U.S. patent application number 12/506609 was filed with the patent office on 2009-11-19 for roulette game apparatus and mehtod.
Invention is credited to Nicholas Sorge.
Application Number | 20090283968 12/506609 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38541689 |
Filed Date | 2009-11-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090283968 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sorge; Nicholas |
November 19, 2009 |
ROULETTE GAME APPARATUS AND MEHTOD
Abstract
A method for arranging indicia on a game surface and on an
associated roulette wheel. Indicia indicating numbers from 1
through 36 are arranged on the game surface in ascending order with
half of the numbers associated with a first color and half
associated with a second color. The numbers are arranged in three
groups of twelve, each group having three even numbers and three
odd numbers associated with each of the two colors. Indicia
indicating each of the numbers are arranged on a roulette wheel
such that no two adjacent numbers on the roulette wheel are
associated with a same color, are disposed in a same group, are
disposed in a same column, are disposed in a same row, or are
disposed adjacent one another on the game surface and such that
each pair of numbers disposed substantially diametrically across
from one another on the roulette wheel is disposed in a same group
and column on the game surface.
Inventors: |
Sorge; Nicholas; (Deer Park,
NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SCULLY SCOTT MURPHY & PRESSER, PC
400 GARDEN CITY PLAZA, SUITE 300
GARDEN CITY
NY
11530
US
|
Family ID: |
38541689 |
Appl. No.: |
12/506609 |
Filed: |
July 21, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11593322 |
Nov 6, 2006 |
7566056 |
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12506609 |
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11389197 |
Mar 24, 2006 |
7588250 |
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11593322 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
273/142R ;
273/274 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 2003/00498
20130101; A63F 5/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/142.R ;
273/274 |
International
Class: |
A63F 5/04 20060101
A63F005/04; A63F 5/00 20060101 A63F005/00 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. A roulette game apparatus comprising: a) a game surface
comprising: i) one or more house number wagering areas; ii) an even
number wagering area; iii) an odd number wagering area; iv) a first
color wagering area; v) a second color wagering area; vi) a low
number wagering area corresponding to a whole number from 1 to 18;
vii) a high number wagering area corresponding to a whole number
from 19 to 36; viii) a first dozen wagering area corresponding to a
whole number from 1 to 12; ix) a second dozen wagering area
corresponding to a whole number from 13 to 24; x) a third dozen
wagering area corresponding to a whole number from 25 to 36; and
xi) thirty six individual number wagering areas, each corresponding
to a whole number from 1 to 36, said thirty six individual number
wagering areas arranged in ascending order from left to right in a
matrix of three columns and twelve rows and in three groups of
twelve numbers each, a first group comprising the numbers 1 through
12, a second group comprising the numbers 13 through 24 and a third
group comprising the numbers 25 through 36; wherein individual
number wagering areas corresponding to numbers 1, 3, 4, 8, 11, 12,
13, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 32, 35 and 36 are associated
with said first color, and individual number wagering areas
corresponding to numbers 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 14, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24,
26, 29, 30, 31, 33 and 34 are associated with said second color;
and b) a roulette wheel comprising a plurality of pockets disposed
in a circumferential manner, each of said pockets corresponding to
a house number or to a whole number from 1 to 36, wherein each of
the whole numbers is associated with said first color or said
second color as on said game surface, and wherein said pockets are
arranged on said roulette wheel such that no two adjacent numbers
on the roulette wheel are associated with a same color, are
disposed in a same group on the game surface, are disposed in a
same column on the game surface, are disposed in a same row on the
game surface, or are disposed adjacent one another on the game
surface to provide a balance of color and numbers on the roulette
wheel with respect to the game surface, and such that each pair of
numbers disposed substantially diametrically across from one
another on the roulette wheel is disposed in the same group on the
game surface and in the same column on the game surface.
3. The roulette game apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said
pockets are arranged in the following clockwise sequence with
respect to a corresponding number: a first house number, 8, 15, 28,
9, 16, 29, 4, 17, 27, 2, 21, 34, 3, 22, 35, 10, 23, 30, a second
house number, 11, 24, 25, 6, 13, 26, 1, 14, 36, 5, 18, 31, 12, 19,
32, 7, 20 and 33.
4. The roulette game apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said
pockets are arranged in the following clockwise sequence with
respect to a corresponding number: a house number, 8, 15, 28, 9,
16, 29, 4, 17, 27, 2, 21, 34, 3, 22, 35, 10, 23, 30, 11, 24, 25, 6,
13, 26, 1, 14, 36, 5, 18, 31, 12, 19, 32, 7, 20 and 33.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/389,197 filed on Mar. 24, 2006, which is
hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The invention relates to apparatuses for playing roulette
and methods for arranging indicia on roulette game surfaces and
roulette wheels.
[0004] 2. The Prior Art
[0005] Roulette is a well-known game of chance enjoyed throughout
the world. The equipment used for playing roulette generally
comprises a roulette wheel and a game surface.
[0006] The roulette wheel generally comprises a horizontally
disposed wheel mounted in a bowl-shaped housing. The wheel is
adapted to rotate about a vertical axis and includes a plurality of
pockets disposed around its periphery. Each pocket has a unique
number associated with the pocket, as well as a color associated
therewith. Each pocket is adapted to receive a small ball which is
introduced into the bowl-shaped housing by an operator or croupier
as the wheel is set in motion. The wheel is typically spun in one
direction and the ball projected around the circumference of the
housing in an opposite direction. As the ball loses speed, it rolls
down the concave housing wall, eventually coming to rest in one of
the pockets. The outcome or result of the spin is the number and
color associated with the pocket in which the ball comes to
rest.
[0007] The game surface includes a plurality of wagering areas
indicating various numbers, colors, parities (the odd or even
quality of a number) and groupings of numbers. One or more players
make wagers on a predicted outcome of a spin of the roulette wheel.
A players indicates his or her wager by placing one or more
wagering devices, such as chips or markers representing an amount
of the wager, at a predetermined location on the game surface
corresponding to a predicted outcome of a spin of the roulette
wheel.
[0008] A prior art roulette game surface or board is shown in FIG.
