jackpot winning time is
randomly determined based on criteria set by the casino or gaming
system manufacturer.
28. The system of claim 26, wherein the jackpot award value is
randomly determined based on criteria set by the casino or gaming
system manufacturer.
29. The system of claim 26, wherein casino gaming system includes a
plurality of gaming machines connected via a network to a back end
server.
30. The system of claim 29, wherein a router connects one or more
gaming machines to the back end server.
31. The system of claim 30, wherein the router directs information
from a game monitoring unit in each gaming machine to the back end
server.
32. The system of claim 26, wherein the back end server includes a
slot accounting system, a slot marketing system, and a casino
management and accounting system.
33. The system of claim 26, wherein the winning jackpot is funded
by marketing dollars and not by funds directly received from a
winning player in exchange for game play.
34. The system of claim 26, wherein the winning player is selected
from a group of players that each have a player tracking card
inserted into a gaming machine at the time the winning jackpot is
awarded.
35. The system of claim 26, wherein a group of jackpot-eligible
players is restricted to a specific number of gaming machines by
gaming machine denomination, gaming machine manufacturer, gaming
machine zone, gaming machine asset numbers, or combinations
thereof.
36. The system of claim 26, wherein a casino operator determines
criteria for triggering a jackpot award.
37. The system of claim 26, wherein a casino operator enters an
average jackpot win amount, an average award time, and an average
reset time.
38. The system of claim 26, wherein an actual award grows from a
reset value towards a desired value.
39. The system of claim 26, wherein progressive growth is not
linked to wagering activity on an associated casino floor.
40. The system of claim 26, wherein a random time during
progressive growth of the jackpot award is triggered as the jackpot
winning time.
41. The system of claim 26, wherein the casino gaming system
includes a controller board that accepts transactions from the back
end server.
42. The system of claim 26, wherein the casino gaming system
includes a controller board that accepts transactions from a back
end system main frame.
43. The system of claim 26, wherein, in response to receiving
information containing the jackpot award value from the back end
server, a controller board transfers jackpot winnings to a gaming
machine at which the winning player is located.
44. The system of claim 43, wherein the controller board uses a
long poll command with a transfer code to transfer bonus jackpot
win amount from host to gaming machine and force attendant pay
lockup.
45. The system of claim 44, wherein, in response to an attendant
resetting a winning gaming machine, the gaming machine's external
attendant paid bonus win meter is incremented for the jackpot award
value, and a message is sent to the controller board notating the
meter incrementation.
46. The system of claim 26, wherein a player is eligible for a
consolation prize if the player has a player card inserted in a
qualified gaming machine and has activated game play on the
qualified gaming machine at a jackpot winning time.
47. The system of claim 46, wherein the back end server identifies
eligible players for the consolation prize, and transfers a
consolation prize amount to a consolation account that is
accessible to each qualifying player via a user interface.
48. The system of claim 47, wherein each qualifying player may
access the account via the user interface.
49. A system for tracking system generated consolation prize on a
gaming machine, the system comprising: a casino gaming server; and
one or more gaming machines connected to the casino gaming server
via a network, wherein each gaming machines include an external
attendant paid bonus win meter; wherein the casino gaming server
identifies a qualifying player at a gaming machine having an
external attendant paid bonus win meter and an inserted player
tracking card, and sends a message to a gaming machine having an
inserted player tracking card; wherein the casino gaming server
sends a message to a controller board on the gaming machine having
an inserted player tracking card, the message including information
regarding a consolation prize amount and instructions for the
controller board to transfer cashable winnings to the gaming
machine, the controller board using a long poll command with a
transfer code to transfer the cashable winnings to the gaming
machine; and wherein the casino gaming server sends instructions
forcing an attendant pay lockup, and adds the consolation prize
amount to the external attendant paid bonus win meter of the gaming
machine.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/987,029, filed Nov. 9, 2007, which is hereby
incorporated by reference.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright
owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of
the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the
Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise
reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] This disclosure relates to wagering games, and more
specifically to networked gaming systems and methods which offer or
provide games.
BACKGROUND
[0004] Modem gaming establishments offer a variety of electronic
wagering games including multimedia and/or mechanical slot machines
providing video card games, such as poker, blackjack and the like,
video keno, video bingo, video pachinko, and various other video or
reel-based games. In addition, casinos offer a variety of table
games, such as poker, blackjack, craps, roulette, and the like. In
many instances, the slot machines and table games are computerized
or include electronic circuitry performing various functions (e.g.,
player tracking, game monitoring, and the like), and are connected
via a networked gaming environment to a host computer and
associated servers. The networking of gaming machines has provided
additional gaming opportunities both directly generated within the
gaming machine and from network based gaming programs.
[0005] Software programs provide gaming establishments with the
ability to compile information about casino players, to monitor the
status of games, and to provide promotions, bonuses, and rewards.
Examples of promotions include advertisements and rewards, which
serve as incentives for casino players to continue wagering and to
return to the same establishment. These types of rewards and others
are popular, and, there continues to be a need to develop creative
methods and systems to provide various types of rewards to
players.
SUMMARY
[0006] Briefly, and in general terms, various embodiments are
directed to a method for tracking system generated jackpot amounts
on a gaming machine in a casino gaming system, wherein a casino
gaming server generates a system-based jackpot winning time and
jackpot award value. The method includes: after the occurrence of a
system generated jackpot, sending a message from a back end server
to a gaming machine, wherein the message contains information
including a winning jackpot amount and instructions for
transferring a jackpot win amount from a host to a gaming machine;
applying the jackpot amount to the game on the gaming machine;
locking the gaming machine into a hand pay condition for the amount
of the jackpot and require an employee to perform a jackpot reset
on the gaming machine; incrementing an external attendant paid
bonus win meter associated with the game once an attendant resets
the gaming machine; and sending data containing the amount
incremented on the meter.
[0007] Another embodiment discloses a method for tracking system
generated consolation prize on a gaming machine. The method
includes: identifying a qualifying player with at a gaming machine
having an external attendant paid bonus win meter and an inserted
player tracking card; sending a message from a back end server to a
gaming machine having an inserted player tracking card; sending a
message from the back end server to a controller board on the
gaming machine having an inserted player tracking card, wherein the
message includes information regarding a consolation prize amount
and instructions for the controller board to transfer cashable
winnings to the gaming machine, wherein the controller board uses a
long poll command with a transfer code to transfer the cashable
winnings to the gaming machine; forcing attendant pay lockup in
response to receiving the instructions; and adding the consolation
prize amount to the external attendant paid bonus win meter of the
gaming machine.
[0008] Other features and advantages of the various embodiments
will become apparent from the following detailed description when
viewed in conjunction with the corresponding drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates a plurality of gaming machines in a
gaming system that enables system-based gaming and awards, wherein
each gaming machine is associated with a gaming machine-based
external win meter;
[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates a main game panel on a player console at
various stages of game play of a game in accordance with one or
more embodiments;
[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates a relational diagram of a progressive
processing system, configured in accordance with the claimed
invention, interconnected with associated servers and devices;
[0012] FIG. 4A illustrates a relational diagram of a progressive
processing system, interconnected with associated servers, devices,
components, services, and the Internet;
[0013] FIG. 4B illustrates a relational diagram of a progressive
processing system, interconnected with associated servers, devices,
components, services, display screens, and menus;
[0014] FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate various examples of progressive
parameter set-up screens;
[0015] FIG. 6A illustrates multiple "floor activity" tables that
keep multiple floor activity of rolling and sorted tables;
[0016] FIG. 6B illustrates a logic flow diagram of a preferred
embodiment of the progressive game;
[0017] FIG. 6C illustrates a comparison chart of the percentage of
the targeted (theoretical) progressive pot value (i.e., percentage
of the targeted progressive prize value) versus the cumulative
chance to win over time;
[0018] FIG. 7 illustrates player's eCash bucket screen, game setup
screen, and personal account screen, as viewed over a system gaming
user interface;
[0019] FIG. 8 illustrates an eCash purchase screen where a player
may transfers credits from one form to another, as well as
additional personal account activity screens;
[0020] FIG. 9 illustrates game setup screen for modifying a bingo
game, a tournament selection screen, and a personal account display
screen that shows both cashable and uncashable funds for a system
game in the same display screen;
[0021] FIG. 10 illustrates a user interface for a progressive game
in attract mode, as well as user interface for a progressive game
showing an "award display screen" after a progressive prize has
been won;
[0022] FIG. 11 illustrates a progressive processing system
incorporating web services that enable viewing of the progressive
games from a home web browser;
[0023] FIG. 12 illustrates client side
applications/services/hardware, as well as system gaming
servers;
[0024] FIG. 13 illustrates a relational diagram of an embedded
additional user interface utilizing a web page display screen and
an embedded processor that receives data messages from a game
monitoring unit that are translated into web page content and
mapped to the web page display screen;
[0025] FIG. 14 illustrates a relational diagram of an embedded
additional user interface utilizing a web page display screen and
an embedded processor that receives cryptographically certified web
page content from a portable computer via a network adapter
port;
[0026] FIG. 15 illustrates a relational diagram of an embedded
additional user interface utilizing a web page display screen and
an embedded processor that receives web page content from a
back-end server via an Ethernet-networked backbone;
[0027] FIG. 16 illustrates a relational diagram of an embedded
additional user interface utilizing a web page display screen and
an embedded processor that includes the functionality of a standard
gaming processor;
[0028] FIGS. 17A and 17B are each partial views of a diagram that
illustrates an object interaction diagram of an embedded additional
user interface;
[0029] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the sequence of events that
occur when data is sent between the embedded additional user
interface and the game monitoring unit; and
[0030] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing the sequence of events that
occurs when a virtual key is pressed on the web page display
screen.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] A gaming machine-based system and method is disclosed herein
for tracking system-based prizes awarded from a backend server to
one or more casino players at a gaming machine. More particularly,
the system and method track system generated winnings awards at the
gaming machine, wherein the amount of the winnings may be stored on
the gaming machine memory. Various embodiments are directed to
providing an external meter on a gaming machine for tracking a
system generated bonus win. Referring now to the drawings, wherein
like reference numerals denote like or corresponding parts
throughout the drawings and, more particularly to FIGS. 1-2, there
are shown various embodiments of a system and method for tracking
system generated winnings awarded at a gaming machine.
[0032] Referring to FIG. 1, one example embodiment of a casino
gaming system 110 is illustrated. The casino gaming system 110
comprises one or more gaming machines 10 operatively connected via
a network to a back end server 112. The back end server 112 may be
configured to comprise one or more servers. The type of server
employed is generally determined by the platform and software
requirements of the gaming system. In one example embodiment, as
illustrated in FIG. 1, the back end server 112 is configured to
include three servers: a casino floor controller 114, a casino
management server 116 and a casino database 118. The casino floor
controller 114 is a part of the player tracking system for
gathering accounting, security and player specific information. The
casino management server 116 and casino database 118 work together
to store and process information specific to both employees and
players. Player specific information includes, but is not limited
to, passwords, biometric identification, player card
identification, and biographic data. Additionally, employee
specification information may include biographic data, biometric
information, job level and rank, passwords, authorization codes and
security clearance levels.
[0033] Overall, the back end server 112 performs several
fundamental functions. For example, the back end server 112 can
collect data from the casino floor as communicated to it from other
network components, and maintain the collected data in its
database. The back end server 112 may use casino floor data to
generate a report used in casino operation functions. Examples of
such reports include, but are not limited to, accounting reports,
security reports, and usage reports. The back end server 112 may
also pass data to another server for other functions.
Alternatively, the back end server 112 may pass data stored on its
database to floor hardware for interaction with a game or game
player. For example, data such as a game player's name or the
amount of a ticket being redeemed at a game may be passed to the
floor hardware. Additionally, the back end server 112 may comprise
one or more data repositories for storing data. Examples of types
of data stored in the system server data repositories include, but
are not limited to, information relating to individual player play
data, individual game accounting data, gaming machine accounting
data, cashable ticket data, and sound data including optimum audio
outputs for various casino settings.
[0034] Additionally, the back end server 112 may also include one
or more additional systems to aid in the management of the casino
system. For example, in one embodiment, the back end system
includes a slot data system. The slot data system is an integrated
system that continually monitors slot machines, other gaming
devices, and customer activity. The primary function is slot
accounting and player tracking data collection. In one embodiment,
the slot data system is configured to operate on a dedicated server
and can support up to 146 terminals or workstations.
[0035] In one embodiment, the back end server 112 includes a casino
management system, which is a software product that provides a
casino with the capability to manage casino player tracking,
promotional, and accounting functions. Features include player
tracking and analysis, table-game management, cage and credit,
offer and event management, player club enrollment and redemption
and comprehensive reports and data analysis.
[0036] In one embodiment, the back end server 112 includes a slot
accounting system (SAS), which is a data collection and accounting
package. The communication protocol used by this system is referred
to as SAS.
[0037] In some embodiments, one or more protocols are used to
communicate in the network. For example, and not by way of
limitation, the network uses high-speed broadband communication and
packetized protocol to communicate tournament data in the network.
The protocol may comprise, for example, and not by way of
limitation, Ethernet, TCP/IP, XML, SAS, SDS and G2S (Game to
Server).
[0038] The network bridges 120 and network rack 122 are networking
components used for networking, routing and polling gaming machines
10. In one embodiment, the gaming machines 10 are connected via a
network to a network bridge 120, and the network bridge 120
connects to a back end server 112. Optionally, the gaming machines
10 may connect to the network via a network rack 122, which
provides for a fewer number of connections to the back end server
112. Both network bridge 120 and network rack 122 may be classified
as middleware, and facilitate communications between the back end
server 112 and the gaming machines 10. The network bridges 120 and
network rack 122 may comprise data repositories for storing network
performance data. Such performance data may be based on network
traffic and other network related information. Optionally, the
network bridge 120 and the network rack 122 may be interchangeable
components. For example, in one embodiment, a casino gaming system
may comprise only network bridges and no network racks.
Alternatively, in another embodiment, a casino gaming system may
comprise only network racks and no network bridges. Additionally,
in an alternative embodiment, a casino gaming system may comprise
any combination of one or more network bridges and one or more
network racks.
[0039] Optionally, in another embodiment, gaming machines 10 may be
connected to the back end server 112 via routers (not shown).
[0040] In one embodiment, game monitoring units (GMUs) 126 connect
gaming machines 10 to networking components (e.g., network bridges,
network racks, routers, etc). The GMUs may be installed within the
gaming machine cabinet or may be located external to the gaming
machine 10. In one embodiment, the GMU 126 is a separate component
located outside the gaming machine 10a. Alternatively, in another
embodiment, the GMU 126 is located within the gaming machine 10b.
Optionally, in an alternative embodiment, one or more gaming
devices IOc connect directly to a network and are not connected to
a GMU 126.
[0041] GMU 126 is a device connected to the circuitry of a gaming
machine 10 that monitors the game, coin status, player winnings,
and/or the gaming machine. The GMU 126 sends the monitored
information to a server on the back end server 112 for processing.
Additionally, the GMU 126 may record gaming machine operations and
transfer the information to the back end server 112. In some
embodiments, the GMU may monitor the game, coin status, player
winnings, and gaming machine and send the monitored information
back to a particular dedicated server for processing. Those skilled
in the art will appreciate that the functionality of the GMUs 126
may vary, and that the GMU 126 may be configured to perform
additional tasks. Some GMUs 126 have much greater capability and
can perform such tasks as presenting and playing a game using a
display (not shown) operatively connected to the GMU 126.
[0042] The gaming machines 10 act as terminals for interacting with
a casino player or game player playing a casino game on the gaming
machine. In various embodiments, any of the gaming machines 10 may
be any type of electronic or mechanical gaming devices, such as,
but not limited to, a mechanical reel spinning slot machine, video
slot machine, video poker machine, keno machine, video blackjack
machine, or a gaming machine offering one or more of the
above-described games. Examples include, but are not limited to,
the S6000 mechanical reel spinner and the Alpha video slot machine
from Bally Gaming.
[0043] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the gaming
machines 10 may include a variety of components. For example, the
gaming machines 10 include a display area for presenting a game. In
one embodiment the display is a viewing area that displays a
plurality of mechanical reels for presenting a slot-style game.
