U.S. patent application number 12/590692 was filed with the patent office on 2011-05-12 for spinner game of chance and skill.
Invention is credited to William B. Faith.
Application Number | 20110111822 12/590692 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43974554 |
Filed Date | 2011-05-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110111822 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Faith; William B. |
May 12, 2011 |
Spinner game of chance and skill
Abstract
A game of chance and skill whereby players deposit credits in
exchange for the ability to spin at least one rotatable spinning
mechanism. The spinning mechanism rotates through a plurality of
zones assigned varying numeric, alphabetic or symbolic values. In a
preferred embodiment, the player is able to exert limited control
over both the positive and negative acceleration of the spinning
mechanism within predetermined parameters. When the spinning
mechanism ceases to spin, the player is awarded the value assigned
to the zone identified by the spinning mechanism. The player may
then continue play in the same manner, redeem earned value, or
exchange the same for a chance to spin a second more advantageous
spinning mechanism. Progressive redemption rates encourage
continued play. Various game limitations may apply to control
length and duration of play.
Inventors: |
Faith; William B.; (Westlake
Village, CA) |
Family ID: |
43974554 |
Appl. No.: |
12/590692 |
Filed: |
November 12, 2009 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
463/17 ;
273/142R; 463/25 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 5/0094 20130101;
A63F 5/04 20130101; A63F 5/045 20130101; A63F 2009/2407
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/17 ; 463/25;
273/142.R |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24; A63F 5/00 20060101 A63F005/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for playing a game of chance and skill, the
apparatus comprising: (a) at least one spinning mechanism divided
into a plurality of zones, wherein each zone is associated with a
game value a player may be awarded; (b) at least one input device
capable of receiving instruction from a player to activate said
spinner mechanism; (c) a display capable of communicating said game
values said player is awarded; (d) and a control unit in
electromagnetic communication with said spinner mechanism(s), said
input device(s), and said display, configured to award said player
game value according to the terminal position of said spinner
mechanism(s).
2. An apparatus as in claim 1, wherein said control unit is
configured to convert said awarded game value into redemption
credit.
3. An apparatus as in claim 2, wherein said control unit is
configured to accord higher redemption rates when said player has
been awarded each member of a predetermined group of game
values.
4. An apparatus as described in claim 3 further comprising the
elements of: (a) a second spinning mechanism divided into a
plurality of zones, wherein each zone is associated with said game
value said player may be awarded; (b) a selection input device
capable of allowing a player to signal a desire to switch play to
said second spinner mechanisms, said second spinning mechanism and
selection input device in electromagnetic communication with said
control unit.
5. An apparatus as described in claim 4, wherein said control unit
is configured to allow said player to initiate said spinner
mechanism an unlimited number of times provided said player
relinquishes a credit prior to each initiation.
6. An apparatus as described in claim 4, wherein said control unit
is configured to allow said player to initiate said spinner
mechanism(s) an unlimited number of times within a predetermined
timeframe.
7. An apparatus as described in claim 4, wherein said control unit
is configured to allow said player to initiate said spinner
mechanism(s) a predetermined number of times within an unlimited
timeframe.
8. An apparatus as described in claim 4, wherein said control unit
is configured to allow said player to initiate said spinner
mechanism(s) an unlimited number of times in an unlimited timeframe
until the terminal position of said spinner mechanism(s) is
associated with a zone indicating the end of game play.
9. A method of playing a game of chance and skill, the method
comprising the steps of: (a) allowing a player to initiate a first
spinner mechanism divided into a plurality of zones; (b) awarding
player game value associated with the zone indicated by the first
spinner mechanism's terminal position; (c) allowing player to
redeem game value for redemption credit.
10. A method as described in claim 9 further comprising the steps
of (a) allowing a player to initiate a second spinning mechanism
divided into a plurality of zones upon satisfying predetermined
criteria.
11. A method as described in claim 10 further comprising the step
of (a) increasing the redemption rate when a player has been
awarded all game values in a predetermined game value group.
12. A method as described in claim 11 further comprising the steps
of: (a) allowing the player to initiate said first spinner
mechanism successive times provided said player deposits additional
credit.
13. A method as described in claim 11 further comprising the steps
of: (a) allowing a player to initiate the said first spinner
mechanism an unlimited number of times within an allotted time
period; (b) ending game upon the expiration of said allotted time
period.