1. As shown the game surface includes wagering areas corresponding
to the individual numbers 1 through 36. The numbers are arranged
sequentially in three columns of twelve numbers each and twelve
rows or streets of three numbers each. Eighteen of the numbers (1,
3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 30, 32, 34 and 36)
correspond to a first color, typically red, and the remaining
eighteen numbers (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 26,
28, 29, 31, 33 and 35 correspond to a second color, typically
black. In the prior art arrangement, there are eight even red
numbers (12, 14, 16, 18, 30, 32, 34 and 36), ten odd red numbers
(1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 19, 21, 23, 25, and 27), ten even black numbers (2,
4, 6, 8, 10, 20, 22, 24, 26 and 28) and eight odd black numbers
(11, 13, 15, 17, 29, 31, 33 and 35).
[0009] A player may place a wager on a particular number by placing
one or more chips or markers within the wagering area corresponding
to that number. In addition, players can wager on groupings of
individual numbers. For example, a player can wager on a column of
numbers by placing one or more chips or markers adjacent to the
column of numbers, on a row of numbers by placing one or more chips
or markers adjacent to the row of numbers, on two rows of numbers
by placing one or more chips or markers adjacent to the two rows of
numbers, and on four adjoining numbers by placing one or more chips
or markers at the intersection of the four adjoining numbers.
[0010] As shown in FIG. 1, wagering areas are also typically
provided for betting on the number 0 (and/or the number 00 in an
American style wheel as described more fully herein), on a
particular color outcome (for example red or black), on an even or
odd number outcome, on an outcome comprising a number from 1 to 18,
on an outcome comprising a number from 19 to 36 and on a particular
set or block of numbers (for example first twelve number 1 through
12, second twelve numbers 13 through 24 or last twelve numbers 25
through 36).
[0011] Winning wagers in the game of roulette are paid out at
predetermined multiples based on the probability of the particular
predicted outcome. For example, a winning wager for an individual
number may pay out at a ratio of 35 to 1; a winning wager for a row
of three numbers may pay out at a ratio of 11 to 1; a winning wager
for a group of four adjacent numbers may pay out at a ratio of 8 to
1; a winning wager for two adjacent rows of number may pay out at a
ratio of 5 to 1; a winning wager for the combination of numbers 1
to 18 or the combination of numbers from 19 to 36 may pay out at a
ratio of 1 to 1; a winning wager on a column of numbers may pay out
at a ratio of 2 to 1; a winning wager on a block of twelve
consecutive numbers (first twelve, second twelve or last twelve)
may pay out at a ratio of 2 to 1, and a winning wager on an odd
number; an even number, a red number or a black number may pay out
even money. Other wager combinations and associated payout ratios
may also be used.
[0012] The prior art American roulette wheel arrangement is shown
in FIG. 2. As shown, the prior art American wheel includes both
zero (0) and double zero (00) house numbers arranged opposite each
other and thirty six numbers from 1 to 36 arranged around the
perimeter of the wheel for a total of thirty eight pockets. The
house numbers (0, 00) are typically green in color. The numbers 1,
3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 30, 32, 34 and 36
are red, and the numbers 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22,
24, 26, 28, 29, 31, 33 and 35 are black.
[0013] The numbers from 1 to 36 are arranged at standardized
positions on the prior art American wheel as shown. Black and red
numbers alternate and directly across the wheel from each odd
number is the next highest even number (for example the number 10
is directly across the wheel from the number 9).
[0014] FIG. 3 shows the prior art European roulette wheel
arrangement. As shown, the European roulette wheel arrangement
includes only one house number, the single zero (0) and thirty six
numbers, for a total of thirty seven pockets. This results in a
significantly lower house advantage for the European wheel
(approximately 2.70%) as compared to the American wheel
(approximately 5.26%). The individual numbers from 1 to 36 in the
prior art European roulette wheel have the same colors as they have
in the prior art American roulette wheel, and the numbers are also
arranged at standardized positions; however the arrangement of
numbers around the wheel differs substantially in the European
roulette wheel as compared to the American wheel.
[0015] The arrangement of numbers and colors on the prior art
roulette game surface shown in FIG. 1 (and used with both the prior
art American roulette wheel arrangement shown in FIG. 2 and the
prior art European roulette wheel arrangement shown in FIG. 3) is
not optimized or balanced with respect to the entire game surface,
the individual columns and the individual dozen wagering groups
(1-12, 13-24 and 25-36) as set forth below. In particular, the
distribution of red, black, odd and even numbers on the prior art
roulette game surface is unbalanced and as a result experienced
players may combine bets on red, black, even and odd numbers,
columns and dozen groups to increase the player's chances of
winning a bet. In addition, an inexperienced player may lack the
knowledge to take advantage of these relationships, resulting in a
greater advantage for the casino or house.
[0016] As shown in FIG. 1, the prior art roulette game surface
arrangement has ten red odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 19, 21, 23, 25
and 27), but only eight red even numbers (12, 14, 16, 18, 30, 32,
34 and 36). Additionally, the prior art arrangement has ten black
even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28), but only eight
black odd numbers (11, 13, 15, 17, 29, 31, 33 and 35). This
imbalance in the distribution of red, black, odd and even numbers
throws off the balance of the individual columns and dozen wagering
areas.
[0017] In the prior art roulette game surface arrangement, the
first column consists of six red numbers (1, 7, 16, 19, 25 and 34).
Of these six red numbers, however, four numbers are odd (1, 7, 19
and 25) and only two numbers are even (16 and 34). Moreover, two of
the odd red numbers (1 and 7) are in the first dozen wagering area,
whereas the second and third dozen wagering areas each have one red
odd and one red even number in the first column (16, 19 and 25, 34,
respectively). Thus, the first column includes one even red number
(16) in the second dozen wagering area, one even red number (34) in
the third dozen wagering area, but no even red numbers in the first
dozen wagering area.
[0018] The first column in the prior art roulette game surface
further includes six black numbers (4, 10, 13, 22, 28, and 31). Of
these six black numbers, however, four numbers are even (4, 10, 22,
and 28) and only two numbers are odd (13 and 31). Moreover, two of
the black even numbers (4 and 10) are in the first dozen wagering
area, whereas the second and third dozen wagering areas each have
one black odd and one black even number in the first column (13, 22
and 28, 31, respectively). Thus the first column includes one odd
black number (13) in the second dozen wagering area, one odd black
number (31) in the third dozen wagering area, but no odd black
numbers in the first dozen wagering area.