Alternately, in an optional embodiment the display is a video
display for presenting one or more games such as, but not limited
to, mechanical slots, video slots, video poker, video blackjack,
video keno, video roulette, Class II bingo, games of skill, games
of chance involving various levels of player skill, or any
combination thereof.
[0044] Optionally, in some embodiments, the display is a video
display such as, but not limited to, a CRT (cathode ray tube), or a
thin-panel display. Examples of thin-panel displays include plasma,
LCD (liquid crystal display), electroluminescent, vacuum
fluorescent, field emission, LCOS (liquid crystal on silicon), and
SXRD (Silicon Xtal Reflective display) or any other types of panel
displays known or developed in the art. These flat panel displays
may use panel technologies to provide digital quality images
including by way of example only, and not by way of limitation,
EDTV, HDTV, or DLP (Digital Light Processing). Additionally, the
display may be mounted in the gaming cabinet in either a portrait
or landscape orientation. Optionally, the display may also include
a touch screen or touch glass system (not shown). The touch screen
allows a user to input information. The touch screen may be used in
place of mechanical buttons, or alternately the touch screen may be
used to supplement other input devices, such as buttons.
[0045] The gaming machine 10 includes a main cabinet that is a
self-standing unit that is generally rectangular in shape.
Alternatively, in other embodiments, the gaming cabinet may be a
slant-top gaming cabinet or any shaped cabinet known or developed
in the art. However, any shaped cabinet may be used with any
embodiment of the gaming machine 10 and sized for a player to be
able to sit or stand while playing a game. Additionally, the
cabinet may be manufactured with reinforced steel or other rigid
materials that are resistant to tampering and vandalism.
[0046] The gaming machine 10 includes one or more input mechanisms.
In one embodiment, the gaming machine 10 may include a plurality of
player-activated buttons, which may be used for numerous functions
such as, but not limited to, selecting a wager denomination,
selecting a number of games to be played, selecting a wager amount
per game, initiating a game, or cashing out money from the gaming
machine 10. The buttons function as input mechanisms and may
include mechanical buttons, electromechanical buttons or touch
screen buttons. Optionally, a handle may also serve as an input
mechanism. More particularly, the handle may be "pulled" by a
player to initiate a game. Additionally, one or more of the
player-activated buttons may be used as an interface mechanism in
conjunction with the player selection of a denomination for a game
linked to a progressive jackpot.
[0047] The gaming machine 10 may also include one or more speakers.
Various types of audio may be output to the speakers. In addition
to sound effects, flashing displays and/or lighted displays may
also be included on the gaming machine to capture a player's
interest.
[0048] In various embodiments, the gaming machine 10 shown may also
include a ticket reader/ticket printer system that is associated
with a cashless gaming system. The ticket reader includes a slot
for accepting a reading tickets and/or vouchers. A printer is
provided for printing out and/or issuing tickets. In one
embodiment, the ticket reader of a cashless gaming system is
capable of accepting previously printed vouchers, paper currency,
promotional coupons, and the like. The ticket printer of the
cashless gaming system generates vouchers having printed
information that includes, but is not limited to, the value of the
voucher (i.e., cash-out amount) and a barcode that identifies the
voucher. In one embodiment, the ticket reader and ticket printer
share the same slot. In an alternate embodiment, the ticket reader
and ticket printer have separate slots.
[0049] In another embodiment, a bill acceptor is included, which is
an assembly that examines currency or coupons and communicates the
value to the machine. Accepted items register as credits, rejected
items are returned to the player.
[0050] In one embodiment, one or more of the gaming machines 10
include a player tracking module operatively connected to the
gaming machine. The player tracking module is part of a player
tracking system that allows a casino to monitor the gaming
activities of various players. Additionally, the player tracking
system is able to store data relating to a player's gaming habits.
That is, a player can accrue player points that depend upon the
amount and frequency of their wagers. Casinos can use these player
points to compensate the loyal playerage of players. For example,
casinos may award or "comp" a player free meals, room
accommodations, tickets to shows, and invitations to casino events
and promotional affairs.
[0051] Typically, the player tracking system is operatively
connected to one or more input components on the gaming machine 10.
These input components include, but are not limited to, a card
reader for receiving a player tracking card, a keypad or
equivalent, an electronic button receptor, a touch screen and the
like. The player tracking system may also include a database of all
qualified players (i.e., those players who have enrolled in a
player rating or point accruing program). Generally, the database
for the player tracking system is separate from the gaming machines
10. In one embodiment, the player tracking system includes a player
account server. Typically the player account server resides on the
back end system. The player account server maintains a record of
customer play. Additionally, the player account server may gather
information related to a player, such as, but not limited to,
account information, credits bonus, promotions, and the like. In an
optional embodiment, the player tracking system includes software
and accessories connected to gaming devices that allow for the
identification of a player.
[0052] In one embodiment, the gaming machine 10 includes a card
reader 20 that may be used to read player tracking cards.
Additionally, the card reader may also read casino employee cards.
Each time a card is inserted into the reader, it monitors and
tracks player and employee activity.
[0053] Additionally, in one embodiment, the player tracking module
may also include a game monitoring unit (GMU) and an additional
user interface. In one embodiment, the additional user interface is
an IVIEW interface (available from Bally Gaming, Inc. of Las Vegas
Nev.), which serves as an additional user interface. In one
embodiment, the IVIEW interface includes a web content capable
display screen and an embedded processor.
[0054] In one embodiment, each gaming machine includes one or more
meters on the gaming machine to capture and maintain accounting
data. Generally, a meter is an ever-increasing register that
maintains a count in a gaming machine. Once a meter reaches its
rollover point, it resets to zero. Meters track events such as,
Coin In, Coin Out, Coin Drop, and handle pulls. The Coin In meter
monitors and counts the value of all wagers received by the gaming
machine for the particular game associated with the meter. The Coin
Out meter monitors and counts the value of all winnings paid out by
the gaming machine for the particular game. An External Attendant
Paid Bonus Win meter 130 monitors and counts the value of all
attendant paid winnings for the particular game. Typically, if a
win exceeds a certain amount, the payout to the player is
distributed by an attendant rather than by the gaming machine.
[0055] Additionally, in some embodiments, the gaming machine may
include one or more progressive-type games. In a progressive-type
game, each game wager contributes to a total progressive value, and
this value is "won" by a player when a specified combination of
symbols appears as a result of game play. Generally, in a
progressive-type game, progressive wins are accounted for in lieu
of a coin out win. In one embodiment including a progressive gaming
scheme, the accounting system includes a machine paid progressive
meter and an attendant paid progressive meter. The machine paid
progressive meter monitors the progressive win values paid out for
a progressive game. Additionally, the attendant paid progressive
meter monitors and counts the value of all winnings from a
particular progressive game paid out.
[0056] In one embodiment, there are a set of meters in the GMU that
serve a function similar to those in the gaming machine. The GMU
meter is typically meter data not directly available from the game.
Meters from the game are commonly called hard meters while the GMU
meters are usually referred to as soft meters. In one embodiment,
meters maintain accounting information, game play or other systems
events. In one embodiment, meters are maintained in a special area
of memory that is non-volatile. This is done so that in the case of
unexpected power failure, the current meter values will not be
lost. Player terminals meters are maintained by each player
terminal and keep track of ticket transaction summaries, game play
summaries, cash transaction summaries, and other essential
accounting information.
[0057] As shown in FIG. 1, in one embodiment, one or more gaming
machines 10 include an External Attendant Paid Bonus Win meter 130.
More particularly, when the casino gaming system generates a
jackpot, and awards the jackpot to a player at a gaming machine 10,
the amount of the winning jackpot is recorded on the External
Attendant Paid Bonus Win meter 130. Otherwise stated, the
system-based jackpot is awarded to a player at a gaming machine,
and the amount of the winning jackpot is recorded on a gaming
machine-based meter. The player may be randomly determined.
Additionally, the trigger for awarding the jackpot may be randomly
determined based on predetermined criteria set by the casino or
gaming system manufacturer. Once the jackpot win occurs, the player
at the selected gaming machine is notified, usually by a visible
sign or message. In one embodiment, the amount of the jackpot win
(or bonus win) is recorded on the External Attendant Paid Bonus Win
meter 130.
[0058] Referring now to FIG. 2, a casino gaming system 200 is
illustrated. The casino gaming system 200 includes multiple gaming
machines 210 connected via a network to a back end system 212. In
one embodiment, a router 220 connects the gaming machines 210 to
the back end system 212. In one particular embodiment, the router
220 is a GameNet router that routes information from the GMU in
each gaming machine 210 to a Game Net Server 212a, which is part of
the back end system 212. In one such embodiment, the back end
system 212 also includes the iSERIES server (i.e., IBM iSERIES
server), which includes a slot accounting system, a slot marketing
system and a casino management and accounting system. Those skilled
in the art will appreciate that other components may be included in
the back end system 212.
[0059] In one embodiment, the casino gaming system 210 includes a
system generated jackpot awarded to players on the casino floor.
The jackpot may be a time and value based award that is funded by
marketing dollars and is paid to the winning player who has a
player tracking card inserted into a gaming machine at the time the
winning value is selected. In one embodiment, the award is
available to all players based on the grouping of the specific
settings, which may include all gaming machine on the casino floor.
Alternately, the casino may restrict the grouping to a specific
number of gaming machines by gaming machine denomination(s), and/or
by gaming machine manufacturer(s) and/or by gaming machine zone(s),
or a set of specific asset (gaming machine) numbers. Those skilled
in the art will appreciate that the jackpot award may be funded by
a means other than marketing dollars.
[0060] In one embodiment, the casino operator determines the
criteria for triggering the jackpot award. For example, in one
embodiment, the casino operator enters an average jackpot win
amount, an average award time and an average reset time. The actual
award grows from the reset value towards the desired value. The
progressive growth is not linked to a wagering activity on the
casino floor. At a random time during the progressive growth the
award is triggered. At the award time, the actual value is stopped
from growing and further and is randomly awarded out the floor.
[0061] In general, once a jackpot win occurs, the back end system
212 delivers a message to the gaming machine 210 regarding the
awarded jackpot win. In one embodiment, the value of a system
generated jackpot is recorded on a game External Attendant Paid
Bonus Win meter 130. Additionally, in an optional embodiment the
casino gaming system may also award consolation prizes to those
players who do not win the jackpot. In this embodiment, the back
end system 212 sends consolation information to the qualifying
gaming machines. The value of the consolation prizes may be
recorded on the game External Attendant Paid Bonus Win meter 130.
Further, in an alternate embodiment, the back end system 212 can
send instructions to lock up a gaming machine 210 upon the
occurrence of a system generated jackpot win.
[0062] More particularly, upon the occurrence of jackpot win, the
back end system 212 sends information to a controller located on a
gaming machine 210. The controller causes an External Attendant
Paid Bonus Win meter 130 at the gaming machine to keep track of
winning jackpots generated by the back end system and award at the
gaming machine 210.
[0063] In one embodiment, a controller 222 located on the gaming
machine receives a message from the back end system 212 regarding a
system generated winning jackpot. More particularly, in one
embodiment, the controller 222 is a NT controller board that is
modified to accept transactions from the back end system 212.
Optionally, in an alternate embodiment, the NT controller board is
modified to accept transactions from the iSERIES server, which is a
back end system main frame.
[0064] In one example, a transaction received from the back end
system 212 includes information containing the value of the winning
jackpot amount. After receiving the information containing the
jackpot win amount from the back end system, the NT controller
board will transfer the jackpot winnings to the game. More
particularly, in one example embodiment, the NT controller board
will use the SAS AFT Long Poll command 0x72 with a transfer type
code 11 (e.g., to transfer bonus jackpot win amount from host to
gaming machine and force attendant pay lockup) to transfer the
cashable winnings to the game. This will cause the gaming machine
210 to lock itself up into a hand pay condition for the amount of
the jackpot and will require an employee to perform a jackpot reset
on the gaming machine. Once the attendant resets the game, the
game's External Attendant Paid Bonus Win meter 130 will increment
for the amount of the jackpot, and send a message to the NT
controller board detailing the amount of the meter 130
incrementation. This information is then passed on to the back end
system 212 by the NT controller board.
[0065] Additionally, the NT controller board may also accept a
transaction from the back end system 212 including information
containing the value of a consolation prize. More particularly, in
one embodiment, after the system generates and awards a jackpot,
the system may also award consolation prizes to one or more
players. Typically, the consolation prizes are given to players who
meet certain criteria. Those skilled in the art will appreciate
that the criteria may be configured by the manufacturer and/or the
casino. For example, in one embodiment, a player is eligible for a
consolation prize if he has a player card inserted in a qualified
gaming machine and game play is activated on the qualified gaming
machine at the time of the jackpot occurrence. The back end system
212 identifies the casino players who qualify for a consolation
prize, and transfer a consolation prize amount to a consolation
account which is accessible to each qualifying player via a user
interface. In one embodiment, each qualifying player may access the
account via the iView. Alternately, the qualifying player may
access the consolation account via a standard keyboard.
[0066] Once a qualifying player is identified, the back end server
system sends a message to each gaming machine having an inserted
player tracking card. More particularly, the back end system 212
sends a message to the NT controller board on the gaming machine
210, wherein the message includes information regarding the
consolation prize amount along with instructions for the NT
controller board to transfer cashable winnings to the game. In one
example embodiment, the NT Controller Board, uses the SAS AFT Long
Poll command 0x72 with a transfer type code 10 (transfer bonus coin
out win amount from host to gaming machine) to transfer the
Cashable winnings to the game. Upon receiving the instructions, the
game will add the amount of the consolation prize to an External
Attendant Paid Bonus Win meter 130. Once the credits are applied to
the game, the game's External Machine Paid Bonus Win meter 130 will
increment for that amount. Further, once the game increments the
External Machine Paid Bonus Win meter 130, the NT controller board
receives information from the game that the meter 130 has been
incremented. Additionally, the NT controller board will, in turn,
pass the meter incrementation information along to the back end
system 212.
[0067] In an alternate embodiment, the NT controller board may also
validate a player's PIN. Optionally, in another embodiment, the
validation process may be carried out via another component of the
casino system.
[0068] In one embodiment, the External Attendant Paid Bonus Win
meter 130 tracks taxable events occurring at each gaming machine.
The External Attendant Paid Bonus Win meter 130 is incremented at
the gaming machine and nothing is given to the players. Otherwise
stated, the system generates a jackpot award and sends a message
which causes the meter 130 at the gaming machine to be incremented
for the amount of the award. This places the winnings into the
gaming machines memory as required by certain jurisdictions.
However, the money is not usable on the gaming machine.
[0069] The following embodiment illustrates the task of applying a
system generated jackpot win amount to a game in a casino gaming
system. Initially, an NT controller board code is modified to have
a new compile option LEB that performs the following operations.
First, the existing asset specific 212 transaction is received from
the system that contains the value of a server-based jackpot (e.g.,
a Power Winners jackpot). Second, the NT controller board uses an
SAS AFT command with the following parameters to apply the jackpot
amount to the game as an "External Attendant Paid Bonus Win."
TABLE-US-00001 Transfer Type 11 (Transfer bonus win amount from
host to gaming machine `Force Handy Pay Condition`) Cashable Amount
Amount of the Power Winners Jackpot
[0070] The game then locks itself up into a hand pay condition for
the amount and needs an employee jackpot reset. Once this lock-up
occurs, the External Attendant for the game and the system is
dispatched. Paid Bonus Win meter records the amount. The NT control
board then reports the result of the transfer to the system. There
is no Slot Jackpot Transaction 30, Jackpot Request 32, or Jackpot
Reset 40 Transaction associated with this process.
[0071] Regarding Gamenet tasks, the Gamenet passes the new
transaction to the iSERIES server. The iSERIES server then
generates a report that justifies the power winner jackpot amount
to the meter on the machine. Additionally, information that is
added to the end of the 212 Power Winner Transaction.
Transaction ID 212, Download Winners Marketing Values to an Asset
or All Assets, (SMS Transaction)
[0072] POS. 01=STAD, 1 byte binary. [0073] POS. 02=TRIO, 1 byte
binary value 212. [0074] POS. 03-04=2 byte binary value of asset
number, 0 send to all. [0075] POS. 05-29=25 bytes ASCII,
description. POS. 30-33=4 bytes binary, whole dollars. [0076] POS.