14. A method as described in claim 11 further comprising the step
of: (a) allowing a player to initiate the said first spinner
mechanism a predetermined number of times; (b) ending game upon the
expiration of the predetermined number of initiations.
15. A method as described in claim 11 further comprising the step
of: (a) allowing player to initiate the first spinning mechanism an
unlimited number of times until a game ending zone is indicated by
its terminal position; (b) ending game play.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Present Disclosure
[0001] This disclosure relates generally to games of chance and
skill designed to amuse and entertain. One variety of such games is
the redemption game. A redemption game is one in which a player is
rewarded for luck and/or skill and then may redeem points, tickets,
tokens, or other items in proportion to a players success. A still
further subset of the redemption game involves spinning mechanisms.
A spinning mechanism is essentially a form of amusing mechanical
random generator. It can be constructed in many ways but typically
includes a plurality possible outcomes and a means of indicating
one particular outcome over the rest through the use of rotational
motion of at least one of the various parts that make up the
mechanism.
[0002] Redemption games that involve spinning mechanisms range from
the very simple such as a wheel containing various prizes where the
random outcome indicated by the spinning mechanism is the entire
essence of the game to more complex games involving risk and
strategy such as the game of roulette, where the player may attempt
to predict the outcome of the mechanism, leverage play accordingly,
and be rewarded according to both the mechanism's outcome and the
player's strategy.
[0003] The popularity and success of redemption games involving
spinning mechanisms depend on the game's ability to hold a player's
attention for more than a minimal period of time. Games that are
capable of multiple outcomes, are able to progressively increase
the reward to risk ratio, and/or are able to incorporate both
mental and motor skills typically have greater success at amusing
and entertaining players for greater lengths of time. These
techniques can be implemented through innovative and unique game
design such as creating multiple levels of play as disclosed in
co-owned U.S. application Ser. No. 11/698,733 which is incorporated
herein by reference for all purposes.
[0004] The existing related art disclose games involving spinning
mechanisms where players win value, however, strategy and motor
skills required for play are typically minimal. The present
disclosure distinguishes over the related art providing heretofore
unknown advantages as described in the following summary.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present disclosure includes an apparatus and method for
a game of chance and skill intended to amuse and entertain. The
game apparatus comprises at least a first spinning mechanism
containing a plurality of zones. Each zone is associated with a
game value a player may potentially be awarded. A player may be
awarded the game value associated with the zone indicated by the
spinning mechanism when it reaches its terminal position. This zone
may also be referred to as the zone that the spinning mechanism
"lands on." Upon activating play, a player initiates rotation of
the spinning mechanism and thereafter attempts to influence its
deceleration so as to increase the probability of landing on a zone
associated with a favorable game value. Game value may be
accumulated, risked, and/or redeemed according to the game play
methodology.
[0006] The game play methodology may be controlled by a
programmable control unit. Programming may be provided by the
manufacturer, distributor, or retail level vendor of entertainment.
A single game apparatus may support a single game play methodology
or several different game methodologies. Game methodologies may be
periodically changed through alternate programming and/or in some
embodiments a player may be capable of choosing a preferred game
methodology among several concurrently programmed
methodologies.
[0007] In one embodiment, game play may be time limited. A player
may be given a predetermined amount of time to play the game.
Within the time allotted, a player may be allowed to initiate the
spinning mechanism as many times as possible, accumulating game
value each spin. Upon the expiration of the allotted time, game
play may be terminated. This embodiment may include zones
associated with bonus time. If the spinner mechanism lands on a
zone associated with bonus time, the bonus time may be added to the
allotted time to extend game play. Upon the expiration of time,
game play may be terminated and accumulated game value may be
redeemed. According to programming, this embodiment may allow a
player to deposit additional credit to continue play or may
terminate play and require a player who wishes to continue play to
begin anew.
[0008] In another embodiment, a player may be limited to a
predetermined number of spins. In this embodiment game play may be
untimed and played at a more leisurely pace. Upon the expiration of
the predetermined number of spins, game play may be terminated and
accumulated game value may be redeemed. This embodiment may include
zones associated with the award of additional spins. Awarded
additional spins may be added to the predetermined allotted number
of spins thereby extending the number of spins a player is
allotted. As in the previous embodiment, if a player wishes to
continue play, the player may be allowed to deposit additional
credit and continue or may be required to start anew.