[0019] In the prior art roulette game surface arrangement, the
second column consists of four red numbers (5, 14, 23 and 32). Of
these four red numbers, two are in the second dozen wagering area
(14 and 23) while the first and third dozen wagering areas have
only one red number each (5 and 32, respectively). Additionally,
the first dozen wagering area includes no even red numbers in the
second column and the third dozen wagering area includes no odd red
numbers in the second column.
[0020] The second column in the prior art roulette game surface
further includes eight black numbers (2, 8, 11, 17, 20, 26, 29 and
35). Of these eight black numbers, three (2, 8 and 11) are in the
first dozen wagering area and three (26, 29 and 35) are in the
third dozen wagering area, while the second dozen wagering area
only includes two black numbers (17 and 20). Morever, the first
dozen wagering area includes two even black numbers (2 and 8) and
only one odd black number (11) in the second column. The third
dozen wagering area includes two black odd numbers (29 and 35) and
only one black even number (26) in the second column. The second
wagering area includes one black odd number (17) and one black even
number (20) in the second column.
[0021] In the prior art roulette game surface arrangement, the
third column consists of eight red numbers (3, 9, 12, 18, 21, 27,
30 and 36). Of these eight red numbers, three (3, 9 and 12) are in
the first dozen wagering area and three (27, 30 and 36) are in the
third dozen wagering area, while the second dozen wagering area
includes only two red numbers (18 and 21). Morever, the first dozen
wagering area includes two odd red numbers (3 and 9) and only one
even red number (12) in the second column. The third dozen wagering
area includes two red even numbers (30 and 36) and only one red odd
number (27) in the second column. The second wagering area includes
one red even number (18) and one red odd number (21) in the second
column.
[0022] The third column in the prior art roulette wheel arrangement
further includes four black numbers. Of these four black numbers,
two are in the second dozen wagering area (15 and 24) while the
first and third dozen wagering areas have only one black number
each (6 and 33, respectively). Additionally, the first dozen
wagering area includes no odd black numbers in the third column and
the third dozen wagering area includes no even black numbers in the
third column.
[0023] Turning to the dozen wagering areas or groups on the prior
art roulette game surface, the first dozen wagering area (1-12)
includes six red numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9 and 12) and six black
numbers (2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 11). However of the six red numbers,
five are odd (1, 3, 5, 7 and 9) and only one is even (12).
Moreover, of the six black numbers in the first dozen wagering
area, five are even (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10) and only one is odd (11).
Accordingly, the first dozen wagering area of the prior art
roulette game surface is unbalanced with respect to the
distribution of red, black, odd and even numbers.
[0024] The second dozen wagering area (13-24) of the prior art
roulette game surface arrangement includes six red numbers (14, 16,
18, 19, 21 and 23), three of which are even (14, 16 and 18) and the
remaining three (19, 21 and 23) of which are odd. This represents a
balanced arrangement. Moreover, the second dozen wagering area
includes six black numbers (13, 15, 17, 20, 22 and 24), three of
which are odd (13, 15 and 17) and the remaining three of which are
even (20, 22 and 24). This represents a balanced arrangement.
[0025] The third dozen wagering area (25-36) of the prior art
roulette game surface arrangement includes six red numbers (25, 27,
30, 32, 34 and 36) and six black numbers (26, 29, 31, 33 and 35).
However of the six red numbers, four are even (30, 32, 34 and 36)
and only two are odd (25 and 27). Moreover, of the six black
numbers in the third dozen wagering area, four are odd (29, 31, 33
and 35) and only two are even (26 and 28). Accordingly, the third
dozen wagering area of the prior art roulette game surface is also
unbalanced with respect to the distribution of red, black, odd and
even numbers.
[0026] In addition to the uneven distribution of red, black, odd
and even numbers on the prior art roulette game surface, it has
been observed that the arrangement of corresponding numbers on the
prior art roulette wheels (both American and European) has a
relationship to various arrangements of colors, odds, evens,
columns and groups on the roulette game surface as set forth
below.
[0027] The relationships among adjacent numbers on the prior art
roulette wheels and their corresponding positions, groupings and
characteristics on the prior art roulette game surface may allow
experienced players to combine bets on red, black, even and odd
numbers, columns and dozen groups to increase the player's chances
of winning. For example in the prior art arrangements, players may
"flower" the wheel by placing bets corresponding to a group of
numbers positioned on the roulette wheel adjacent or in close
proximity to one another. By utilizing progressive betting
techniques and taking advantage of the relationship between the
positions of the numbers on the roulette wheel and the various
betting schemes (red, black, odd, even, column, dozen group) a
professional or experienced player may increase his or her odds of
winning.
[0028] As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 1, the following relationships
exist between the arrangement of numbers on the prior art American
roulette wheel and the corresponding prior art game surface. Moving
clockwise from the double zero (00) house number, the numbers 10
and 25 are adjacent to one another on the wheel and are in the same
column, namely the first column, on the game surface. Numbers 25
and 29 are adjacent to one another on the wheel, are both odd
numbers, are diagonally adjacent to one another on the game surface
and and are in the same group, namely the third dozen wagering
area, on the game surface. Numbers 12 and 8 are adjacent to one
another on the wheel, are both even, are diagonally adjacent to one
another on the game surface, and are both in the same group, namely
the first dozen wagering area, on the game surface. Numbers 19 and
31 are adjacent to one another on the wheel, are both odd and are
in the same column, namely the first column, on the game surface.
Numbers 18 and 6 are adjacent to one another on the wheel, are both
even and are in the same column, namely the third column, on the
game surface.
[0029] Moreover, the three numbers 18, 6 and 21 are arranged
consecutively on the wheel, and all are in the same column, namely
the third column, on the game surface. The numbers 18 and 21 are
also in the same group, the second dozen wagering area, and
adjacent to one another on the game surface (18 is positioned
directly above 21).
[0030] The four numbers 18, 6, 21 and 33 are arranged consecutively
on the wheel, and all are in the same column, namely the third
column, on the game surface. The numbers 18 and 21 are adjacent one
another on the game surface, and 18 and 6 are both even numbers and
adjacent to one another on the wheel. The numbers 21 and 33 are
both odd numbers and adjacent on the wheel. Two of the numbers from
this grouping (18 and 21) are in the second dozen wagering area,
wherein 6 is in the first dozen wagering area and 33 is in the
third wagering area. Accordingly, this grouping of numbers is
unbalanced.