34-35=2 bytes binary, show number. [0077] POS. 36-65=30 bytes
ASCII, Winners Name. [0078] POS. 66-67=2 bytes binary value of
WINNING asset number. [0079] POS. 68-68=1 byte binary, display
type, O=ALL assets, 1=Only Asset with card-in, 2=Assets without
card-in. [0080] POS. 69-76=8 bytes ASCII value of Progressive
Engine ID.
Requirements:
[0080] [0081] SMS_NT.HEX. 10820 wi_EB and _LM (Big Meters)
GEARBOX.EXE.1060 GNS.EXE.2015 [0082] ISERIES.318
Transactions:
[0083] SMS Transactions Layout from NT to Gamenet in Big Meter
Format
TABLE-US-00002 Transaction ID Subcode Transaction Description 257
000 R EXTERNAL BONUS SUCESSFUL 257 001 R EXTERNAL BONUS NOT
AVAILABLE 257 003 R WRONG AMOUNT (between NT and MPU) 257 004 R
NOGAMEACK 257 005 R NO CONFIRM 257 006 R NOCOMMTILT 257 007 R RESET
DURING TRANSFER 257 008 R PREVIOUS TRANSFER ABORTED 257 012 R MPU
IN INVALID STATE 257 128 R TRANSFER CANCELLED BY HOST 257 129 R
TRANSFER ID SAME AS PRIOR 257 130 R INVALID TRANSFER FUNCTION 257
131 R INVALID AMOUNT OR EXPIRATION 257 132 R AMOUNT EXCEED TRANSFER
LIMIT 257 133 R AMT NOT MULTIPLE OF DENOMINAT 257 134 R PARTIAL
TRANSFER NOT ALLOWED 257 135 R GAME CAN APPLY AT THIS TIME 257 136
R GAME CAN NOT APPLY DEBITS 257 137 R REGISTRATION KEY DOSEN'T
MATCH 257 138 R NO POS ID (FOR DEBIT TRANSFER) 257 139 R NO WON
CREDITS TO CASHOUT 257 140 R GAME DENOMINATION NOT SET 257 141 R
EXPIRE NOT VALID FOR TICKET 257 142 R TRANSFER TO TICKET
UNAVAILABLE 257 143 R RESTRICT. UNABLE TO TRANSFER 257 144 R UNABLE
TO PRINT RECEIPT 257 145 R NO DATA TO PRINT RECEIPT 257 146 R
RECEIPT NOT ALLOWED FOR TYPE 257 147 R INVALID ASSET NUMBER 257 148
R GAME NOT LOCKED, REQUIRED 257 149 R TRANSACTION ID INVALID 257
159 R UNEXPECTED ERROR 257 192 R CURRENT TRANSFER IN PROGRESS 257
193 R UNSUPPORTED TRANSFER CODE 257 255 R TRANSFER INFO
UNAVAILABLE
Transaction #257 External Bonus Power Winner
TABLE-US-00003 [0084] Withdraw Amount 804-811 8 8 bytes binary
Subcode 812-812 1 1 byte binary Sequence Number 813-8142 2 bytes
binary Player Account 815-8239 9 bytes Ascii Casino ID 824-8252 2
bytes Ascii Spare 826-826 1 1 byte binary Suffix 827-8282 2 bytes
Ascii Corp ID 829-829 1 1 byte Ascii Prop ID 830-830 1 1 byte ASCII
Progressive Engine ID 831-838 8
[0085] Alternatively, another embodiment illustrates performing the
task of applying a system generated consolation prize to a game in
a casino gaming system. In this embodiment, a game such as Power
Winners is set up to award a consolation prize to all players that
had their cards inserted into a gaming machine but did not win the
big prize. Additionally, the iSERIES server sets a new bit that
instructs the NT controller to send an external bonus command to
the machine. [0086] POS. 14=PROMO key, 1 byte ASCII, bits allow
options. [0087] Bit 0=Use External Bonus Command [0088] Bit
1-5=unused. [0089] Bit 6=allow player to request "Mounds-Of-Money"
values, under PROMO key. [0090] Bit 7=allow PROMO key.
[0091] As described above, the iSERIES server has a report that
justifies the power winner consolation amount transferred to the
meter step on the machine. Additionally, the iSERIES server has to
deduct the win amount in the 257 to the consolation balance for the
player. For example, if the consolation prize was $50.00 and the
player only withdraws $25.00. $25.00 should still be available in
the player's account.
[0092] Regarding NT tasks, if the compile option LEB is included in
the build, then the NT Controller Board code is modified to perform
the following operations when activated in the 151 transaction:
[0093] (1) The existing asset specific 151 transaction is received
from the system that contains the value of the Power Winner
Consolation Prize. [0094] (2) The player will access their money
through the Power Rewards button on iVIEW, or the PROMO button on
the keypad. [0095] (3) If a PIN is required, the NT will validate
the PIN. [0096] (4) The NT Controller Board will use the SAS AFT
Command with the following parameters to apply the consolation
amount to the game as an "External Machine Paid Bonus Win." [0097]
Transfer Type 10 (Transfer bonus coin out win amount from host to
gaming machine) [0098] Cashable Amount Amount of the Power Winners
Jackpot
[0099] The game adds the consolation prize to the credit meter.
Once the consolation prize is added to the meter, the External
Machine Paid Bonus Win meter 130 for the game and the system are
incremented for the amount. The NT reports the result of the
transfer to the system in a 257 transaction with New Type field.
[0100] 0=Big Prize [0101] 1=Consolation
Transaction #257 External Bonus Power Winner
[0101] [0102] Type 839-839 1 1 byte binary [0103] 0=Big Prize
[0104] 1=Consolation Prize
Gamenet Tasks:
[0105] The Gamenet will pass the new transaction to the iSERIES
server.
Requirements:
[0106] SMS_NT.HEX.10821 wi _EB (External Bonus) and _LM (Big
Meters) [0107] GEARBOX.EXE.I060 [0108] ISERIES.318
Transactions:
[0109] SMS Transactions Layout from NT to Gamenet in Big Meter
Format
TABLE-US-00004 Transaction ID Subcode Transaction Description 257
000 R EXTERNAL BONUS SUCCESSFUL 257 001 R EXTERNAL BONUS NOT
AVAILABLE 257 003 R WRONG AMOUNT (between NT and MPU) 257 004 R
NOGAMEACK 257 005 R NO CONFIRM 257 006 R NOCOMMTILT 257 007 R RESET
DURING TRANSFER 257 008 R PREVIOUS TRANSFER ABORTED 257 012 R MPU
IN INVALID STATE 257 128 R TRANSFER CANCELLED BY HOST 257 129 R
TRANSFER ID SAME AS PRIOR 257 130 R INVALID TRANSFER FUNCTION 257
131 R INVALID AMOUNT OR EXPIRATION 257 132 R AMOUNT EXCEED TRANSFER
LIMIT 257 133 R AMT NOT MULTIPLE OF DENOMINAT 257 134 R PARTIAL
TRANSFER NOT ALLOWED 257 135 R GAME CAN APPLY AT THIS TIME 257 136
R GAME CAN NOT APPLY DEBITS 257 137 R REGISTRATION KEY DOESN'T
MATCH 257 138 R NO POS ID (FOR DEBIT TRANSFER) 257 139 R NO WON
CREDITS TO CASH OUT 257 140 R GAME DENOMINATION NOT SET 257 141 R
EXPIRE NOT VALID FOR TICKET 257 142 R TRANSFER TO TICKET
UNAVAILABLE 257 143 R RESTRICT, UNABLE TO TRANSFER 257 144 R UNABLE
TO PRINT RECEIPT 257 145 R NO DATA TO PRINT RECEIPT 257 146 R
RECEIPT NOT ALLOWED FOR TYPE 257 147 R INVALID ASSET NUMBER 257 148
R GAME NOT LOCKED, REQUIRED 257 149 R TRANSACTION ID INVALID 257
159 R UNEXPECTED ERROR 257 192 R CURRENT TRANSFER IN PROGRESS 257
193 R UNSUPPORTED TRANSFER CODE 257 255 R TRANSFER INFO,
UNAVAILABLE
Transaction #257 External Bonus Power Winner
TABLE-US-00005 [0110] Withdraw Amount 804-811 8 8 bytes binary
Subeode 812-812 1 1 byte binary Sequence Number 813-814 2 2 bytes
binary Player Account 815-823 9 9 bytes Ascii Casino ID 824-825 2 2
bytes Ascii Spare 826-826 1 1 byte binary Suffix 827-828 2 2 bytes
ASCII Corp ID 829-829 1 1 byte ASCII Prop ID 830-830 1 1 byte ASCII
Progressive Engine ID 831-838 8 8 bytes ASCII
[0111] One embodiment of the above-described, progressive game and
method, configured in accordance with the claimed invention is
implemented over a gaming system on a system game user interface of
a gaming machine. The gaming system includes one or more gaming
machines that are connected to a system server, preferably over a
network. The system game user interface utilized by the time-based
progressive game and method provides enhanced player satisfaction
and excitement through player competition (or perceived
competition) and additional opportunities to "win," which results
in increased user playing time on games in the system.
[0112] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference
numerals denote like or corresponding components throughout the
drawings and, more particularly to FIGS. 3, 4A, and 4B, there is
shown an embodiment of a progressive game 310 implemented on a
progressive processing system 312. Specifically, FIG. 4 shows a
time-based progressive game 310 implemented on a progressive
processing system 312 that includes system gaming servers 320, a
slot management system 330, a casino management system 340, gaming
machines 350, a progressive engine 360, 3.sup.rd and 4.sup.th party
business servers 370, and 3.sup.rd and 4.sup.th party devices 380
and web sites 390. In one preferred embodiment, the time-based
progressive game 310 is a promotional game, in that it is funded
using non-wagered dollars. The time-based progressive game 310 is
preferably customizable, enabling gaming parameters of the
time-based progressive game to be controlled by casino
administrators that implement and manage the game.
[0113] Specifically, a casino that employs a preferred embodiment
of the progressive game 310 is able to select the targeted
progressive prize size and targeted progressive prize length of
time until the award is given. This affords casino administrators a
much greater (and desirable) amount of control, in contrast to
typical progressive games that are usually driven by components
such as "coin in" to the gaming machines in the system, which are
not controlled by the casino. Furthermore, in a preferred
embodiment of a progressive game 310, casino administrators are
also able to customize the shape of the "payout curve" (i.e., the
curve of progressive prize size versus time at which the
progressive prize is paid out). This as well is a highly desirable
degree of control that is achievable in a preferred embodiment of a
progressive game 310. This payout curve increases the desired
excitement and anticipation of the players for the specific
progressive game.
[0114] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310, the
casino administrators typically control (1) the targeted length of
time at which each progressive prize is to be won, (2) the targeted
progressive prize value in dollars, (3) the "enticement factors,"
if any, that are used to help increase player excitement and/or
control of the "payout curve," and (4) the progressive prize reset
value. Correspondingly, in a preferred embodiment of the
progressive game 310, the progressive processing system 312
typically controls the remaining factors of the progressive game,
including by way of example only, and not by way of limitation: (1)
the targeted increment rate of the progressive prize, which is
calculated using the targeted progressive prize value, the targeted
progressive prize time, and any added "enticement" factors; (2) the
random number generation algorithm used to determine if there will
be a progressive prize winner; and (3) if a progressive prize is to
be awarded, the random number generation algorithm used to
determine who the award winner will be.
[0115] In another preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310,
the player selection may not use a random number generator at all.
For instance, by way of example only, and not by way of limitation,
the slot management system (SMS) may pick the person with the
longest current play session, the person with the most money
played, the person who lost or won the most money in the last
fifteen minutes, the first person to insert a player card into a
gaming device at the start of the last fifteen minute period, or
any other identifiable selection criteria.
[0116] The progressive game 310 includes several desirable
characteristics. For example, in a preferred embodiment of the
progressive game 310, the player has the opportunity to win a
progressive prize from the very beginning of the promotional
progressive game cycle. Additionally, in a preferred embodiment of
the progressive game 310, the progressive prize growth rate is not
directly linked to the wagered "coin in" of floor play (i.e., "coin
in" from participating gaming machines does not directly contribute
to the progressive prize growth). However, the progressive prize
can be indirectly (or partially) linked, if desired, with activity
on the gaming floor using an "enticement factor," as described in
further detail below. Such an enticement factor can create a
casino-moderated "ebb and flow" in response to gaming activity, if
the casino so desires.
[0117] In some preferred embodiments, the progressive game 310 uses
one or more various "enticement" factors that speed up and/or slow
down the incremental growth rate of the targeted progressive prize.
In one preferred embodiment, one such "enticement" factor (referred
to herein as a "floor activity enticement factor") is based on
gaming activity on the floor. In an additional preferred
embodiment, another such "enticement" factor (referred to herein as
an "erratic movement enticement factor") provides the addition of
randomized movement to the incremental growth rate, which gives the
progressive increment rate a desirable "look and feel" (i.e., makes
the players feel like "something is happening" or that "something
is about to happen").
[0118] In yet an additional preferred embodiment, another such
"enticement" factor is based on the number of eligible players in
the progressive gaming system (e.g., the number of player card
inserted in gaming machine) and not the "coin in" amount. Various
other types of "enticement" factors are customizable as desired to
influence player behavior. For example, in one preferred
embodiment, the display digits of the time-based progressive game
310 count faster from 1 to 3, then slower from 4 to 6, and finally
at a medium count rate from 7 to 9.
[0119] With respect to another aspect of a preferred embodiment of
the progressive game 310, the winning player is selected randomly
from among all active players at the time the progressive is
awarded. In this regard, an "active player" is defined as a player
who has a player tracking card 354 inserted into a gaming machine
in the gaming system. In another preferred embodiment, more than
one player is randomly selected from among all active players at
the time the progressive prize is awarded. In one such preferred
embodiment, the primary winning player receives X % of the
progressive prize and the rest of the winning players receive the
remainder (100%-X %) of the progressive prize.
[0120] In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the
progressive game 310 is a system game that is displayed on a system
game user interface 400, such as an iVIEW-type device (described in
further detail below). However, in another preferred embodiment,
the progressive game 310 may be implemented over another gaming
platform. Preferably, one embodiment of the progressive game 310 is
a time-based and value-based progressive game, having a progressive
prize that is funded from marketing dollars, which is paid to one
or more players who have a player-tracking card inserted into the
game when the award is activated. However, in another preferred
embodiment, the time-based progressive game 310 may utilize other
funding methods, as indicated in FIGS. 3, 4A, and 4B (e.g., wagered
dollars, third party incentives, third party services, and the
like).
[0121] In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, the progressive
game 310 is self-tunable to a desired casino profitability level by
adjusting the targeted progressive prize amount to be awarded and
the targeted time in which the progressive prize is to be awarded,
during the processing of the progressive prize information, which
takes into account the total money in and out of the entire
business per unit time. In one preferred embodiment, no player
interaction is required with the progressive game in order to
enhance the player's ability to win or enhance the amount of the
player's win. However, in another preferred embodiment, the
progressive game 310 may utilize (or allow) at least some limited
type of player interaction like a simulated game bingo. Moreover,
an alternative to dispensing cash to players at the gaming terminal
is to dispense the prizes to player account buckets, including
bonus points, eCash, eGameCash, and the like.
[0122] As stated above, preferably all players that have their
player cards inserted into an eligible gaming machine in the gaming
system are eligible to win the progressive prize. Additionally, the
progressive prize that is available may be grouped in many
different ways, including by way of example only, and not by way of
limitation: by game denomination, by group of game machines on the
floor (i.e., grouped according to a distinguishable game machine
characteristic), or by random grouping of game machines on the
floor. Alternatively, the progressive prize available may be
inclusive of all game machines on the floor. Otherwise stated, in a
preferred embodiment of the time-based progressive game 310, gaming
machines on the floor are dynamically groupable by virtually any
desired criteria. Moreover, the progressive prize is preferably
awarded to a randomly chosen player once the progressive prize
requirement has been satisfied, typically using a random number
generator algorithm. Alternatively, in another preferred
embodiment, the winner of the progressive prize is selected by type
of players (e.g., club level=silver, gold, platinum, and the like).