[0009] In still another embodiment, a player may be allowed to
initiate the spinning mechanism an unlimited number of times under
untimed conditions. This unlimited play may continue until the
spinner mechanism lands on a zone associated with the end of game
play. This zone may state "GAME OVER" or a similar message. The
spinning mechanism may have one or more zones that end play. This
embodiment may also include zones associated with an award of a
free life. If a player is awarded the game value of a free life
prior to landing on a zone associated with the end of game play,
the free life may allow player to continue play. Upon termination
of play a player may redeem earned game value.
[0010] In a yet still further embodiment, a player may be allowed
to initiate the spinning mechanism an unlimited number of times
under untimed conditions so long as credit is deposited prior to
each spin. This embodiment may incentivize continued play by
increasing redemption rates. "Redemption rate" refers to the ratio
of game value to redemption value. When redemption rates are
increased a player may receive a greater quantity of redemption
value per unit game value.
[0011] In some embodiments, a player may be capable of redeeming
accumulated game value at any time, whereas in other embodiments
this may only be allowed at specific times such as after game play
is terminated. If a player chooses to redeem accumulated game
value, a player may receive redemption credit in proportion to game
value amassed. Redemption credit may be in the form of tickets,
tokens, coins, prizes, or any other suitable means. The amount of
redemption credit may depend on the game value accumulated and the
redemption rate.
[0012] As previously mentioned, in some embodiments continued play
is encouraged by progressive redemption rates. Redemption rates of
numerical value may depend on play statistics such as the magnitude
of the accumulated value or the number of spins and/or games
initiated by the player. Redemption rates may increase gradually,
stepwise, or by a specific algorithm. In exemplary embodiments,
redemption rates may increase to provide the marginal play
incentive required to offset marginal attention span decreases that
naturally occur through the play continuum.
[0013] The redemption rates of alphabetic, symbolic, and/or
pictorial characters may be static or progressive. Alphabetic
characters may be assigned individual redemption rates and/or
increased group redemption rates as predetermined collections are
attained. Predetermined collections may include spelling designated
words or phrases such as "MONSTER" or "MONSTER CLUB." In some
embodiments, add redemption rates may be greater if the alphabetic
characters are accumulated in a specific order. Additionally,
redemption rates may increase in proportion to the number of
characters in the alphabetic collection, thereby incentivizing a
player to continue play until the larger collections are attained.
(i.e. collecting "MONSTER CLUB" rather than stopping at
"MONSTER").
[0014] Like alphabetic characters, symbolic, and pictorial
characters may be assigned individual redemption rates and/or
increased group redemption rates when complete predetermined
collections of are accumulated. Symbolic and/or pictorial
collections may consist of all characters that portray a similar
characteristic, such as all members of a particular suit of cards
and/or all zones displaying a particular variety of fictional
monster or other class of items. As with alphabetic characters,
particular symbolic and/or pictorial characters may belong to more
than one predetermined collection giving the player multiple
redemption options. Different characters may be displayed to change
the overall theme of the game without departing from the essence of
the game play methodology.
[0015] Game actions such as losing a spin, gaining an additional
and/or credit-free spin, or gaining bonus time may either be
utilized immediately or be delayed for future utilization. In some
embodiments, such game action may be convertible to game value and
redeemed as well.
[0016] The game apparatus may also include a second spinning
mechanism. When a player may initiate the second spinning mechanism
depends on the game methodology. In some embodiments, a zone on the
first spinning mechanism may award a player with the ability to
initiate the second spinning mechanism. In other embodiments, a
player may be required to relinquish a portion of previously
accumulated value in exchange for the chance to initiate the second
spinning mechanism. The value required to initiate the second
spinning mechanism may be a predetermined numerical amount of game
value or a predetermined group of alphabetic, symbolic, and/or
pictorial characters. The quantity of game value that must be
relinquished may also be variable depending of factors such as
length of play and/or accumulated game value. In many embodiments,
the game value required to initiate second level play will vary
indirectly to factors that are indicative of lengthy play. The
value required to initiate the second spinner mechanism may be
altered via programming by the manufacturer, distributor, or the
retail vender of entertainment.