[0031] The numbers 16 and 4 are adjacent to one another on the
wheel, are both even and are in the same column, namely the first
column, on the game surface. The numbers 23 and 35 are adjacent to
one another on the wheel, are both odd and are in the same column,
namely the second column, on the game surface.
[0032] The three numbers 23, 35 and 14 are arranged consecutively
on the wheel, and all three are in the same column, namely the
second column, on the game surface. Two of the numbers from this
group (23, 35) are odd numbers.
[0033] The four numbers 23, 35, 14 and 2 are arranged consecutively
on the wheel and all four are in the same column, namely the second
column of the game surface. Two of the numbers from this grouping
(14 and 23) are in the second dozen wagering area, wherein 2 is in
the first dozen wagering area and 35 is in the third wagering area.
Accordingly, this grouping of numbers is unbalanced.
[0034] The groups of four consecutive numbers on the wheel
consisting of first group 18, 6, 21 and 33, which are all in the
third column on the game surface, and second group 23, 35, 14 and
2, which are all in the second column on the game surface, are only
separated on the prior art wheel by a single pair of adjacent
numbers, 16 and 4. This grouping of ten consecutive numbers on the
prior art American roulette wheel is not balanced by any
corresponding grouping on the other side of the wheel.
[0035] Moving clockwise from the single zero (0) house number of
the prior art American roulette wheel layout shown in FIG. 2, the
numbers 26 and 30 are adjacent to one another on the wheel, are
both even, are both in the third dozen wagering area on the game
surface and are diagonally adjacent on the game surface. The
numbers 11 and 7 are adjacent to one another on the wheel, are both
odd and are both in the first dozen wagering area on the game
surface. The numbers 20 and 32 are adjacent to one another on the
wheel, are both even and are both in the same column, namely column
2, on the game surface.
[0036] The three numbers 20, 32 and 17 are arranged consecutively
on the wheel, and all three are in the same column, namely the
second column, on the game surface. Two of the numbers from this
group (20 and 32) are even numbers. The numbers 20 and 17 are
adjacent to each other on the game surface and both in the second
dozen wagering area. The four numbers 20, 32, 17 and 5 are arranged
consecutively on the wheel, and all four are in the same column,
namely the second column, on the game surface. The numbers 20 and
32 are both even. Two numbers from this grouping (17 and 20) are in
the second dozen wagering area, one number (5) is in the first
dozen wagering area and one number (32) is in the third dozen
wagering area. Accordingly, this grouping of numbers is
unbalanced.
[0037] The numbers 22 and 34 are adjacent to one another on the
wheel, both are even and both are in the same column, namely the
first column, on the game surface. The numbers 15 and 3 are
adjacent to one another on the wheel, both are odd and both are in
the same column, namely the third column, on the game surface.
[0038] The three numbers 15, 3 and 24 are arranged consecutively on
the wheel and are all in the same column, namely the third column,
on the game surface. Two of the numbers (15 and 3) are odd numbers.
The four numbers 15, 3, 24 and 36 are arranged consecutively on the
wheel and all four numbers are in the same column, namely the third
column, on the game surface. Two numbers from this grouping (15 and
24) are in the second dozen wagering area, one number (3) is in the
first dozen wagering area and one number (36) is in the third dozen
wagering area. Accordingly, this grouping of numbers is
unbalanced.
[0039] The groups of four consecutive numbers on the wheel
consisting of first group 20, 32, 17 and 5, which are all in the
second column on the game surface, and second group 15, 3, 24 and
36, which are all in the third column on the game surface, are only
separated on the wheel by a single pair of adjacent numbers, 22 and
34. This grouping of ten consecutive numbers on the prior art
American roulette wheel is not balanced by any corresponding
grouping on the other side of the wheel. In particular, there are
two numbers (13 and 1) between this grouping of ten numbers (20,
32, 17, 5, 22, 43, 15, 3, 24, and 36) and the house number 00,
while the grouping of ten numbers 18, 6, 21, 33, 16, 4, 23, 35, 14
and 2 on the other half of the wheel is adjacent to the house
number 0. Thus the groupings are not balanced or symmetric with
respect to their arrangement on the wheel.
[0040] Additionally, the numbers 13 and 1 are adjacent to one
another on the wheel, are both odd and are in the same column,
namely the first column, on the game surface.
[0041] As shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 1, the following relationships
exist between the arrangement of numbers on the prior art European
roulette wheel and the corresponding prior art game surface. Moving
clockwise from the house number 0, the numbers 15 and 19 are
adjacent to one another on the wheel, are both odd and are both in
the second dozen wagering area on the gaming surface. The numbers 4
and 19 are adjacent to each other on the wheel and are in the same
column, namely the first column on the game surface. The numbers 6
and 27 are adjacent to one another on the wheel and are in the same
column, namely the third column, on the game surface. The numbers 8
and 23 are adjacent to one another on the wheel and are in the same
column, namely the second column, on the game surface.
[0042] Additionally, on the prior art European roulette wheel, the
numbers 10 and 5 are adjacent to one another and both numbers are
in the first dozen wagering area on the game surface. The numbers
16 and 24 are adjacent to one another on the wheel, are both even
and are both in the second dozen wagering area on the game surface.
The numbers 14 and 20 are adjacent to one another on the wheel, are
both even, are both in the second column and are both in the second
dozen wagering area on the game surface.
[0043] The numbers 22 and 18 are adjacent to one another on the
wheel, are both even and are both in the second dozen wagering area
on the game surface. The numbers 7 and 28 are adjacent to one
anther on the wheel and are both in the same column, namely the
first column, on the game surface. The numbers 26 and 32 are
separated only by the house number 0, are both even, are both in
the second column and in the third dozen wagering area of the game
surface.
[0044] Accordingly there exists a need for improved roulette board
game surface and wheel arrangements having a balanced layout
wherein red and black and even and odd numbers are evenly
distributed. Moreover, the need exists for an improved roulette
game surface and wheel arrangement wherein relationships between
adjacent pairs or groups of numbers on the wheel and the
arrangement and characteristics of numbers on the game surface is
eliminated.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0045] A method for arranging indicia on a game surface and on an
associated roulette wheel for a roulette game according to an
embodiment of the invention includes arranging indicia indicating
one or more house numbers on the game surface. Indicia indicating
thirty six whole numbers comprising the numbers 1 through 36 are
arranged on the game surface, wherein one half of the whole numbers
are associated with a first color and a remaining half of the whole
numbers are associated with a second color. The whole numbers are
arranged on the game surface in a matrix of three columns and
twelve rows in ascending order beginning from a top left corner and
proceeding from left to right across the rows.