Typically, historical play data is typically used to calculate the
players club level.
[0123] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310, a
player inserts its player tracking card 354 in an associated game
machine 350. The player is then able to view specific progressive
games/prizes on the system game user interface 400 that are
eligible to the player. In one preferred embodiment, the
progressive values, the progressive rules, and any help information
are all displayed to the player over the system game user interface
400 from a gaming system server. Preferably, the player is
automatically eligible for a specific set of progressive games and
does not need to interact with the system game user interface 400
to enhance the player's opportunity to win one of the progressive
games. Additionally, in one preferred embodiment, the player is
able to select to play a specific progressive game from amongst a
plurality of eligible progressive games. For example, the number of
choices may be limited to just one or two of a multitude. In
another preferred embodiment, the player may select to play a
plurality of eligible progressive games simultaneously. Typically,
when a player removes its player tracking card 354 from the
progressive game 310, the player becomes ineligible to win a
progressive prize.
[0124] As stated above, in a preferred embodiment of the
progressive game 310, to be eligible to win a specific progressive
prize, the player must have its player-tracking card 40 inserted in
a game machine 350 that is associated with the specific progressive
prize at the time of progressive prize is given. For example, in
one specific non-limiting example, the casino may run three gaming
promotions simultaneously: one for nickel ($0.05) denomination
machines; one for quarter ($0.25) denomination machines; and one
for all machines on the floor. In such an embodiment, a player that
has its player-tracking card 40 inserted into a nickel machine is
eligible to win both the nickel promotion and the floor wide
promotion (i.e., the player is able to select to play a plurality
of eligible progressive games simultaneously). The progressive game
310 need only know which player-tracking cards 40 are inserted at
which game machines 350, as well as details of the base game (e.g.,
game denomination), in order to be able to award progressive game
winnings to the player.
[0125] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310, when
determining what progressive prizes to make available, casino
personnel have to ability to control (1) the types of progressives
games/awards to make available, (2) the progressive details (e.g.,
progressive prize value and time to progressive prize payout) of
progressive games/awards made available, and (3) how the
progressive funds are distributed to a player that wins a
progressive prize.
[0126] With respect to the types of progressives, the progressive
game 310 enables casino personnel with the ability to provide
different progressives for different players by utilizing grouping
criteria that includes, by way of example only, and not by way of
limitation, game denomination, grouping of gaming machines 350 by
physical location on the gaming floor, grouping of all gaming
machines 350 on the gaming floor, player tracking card 354 player
level (e.g., silver, gold, platinum), and combinations thereof.
Additionally, rated theoretical wins or losses for a player or
group of players could also be used in the player selection
criteria.
[0127] As discussed above, in one preferred embodiment, the
targeted progressive value is modified by a yield analysis to
correlate with the desired casino profitability. For example, if a
casino had low earnings last week, and the casino ran a $10,000
progressive game, then the casino may only want to give a $5000
progressive game this week. In another preferred embodiment, the
progressive processing system 312 is modified dynamically prior to
the next weekly recurring progressive game. This automatic tuning
of the desired casino profitability may involve altering the
progressive prize size and/or progressive prize time, thereby
tuning to the current business needs. In some preferred
embodiments, this tuning takes place while the progressive game is
"live" (i.e., in progress).
[0128] With respect to the progressive details of progressive
games/awards made available, the progressive game 310 enables
casino personnel to determine the targeted time at which a
progressive prize is given and the targeted dollars amount that
will be distributed at that time. As previously stated, in one
preferred embodiment, these targeted values are theoretical average
values. The actual progressive prize time and progressive prize
dollar amount will vary. As such, players (and potential players)
will not be able to guess the exact time or amount of the
progressive prize and use this information to "camp out" when the
progressive prize is imminent.
[0129] The following is a non-limiting example of a progressive
promotional award customized by a casino using the time-based
progressive game 310. A casino desires a daily progressive that
pays an average of $300 with a start/reset value of $85. All
machines on the floor are eligible to participate in the
progressive. Using a "Promotion Administration Tool," the casino
would enter the following information: Targeted progressive value:
$300; Progressive reset value: $85; Machines included in
progressive: All; Targeted progressive prize time: 24 hours, 0
minutes (daily); Number of Winners: 1; Percentage of pot for each
winner: 100%; and optionally, the .+-. tolerance range for the
desired numbers (e.g., progressive value=$300.+-.25%). This
criteria is typically categorized in table format for a casino
administrator to complete, including the percentage for each winner
in the event of multiple winners in a single progressive game.
Various examples of progressive parameter set-up screens 470 are
shown in FIGS. 5A-5C.
[0130] Referring again to FIGS. 3, 4A, and 4B, in one preferred
embodiment, the group of gaming devices in the specific promotion
is set up in the SMS (slot management system) and/or the CMP/CMS
(casino management personnel/system) system to create a promotion
ID. This promotion ID is then assigned to a progressive ID in the
progressive processing system 312. In this manner, the eligible
players that are available to win the specific progressive ID are
controlled outside of the server of the progressive processing
system 312. In this preferred embodiment, the progressive
processing system 312 decides "when" a progressive prize will be
awarded and the "value" of the progressive prize to be given. In
such a preferred embodiment, the previously existing servers in the
casino select "who" will win the progressive prize. In this manner,
a preferred embodiment of the progressive processing system 312 is
easily incorporated with slot floor systems in the field that have
promotional capability.
[0131] Additionally, the progressive processing system 312 can be
utilized by any business that seeks to offer promotional givebacks
to their customers. In such an embodiment, these businesses merely
have to select winners from their customers when the progressive
processing system 312 notifies them to do so. Preferably, the
casino's other systems would manage player accounts and the
computing devices as currently preformed. Typically, these systems
would not require the support of progressive processing system 312.
In another preferred embodiment, the software of the progressive
processing system 312 is tightly embedded into existing operating
business servers.
[0132] A preferred embodiment of the progressive processing system
312 includes a progressive engine 360. In a preferred embodiment,
the progressive engine 360 performs several calculations utilized
in the progressive game 310. These calculations are performed at
predetermined "time slices" and "time sub-slices" (in accordance
with the targeted progressive prize time). In one preferred
embodiment, a "time slice" is equal to 1/100.sup.th of the total
targeted length of time for the progressive to be awarded, as set
by casino personnel. In one such embodiment, the progressive will
be won 50% of the time on or by the targeted set time and will
always be won by 125% of this desired time. In another preferred
embodiment, there is no absolute payout time prompt. A sub-slice is
yet a smaller slice of time within a time slice. Preferably, a
"time sub-slice" is close to a minute in size, but obviously will
vary in length depending on the desired targeted length of time
selected for awarding the progressive prize. At each sub-slice of
time, the progressive engine 360 tests for a winner. In a preferred
embodiment, the progressive engine 360 uses time slices and
sub-slices to accommodate progressives of any length of time,
ranging from five minutes to five years.
##STR00001##
[0133] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310, a
setup procedure is performed for each progressive game. Preferably,
this process includes: resetting the progressive prize to the
progressive reset value; setting a progressive timer to the
progressive start time; setting a sub-slice timer (this should be
the same as the progressive timer to begin); setting the time slice
counter to zero; setting the time slice increment rate; setting the
number of time sub-slices per time slice; setting the time
sub-slice increment rate; and starting the progressive game
310.
[0134] In one preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310, the
following formulas and calculations are employed. In a preferred
embodiment, the proper time slice increment rate is calculated by
dividing the desired length of time for the progressive game by
100, which is the number of time slices in this embodiment. The
result is the targeted length of each time slice in minutes. Thus,
in an example 24-hour progressive game period, the time slice
increment rate would be 14.4 minutes/slice. During a tournament
game, the time-based progressive game 310 preferably uses values
from a table, based on the number of the current time slice.
[0135] Another preferred aspect of a progressive engine 360 is the
ability to emulate a traditional progressive game (e.g., a bonus
progressive game), if desired, that is tied to wagering activity on
the gaming floor. In one preferred embodiment, the progressive
engine 360 emulates the "heart beat" of the floor (e.g., the number
of players connected to the progressive gaming system), but is not
tied in anyway to the wagering activity.
[0136] Additionally, in a preferred embodiment of the time-based
progressive game 310, the number of time sub-slices per time slice
is calculated by first truncating the time slice increment rate. If
the resulting value is less than one, then the number of time
sub-slices per time slice is set to one. This ensures that there is
always at least one time sub-slice per time-slice. Preferably,
there is always at least one time sub-slice per time-slice because
the time-based progressive engine 360 tests for a progressive
winner and increments the progressive prize based on the time
sub-slices. Therefore, there must be at least one time sub-slice
per time-slice in order to insure the math for the progressive game
will work correctly. Accordingly, in the 24-hour progressive game
period example discussed above, there are 14 time sub-slices.
[0137] Continuing, in a preferred embodiment of the progressive
game 310, the time sub-slice increment rate is calculated by
dividing the time slice increment rate by the number of time
sub-slices per time slice. In this manner, the length of each
sub-slice is determined. Typically, this value is close to one
minute. Thus, in an example 24-hour progressive game period, the
time sub-slice increment rate is 14.4 minutes (time slice
incremental rate) divided by 14 minutes (number of time sub-slices
per time slice)=61.7143 seconds.
[0138] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310,
progressive gaming calculations are performed during every time
sub-slice interval of the progressive game by the progressive
engine 360. Preferably, at the start of a new sub-slice, the by the
progressive engine 360 runs a test to determine if a progressive
prize is to be awarded at that time. Additionally, the growth rate
of the progressive prize for each sub-slice is also determined at
the start of a new sub-slice. In a preferred embodiment, these
functions are repeated at the start of every time sub-slice until
the progressive prize is awarded. Moreover, in a preferred
embodiment of the progressive game 310, it is possible for the
progressive prize to be won instantly (i.e., in the first time
sub-slice of the first time slice), or for the progressive game to
run until the game has passed the 100th time slice. In one
preferred embodiment, the progressive game 310 is able to continue
for many time slices past the 100.sup.th time slice, instead of
having the progressive game incorporate a forced payout when the
100.sup.th time slice is reached. In such an embodiment, each of
these time slices is the same length as the slices before the
100.sup.th time slice. In one preferred embodiment, the progressive
game 310 also incorporates one or more enticement factor
calculations that run in the background on the system server
(independent of which particular progressive games are active).
These calculations are backed up data every 15 minutes, as well as
returning data to the progressive engine 360 on request.
[0139] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive processing
system 312, the progressive game 310 allows players to have the
opportunity to win the progressive prize as soon as the progressive
game begins. In one preferred embodiment, there is not any
progressive prize value trigger that must be reached in order to
allow the progressive prize to be eligible to be won, other than
the initiating of the progressive game itself. In a preferred
embodiment of the progressive game 310, a calculation is made for
each time sub-slice to determine if there is a win of the
progressive prize. For each time sub-slice there is a different
number of remaining possible winning time sub-slices. Therefore, a
calculation is performed at the beginning of every time sub-slice
for the length of the progressive game in order to determine
whether the progressive prize is given. For each calculation, the
progressive game 310 accesses an associated table (see example
"Winning Time Slice Table" below) for the win value (i.e., number
of "winning time slices") of the current time slice.
[0140] For example, at time-slice number four, the following
calculation is performed:
IF Random (1,000,000*# of Sub-Slices per Time Slice (14 in our 24
hour progressive))<=Winning Time Slice Table [Time Slice] THEN
winner right now=TRUE.
OR (in this example);
IF Random(14,000,000)<=Winning Time Slice Table[4] THEN winner
right now=TRUE
OR;
If Random (14,000,000)<=8 THEN win=TRUE
[0141] Continuing, in a preferred embodiment of the time-based
progressive game 310, if the random number picked is less than or
equal to the win value in the Winning Time Slice table for the
current time slice, then the progressive prize value (the
progressive "pot") is awarded. In a preferred embodiment, the
number of time sub-slices is multiplied by 1,000,000 so that the
win value from the table is comparable to the random number based
on the entire time-slice. For example, if there is one time
sub-slice per time-slice in a progressive game, then there is a one
in 1,000,000 chance of selecting a "winning" time slice. In this
same manner (referring to the table below), if there are 14 time
sub-slices, then there is an eight in 14,000,000 chance of
selecting a "winning" time slice. This mathematical profile is
selected in order to create to casino administrator's desired
payout curve. Moreover, this mathematical profile is applicable to
any length of tournament. In one preferred embodiment, if the
125.sup.th time slice is reached, the progressive prize is
automatically won on the first sub-slice test. However, in other
preferred embodiments, the progressive prize is automatically won
at a different time slice, or is never automatically won at any
time slice.
TABLE-US-00006 Time # of Winning Slice Tickets 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 8 . .
. . . . 122 463,702 123 560,125 124 785,129 125 ALWAYS WIN
Example Winning Time Slice Table
[0142] In one preferred embodiment, above table is loaded into the
progressive processing system 312 by selecting and dragging points
on the payout curve, after which the number of time slices of
winning tickets is reverse calculated, as well as the associated
probability of winning. In one preferred embodiment, the payout
curve can be manually modified, or alternatively, the payout curve
drawn for the user.
[0143] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310, if a
win value is not selected for a time sub-slice that produces a
progressive prize, then the progressive prize value is incremented.
This is sometimes referred to as the pot growth rate. In one
preferred embodiment, the pot growth rate formula has a non-linear
growth rate. Additionally, in one preferred embodiment the pot
growth rate loosely associates the movement of the progressive
"pot" value to the number of active players. However, in another
preferred embodiment, the pot growth rate is not associated with
the number of active players. In one specific embodiment, the pot
growth at any given minute is described by the following
formula:
(Base growth rate for current time slice)+(15 minute enticement
factor)+(sub-slice enticement factor)
[0144] The formula in the above non-limiting example calculates a
dollar value to be added to the progressive "pot" value that is
visible to the players, and which can be won over the next time
sub-slice. In one specific embodiment, components of the formula
include: (1) the desired overall pot growth for the entire length
of the progressive game; (2) base growth rate for sub-slices in
this time slice; (3) a 15-minute floor activity enticement factor;
(4) a time sub-slice random enticement factor. However, other
preferred embodiments of the progressive game 310 include fewer
components (e.g., fewer enticement factors), additional components
(e.g., more enticement factors), or modified components (e.g.,
different enticement factors), without departing from the scope of
the claimed invention.
[0145] In one specific non-limiting example, $300 is the desired
(or theoretical average) value for the progressive game to
distribute on a daily basis. In this non-limiting example, the
reset value of the progressive pot is $85. Therefore, the
progressive pot grows during a targeted progressive game by $215
(i.e., $300 minus $85). Once again, this desired progressive prize
value of $300 is an average. If the progressive prize actually paid
out every time that the progressive pot hit exactly $300, players
would only play the progressive game just as the pot approached the
$300 value.
[0146] As described above, in a preferred embodiment of the
progressive game 310, the base growth rate formula for the
progressive "pot" value is customizable. However, a preferred
embodiment of the progressive game 310 further includes several
pre-designed growth rate formulas that can be utilized by a casino
or other hosting establishment. One such pre-designed growth rate
formula component of the progressive game 310 is a "front-loading"
curve for the progressive prize incrementing rate that increases
quickly in the beginning and then later tapers off.
[0147] Examinations of casino information have shown that this type
of front-loading of a progressive prize value may increase
progressive game play. In preferred embodiments of the progressive
game 310, this front-loading curve is similar for all progressive
games, regardless of: (1) the actual dollar amount being played on
the progressive games, and (2) the actual dollar amount being
awarded for the progressive games. Preferably, the base growth rate
for time sub-slices is the component of the formula that keeps the
progressive pot tracking correctly. This base growth rate value is
determined by locating a value in a Pot Growth table and
multiplying that value by the remaining factors of the progressive
incremental growth rate formula. Preferably, the base growth rate
remains the same for each time sub-slice in a given time-slice. In
a preferred embodiment, the current time slice is utilized to
locate a Pot Growth rate value on a Pot Growth table. In one
specific non-limiting example, at time slice 4, the following
formula is used to calculate the base growth rate for this time
slice:
(overall desired pot growth (average $-reset $)*pot growth value
table [time slice])/10,000
OR
(($300-$85)*pot growth value table [4])/10,000
OR
($215*300)/10,000=$6.45 (Total amount to add during this
time-slice)
[0148] In the above non-limiting example, the number 10,000 was
incorporated into the formula to generate the Progressive Pot
Growth table shown below. Dividing by 10,000 produces the correct
amount of total dollars to increment the pot growth for the
time-slice. Continuing, in this non-limiting example, the value
$6.45 is the total amount to be added to the progressive prize
value for this time-slice. In a preferred embodiment, this value is
divided by the number of time sub-slices per time slice. In the
above non-limiting example, which is based off of a one-day
progressive game, the progressive pot growth rate value is 14.