[0017] In many implementations, once initiated, the second spinning
mechanism operates much the same as the first spinning mechanism.
Like the first spinning mechanism, the second spinning mechanism
contains a plurality of zones, each assigned a value. However, in
most embodiments, the magnitude of the assigned values on the
second spinning mechanism are greater than the values on the first
spinning mechanism, making the second spinner play much more
rewarding. Depending on programming and the particular game
methodology, a player may initiate the second spinner when the
player has accumulated sufficient value, accumulated all members of
a predetermined group of characters, or has been awarded a chance
to spin the second spinning mechanism.
[0018] In one embodiment, a player may be capable of initiating the
second spinner mechanism directly by relinquishing a quantity of
credit. The quantity of credit required to bypass first spinner
play may either be a fixed predetermined quantity or a variable
quantity that varies with factors that indicate lengthy play. In
one implementation, the quantity of credit that may be required to
bypass first spinner play is set at a magnitude several times
higher than first spinner play so as to encourage the player to
choose to initiate second spinner play through utilizing first
spinner play.
[0019] In many embodiments, a player may be allowed to influence
the rotational motion of both the first and second spinning
mechanism using variable input controls. In said embodiments, the
spinning mechanism may rotate in proportion to the player's
manipulation of variable input controls. In many embodiments the
variable input controls comprise two levers, one lever to increase
the rate of rotation and another lever to decrease the rate of
rotation.
[0020] In other embodiments, the variable input controls may
consist of a solitary lever, increasing rotational speed when
operated in a first direction and decreasing rotational speed when
operated in a second direction. Programming that governs the
relative responsiveness of the spinning mechanism to the input
control displacement can vary to create an entertaining and
challenging feel. Through skillful manipulation of variable input
controls, a player may attempt to increase the probability of a
more favorable outcome.
[0021] Predetermined parameters may also influence spinner
mechanism rotation. For example, in one embodiment variable input
controls may be prevented from decreasing the rotational speed of
the spinning mechanism until the spinning mechanism first reaches a
predetermined minimum speed. Other parameters may also be utilized
to control the nature of spinner motion without departing from the
spirit of the invention.
[0022] This disclosure teaches certain benefits in construction and
use which give rise to the objectives described below.
[0023] A primary objective inherent in the above described
apparatus and method of use is to provide advantages not taught by
the prior art.
[0024] Another objective is to provide a redemption style game that
utilizes a spinning mechanism in such a way that players are
entertained and amused.
[0025] A further objective is to provide a redemption style game
that utilizes both chance and motor skills in manner that increases
player participation.
[0026] A still further objective is to provide a redemption style
game that provides marginal increases in play incentive so as to
maximize play duration.
[0027] Other features and advantages of the present invention will
become apparent from the following more detailed description, taken
in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by
way of example, the principles of the presently described apparatus
and method of its use.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)
[0028] The accompanying drawings illustrate various exemplary
implementations and are part of the specification. The illustrated
implementations are proffered for purposes of example not for
purpose of limitation. Illustrated elements will be designated by
numbers. Once designated an element will be identified by the
identical number throughout. Illustrated in the accompanying
drawing(s) is at least one of the best mode embodiments of the
present invention. In such drawing(s):
[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
the presently described apparatus;
[0030] FIG. 2 is a plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a
spinner mechanism display;
[0031] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
the control panel;
[0032] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the
presently described apparatus;
[0033] FIG. 5 is a flowchart depicting the game methodology
(Unlimited Play) in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;
[0034] FIG. 6 is a flowchart depicting the a further game
methodology (Time Limited Play) in accordance to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 7 is a flowchart depicting a still further game
methodology (Spin Limited Play) in accordance to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 8 is a flowchart depicting a yet still further game
methodology (Event Limited Play) in accordance to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0037] The above described drawing figures illustrate an exemplary
embodiment of the game apparatus and its method of use in at least
one of its preferred, best mode embodiments, which is further
defined in detail in the following description. Those having
ordinary skill in the art may be able to make alterations and
modifications to what is described herein without departing from
its spirit and scope. Therefore, it must be understood that what is
illustrated is set forth only for the purposes of example and that
it should not be taken as a limitation in the scope of the present
apparatus and method of use.