[0046] The whole numbers are arranged in three groups of twelve
numbers each, a first group comprising the numbers 1 through 12, a
second group comprising the numbers 13 through 24 and a third group
comprising the numbers 25 through 36. Each of said first, second
and third groups comprises three even numbers associated with the
first color, three odd numbers associated with first color, three
even numbers associated with the second color and three odd numbers
associated with the second color.
[0047] Indicia indicating the one or more house numbers are
arranged on the roulette wheel. Indicia indicating each of the
thirty six whole numbers are arranged on the roulette wheel in a
circumferential manner by selecting a first whole number associated
with the first color or the second color and disposed in one of the
three columns and one of the three groups and indicating the first
whole number on the roulette wheel.
[0048] A second whole number associated with another of the first
color or the second color and disposed in another of the three
columns and another of the three groups is selected and indicated
on the roulette wheel adjacent to the first number. This pattern is
repeated on the roulette wheel such that no two adjacent numbers on
the roulette wheel are associated with a same color, are disposed
in a same group on the game surface, are disposed in a same column
on the game surface, are disposed in a same row on the game
surface, or are disposed adjacent one another on the game surface.
Moreover, the numbers are arranged on the roulette wheel such that
each pair of numbers disposed substantially diametrically across
from one another on the roulette wheel is disposed in the same
group on the game surface and in the same column on the game
surface.
[0049] Roulette game apparatuses comprising game surfaces and
roulette wheels conforming to the method are also disclosed.
[0050] An advantage of a method for arranging indicia on a roulette
game surface and on an associated roulette wheel and of roulette
game apparatuses according to embodiments of the invention is that
the relationships between adjacent numbers on the prior art
roulette wheel and their corresponding characteristics and
positions on the prior art game surface are eliminated or
minimized. Accordingly, players using a game surface and roulette
wheel according to embodiments of the invention are unable to take
advantage of the relationship between the positions of the numbers
on the prior art roulette wheel and the betting combinations
available on the prior art game surface to increase their odds of
winning.
[0051] The game surface and wheel arrangements according to
embodiments of the invention achieve fairness, balance and
consistency for the player and casino by providing a perfect
balance of red, black, odd and even numbers on the game surface and
a roulette wheel layout which is matched to a corresponding game
surface or board to eliminate relationships between groups of
numbers on the wheel and betting arrangements on the game
surface.
[0052] A further advantage of a roulette wheel arrangement
according to a method and apparatus of the invention is that an
arrangement may be provided wherein an American and European wheel
for use with a common game surface have substantially the same
arrangement of numbers. This feature may increase player interest,
as players familiar with one of the American or European roulette
wheel arrangement will also be easily familiarized with the other
style wheel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0053] Other benefits and features of the present invention will
become apparent from the following detailed description considered
in connection with the accompanying drawings. It is to be
understood, however, that the drawings are designed as an
illustration only and not as a definition of the limits of the
invention.
[0054] In the drawings, wherein similar reference characters denote
similar elements:
[0055] FIG. 1 shows a prior art game surface for a roulette
game;
[0056] FIG. 2 shows a prior art American wheel arrangement for a
use with the prior art game surface shown in FIG. 1;
[0057] FIG. 3 shows a prior art European wheel arrangement for a
use with the prior art game surface shown in FIG. 1;
[0058] FIG. 4 shows a game surface according to an embodiment of
the invention;
[0059] FIG. 5 shows an American roulette wheel arrangement for use
with the game surface shown in FIG. 4, according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0060] FIG. 6 shows a European roulette wheel arrangement for use
with the game surface shown in FIG. 4, according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0061] FIG. 7 shows another American roulette wheel arrangement for
use with the game surface shown in FIG. 4, according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0062] FIG. 8 shows another European roulette wheel arrangement for
use with the game surface shown in FIG. 4, according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0063] FIG. 9 shows a game surface according to another embodiment
of the invention;
[0064] FIG. 10 shows a European roulette wheel arrangement for use
with the game surface shown in FIG. 9, according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0065] FIG. 11 shows an American roulette wheel arrangement for use
with the game surface shown in FIG. 9, according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0066] FIG. 12 shows a game surface according to another embodiment
of the invention;
[0067] FIG. 13 shows a European roulette wheel arrangement for use
with the game surface shown in FIG. 12, according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0068] FIG. 14 shows an American roulette wheel arrangement for use
with the game surface shown in FIG. 12, according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0069] FIG. 15. shows a game surface according to another
embodiment of the invention;
[0070] FIG. 16 shows an American roulette wheel arrangement for use
with the game surface shown in FIG. 15, according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0071] FIG. 17 shows a European roulette wheel arrangement for use
with the game surface shown in FIG. 15, according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0072] FIG. 18 shows another American roulette wheel arrangement
for use with the game surface shown in FIG. 15, according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0073] FIG. 19 shows another European roulette wheel arrangement
for use with the game surface shown in FIG. 15, according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0074] FIG. 20 shows another American roulette wheel arrangement
for use with the game surface shown in FIG. 15, according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0075] FIG. 21 shows another European roulette wheel arrangement
for use with the game surface shown in FIG. 15, according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0076] FIG. 22 shows another American roulette wheel arrangement
for use with the game surface shown in FIG. 15, according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0077] FIG. 23 shows another European roulette wheel arrangement
for use with the game surface shown in FIG. 15, according to an
embodiment of the invention;
[0078] FIG. 24 shows a game surface according to another embodiment
of the invention;
[0079] FIG. 25 shows a European roulette wheel arrangement for use
with the game surface shown in FIG. 24, according to an embodiment
of the invention;
[0080] FIG. 26 shows a game surface according to another embodiment
of the invention; and
[0081] FIG. 27 shows an American roulette wheel arrangement for use
with the game surface shown in FIG. 26, according to an embodiment
of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0082] In the drawings, numbers and symbols in regular typeface
indicate a first color, for example red. Numbers and symbols in
bold typeface indicate a second color, for example black. Numbers
in an outline type format indicate a third color, for example
green.