However, this value will vary depending on the length of the
progressive game. In this regard, a six-month progressive would
have approximately 1296 time sub-slices per time-slice.
$6.45/14 Sub-Slices=$0.46 (Base Growth rate for this time
sub-slice)
TABLE-US-00007 Time Pot Growth Slice Value 1 500 2 500 3 400 4 300
. . . . . . 122 10 123 5 124 2 125 1
Example Pot Growth Table
[0149] In one preferred embodiment, the data in the above table is
entered manually by a casino administrator, while in another
preferred embodiment, points on the payout curve are selected and
dragged by a casino administrator in order to create the table.
[0150] A preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310 includes
what is referred to herein as an "enticement factor." One specific,
non-limiting example of an enticement factor is a 15-minute floor
enticement factor. In a preferred embodiment, the 15-minute
enticement factor is configured to give players the impression that
the progressive growth rate is linked to actual progressive play on
the gaming floor. In one preferred embodiment, the 15-minute
enticement factor produces up to .+-.23.75% of the base growth rate
of the progressive pot for a given time sub-slice. Alternatively,
this information may be manually entered by a casino
administrator.
[0151] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310, this
component of the front-loading curve utilizes a separate
calculation that is performed on a server that tracks player
activity during a rolling 24 hour period and return values to any
progressive game upon request. For example, in one preferred
embodiment, the progressive engine 360 requests a rank value from
this enticement factor calculation. This enticement factor
calculation uses in the following formula:
(Rank-47.5)/200
[0152] The result of this formula is a value between -0.2375 and
+0.2375. Notably, this equates to the .+-.23.75% desired range of
change. In the above example, this value is then multiplied by the
base growth rate for this sub-slice in order to determine the final
value.
[0153] In the following non-limiting example, an example rank of 87
is selected for illustrative purposes:
Base Growth Rate of Time Sub-slice*((Rank-47.5)/200)
OR (in this example);
$0.46*((87-47.5)/200)
OR
$0.46*(0.1950)=$0.09 (for the 15 minute floor enticement
factor)
[0154] As described above, a preferred embodiment of the
progressive game 310 utilizes another calculation to produce for a
15-minute floor enticement factor (or other enticement factor in
another preferred embodiment). A 15-minute interval is a preferred
time interval because this time interval correlates with the
current network capacity (or interval rating) for many casino
systems. In one embodiment, the progressive game 310 performs this
additional calculation every 15 minutes, preferably on the quarter
hour. In order to perform this calculation, the progressive game
310 tracks the floor activity for the last 15 minutes. This "floor
activity" value is typically captured by an Interval Rating Engine
(or other appropriate engine in the progressive processing system
312). Referring now to FIG. 6A, in a preferred embodiment, the
"floor activity" value is logged to a rolling table that keeps this
value for each 15-minute period over the last 24 hours. Preferably,
this rolling table includes 96 rows (i.e., four 15-minute periods
per hour multiplied by 24 hours). As shown in FIG. 6A, each time a
new value is calculated, this new value replaces the oldest value
on the rolling table from 24 hours ago. In a preferred embodiment,
this enticement factor calculation is constantly performed,
regardless of whether there is any active progressive game play.
This ensures that there are always "floor activity" values for the
last 24-hours if a progressive game is to start at any time.
[0155] Additionally, a preferred embodiment of the progressive game
310 requires that the enticement factor background process also
sort the floor activity values into a second table, as shown in
FIG. 6A. This enables the time order to be preserved in the first
table, i.e., the rolling table. The enticement factor background
process sorts these floor activity values by the number of players,
from the least number of players to the greatest number of players.
In this manner, the time period with the biggest value would be in
row 96. After the time periods have been sorted by activity level,
the enticement factor background process returns the rank of the
current time slice (i.e., a number between 1 and 96) to the
progressive game upon request.
[0156] Another preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310
includes a different enticement factor. A non-limiting example of
another enticement factor is a minute-by-minute floor enticement
factor. In a preferred embodiment, the minute-by-minute enticement
factor is configured to give players the impression that the
progressive growth rate has more "life" (e.g., a more erratic, less
predictable growth rate). Preferably, the minute-by-minute
enticement causes the progressive growth rate to erratically move
in a .+-.10% range. In other preferred embodiments, the
minute-by-minute enticement causes the progressive growth rate to
erratically move in a .+-.5% or .+-.15% range. In one specific,
non-limiting example, the following formula defines the
minute-by-minute floor enticement factor:
(Random(2000)-1000)/10,000
[0157] This formula returns a value between -0.1 and +0.1, with
four decimal point accuracy. This equates to a .+-.10% range. In a
preferred embodiment, this minute-by-minute floor enticement factor
is multiplied by the base growth rate for this sub-slice to
determine the final progressive value. In one specific,
non-limiting example, the random number equating to the
minute-by-minute floor enticement factor is 0.0473.
Base Growth rate for this
sub-slice*((Random(2000)-1000)/10,000)
Or (in this example);
$0.46*(-0.0473)=-$0.02
[0158] Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the final calculation
for the determining the progressive pot growth rate of the
front-loading curve utilizes the above described components of the
formula curve. In one specific embodiment, the pot growth at any
given minute is described by the following formula:
(Base growth rate for sub-slice)+(15 min. enticement
factor)+(min.-by-min. enticement factor)
Or (incorporating the above-selected sample values)
$0.46+(-$0.02)+$0.09=$0.53 (total to be added to the progressive
pot during this sub-slice).
[0159] Referring now to FIG. 6B, a logic flow diagram of a
preferred embodiment of the time-based progressive game 310 is
shown. FIG. 6B details the process that is undergone during the
execution of the time-based progressive game 310.
[0160] Furthermore, with respect to the distribution of progressive
funds, FIG. 6C illustrates a comparison of the percentage of the
theoretical average of the progressive pot value (i.e., percentage
of the targeted progressive prize value) versus the cumulative
chance to win. This comparison chart elucidates the "front loading"
concept that is employed by a preferred embodiment of the
progressive game 310. In one preferred embodiment, the progressive
prize has a lower cumulative probability of being awarded early in
the time period and increases to a higher cumulative probability of
being awarded later in the time period.
[0161] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive processing
system 312, the cumulative percent chance to win is a statistical
technique used to create a winning time slice table, as shown
above. The winning time slice table is referenced at each time
sub-slice to determine the chance for a progressive prize to be won
at that time sub-slice. In a preferred embodiment, the winning time
slice table has 125 values that represent the number of winning
time sub-slices out of 1,000,000 in any given time slice. The
winning time slice table contains cumulative percent chance values.
In this regard, the cumulative percent chance of selecting a
progressive prize at any given time slice increases the closer that
time slice is to the targeted progressive prize time. In a
preferred embodiment, the cumulative percent chance is within a
range of time that is acceptable to allow the progressive game 310
to have a broad enough range of lengths that players are unable to
determine the ending time of the progressive game with any degree
of accuracy.
[0162] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive processing
system 312, the winning time slice table is generated using a
spreadsheet that includes automated formulas. This enables a user
to fill in some data in the table and then have the remainder of
the data automatically generated. In a preferred embodiment, the
spreadsheet shows the cumulative payback percent chance at each
time slice. One example of the formula for finding how many
time-slices exist at each time slice is:
[0163] Time Slice Number (1.5+a value added to the exponent), where
the "value added to the exponent" is equal to the "Time Slice
Number" divided by "a value based upon the slice number" and key
time slice settings. In a preferred embodiment, the "divide value
based on slice number" is determined after the user decides what
time slices they want to effect and the cumulative percent chance
to win at each time slice.
[0164] In one specific example, shown below, the value for time
slices 1-80 is 168.59 (Original div value). This value is used in
the "Additive to factorial" column. Any change to this value then
filters through the spreadsheet, thereby producing a new "percent
chance to win value" for all time slices. Preferably, setting a
goal seek value in the "Used for Goal Seek" column changes the
value in the "Original Div Value" column. In one specific example,
this is a built-in function of the spreadsheet.
TABLE-US-00008 Div Values Used for Goal Seek Key Slice Desired %
Original div value 168.59 0% 0 0.00% After 1.sup.st key 118.1886
10.0000% 80 10.00% After 2nd key 105.492 50.0000% 100 50.00% All
remaining slices 93.5 95.0000% 115 95.00% 100.0000% 125 100.00%
Additive to Winning Fail chance this Cumulative fail Cumulative
factorial Slice number Tickets slice chance Win % 0.00593155 1 1
99.9999% 99.9999% 0.0001% 0.0118631 2 2 99.9998% 99.9997% 0.0003%
0.01779465 3 5 99.9995% 99.9992% 0.0008% 0.0237262 4 8 99.9992%
99.9984% 0.0016% 0.02965775 5 11 99.9989% 99.9973% 0.0027%
[0165] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive processing
system 312, a casino operator creates an original table. In one
such embodiment, an operator creates a probability curve by
choosing one or more key time slices. The operator then decides
what percent of the winners should occur by the chosen key slices.
For example, in one embodiment, the 80.sup.th time slice is
selected as the time slice by which to have 10% of all progressive
prizes are to be awarded. Preferably, at the 100.sup.th time slice,
50% of the progressive prizes have been won, so as to make the
overall average length of the progressive games be approximately
equal to the targeted award time. Continuing, at the 115.sup.th
slice, 95% of the progressive prizes have been won. Finally, in one
preferred embodiment, at the 125.sup.th time slice 100% of the
progressive prizes have been won, thereby restricting the top end
length of the progressive game to be 25% over the targeted
progressive time. In this one preferred embodiment, the 25% value
was chosen arbitrarily and can be modified (or removed altogether)
to suit customer preference.
[0166] Preferably, adding to this 25% in value entails adding
corresponding additional time slices after the 125.sup.th time
slice. In other preferred embodiments, there are multiple key time
slices both before and after the 100.sup.th time slice. However,
even in such preferred embodiments, the target for the cumulative
percent chance to win at each key slice becomes larger as the slice
number increases.
[0167] In another step involved with creating an original table,
the user would then seek for the desired percent for the first key
slice by changing the original div value (divisional value).
Continuing, the user would repeat this process for each remaining
key, and finally for the 125.sup.th time slice. The winning tickets
column is then filled with the correct number of time sub-slices to
ensure the progressive plays as intended.
[0168] In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, the spreadsheet
is used to calculate for each time slice, the cumulative chance for
the progressive prize to be won. This is determined by: (1) finding
the percent chance to fail for a given time slice, (2) multiplying
the percent chance to fail for all time slices up to a given point
(i.e., this is the cumulative percent chance to fail at this
point), and (3) subtracting the cumulative chance to fail from 100
percent to find the percent chance to win.
[0169] The following table provides an illustrative example:
TABLE-US-00009 Additive to Fail chance this Cumulative fail
Cumulative factorial Slice number Winning Tickets slice chance Win
% 0.00593155 1 1 99.9999% 99.9999% 0.0001% 0.0118631 2 2 99.9998%
99.9997% 0.0003% 0.01779465 3 5 99.9995% 99.9992% 0.0008% 0.0237262
4 8 99.9992% 99.9984% 0.0016% 0.02965775 5 11 99.9989% 99.9973%
0.0027%
[0170] In the table above, at Time Slice 1 there is 1 winning time
sub-slice. There are 999,999 chances in 1,000,000 to lose (i.e.,
99.9999% chance to lose). As this is the first time slice, 99.999%
is also the cumulative percent chance to fail. The chance to win at
this point is then 100%-99.9999 or 0.0001%.
[0171] Referring now to the table and time slice 2, there are two
winning time sub-slices, and a 99.9998% chance to lose on this time
slice. By multiplying 99.9999% (i.e., the cumulative chance to fail
at time slice 1) times 99.9998% (i.e., the cumulative chance to
fail at time slice 2), it is determined that there is a 99.997%
cumulative percent chance to lose at time slice 2. Correspondingly,
this translates into a 0.0003% chance to win at time slice 2.
[0172] Referring now to the table and time slice 3, there are 5
winning time sub-slices, and a 99.9995% chance to lose on this time
slice. By multiplying 99.9997% (i.e., the cumulative chance to fail
at time slice 2) times 99.9995% (i.e., the cumulative chance to
fail at time slice 3), it is determined that there is a 99.992%
cumulative chance to lose at time slice 3. This correlates with a
0.0008% chance to win at time slice 3.
[0173] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310, after
the progressive engine 360 has determined that there is a winner
for the current time sub-slice, the system then randomly selects a
winner of the progressive game using a random number generating
algorithm. In one preferred embodiment, a player is eligible to win
the progressive prize if they have a player-tracking card inserted
in a game machine 350 that is eligible to win that specific
progressive prize at the time the progressive prize is selected.
For example, if the progressive prize was awarded for all nickel
machines on the floor, the progressive game 310 would select a
winner randomly from one of the player-tracking cards inserted into
any nickel machine on the casino floor. In the case of a
progressive game that awards to multiple winners, multiple cards
are chosen as winners in accordance with the set-up of the
progressive game. In these types of multi-winner progressive games,
each player may win an equal share or there may be a range of
payouts.
[0174] If there are no players playing on eligible gaming machines
350 for a specific progressive game at the time that the
progressive game 310 determines there is a win for that progressive
game, the progressive prize will be awarded to the next player(s)
to insert a player tracking card 354 into an eligible game machine
350. In another preferred embodiment, the progressive prize is
deposited into a winning player's account without even requiring
the player to be present. In one such embodiment, the winning
player is then notified of the deposit by e-mail, mail, or other
known means.
[0175] In another preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310,
all active players on the floor are eligible to win the progressive
prize, not only the player with inserted player tracking cards. In
one embodiment, the winning "non-player tracking card" player must
use the progressive prize at that winning machine, since the player
does not have a player tracking card 354 to associate the winning
with that player.
[0176] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310,
progressive prize is then dispensed to the winning player by
crediting the player's eGameCash bucket. As shown in FIG. 7, a
player is able to view his or her eGameCash bucket screen 480, as
well as other game setup screens 480 and personal account screens
484, typically via the user interface 400 in the progressive
processing system 312. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, these
credits in the player's eGameCash bucket can be transferred (as
shown on the eGameCash purchase screen 486) to the base game upon
request from the player (following PIN entry or some other suitable
means of player identification). Additionally, personal account
activity screens 488 are also displayed in FIG. 8. Referring now to
FIG. 9, a preferred embodiment of the progressive processing system
312 also includes a tournament selection screen 490, game setup
screen 492 for modifying a bingo game, and a personal account
display screen 494 that shows both cashable and uncashable funds
for a system game in the same display screen. FIG. 10 shows a
progressive game 310 displaying the "attract mode" screen 496 on
the user interface 400, as well as an "award display" screen 498
that is shown to a player after winning a progressive prize.
[0177] In a preferred embodiment of the progressive game 310, the
application design of the progressive game includes many various
programs. Preferably, such programs include by way of example only
and not by way of limitation: a master maintenance program
including a graphic user interface, a link maintenance program, a
promotion detail maintenance program, a progressive update program,
a progressive winner program, a progressive increment override
program, a "Pick the Winner" program, and a "create promotion"
program (machines and/or player).
[0178] The master maintenance program enables data entry for the
promotion master file. This program calls the link maintenance
program and enables the user to set-up the progressive link.