[0038] Described now in detail is the present game apparatus and
method. FIG. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the
game apparatus 100. The depicted embodiment includes a first and a
second spinning mechanism 105, 110. The second spinning mechanism
is an optional feature that may not be present in all embodiments
of the presently disclosed apparatus and method. In the illustrated
embodiment, the second spinning mechanism 110 is mounted above the
first spinning mechanism 105. This arrangement is a preferred
embodiment, however, side-by-side, diagonal mounting, or even
concentric mounting may be utilized.
[0039] Both the first and second spinning mechanisms 105, 110 are
supported by a housing structure 115. The housing structure 115
provides physical support for the spinning mechanisms 105 and 110
and holds them in an orientation so as to allow a player to view
them with ease. In the exemplary embodiment, the first spinning
mechanism 105 is situated lower than the average players eye level
and slightly reclined for ease of viewing, while the second
spinning mechanism 110 is situated higher than eye level and tilted
forward. Both spinning mechanisms 105 and 110 are arranged with
ease of viewing in mind. However mounted, it is preferred that the
player remain the focal point of the arrangement.
[0040] Located above the first spinning mechanism 105, in the
exemplary embodiment, is a display 115. The display 115 exhibits
game value as it is awarded to the player subsequent each spin. In
some embodiments, the display 112 exhibits game value in the order
that it is acquired. In other embodiments, the acquired characters
may be displayed in their relative position in the predetermined
collection regardless of the order in which they are accumulated.
The display 112 may be mechanical in nature featuring backlit
images of the various characters or it may be electronic, capable
of displaying the appropriate images.
[0041] The housing structure 115 in the illustrated embodiment is
rugged so as to comport with a monster/laboratory theme appearance.
This appearance is not meant to be limiting. Several themes are
possible and the housing structure 115 may be altered accordingly.
The housing structure 115 may be constructed from any material
capable of providing structural support to the spinning mechanisms
105 and 110. Alternatively, the housing structure 115 may be
comprised of a structural unit covered by an aesthetic layer so as
to allow the use of a surface material that lends itself to more
detailed tooling while satisfying the structural requirements.
[0042] The game apparatus 100 also includes a credit acceptor 130.
The credit acceptor 130 allows players to deposit value to begin
play. The credit acceptor 130 is configured to accept the form of
credit utilized by the establishment purveying the entertainment.
Examples of forms of value the credit acceptor 130 may be
configured to receive are: paper currency; coin currency; tokens;
tickets; credit cards; or standard commercial or establishment
specific debit cards. Exemplar not offered for purpose of
limitation. Once the player deposits value, the credit acceptor 130
communicates the event and the quantity of the deposit to a control
unit 410 (See FIG. 4). The control unit 410 records the quantity of
the value deposited and calculates the corresponding quantity of
play credits the value may purchase. The quantity of play credits
is then communicated to the player via an associated credit display
135. As the player activates play, the quantity of play credits may
be reduced accordingly and the remaining balance of play credits
may be displayed on the credit display 135.
[0043] In the exemplary embodiment of the present game apparatus
100, a redemption dispenser 125 is illustrated similarly mounted
and adjacent to credit acceptor 130. The redemption dispenser 125
may dispense redemption credit in proportion to earned game value.
Game value will be redeemed as redemption value upon the player's
request, provided the player has accumulated game value that may be
redeemed. In a similar manner to the value acceptor 130, the
redemption dispenser 125 is configured to dispense the form of
redemption credit the purveying establishment chooses. Tickets or
tokens are among the most common form of redemption credit,
however, paper or coin currency, or commercial or specialty debit
cards are also possible. The location of the credit acceptor 130
and redemption dispenser 125 are not integral to the invention.
FIG. 1 illustrates exemplary locations, however, other locations
and orientations may be utilized. Ergonomic convenience is
preferred.