[0083] FIGS. 4, 9, 12, 15, 24 and 26 show game surfaces according
to embodiments of the invention. FIGS. 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 13, 14,
16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25 and 27 show roulette wheel
arrangements according to embodiments of the invention. In
particular, FIGS. 5, 6, 7 and 8 show roulette wheel arrangements
suitable for use with the game surface shown in FIG. 4; FIGS. 10
and 11 show roulette wheel arrangements suitable for use with the
game surface shown in FIG. 9; FIGS. 13 and 14 show roulette wheel
arrangements suitable for use with the game surface shown in FIG.
12; FIGS. 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23 show roulette wheel
arrangements suitable for use with the game surface shown in FIG.
15; FIG. 25 shows a roulette wheel arrangement suitable for use
with the game surface shown in FIG. 24; and FIG. 27 shows a
roulette wheel arrangement suitable for use with the game surface
shown in FIG. 26.
[0084] FIGS. 5, 7, 11, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 and 27 show American
style roulette wheel arrangements according to embodiments of the
invention. As shown, the American style wheels have two house
numbers (0 and 00) disposed diametrically opposite one another.
FIGS. 6, 8, 10, 13, 17, 19, 21, 23 and 25 show European style
roulette wheels according to embodiment of the invention. As shown,
the European style wheels include one house number (0).
[0085] As illustrated in FIGS. 4, 9, 12, 15, 24 and 26, game
surfaces according to embodiments of the invention include one or
more house number wagering areas 1 for placing a wager on a house
number. The game surfaces also include an even number wagering area
2 for wagering on the even numbers (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18,
20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34 and 36) and an odd number wagering
area 3 for wagering on the odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15,
17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29, 31, 33 and 35). The game surface
further includes a first color wagering area 4 for wagering on
numbers associated with a first color, for example red, and a
second color wagering area 5 for wagering on numbers associated
with a second color, for example black.
[0086] A game surface according to an embodiment of the invention
further includes a low number wagering area 6 for wagering on the
numbers from 1 to 18 and a high number wagering area 7 for wagering
on the numbers from 19 to 36. A first dozen wagering area 8 for
wagering on the numbers from 1 to 12, a second dozen wagering area
9 for wagering on the numbers from form 13 to 24, and a third dozen
wagering area 10 for wagering on the numbers from 25 to 36 are also
disposed on the game surface.
[0087] Thirty six individual number wagering areas 11, each
corresponding to a whole number from 1 to 36 are arranged on the
game surface. As shown, the thirty six individual number wagering
areas are arranged in ascending order from left to right in a
matrix of three columns and twelve rows.
[0088] As shown in FIGS. 4, 9, 12, 15, 24 and 26, in a game surface
according to an embodiment of the invention, the thirty six
individual whole numbers are evenly distributed in a perfectly
balanced manner wherein nine odd numbers are associated with a
first color (for example red), nine odd numbers are associated with
a second color (for example black), nine even numbers are
associated with a first color (for example red) and nine even
numbers are associated with a second color (for example black).
[0089] Moreover, each of the three columns in a game surface
according to an embodiment of the invention comprises six numbers
associated with the first color and six numbers associated with the
second color. Each of the columns in a game surface according to an
embodiment of the invention comprises six odd numbers and six even
numbers. Each of the columns in a game surface according to an
embodiment of the invention comprises three even numbers associated
with the first color, three even numbers associated with the second
color, three odd numbers associated with the first color and three
odd numbers associated with the second color.
[0090] Additionally, each of the three groups of twelve numbers
corresponding to the first, second and third dozen wagering areas
in a game surface according to an embodiment of the invention
comprises three even numbers associated with the first color, three
even numbers associated with the second color, three odd numbers
associated with the first color and three odd numbers associated
with the second color.
[0091] For example, as shown in the game surface illustrated in
FIG. 4, individual number wagering areas corresponding to numbers
1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 32 and
35 are associated with a first color, and individual number
wagering areas corresponding to numbers 2, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 17,
19, 21, 22, 24, 26, 29, 31, 33, 34 and 36 are associated with a
second color. Likewise, in the game surface embodiment shown in
FIG. 9, individual number wagering areas corresponding to numbers
1, 2, 4, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 16, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 28, 33, 35 and
36 are associated with a first color, and individual number
wagering areas corresponding to numbers 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 15, 17,
18, 19, 20, 22, 27, 29, 30, 31, 32 and 34 are associated with a
second color.
[0092] In the game surface embodiment shown in FIG. 12, individual
number wagering areas corresponding to numbers 1, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12,
14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 29, 32, 34 and 36 are associated
with a first color, and individual number wagering areas
corresponding to numbers 2, 4, 6, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24,
26, 28, 30, 31, 33 and 35 are associated with a second color. In
the game surface embodiment shown in FIG. 15, individual number
wagering areas corresponding to numbers 1, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 18,
20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 30, 32, 33, 34 and 35 are associated with a
first color, and individual number wagering areas corresponding to
numbers 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29,
31 and 36 are associated with a second color.
[0093] In the game surface embodiments shown in FIGS. 24 and 26,
individual number wagering areas corresponding to numbers 1, 3, 4,
8, 11, 12, 13, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 32, 35 and 36 are
associated with a first color, and individual number wagering areas
corresponding to numbers 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 14, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24,
26, 29, 30, 31, 33 and 34 are associated with a second color.
[0094] FIGS. 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21,
22, 23, 25 and 27 show roulette wheel arrangements according to
embodiments of the invention. As shown, each roulette wheel
includes a plurality of pockets 12 disposed in a circumferential
manner, For example the American style wheels shown in FIGS. 5, 7,
11, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 and 27 may have thirty eight pockets and the
European style wheels shown in FIGS. 6, 8, 10, 13, 17, 19, 21, 23
and 25 may have thirty seven pockets.
[0095] Each of the pockets 12 correspond to either a house number
13, 14 (0 for the European wheel, 0 and 00 for the American wheel)
or to one of the whole numbers from 1 to 36. Each of the whole
numbers on the wheel is associated with a first color or a second
color conforming to the association of numbers and colors on a game
surface to be used with the particular wheel.
[0096] According to an embodiment of the invention, the pockets and
corresponding numbers on the roulette wheel are arranged such that
no two adjacent numbers on the roulette wheel are associated with a
same color, are disposed in a same group on an associated game
surface, are disposed in a same column on an associated game
surface, are disposed in a same row on an associated game surface,
or are disposed adjacent one another on an associated game surface.