Optionally, the promotion may be started by called the promotion
detail maintenance program to create the promotion detail file and
perform the necessary system calculations. Referring now to the
link maintenance program, this program enables users to select a
subset of gaming machines 350 for entry into the progressive link
file for a particular promotion game. Additionally, the promotion
detail maintenance program performs calculations based on
information in the promotion master file to determine the trigger
amount and trigger date/time, as well as to write this information
to the promotion detail file.
[0179] Referring now to FIG. 11, in one preferred embodiment, web
services are connected to the progressive processing system 312
that enable viewing of the progressive games 10 from any casino,
home web browser, cell phone, PDA, and the like. In another
preferred embodiment of the time-based progressive game 310, the
progressive update program continually updates the current
progressive pot value and sends updates to the slot system, and
optionally, to a display system. This data can also be fetched from
the progressive processing system 312 upon request from any
authorized device or server. Further, the progressive update
program determines when a trigger time/date has occurred and
invokes the progressive winner program. Preferably, the progressive
winner program randomly selects a winner from the accounts with an
inserted player tracking card 354 at the time the trigger was
activated. This program will update the progressive winner file and
send notification to the slot system. Finally, the progressive
increment override program enables users to override the increment
amounts for a promotion. The override is a dollar amount for a user
defined date and hour.
[0180] In a preferred embodiment of the time-based progressive game
310, the system database design of the progressive gaming system
includes many various data files. In one preferred embodiment, the
promotion master file includes the following data: promotion code
(primary key), promotion description, start date, start time,
targeted progressive trigger value, minimum progressive trigger
value, progressive reset value, targeted progressive prize time,
minimum progressive prize time, key for progressive link file, stop
date, stop time, iVIEW winner broadcast show number, and iVIEW
winner asset show number.
[0181] In one preferred embodiment, the Slot Management servers and
the Casino Marketplace servers maintain promotions (Promotion ID)
for groups of players and groups of machines. Each progressive ID
is associated with a specific promotion ID, typically outside of
the server/service of the progressive processing system 312.
However, in another preferred embodiment, these systems are all
merged.
[0182] In one preferred embodiment, the detail promotion file
includes the following data: the promotion code, the players,
and/or the groups of machines included in the promotion. In another
preferred embodiment, the progressive increment override file
includes the following data: promotion code, hour, day, and
override amount. In a preferred embodiment, the progressive winner
file includes the following data: promotion code, account number,
winner notified (y/n), amount, date, and time. In a preferred
embodiment, the progressive link file includes the following data:
promotion code and asset number.
[0183] In one preferred embodiment of the progressive processing
system 312, an optional way of awarding a progressive prize
utilizes reverse mapping. In one such embodiment, the progressive
processing system 312 tells a system gaming server and client-side
game device (e.g., an iVIEW, as shown in FIG. 12) that a specific
player has won a progressive prize. In response, the progressive
game 310 running on a gaming device forcefully triggers a specific
winning combination in a game (e.g., 777 in a reel spinner, Royal
Flush in poker, and the like). The game then starts its win
sequence and informs the player that the progressive prize has been
won. In other preferred embodiments, other winning combinations are
generated from either a central random number generator or from a
client side random number generator.
[0184] In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, the progressive
processing system 312 incorporates further promotions in addition
to the system game promotions discussed above in which players
receive promotional eGameCash with which to play. For example, one
promotional progressive may simply be randomly given to a player
whenever the progressive processing system 312 determines that it
is time for a progressive prize. In this regard, the player may
even be in the middle of a normal system game at the time of the
award.
[0185] In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, the progressive
processing system 312 is utilized in conjunction with non-gaming
third party promotions. In one example embodiment, a gas station
chain has a $1,000,000.00 progressive game 310. When the
progressive processing system 312 of the gas station determines
that it is time for a progressive prize to be given away, the
system may (1) give the award to a person standing in front of a
gas pump at that time with a card in the progressive device, or (2)
assign the progressive prize to a player's account number. In
another example embodiment, web businesses that incorporate a
progressive processing system 312 may use this type of non-gaming
third party promotions as a means to draw customers to their site.
If a progressive prize occurs while a person is browsing the site
of the web business, then the browsing person will win.
[0186] In this manner, the progressive processing system 312 of the
claimed invention is a universal, promotional, progressive engine
360 that can be integrated with almost any business that desires to
give something back to players. In one embodiment, spending money
at the business is required, but in other embodiments, no purchase
is required at the business, thereby bypassing sweepstakes issues.
In one preferred embodiment, players are able to mail in entry
forms, and software in the progressive processing system 312
selects a winner from either the mailed in entries or the players
at the business at that time.
[0187] In another aspect of a preferred embodiment, the progressive
processing system 312 incorporates overhead video displays that
show data including, by way of example only, and not by way of
limitation, current progressive values, targeted progressive size,
targeted win time, start time, actual winners, information
revealing that a progressive prize is about to be given, player
qualification rules, or combinations thereof. These overhead video
displays include, by way of example only, and not by way of
limitation, plasma displays, liquid crystal displays, cathode ray
tube displays, digital light processing displays, or other similar
technology. Further, in one preferred embodiment, overhead video
displays that present data from multiple progressive games 10, and
from multiple facilities, thereby facilitating player interaction
with other property locations as well.
[0188] In yet another aspect of a preferred embodiment, the
progressive processing system 312 can be configured to prevent a
progressive prize win during certain time periods (e.g., preventing
a progressive prize from being awarded at a certain time period
during the day). Additionally, the progressive processing system
312 enables the opportunity to win a progressive prize to be turned
off by an administrator at any time. In some preferred embodiments,
the awarding of the progressive prize is automatically reoccurring
after each progressive prize is awarded. Further, in some
embodiments, a delay is inserted after the awarding of a
progressive prize and before the beginning of the next
automatically reoccurring progressive prize.
[0189] In still another aspect of a preferred embodiment, the award
process includes payment techniques that include, by way of example
only, and not by way of limitation, hand-paying a winner; using EFT
to transfer the award to a base game upon a player selecting to
redeem the award at the base game; using AFT to transfer the award
to a base game upon a player selecting to redeem the award at the
base game; sending the award to a player account bucket; enabling
the award to be collected at a cashier cage; mailing the award to
the winner; placing the award in the player's private banking
account; and placing the award as a credit on the player's credit
card, debit card, player club account, or other financial
account.
[0190] In another preferred embodiment, the progressive processing
system 312 utilizes progressive identifiers that enable the
opportunity to win a progressive prize to be activated from a
remote server. Preferably, the progressive identifier is created
using required data that is supplied through XML messaging or by
using a management screen. The data required to generate a
progressive identifier includes, by way of example only, and not by
way of limitation: desired progressive value data, desire
progressive win time data, progressive reset value data, maximum
progressive value data, desired start time of the progressive data,
whether the progressive auto-restarts after a win, how many times
the progressive repeats, whether any enticement factors are
utilized, progressive payout curve data, maximum progressive prize
value data, desired start time of the progressive data, selectable
progressive auto-restarts after a win, selectable number of
progressive repeats, enticement factors data, and progressive
payout curve data.
[0191] In one preferred embodiment of a progressive game 310 the
administrator sets (1) the "actual" progressive prize value that
will be awarded and (2) the targeted progressive prize time at
which the progressive prize is to be awarded. In this embodiment,
the progressive game 310 will be awarded at a random time that is
calculated around the targeted progressive prize time entered by
the administrator.
[0192] Alternately, in another preferred embodiment of a
progressive game 310 the administrator sets (1) the targeted
progressive prize value to be awarded and (2) the "actual"
progressive prize time at which the progressive prize will be
awarded. In such an embodiment, the progressive prize value grows
to a random number calculated using the targeted progressive prize
value. The awarding of the progressive prize is then compelled at
the "actual" progressive prize time entered by the administrator.
Clearly, in such an embodiment, the "actual" progressive prize time
must be kept highly confidential.
[0193] Moreover, in a preferred embodiment, a progressive prize
from the progressive processing system 312 is able to trigger
additional events or promotions in the casino (e.g., consolation
prizes, a $10 prize to each carded player now playing, and the
like). Therefore, the progressive processing system 312 can be
utilized as a promotions prize control engine that controls
frequency at which promotional prizes (but progressive and
non-progressive) are awarded based upon time.
[0194] In one preferred embodiment, the promotional progressive
system 312 (PPS) is a service that runs on a server and performs
backend processing for progressive game 310, provides various
devices on a casino floor with information to display, and notifies
other servers when a progressive prize event occurs and needs to be
awarded to a winner. In some preferred embodiments, other servers
are utilized to select one or more winners of the progressive prize
to be awarded. In other preferred embodiments, the winner selection
functionalities are integrated with the rest of the progressive
game 310 functionalities in the promotional progressive system
312.
[0195] Preferably, the progressive processing system 312 (i.e.,
where the progressive processing service is performed) also
incorporates devices such as signage that display the current
progressive prize value on a casino floor (e.g., modern COOL SIGNS
type devices, legacy player tracking displays, iVIEWs, and the
like). Additionally, a preferred embodiment of the promotional
progressive system 312 also incorporates a slot management system
(or other type of casino floor management system) that provides
floor statistics that enable a progressive game 310 to run, as well
as perform a redemption function (i.e., select a progressive winner
and award the progressive prize to the winner). Further, a
preferred embodiment of the progressive processing system 312 also
incorporates a Web interface, as shown in FIG. 11. Preferably, the
web interface resides on a separate server and provides
administration of the progressive processing system 312, as well as
reporting through the World Wide Web.
[0196] In a preferred embodiment, a web interface is utilized to
create and manage a progressive game 310 from a remote location.
Additionally, in a preferred embodiment, the web interface enables
enhanced reporting capabilities including, by way of example only,
and not by way of limitation: the ability to lookup specific
program identifier status and details, the ability to generate a
report on a specific progressive over a time period, the ability to
generate a report on multiple progressive games 10 for the same
casino over a selected time period, the ability to generate ad-hoc
queries to provide support for business decisions (e.g., targeted
progressive prize value, targeted progressive prize time, effective
grouping of slot machines and/or carded players, and the like).
[0197] The following table shows the messages that are communicated
between the progressive processing system 312 and other devices. As
referenced below, a program identifier (ProgID) is a unique
identifier for progressive game 310 on the promotional progressive
system 312. As such, other servers and processes are able to
reference a specific progressive game 310 using the associated
ProgID.
TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 1 SMS Signage Web Interface To Create ProgID
Create ProgID PPS Get ProgID meter Admin ProgID Check ProgID win
Check ProgID status Post Floor Statistic Reports Notify ProgID win
redemption From Get Floor Statistic Add/Remove ProgID PPS Notify
ProgID win Update ProgID meter Notify ProgID win
TABLE-US-00011 TABLE 2 Message Request Name From To Description
Data Reply Data Create SMS PPS SMS creates progressive game on All
game ProgID ProgID PPS (total the average progressive data Error
Codes $ win value, progressive reset value in $, average length of
time for a progressive to run, scheduling data for a progressive).
Normally, setup happens through the web interface. Get SMS PPS SMS
requests current meter value ProgID ProgID ProgID for ProgID Meter
Value meter Error Codes Check SMS PPS SMS checks if ProgID is won.
If ProgID Won ProgID yes, it had been stopped by PPS. (yes/no) win
Meter Value Error Codes Post SMS PPS For game to function
correctly, it ProgID Error Codes Floor needs some timely floor
statistic StatName Statistic for a certain period of time (15 min)
StatValue like Number of carded players active or Number of
un-carded players active or Total $ spent for each group (ProgID)
and the like. Notify SMS PPS When ProgID is won, SMS/CMP ProgID
Error Codes ProgID has to perform some processing to Winner's win
determine the winner and after that data redemption is done, it
will notify PPS, so the (if any) ProgID is closed and that PPS can
notify Signage to display a winning sequence: create excitement, do
winner's recognition, display amount won, and the like. Get Floor
PPS SMS This is a request for "Post Floor ProgID ProgID Statistic
Statistic" message. Depending on StatName implementation, we can
have PPS StatValue send this request to SMS or have Error Codes SMS
do "Post Floor Statistic" on agreed periods of time Notify PPS SMS
This is an unsolicited "Check ProgID Error Codes ProgID ProgID win"
reply. It tells Meter Value win SMS/CMP that a ProgID win happened.
Depending on implementation, we can have PPS notify SMS when ProgID
is won
[0198] In a preferred embodiment, these messages originate from the
progressive processing system 312.
TABLE-US-00012 TABLE 3 Message Name Description Request Data Reply
Data Add/Remove PPS will register or un-register a ProgID ProgID
Error Codes ProgID with signage. A proper assignment of ProgName
displays on a casino floor to a ProgID and Action(add/remove) to
specific video content will be done at the Signage Network
Controller. Update PPS will notify signage in a timely manner
ProgID Error Codes ProgID about current meter value of ProgID.
Meter value meter Notify PPS will notify signage when ProgID is
ProgID Error Codes ProgID win won. This will happen after PPS gets
a Meter Value notification from SMS that ProgID Winner's data
redemption is completed. Signage will then (if any) perform
winner's recognition, create excitement around the win, and the
like.
[0199] A preferred embodiment of the progressive processing system
312 generates a progressive game 310 that is managed by the casino
and can be offered to multiple customers. Preferably, a progressive
game 310 uses a variety of criteria to determine player eligibility
and winner selection on multiple slot machines. These features
include, by way of example only, and not by way of limitation: (1)
promotional progressive games focused on carded play only (i.e.,
game play by players that are using player tracking cards 54); (2)
progressive games in which progressive contributions offer reset
amounts, minimum/maximum levels, and a variety of methods for
progression; (3) progressive games in which progressive prize
growth rate is not generated based on direct or indirect gaming
activity (e.g., the progressive prize increases based on a
pre-determined rate that varies by day, dates, or time according to
casino's decision on progression rates); (4) progressive games in
which multiple progressives are overlapping; (5) progressive games
that include a secondary reset amount; (6) progressive games in
which the awarding of a progressive prize is based on a randomly
selected point in the progressive prize value growth, or a randomly
selected progressive prize time within a range; (7) progressive
games in which a progressive prize winner is be selected from a
specific group of players, all carded players, or other criteria
(e.g., players with a minimum of 50 points in last 24 hours and
still actively playing or customers playing more that $20 in "coin
in" for the last hour); (8) progressive games in which the winner
selection is performed using either selected player/account or slot
machine location (also multiple card accounts, such as spouses
sharing accounts); (9) progressive games in which signage and
graphics are utilized for a promotion; (10) progressive games that
are either isolated to a specific casino or operate over multiple
properties; and (11) progressive games in which lotteries are
incorporated (e.g., one swipe or entry a day translates into one
minute of qualified play and a chance to win if a winner is
selected during that time period).
[0200] In one preferred embodiment, the progressive game 310 is a
floor-wide progressive game that is player-centric rather than
game-centric. Preferably, there are no protocols or other
requirements for slot machines to be eligible to participate in the
progressive game 310. In a preferred embodiment, participation is
based on casino-selected criteria that designate what types of
eligible carded player activity contribute to increasing of the
progressive prize. Preferably, the progressive prize values and
other promotion status messages are displayed on video display
signage throughout the casino, as well as being sent to the gaming
machines as directed messages.
[0201] In one preferred embodiment, the progressive processing
system 312 enables multiple progressive promotions or flat payout
promotions that could run simultaneously. For example, the
progressive processing system 312 enables a casino to have a four
level progressive game with smaller progressive prizes hitting more
frequently, thereby enabling each of the four to be configured
separately using separate criteria. Preferably, in this type of
tiered progressive game, these qualifiers are consistent to make it
easier for players to understand the multi-tiered game.
[0202] In still another preferred embodiment of the progressive
processing system 312, the progressive prize value is hidden from
the players. In such an embodiment, a surprise award amount is
given to the players when the progressive processing system 312
determines that the award has occurred.
[0203] In yet another preferred embodiment of a progressive
processing system 312, the progressive prize is awarded directly
out of the gaming device by printing a cash or prize point voucher.
In such a preferred embodiment, the game monitoring unit enables
direct printing to dual port printers (e.g., one for the base game
and one for system printing).