[0044] FIG. 2 depicts a plan view of an exemplary spinning
mechanism 105 or 110. Many other varieties of spinning mechanism
105, 110 may be utilized, however, the illustrated spinning
mechanism is preferred. Each spinning mechanism 105, 110 comprise a
circular background 200 that is radially divided into a plurality
of zones 210. Each zone 210 is assigned a game value. The game
value may be a numeric character 220 or an alphabetic, symbolic, or
pictorial character 230. In the illustrated embodiment, the
background 200 is populated with numeric characters 220 and playing
cards 225 capable of displaying alphabetic, symbolic, and/or
pictorial characters 230. The spinner mechanisms 105 or 110 further
comprise a pointer 240 that is affixed at one terminus to a gear
250 concentric to the background 200. The gear 250 is mated with a
motor driven pinion 260. Upon activation, the motor driven pinion
260 rotates the gear 250 and thereby causes the opposing terminus
of the pointer 240 to sweep through the plurality of zones 210. In
one embodiment, the pointer 260 stops when the pinion 260 stops
driving the gear 250. The motor that drives the pinion 260 may be a
stepper motor and may slow and stop in proportion to input from the
player via the control unit 410. The control unit 410 may receive
input from the player and reduce the rotation speed of the stepper
motor accordingly. The responsiveness of the stepper motor may be a
function of programmed variables designed to create a particular
feel for the player. In other embodiments, the spinning mechanisms
may slow and stop due to a mechanical brake that may engage the
spinning mechanism. The force with which the brake may engage the
spinning mechanism 105, 110 may be in proportion to the player's
input.
[0045] In an alternative embodiment, the pointer 240 may be affixed
and the background 200 may rotate or, in a further embodiment, both
pointer 240 and background 200 may rotate in like or opposing
directions. The spinning mechanism 105 or 110 set forth in FIG. 2.
is offered as example and not intended as limitation. The essence
of the spinner mechanism 105 or 110 is a device containing a
plurality of outcomes that may materialize in an entertaining and
visual manner.
[0046] The game apparatus 100 further includes a control panel 300.
An exemplary embodiment of the control panel 300 is depicted in
FIG. 3. The control panel 300 contains a start lever 310 and a stop
lever 320. Both the start lever 310 and the stop lever 320 may be
rotatably attached to the game apparatus 100 at one terminus and
designed to accept the hand of the player on the opposing terminus.
Each lever 310, 320 may be capable of creating variable input
signals unique to the lever 310, 320 position. Upon activation of
the spinning mechanism 105, 110, the start lever 310 may deliver a
variable input signal to the control unit 410 which may accelerate
the appropriate spinner mechanism 105 or 110 in proportion to the
players manipulation of the start lever 310. After a predetermined
rotational speed has been reached, the spinning mechanism 105 or
110 will decelerate in proportion to the players manipulation of
the stop lever 320. Allowing the player to influence the spinning
mechanism 105 or 110 action increases player participation and
entertainment value, thereby leading to longer play duration. In an
economy embodiment, the game apparatus 100 may include only one
lever which may act as a start lever 310 when displaced in a first
direction and a stop lever 320 when displaced in a second
direction.
[0047] In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the
control panel 300 may contain a push button style selector device
330 that allows the player to signal a desire to switch play from
the first spinning mechanism 105 to the second spinning mechanism
110. The push button style selector device 330 is an exemplary
embodiment. There are a variety of input devices that can be
utilized. Upon activating the selector device 330, a signal is
transmitted to the control unit 410. The control unit 410 will
subsequently determine if the player has achieved the ability to
initiate second spinner play. As previously indicated, second
spinner play may be initiated when a player has accumulated a
predetermined number of numerical game value, accumulated a
predetermined quantity or collection of characters, alphabetic,
symbolic, or pictorial, or accumulated a special game privilege
such as a free spin award.
[0048] Upon confirmation that the player has achieved the ability
to initiate the second spinner 110, the control unit 410 will
subtract the predetermined quantity of game value or play credit
from player's total or deduct an accumulated game privilege. The
quantity and variety of value required to activate second spinner
play may depend on the game methodology, previous duration of play,
the total quantity of game value achieved or some other progressive
factors. Once initiated, the player may influence the rotational
motion of the second spinning mechanism 110 using the start and
stop levers 310, 320 in a similar manner utilized to initiate first
spinner 105 play.
[0049] The control panel 300 may further contain a redemption
selector 370. In the exemplary embodiment the redemption selector
370 is also a push button style device, however, as mentioned
above, alternative style devices may be utilized. The redemption
selector 370 is capable of communicating a players desire to redeem
accumulated value to the control unit 410. The control unit 410
will subsequently apply the appropriate redemption rate to the
player's accumulated game value and instruct the redemption
dispenser 125 to dispense the appropriate quantity of redemption
credit. In some embodiments activating the redemption selector 370
may only be allowed upon termination of play or may terminate play.