In terms of the game surface, two adjacent numbers may be
considered as two numbers which are directly above or below one
another (for example 4 and 7), side by side (for example 5 and 6)
or directly diagonal from one another (for example 10 and 8).
[0097] According to a further embodiment of the invention, the
pockets and corresponding numbers on the roulette wheel are
arranged such that each pair of numbers disposed substantially
diametrically across from one another on the roulette wheel is
disposed in the same group on the game surface and in the same
column on the game surface. The phrase substantially diametrically
across from one another refers to numbers which are disposed on the
roulette wheel opposite one another along a diameter of the wheel.
For example, the following pairs of numbers on the roulette wheel
arrangements shown in FIGS. 25 and 27 are considered to be disposed
substantially diametrically across from one another: 33 and 30; 20
and 23; 7 and 10; 32 and 35; 19 and 22; 12 and 3; 31 and 34; 18 and
21; 5 and 2; 36 and 27; 14 and 17; 1 and 4; 26 and 29; 13 and 16; 6
and 9; 25 and 28; 24 and 15; and 11 and 8.
[0098] Moreover, a roulette wheel according to an embodiment of the
invention may be arranged such that all pairs of numbers disposed
substantially diametrically across from one another on the roulette
wheel are also touching each other on a corresponding game board
except for three substantially diametrically opposite pairs, namely
12 and 3; 24 and 15; and 36 and 27.
[0099] As shown in FIG. 5, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a first house number, 22, 11, 36, 13, 2, 28, 21, 8, 33, 20,
31, 18, 7, 32, 12, 23, 34, 3, a second house number, 15, 26, 1, 24,
35, 9, 16, 29, 4, 17, 6, 19, 30, 5, 25, 14, 27 and 10.
[0100] As shown in FIG. 6, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a house number, 15, 26, 1, 24, 35, 9, 16, 29, 4, 17, 6, 19,
30, 5, 25, 14, 27, 10, 3, 22, 11, 36, 13, 2, 28, 21, 8, 33, 20, 31,
18, 7, 32, 12, 23 and 34.
[0101] As shown in FIG. 7, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a first house number, 33, 20, 7, 30, 17, 6, 31, 18, 5, 27,
22, 11, 36, 13, 2, 25, 14, 3 a second house number, 10, 15, 26, 1,
24, 35, 12, 23, 34, 8, 19, 32, 9, 16, 29, 4, 21 and 28.
[0102] As shown in FIG. 8, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a house number, 10, 35, 24, 11, 34, 15, 2, 13, 26, 6, 19,
30, 5, 18, 29, 4, 17, 28, 21, 8, 31, 20, 7, 32, 9, 16, 33, 1, 36,
23, 12, 25, 14, 3, 22, and 27.
[0103] As shown in FIG. 10, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a house number, 34, 12, 19, 26, 15, 2, 27, 4, 17, 1, 30,
23, 10, 21, 32, 13, 8, 36, 7, 33, 20, 25, 18, 11, 22, 35, 6, 28, 3,
14, 31, 24, 5, 16, 29 and 9.
[0104] As shown in FIG. 11, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a first house number, 7, 33, 20, 25, 18, 11, 22, 35, 6, 28,
3, 14, 31, 24, 5, 16, 29, 9, a second house number, 34, 12, 19, 26,
15, 2, 27, 4, 17, 1, 30, 23, 10, 21, 32, 13, 8 and 36.
[0105] As shown in FIG. 13, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a house number, 24, 29, 6, 19, 30, 1, 20, 25, 2, 16, 33,
10, 35, 18, 7, 32, 13, 8, 15, 34, 9, 14, 31, 12, 17, 36, 11, 21,
28, 3, 22, 27, 4, 23, 30 and 5.
[0106] As shown in FIG. 14, the pocket may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a first house number, 15, 34, 9, 14, 31, 12, 17, 36, 11,
21, 28, 3, 22, 27, 4, 23, 30, 5, a second house number, 24, 29, 6,
19, 30, 1, 20, 25, 2, 16, 33, 10, 35, 18, 7, 32, 13, and 8.
[0107] As shown in FIG. 16, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a first house number, 29, 18, 7, 30, 17, 10, 27, 22, 5, 25,
14, 1, 36, 23, 12, 35, 24, 11, a second house number, 26, 13, 2,
33, 16, 9, 28, 21, 4, 32, 19, 8, 15, 34, 3, 20, 31 and 6.
[0108] As shown in FIG. 17, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a house number, 26, 13, 2, 33, 16, 9, 28, 21, 4, 32, 19, 8,
15, 34, 3, 20, 31, 6, 29, 18, 7, 30, 17, 10, 27, 22, 5, 25, 14, 1,
36, 23, 12, 35, 24, and 11.
[0109] As shown in FIG. 18, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a first house number, 29, 18, 5, 34, 17, 10, 27, 22, 3, 25,
14, 1, 26, 21, 4, 35, 24, 11, a second house number, 36, 13, 2, 33,
16, 9, 28, 23, 12, 32, 15, 8, 31, 20, 7, 30, 19 and 6.
[0110] As shown in FIG. 19, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a house number, 36, 13, 2, 33, 16, 9, 28, 23, 12, 32, 15,
8, 31, 20, 7, 30, 19, 6, 29, 18, 5, 34, 17, 10, 27, 22, 3, 25, 14,
1, 26, 21, 4, 35, 24 and 11.
[0111] As shown in FIG. 20, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a first house number, 30, 19, 6, 31, 20, 7, 32, 15, 8, 27,
22, 3, 34, 17, 10, 29, 18, 5, a second house number, 36, 13, 2, 33,
16, 9, 28, 23, 12, 25, 14, 1, 26, 21, 4, 35, 24, and 11.
[0112] As shown in FIG. 21, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a house number, 30, 19, 6, 31, 20, 7, 32, 15, 8, 27, 11,
24, 35, 4, 21, 26, 1, 14, 25, 12, 23, 28, 9, 16, 33, 2, 13, 36, 22,
3, 34, 17, 10, 29, 18 and 5.
[0113] As shown in FIG. 22, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a first house number, 29, 18, 5, 34, 17, 10, 27, 22, 3, 32,
24, 1, 26, 21, 4, 33, 16, 11, a second house number, 36, 13, 2, 25,
14, 9, 28, 23, 12, 35, 15, 8, 31, 20, 7, 30, 19 and 6.