[0204] One preferred embodiment of a progressive game 310 is the
chain reaction progressive game. In the chain reaction progressive
game, an incrementing rate is created for multiple progressives or
flat amounts. In a preferred embodiment, a casino administrator
selects a progressive prize growth rate, which can vary based on
numerous criteria. Preferably, the chain reaction progressive game
enables multiple promotional progressive games to be played while
overlapping each other. In a preferred embodiment, game information
is sent to displays throughout the casino to further encourage
player excitement. Preferably, a casino administrator selects the
game parameters, and the progressive prizes are awarded at random
progressive prize values and/or random progressive prize times
within a "time for a winner" parameter set by the casino. Finally,
when a progressive prize is to be awarded, the winner is selected
from active players on the casino floor that match "select a
winner" parameters, as set by the casino.
[0205] Referring now to one specific, non-limiting, embodiment of a
user interface 400 shown in FIG. 13, an iview-type device is
described herein in greater detail. The user interface 400 is
sometimes referred to herein as "additional" in that the user
interface is preferably separate from the gaming screen (or other
gaming presentation). Further, the user interface is sometimes
referred to herein as "embedded" in that the user interface
preferably includes its own processor in some preferred embodiments
of the invention. The functionality of the user interface includes,
by way of example only, and not by way of limitation, the ability
to display animation, multimedia, and other web-type content. The
embedded additional user interface 400 enables presentation of
additional information (e.g., enhanced player information) to a
player (or potential player) through the web page display screen
420 in an exciting, eye-catching format, while not interfering with
the normal gaming processes being displayed on the gaming screen
450. Further, the embedded additional user interface 400 does not
interfere with the normal gaming hardware in the gaming machine
350, but rather is easily integrated into a gaming machine 350.
[0206] In situations involving multiple gaming machine (or gaming
component) manufacturers, an embedded additional user interface 400
can be incorporated into a game machine 350 (either originally or
by retrofitting) without requiring access to the game logic or
other gaming systems that might be proprietary and inaccessible
with a game machine 350 from another gaming manufacturer. Thus, in
a preferred embodiment of the invention, the embedded additional
user interface 400, which includes a web page display screen 420
for presenting supplementary information to a player, is
incorporated into a gaming machine 350 in addition to the standard
gaming screen 450 typically found in a gaming machine. The embedded
additional user interface 400 may also be incorporated into a
gaming machine 350 that utilizes a gaming region (e.g., a
reel-spinner) instead of a standard game machine 350. This
supplemental information may include general gaming information,
player specific information, player excitement and interest
captivation content, advertising content (targeted or otherwise),
and the like. Further, in other preferred embodiments, the embedded
additional user interface 400 may have the ability to interact with
the game logic of the gaming processor 460, and thus, provide
further functionality, such as bonus games and/or the ability to
incorporate awards, promotional offers, or gifts from the web page
display screen 420 to the game machine 350. Moreover, the web page
display screen 420 may display supplemental information in an
"attract mode" when there is no game play occurring.
[0207] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the embedded
additional user interface 400 is used to make casino services more
accessible and friendly to casino players. In one preferred
embodiment, the embedded additional user interface 400 is designed
to interface with the hardware configuration of game platforms
currently employed in an existing gaming communication systems
network, thus decreasing implementation costs for the casino. A
standard gaming network interface to the systems network, such as a
Mastercom system, includes a multi-drop bus method of communicating
to a keypad and display. The Mastercom system is available from
Bally Manufacturing, and is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,429,361 to
Raven et al. incorporated herein by reference. One such currently
utilized bus is an EPI bus (Enhanced Player Interface bus), which
uses industry standard I.sup.2C hardware and signaling.
[0208] In one preferred embodiment, the embedded additional user
interface 400 is used to replace/upgrade an EPI device. Preferably,
the embedded additional user interface 400 replaces the EPI device
in the game machine 350 in a "plug and play" manner. In other
words, the old EPI device can be unplugged from the bus and the new
embedded additional user interface 400 can simply be plugged into
the I.sup.2C bus of the gaming machine 350, where the user
interface 400 utilizes the currently employed industry standard
I.sup.2C hardware and signaling without requiring any further
modification. The embedded processor 430 of the embedded additional
user interface 400 reads incoming I.sup.2C data (content),
translates the data into a web authoring language (e.g., HTML,
DHTML, XML, MACROMEDIA FLASH, animated Gifs, and JAVA Applets), and
maps the data to the web page display screen 420. In this manner,
the previous I.sup.2C data messages, which were typically presented
on a two-line, twenty character VF display, are automatically
transformed by the embedded additional user interface 400 into an
attention grabbing, animated (multimedia) web page style format.
This results in enhanced player satisfaction and excitement with
extremely minimal retrofitting requirements.
[0209] Since, in one preferred embodiment, the embedded additional
user interface 400 utilizes I.sup.2C hardware and signaling, this
enables the user interface 400 to speak and understand the I.sup.2C
protocol message set, and thus, communicate directly with the
gaming processor 460 of the gaming machine 350 (or other networked
devices) in the same fashion in which the gaming processor
previously communicated with the EPI device. Accordingly, in a
preferred embodiment of the invention, the functionality of the
previously utilized hardware (e.g., the EPI device) is replaced and
substantially upgraded with the integration of the embedded
additional user interface 400 into the gaming machine 350. As such,
the external hardware of any such system components (e.g., a keypad
and a two-line, twenty character VF display) is eliminated.
[0210] As stated above, in one preferred embodiment, the incoming
data received by the embedded additional user interface 400 is
I.sup.2C signaling protocol; however, in other preferred
embodiments other serial communication protocols (or electronic
communication format) are utilized. Preferably, the embedded
processor 430 communicates with the gaming processor 460, and/or
other connected devices, over an I.sup.2C bus (or over another
serial communications bus in embodiments that utilize another
protocol). The web page display screen 420 of the embedded
additional user interface 400 is preferably a color-graphic touch
screen display. Preferably, the embedded processor 430 is at least
a 32-bit processor. A preferred embodiment utilizes a 32-bit
processor because cryptographic techniques, such as SHA-1 and DSA
algorithms, are written and operate natively on a 32-bit system.
Additionally, the Microsoft.RTM. Windows.RTM. environment, which is
utilized in some preferred embodiments of the invention, is also
32-bit. Further, the internal operating system of the embedded
additional user interface 400 is preferably customized to match the
specific hardware to which the internal operating system
attaches.
[0211] Preferably, the embedded additional user interface 400 is an
embedded computer board that, in addition to the embedded processor
430 and the web page display screen 420, further includes a
removable memory storage device 475 (e.g., COMPACT FLASH card), as
shown in FIG. 13, and a network adapter port. Content and feature
updates to the embedded additional user interface 400 are
accomplished by physically swapping out the Memory storage device
475 (or other memory storage device). Thus, in order to retrieve
data from the embedded additional user interface 400, the data is
accessed by physically removing and reading the Memory storage
device 475.
[0212] In one preferred embodiment, the internal operating system
utilized by the embedded processor 430 of the embedded additional
user interface 400 is WINDOWS.RTM. CE version 4.2 (or higher).
Preferably, the embedded additional user interface 400 is built
upon a PXA255-based board developed by the Kontron Corporation.
Additionally, in a preferred embodiment of the embedded additional
user interface 400, the browser control for the web page display
screen 420 is MICROSOFT.RTM. INTERNET EXPLORER.RTM. 6.0 (or
higher), which is shipped standard with WINDOWS.RTM. CE 4.2, the
preferred internal operating system for the embedded processor
430.
[0213] Referring now to FIG. 14, in this preferred embodiment,
content may be locally downloaded. Specifically, in one preferred
embodiment, the content is updated through a physical USB (or other
connection) that is used to download the new content. In one
preferred embodiment, the data on the Memory storage device 475 can
be accessed by connecting a separate computer 478 to the network
adapter port of the embedded additional user interface 400. This
embodiment allows updating the contents of the operating system,
changing the operating system itself, and receiving data from the
Memory storage device 475. Physical removal of the Memory storage
device 475 is also still be an option for update and inspection of
files on the embedded additional user interface 400.
[0214] In one preferred embodiment, a portable computer is used to
store and publish data content to the Memory storage device 475 on
the embedded additional user interface 400, as well as to receiving
data from the Memory storage device 475 on the embedded additional
user interface. In this embodiment, all content on the embedded
additional user interface 400 is authenticated as if it were a
gaming machine.
[0215] In another preferred embodiment, a network adapter port is
run on the embedded computer board of the user interface 400. This
embodiment also includes a boot loader. Further, in this
embodiment, the portable computer 478 (described above) includes
components for use in uploading data to, and downloading data from,
the Memory storage device 475 on the embedded additional user
interface 400. Specifically, the components that run on the
portable computer 478 are for moving new data content to the
embedded additional user interface 400, and for validation and
verification of the data content that is on the embedded additional
user interface. Preferably, all data that is used to update the
Memory storage device 475 moves to or from the embedded additional
user interface 400 over the single built in network adapter port on
the board.
[0216] Prior to the advent of the embedded additional user
interface 400 of the invention, gaming regulators would have been
unwilling to allow casino administrators to design their own
content. However, due to the cryptographic technology implemented
by the embedded processor 30 in the embedded additional user
interface 400, a certification process is provided by the invention
with sufficient security for gaming regulators to allow casino
administrators to design their own content. Specifically, in one
preferred embodiment, the certification process offered ensures
authentication and non-repudiation of the casino administrator
designed web content. Preferably, in the invention the
certification process provided further ensures auditability and
traceability. Various cryptographic technologies, such as
authentication and non-repudiation (described herein below), are
utilized in preferred embodiments of the invention, to provide
sufficient security for gaming regulators to allow casino
administrators to design their own content.
[0217] In one preferred embodiment, this certification process is
used to certify "signed content" (created by the casino owners) in
the same manner that a "signed program" is certified. Preferably,
PKI (Public Key Infrastructure) is utilized in the certification
process. PKI is a system of digital certificates, Certificate
Authorities, and other registration authorities that verify
authenticity and validity. In one preferred embodiment, a "new
tier" or second PKI is created that is rooted in the primary PKI
and that leverages the capabilities of the certificate (e.g., a
x509 certificate) that allow for limited access. Thus, this
preferred embodiment allows the attributes within the certificate
to be used to provide "levels" of code access and acceptance in the
gaming industry.
[0218] In one embodiment, the content is protected by digital
signature verification using DSA (Digital Signature Algorithm) or
RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman) technology. In this regard, the content
is preferably protected using digital signature verification so
that any unauthorized changes are easily identifiable. A digital
signature is the digital equivalent of a handwritten signature in
that it binds an individual's identity to a piece of information. A
digital signature scheme typically consists of a signature creation
algorithm and an associated verification algorithm. The digital
signature creation algorithm is used to produce a digital
signature. The digital signature verification algorithm is used to
verify that a digital signature is authentic (i.e., that it was
indeed created by the specified entity). In another embodiment, the
content is protected using other suitable technology.
[0219] In one preferred embodiment, a Secure Hash Function-1
(SHA-1) is used to compute a 160-bit hash value from the data
content or firmware contents. This 160-bit hash value, which is
also called an abbreviated bit string, is then processed to create
a signature of the game data using a one-way, private signature key
technique, called Digital Signature Algorithm (DSA). The DSA uses a
private key of a private key/public key pair, and randomly or
pseudo-randomly generated integers, to produce a 320-bit signature
of the 160-bit hash value of the data content or firmware contents.
This signature is stored in the database in addition to the
identification number.
[0220] In another preferred embodiment, the invention utilizes a
Message Authentication Code (MAC). A MAC is a specific type of
message digest in which a secret key is included as part of the
fingerprint. Whereas a normal digest consists of a hash (data), the
MAC consists of a hash (key+data). Thus, a MAC is a bit string that
is a function of both data (either plaintext or ciphertext) and a
secret key. A MAC is attached to data in order to allow data
authentication. Further, a MAC may be used to simultaneously verify
both the data integrity and the authenticity of a message.
Typically, a MAC is a one-way hash function that takes as input
both a symmetric key and some data. A symmetric-key algorithm is an
algorithm for cryptography that uses the same cryptographic key to
encrypt and decrypt the message.
[0221] A MAC can be generated faster than using digital signature
verification technology; however, a MAC is not as robust as digital
signature verification technology. Thus, when speed of processing
is critical the use of a MAC provides an advantage, because it can
be created and stored more rapidly than digital signature
verification technology.
[0222] In one preferred embodiment, the authentication technique
utilized is a bKey (electronic key) device. A bKey is an electronic
identifier that is tied to a particular individual. In this manner,
any adding, accessing, or modification of content that is made
using a bKey for authentication is linked to the specific
individual to which that bKey is associated. Accordingly, an audit
trail is thereby established for regulators and/or other entities
that require this kind of data or system authentication.
[0223] Referring now to FIG. 15, in one preferred embodiment, the
embedded additional user interface 400 connects to an
Ethernet-networked backbone 480 instead of a local system network.
Currently, most casino networks are not Ethernet-networked, but
rather are smaller, more simplistic local system networks. Thus, in
this Ethernet-networked backbone 480 embodiment, the current system
network is replaced by an industry standard Ethernet backbone, such
as 10/100 base T Ethernet running over Cat 3, 4, 5, 6, or higher.
Thus, a standard 10/100 base T Ethernet card is added to the
processor in this embodiment. Preferably, the network employs
TCP/IP, HTTP, and XML messaging or a variant of XML. Nevertheless
any suitable protocol may be used.
[0224] Further, in another preferred embodiment, the embedded
additional user interface 400 connects to a full featured, back
end, download configuration server 490 through the above-described
Ethernet-networked backbone 480 as shown in FIG. 15. In such an
embodiment, the full-featured server 490 can schedule downloads of
content (gaming or otherwise) as well as upload information from
the gaming machines 350, such as what options the gaming machines
350 currently possess. Accordingly, in a preferred embodiment, the
primary use of the server 490 is as a data download and data
retrieval server. While this server 490 does upload and download
web content style information, it is typically not connected to the
World Wide Web. This server 490 must be authenticated Oust like a
game machine 350) to make the content served to the embedded
additional user interface 400 acceptable to the gaming regulators.
Preferably, utilization of the Ethernet-networked backbone 480 and
the server 490 provides many system benefits, including but not
limited to reliability, maintainability, security, content staging,
content testing, deployment procedures, and incident recovery. In
one embodiment, deliverables also preferably include content
templates and guidelines for casino owners and administrators to
create their own web content for deployment to the web server. In
one embodiment, the web server 490 has its content authenticated in
the same manner as the embedded additional user interface 400 to
allow content to be downloaded to the web page display screen
420.
[0225] Referring now to FIG. 16, in another preferred embodiment of
the invention, the functions previously performed by the gaming
monitoring unit 465, as shown in FIGS. 13-15, of the gaming machine
350 are supported by the embedded processor 430 of the embedded
additional user interface 400. Otherwise stated, the GMU code is
transitioned from the gaming monitoring unit 465 into the embedded
processor 430 in the embedded additional user interface 400.
Accordingly, such a configuration removes the need for the gaming
monitoring unit 465 in the gaming machine 350. This results in a
significant reduction in the amount and complexity of the hardware,
as well as completing a phased transition of more traditional style
gaming machines 350 into more modernized upgraded gaming
machines.
[0226] Thus, in such a preferred embodiment, the invention is
directed towards an embedded additional user interface 400 that is
incorporated into a gaming machine 350, the gaming machine in turn
including a game machine 150 or other appropriate gaming region
(e.g., spinning reels), but does not include a gaming monitoring
unit 465. Such an embedded additional user interface 400 still
includes a web content capable display screen 420 and an embedded
processor 430. Once again, the web content capable display screen
420 presents web information to a user via the display screen. The
embedded processor 430 preferably utilizes an internal operating
system. Furthermore, in this embodiment the embedded processor 430
additionally includes standard gaming monitoring unit functionality
(GMU code), since it replaces the gaming monitoring unit 465 in the
gaming machine 350. As before, the embedded processor 430 reads
incoming data, translates the data into a web protocol (web
authoring language), if necessary, and maps the data to the web
content capable display screen 420.
[0227] In a preferred embodiment, information can also be input by
a user into the web page display screen 420 of the user interface
400. The web page display screen 420 of the user interface 400
employs a virtual keypad. Further, the user interface 400 uses a
keypad dictionary that allows a user to be able to enter a vastly
greater amount of information than was previously possible using a
twelve-digit VF keypad. For example, the virtual key on the touch
screen that is displayed by the browser is pressed by a user. This
calls the keypad object by calling its dispatch interface with a
string that identifies which virtual key was pressed. The keypad
object looks up the string in the dictionary object that has been
loaded at initialization time with a set of keys to return when
that string is passed to it. When it retrieves this set of zero or
more key characters, it passes them to the GMU by calling the
interface exposed by the object.
[0228] Typically, a network interface (or equivalent system) is
used to control the flow of funds used with the gaming machine 350
within a particular casino. By utilizing the embedded additional
user interface 400 of the invention, the gaming network interface
can be instructed to move funds between player's accounts and
gaming devices by merely touching the web page display screen 420.
In addition, many other more sophisticated commands and
instructions may be provided. Thus, the embedded additional user
interface 400 improves the player and casino employee interface to
the gaming machine 350, directly at the gaming device itself.
[0229] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the web page
display screen 420 of the embedded additional user interface 400
enables a player to be shown player messages in an animated,
multimedia, web content style environment. These messages would
previously have been displayed in a significantly more mundane
format on a separate display device (e.g., a two-line VF display
device). In some preferred embodiments, touch screen buttons in the
web page display screen 420 are used by the player to navigate
between windows in web page display screen 420 and allow access to
system functions such as cashless withdraw, balance requests,
system requests, points redemption, and the like. In other
preferred embodiments of the invention, the web page display screen
420 utilizes various other data input techniques commonly known in
the art, instead of the touch screen data entry. Thus,
implementation of the embedded additional user interface 400 is an
efficient, highly beneficial, and substantial upgrade to a gaming
machine 350 that greatly increases the functionality over what was
previously possible using an EPI device.
[0230] In one preferred embodiment, text data messages are
translated into web page navigation requests by the embedded
processor 430 and then displayed on the web page display screen 420
as shown and discussed with respect to FIGS. 17A and 17B below.
Script languages, such as JAVA SCRIPT and VB SCRIPT, are also
utilized for some of the web pages. Preferably, the embedded
additional user interface 400 emulates the twelve-digit keypad and
the two-by-twenty VF display on the web page display screen 420,
which has touch screen capabilities. In this embodiment, commands
that were previously displayed on the two-by-twenty VF display are
matched to a corresponding URL and a browser is used to render the
page on the web page display screen 420. The web pages displayed
contain touch-screen keys that effectively emulate hardware
keys.
[0231] With reference to FIGS. 17A and 17B, in one preferred
embodiment of the invention, a dictionary URL approach is used for
translating the data messages into web page information. In this
manner, data messages are "looked up" in a dictionary data file
where they can be redirected to an attractive URL. The embedded
processor 430 responds to requests on the I.sup.2C bus that were
intended for the prior art enhanced player interface (EPI device)
VF display. The web page display screen 420 is not a passive
display device like traditional PC monitors, but rather the display
screen 420 must respond to commands with text type responses. These
requests include initialization requests, status requests, and
display requests. With reference to FIG. 18, as each text data
message to be displayed is passed into the embedded processor 430,
the processor 430 calls a URL Dictionary to look up a URL with
which to replace the text data message. Once the substitution is
complete, the embedded processor 430 instructs the web page display
screen 420 to present (or navigate to) the appropriate web
page.
[0232] Accordingly, with reference to FIG. 19, a URL Dictionary
component is used to map a text string, sent from the embedded
processor 430 and intended for the display on the two-by-twenty VF
display, to a URL that can be used to display a much more visually
enhanced graphical representation of the same message. Thus, the
URL Dictionary component contains a listing of the possible text
messages to be supported that could be sent from the embedded
processor 430, and a mapping to a set of the desired eye-catching,
web content to be displayed on the web page display screen 420. In
this event that a message is not in the URL Dictionary, such a
message is mapping to a page that substitutes for the two-line
mode.
[0233] In the preferred embodiments described above, the embedded
processor 430 of the embedded additional user interface 400 reads
incoming I.sup.2C data messages, translates the I.sup.2C data
messages into a web authoring language (e.g., HTML, DHTML, XML,
MACROMEDIA FLASH), and maps the newly translated web page data
message to the web page display screen 420. Additionally, the
embedded additional user interface 400 can also read incoming data
messages that are already in a web authoring language (e.g., HTML,
DHTML, XML, MACROMEDIA FLASH), and map this web page data to the
web page display screen 420. Further, and highly advantageously, a
preferred embodiment of the invention also allows casinos that are
using the embedded additional user interface 400 to design and use
their own content, thereby giving the casinos the ability to decide
what the web page presented on the web page display screen 420 of
the user interface 400 will look like.
[0234] The potential advantages of utilizing the embedded
additional user interface 400 of the invention are numerous. These
potential advantages include, by way of example only, and not by
way of limitation: providing animated and/or multimedia web style
content, providing fonts and icons which are larger and more
aesthetically appealing; providing special services to players,
(e.g., multiple languages, assistance for handicapped individuals);
facilitating interactive uses of the web page display screen 420;
providing the ability to customize the "look and feel" of the web
page display screen 420 for players and casino employees; increased
player excitement and participation; and simplified replaceability
and/or upgradeability from an EPI device or other similar non-web
page style components.
[0235] Referring now to a preferred embodiment of the progressive
processing system 312 as shown in FIGS. 3, 4A, and 4B, information
utilized by the system to generate a progressive game 310 includes,
by way of example only, and not by way of limitation, the following
preferred specification parameters: average length of time is in
minutes, 15 characters, leading zeros; all amount fields are in
whole dollars, 15 characters, leading zeros; progressive game code
is generated on the iSERIES server, 8 characters; the system
PROG.ID is generated by the engine 360, 8 characters; NUMBER OF
SLOTS, is generated on the iSERIES server, 10 characters, leading
zeros, (number of slots included in the promotion); NUMBER CARDED
SLOTS, is generated on the iSERIES server, 10 characters, leading
zeros, (number of slots machines included in a promotion with
player cards inserted) and SEQUENCE NUMBER, generated on the
iSERIES server, 3 characters, leading zeros.
[0236] In one specific preferred embodiment, in order to generate a
new promotion progressive game 310 to the progressive processing
system 312, the user first creates a new promotion on the iSERIES
server. Next, the SMS (slot management system) programming detects
the new promotion progressive game 310 should be activated, and
generates an "ADD TO ENGINE" transaction. Preferably, the
transaction is then sent to a data queue SDSM0068. In one preferred
embodiment, the ADD transaction written to the data queue contains
the following data fields:
TABLE-US-00013 ADD TO ENGINE, value 001. TRID001 A 01 03 AVERAGE
WIN AMOUNT AVG$001 A 04 18 AVERAGE LENGTH OF TIME, MIN. AVGT001 A
19 33 SMS MOUNDS-OF-MONEY CODE PRCD001 A 34 41 MOUNDS-OF-MONEY
DESCRIPTION PRZD001 A 42 81 STARTING DATE YYYYMMDD SDHY001 A 82 89
STARTING TIME HHMMSS STME001 A 90 95 RESET AMOUNT STR$001 A 96 110
SEQUENCE NUMBER SEQ#001 A 111 113
[0237] In one preferred embodiment, the connection program on the
iSERIES server reads the data queue and forwards the "ADD TO
ENGINE" transaction to the engine 360. When the engine 360 receives
the "ADD TO ENGINE" transaction, the engine generates a "PROG.ID
CODE", and responds (with the following data) back to the iSERIES
server. Preferably, the connection program writes the following
image to a data queue SDSM0066.
TABLE-US-00014 ADDED TO ENGINE, value 101 TRID101 A 01 03 SMS
MOUNDS-OF-MONEY CODE PRCD101 A 04 11 ENGINE PROG. ID CODE PRCL101 A
12 19 SEQUENCE NUMBER SEQ#001 A 20 22
[0238] In a preferred embodiment, the SMS programming on the
iSERIES server, reads the data queue SDSM0066 and updates the
promotion record as having been added and activated on the engine
360. Additionally, the engine PROG.ID is linked to the new
promotion progressive game 310 code.
[0239] In one specific preferred embodiment, in order to delete
(remove) an existing promotion progressive game 310 on the
progressive processing system 312, the user first flags the
existing promotion for deletion on the iSERIES server. Preferably,
the SMS programming then generates a "DELETE FROM ENGINE"
transaction and sends this transaction to a data queue SDSM0068. In
one preferred embodiment, the DELETE transaction written to the
data queue contains the following data fields:
TABLE-US-00015 DELETE FROM ENGINE, value 002. TRID002 A 01 03 SMS
MOUNDS-OF-MONEY CODE PRCD002 A 04 11 ENGINE PROG.ID CODE PRCL002 A
12 19 SEQUENCE NUMBER SEQ#002 A 20 22
[0240] In a preferred embodiment, the connection program on the
iSERIES server reads the data queue and forwards the "DELETE FROM
ENGINE" transaction to the engine 360. When the engine 360 receives
the "DELETE FROM ENGINE" transaction, it removes the progressive
game 310 from its active progressive games 10 and responds (with
the following data) back to the iSERIES server. Preferably, the
connection program writes the following image to a data queue
SDSM0066.
TABLE-US-00016 DELETED FROM ENGINE, value 102. TRID102 A 01 03 SMS
MOUNDS-OF-MONEY CODE PRCD102 A 04 11 ENGINE PROG. ID CODE PRCL102 A
12 19 SEQUENCE NUMBER SEQ#102 A 20 22
[0241] In a preferred embodiment, the number of slots and number of
carded slots in a promotion progressive game 310 may require
updating. Preferably, the iSERIES server SMS programming
periodically updates each active promotion game "Number of Assets"
and "Number of Carded Assets". Once the iSERIES server has been
updated, it notifies progressive processing system 312 of the
updated values with an "UPDATE NUMBERS" transaction and sends the
transaction to a data queue SDSM0068. Preferably, the "UPDATE
NUMBERS" transaction written to the data queue contains the
following data fields:
TABLE-US-00017 UPDATE NUMBERS, VALUE 003. TRID003 A 01 03 NUMBER OF
SLOTS #AST003 A 04 13 NUMBER CARDED SLOTS #CRD003 A 14 23 ENGINE
PROG. ID CODE PRCL003 A 24 31
[0242] In a preferred embodiment, the connection program on the
iSERIES server reads the data queue and forwards the "UPDATE
NUMBERS" transaction to the engine 360. When the engine 360
receives a "UPDATE NUMBERS" for the promotion, it uses these
numbers to compute the value of the promotion progressive prize.
Preferably, the engine 360 does not need to respond to the "UPDATE
NUMBERS" transactions.
[0243] In a preferred embodiment, the promotion progressive game
310 may be required to obtain promotional prize values from the
engine 360. The iSERIES server SMS programming periodically
acquires the active promotional progressive prize values for each
active promotion progressive prize from the engine 360 using a "GET
CURRENT VALUE" transaction, which sends the transaction to a data
queue SDSM0068. Preferably, the "GET CURRENT VALUE" transaction
written to the data queue contains the following data fields:
TABLE-US-00018 GET CURRENT VALUE, VALUE 004. TRID004 A 01 03 ENGINE
PROG. ID CODE PRCL004 A 04 11
[0244] In a preferred embodiment, the connection program on the
iSERIES server reads the data queue and forwards the "GET CURRENT
VALUE" transaction to the engine 360. Preferably, when the engine
360 receives a "GET CURRENT VALUE" transaction for a promotional
progressive game, it responds with the following data to the
iSERIES server. Preferably, the connection program writes the
following image to a data queue SDSM0066.
TABLE-US-00019 RESPONSE CURRENT VALUE, TRID104 A 01 03 VALUE 104.
ENGINE PROG. ID CODE PRCL104 A 04 11 PROG. ID AMOUNT CUR$104 A 12
26
[0245] In a preferred embodiment, the SMS programming on the
iSERIES server, reads data queue SDSM0066, and updates the
promotional progressive prize value with the current cash value
from the engine 360.
[0246] Referring now to another aspect of a preferred embodiment of
the progressive processing system 312, when the engine 360 has
determined that it is time for a promotional progressive prize to
be awarded, the engine generates a "SELECT WINNER VALUE"
transaction. The engine 360 informs the iSERIES server of the win
event by sending the following transaction to the iSERIES server.
Preferably, it also stops incrementing the promotional progressive
prize's value. In a preferred embodiment, the iSERIES server
connection program writes the following image to a data queue
SDSM0066.
TABLE-US-00020 SELECT WINNER VALUE, VALUE 105. TRID105 A 01 03
ENGINE PROG. ID CODE PRCL105 A 04 11 WINNING AMOUNT CUR$105 A 12
26
[0247] In a preferred embodiment, the SMS programming on the
iSERIES server, reads the data queue SDSM0066, updates the
promotional progressive prize's value, and selects a winning
player.
[0248] Once the progressive processing system 312 indicates that
the criteria has been met for awarding the progressive prize for a
promotional progressive game 310, the iSERIES server programming
selects a winner of the progressive prize. Specifically, the
iSERIES server programming reads all SMS active slot machine
(asset) records from the active assets file (SFPAT) and builds a
work file (SFPP7). In one preferred embodiment, the slot machine
selection only includes slot machines with: (1) a player card
inserted, (2) where the player's card type matches the card type(s)
assigned to be included in the promotion, (3) where the slot
machine's zone on the casino floor matches the zone(s) assigned to
be include in the promotion, and (4) where the slot machine's SMS
manufacture code matches the manufacture code(s) to be included in
the promotion. Preferably, the work file SFPP7 contains the
following data:
TABLE-US-00021 ASSET NUMBER 5.0 PLAYERS ACCOUNT NUMBER 9 PLAYERS
ACCOUNT SUFFIX 2 RATINGS ASSET DENOMINATION 7.2 RATINGS ASSET
DENOMINATION 1 GEAR-BOX ID. 3.0 RATINGS ASSET LOCATION 4.0 RATINGS
ASSET ZONE 2
[0249] In a preferred embodiment, once all included assets records
have been written into the work file, the number of included
records is known. Preferably, the programming uses a random number
program to generate a random number between one and the number of
records in the work file SFPP7. In a preferred embodiment, this
record contains the winning player's account number, and the slot
machine (asset) number. Preferably, the progressive processing
system 312 designates this player as the winning player to the
promotional progressive game 310. In a preferred embodiment, the
system 312 broadcasts transactions to all slot machines on the
casino floor announcing the winner, as well as sending a
transaction to the slot machine of the winning player, announcing
the selected player as winner.
[0250] If no winner selected, the iSERIES server programming passes
by the "selecting a winner" transactions until the next cycle
(e.g., approximately 15 seconds to one minute). Preferably, once
the SMS programming on the iSERIES server selects a winning player,
it notifies the engine 360 of the winner with a "POST WINNER DATA"
transaction, and sends the transaction to a data queue SDSM0068. In
a preferred embodiment, the "POST WINNER DATA" transaction written
to the data queue contains the following data fields:
TABLE-US-00022 POST WINNER DATA, VALUE 005. TRID005 A 01 03 ENGINE
PROG. ID CODE PRCL005 A 04 11 WINNERS NAME NAME005 A 12 41 WINNERS
CITY CITY005 A 42 71 WINNERS STATE/COUNTRY STAT005 A 72 101
[0251] In a preferred embodiment, the connection program on the
iSERIES server reads the data queue and forwards the "POST WINNER
DATA" transaction to the engine 360. When the engine 360 receives
the "POST WINNER DATA" transaction it transmits the winning player
data to any signage connected thereto. Preferably, the engine 360
does not need to respond to the POST WINNER transaction.
[0252] Although the invention has been described in language
specific to computer structural features, methodological acts, and
by computer readable media, it is to be understood that the
invention defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited
to the specific structures, acts, or media described. Therefore,
the specific structural features, acts and media are disclosed as
exemplary embodiments implementing the claimed invention.
[0253] Furthermore, the various embodiments described above are
provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to
limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will readily
recognize various modifications and changes that may be made to the
claimed invention without following the example embodiments and
applications illustrated and described herein, and without
departing from the true spirit and scope of the claimed invention,
which is set forth in the following claims.
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