[0114] As shown in FIG. 23, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a house number, 36, 13, 2, 25, 14, 9, 28, 23, 12, 35, 15,
8, 31, 20, 7, 30, 19, 6, 29, 18, 5, 34, 17, 10, 27, 22, 3, 32, 24,
1, 26, 21, 4, 33, 16 and 11.
[0115] As shown in FIG. 25, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a house number, 8, 15, 28, 9, 16, 29, 4, 17, 27, 2, 21, 34,
3, 22, 35, 10, 23, 30, 11, 24, 25, 6, 13, 26, 1, 14, 36, 5, 18, 31,
12, 19, 32, 7, 20, and 33.
[0116] As shown in FIG. 27, the pockets may be arranged in the
following clockwise sequence with respect to a corresponding
number: a first house number, 8, 15, 28, 9, 16, 29, 4, 17, 27, 2,
21, 34, 3, 22, 35, 10, 23, 30, a second house number, 11, 24, 25,
6, 13, 26, 1, 14, 36, 5, 18, 31, 12, 19, 32, 7, 20 and 33.
[0117] A further advantage of an embodiment of the invention is
that roulette wheel arrangements are presented wherein the sequence
of numbers on an American style roulette wheel is substantially the
same as the sequence of numbers on a European style wheel for use
with the same game surface. For example, the sequence of numbers on
the American style wheel shown in FIG. 11 is substantially the same
as the sequence on the European style wheel shown in FIG. 10.
Likewise, the sequence of numbers on the American style wheel shown
in FIG. 14 is substantially the same as the sequence on the
European style wheel shown in FIG. 13; the sequence of numbers on
the American style wheel shown in FIG. 16 is substantially the same
as the sequence on the European style wheel shown in FIG. 17; the
sequence of numbers on the American style wheel shown in FIG. 18 is
substantially the same as the sequence on the European style wheel
shown in FIG. 19; the sequence of numbers on the American style
wheel shown in FIG. 22 is substantially the same as the sequence on
the European style wheel shown in FIG. 23; and the sequence of
numbers on the American style wheel shown in FIG. 27 is
substantially the same as the sequence on the European style wheel
shown in FIG. 25. The only difference in the pairs of wheels is the
placement of the additional house number (00) in the American style
wheels.
[0118] A further advantage of a roulette game surface and wheel
arrangement according to an embodiment of the invention is that the
arrangement of numbers, colors and odd and even numbers is
significantly more balanced than in the prior art arrangements.
[0119] In the prior art arrangements shown in FIGS. 1-3, the sum of
the eight odd black numbers (11, 13, 15, 17, 29, 31, 33 and 35)
equals 184, and the sum of the ten odd red numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9,
19, 21, 23, 25, and 27) equals 140, giving a total of 324 as the
sum of the odd numbers. The sum of the ten even black numbers in
the prior art arrangements shown in FIGS. 1-3 (2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 20,
22, 24, 26, and 28) equals 150 and the sum of the eight even red
numbers (12, 14, 16, 18, 30, 32, 34 and 36) equals 192, giving a
total of 342 as the sum of the even numbers. The sum of the eight
black odd numbers (184) and the ten black even numbers (150) equals
334, while the sum of the ten red odd numbers (140) and the eight
red even numbers (192) is only 332 in the prior art
arrangements.
[0120] In the arrangements shown in FIGS. 24-27, for example, the
sum of the nine odd black numbers (5, 7, 9, 15, 17, 19, 29, 31, and
33) equals 165, and the sum of the nine odd red numbers (1, 3, 11,
13, 21, 23, 25, 27, and 35 ) equals 159, giving a total of 324 as
the sum of the odd numbers. The sum of the nine even black numbers
in the arrangements shown in FIGS. 24-27 (2, 6, 10, 14, 22, 24, 26,
30 and 34) equals 168 and the sum of the nine even red numbers (4,
8, 12, 16, 18, 20, 28, 32 and 36) equals 174, giving a total of 342
as the sum of the even numbers. Additionally, the sum of the nine
black odd numbers (165) and the nine black even numbers (168)
equals 333, which is the same as the sum of the nine red odd
numbers (159) and the nine red even numbers (174). These
relationships are true for both the American and European
arrangements.
[0121] Additionally, in the American wheel arrangement shown in
FIG. 27, the sum of the odd numbers on one side of the wheel
between the 0 and 00 positions (15, 9, 29, 17, 27, 21, 3, 35, and
23) equals 179 and the sum of the even numbers on the same half of
the wheel (8, 28, 16, 4, 2, 34, 22, 10 and 30) is 154, giving a
total of 333. The sum of the odd numbers between the 0 and 00
positions on the opposite side of the wheel (11, 25, 13, 1, 5, 31,
19, 7, and 33) is 145 and the sum of the even numbers on the same
half of the wheel (24, 6, 26, 14, 36, 18, 12, 32, and 20) is 188,
also giving a total of 333. Thus the wheel is perfectly
balanced.
[0122] Moreover, the sum of the numbers between the two house
numbers on one side of American wheel shown in FIG. 22 is exactly
equal to the sum of the numbers between the two house numbers on
the other side of the wheel, 333, evidencing the perfect balance of
numbers on a wheel arrangement according to an embodiment of the
invention.
[0123] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the prior art roulette wheel
arrangements alternate odd and even numbers around the wheel. The
only place on the prior art roulette wheels where two odd numbers
or two even numbers are grouped together is around the house number
(0 or 00). For example, in the prior art American roulette wheel
shown in FIG. 2, the two even numbers 28 and 2 are separated by the
house number 0 and the two odd numbers 27 and 1 are separated by
the house number 00.
[0124] In roulette wheel arrangements according to embodiments of
the invention, however, a pair of adjacent odd numbers and a pair
of adjacent even numbers may be positioned diametrically opposite
one another on the wheel at positions disposed away from the house
number. For example in the wheel shown in FIG. 11, the pair of
adjacent even numbers 28, 6 is located directly opposite the pair
of adjacent odd numbers 1, 17. This arrangement of positioning the
pairs of adjacent even and odd numbers away from the house numbers
allows for more consistent play in wheels according to embodiments
of the invention and eliminates betting strategies involving the
house number (the "green game").
[0125] Accordingly, while several embodiments of the present
invention have been shown and described, it is obvious that many
changes and modifications may be made thereunto without departing
from the spirit and scope of the invention.
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