In other embodiments, accumulated game value may be redeemed at any
time and play may continue according to the particular game
methodology.
[0050] Other features of the control panel 300 include a pair of
bonus round selectors 380 that allow the player to activate various
bonus scenarios. Bonus scenarios may be initiated when a player has
achieved the predetermined prerequisites. Additionally the control
panel 300 displays various game statistics through displays 340,
350, 360. In the exemplary illustration, FIG. 3, these include a
digital display that communicates the rotational speed of the
activated spinning mechanism 105, 110 in rotations per minute
(R.P.M.'s) 340, a digital display communicating the number of
characters collected 345, a digital display communicating the
collected game value 350, and a digital display communicating the
number of play credits 360 the player has remaining. The exemplary
illustration is not intended to be limiting, alternative
embodiments may display alternative game related information.
[0051] FIG. 4 is a block diagram representing the basic components
of an exemplary embodiment of the presently disclosed game
apparatus 100. Other embodiments may include additional components
or combine component functions to reduce component numbers. The
block diagram shows the control unit 410 in electronic
communication (hardwired, wireless, or otherwise) with the various
input sources of the control panel 300. These components include a
start lever 320, a stop lever 310, a spinning selector device 330,
a redemption selector 370, two bonus selectors 380, and a display
112. These input devices may take on a variety of forms without
departing from the nature of the disclosure. The presently
disclosed embodiment is for example and is not meant to be
limiting.
[0052] Additionally, the control unit 410 is in electronic
communication with and the motors that drive the first spinning
mechanism 105 and optional second spinning mechanism 110. In one
embodiment, the motors may be a stepper motors capable of operating
at multiple speeds. When a player manipulates the start lever 320,
the control unit 410 may receive an input signal from the start
lever 320 and may instruct the motor that drives the appropriate
spinning mechanism to activate. Likewise, when a player manipulates
the stop lever, the control unit may receive a signal, and in turn,
communicate to the appropriate motor to slow or stop.
[0053] FIG. 5 is a flowchart depicting the unlimited play game
methodology in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention. The methodology begins with the control unit 410
confirming whether the player has sufficient game credit 500. Game
credit may be obtained by depositing value into the game credit
acceptor 130 or in some embodiments game credit may be won during
play. If the player does not have enough game credit to begin play
more credit may be solicited 510. If sufficient credit has been
deposited or is otherwise available the player may initiate the
first spinning mechanism 520. The first spinning mechanism rotates,
slows, and stops as previously described and the zone indicated by
its terminal position may then be identified 530 and displayed 540.
Characters that are members of predetermined groups may be
displayed on the game display 112 depicted in FIG. 1. Numerical
values may be reflected in updated game value totals.
[0054] At this point in the unlimited play methodology, a player
may have the choice to continue play 550 or end play and redeem
accumulated game value 560. If a player chooses to continue play,
the control unit 410 will again determine if the player has
sufficient credit to continue 500. If the game apparatus includes
an optional second spinning mechanism 110, the player may choose to
initiate this mechanism at some point during play 575. When a
player may initiate the second spinner mechanism may vary. In some
embodiments a player may initiate the second spinning mechanism 110
when awarded the opportunity through landing on a special zone
during first spinner play. Other embodiments may allow second
spinner play upon accumulating sufficient game value or
accumulating all characters in a predetermined group. Whatever the
criteria may be, if a player chooses to initiate the second
spinning mechanism the control unit 410 will first determine if the
criteria has been met. Upon confirming the criteria has been met
the control unit 410 will allow the player to initiate the second
spinning mechanism 110, determine the zone indicated by its
terminal position 590, and display the awarded game value 595. At
this point in the unlimited play methodology the player has the
choice once again to continue play 550 or redeem value and
terminate play 560. Game play is only bounded by the players
attention span. Marginal increases in redemption rates may be
implemented to maximize play duration.
[0055] FIG. 6 is a flowchart depicting time limited play game
methodology in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention. The time limited play methodology includes the
step of initiating a time clock 600 prior to initiating the first
spinning mechanism 105. Once the time clock is initiated 600, a
player may enjoy unlimited play until the time runs out. The amount
of time allotted may be programmed by the manufacturer,
distributor, or retail vendor of entertainment. In embodiments that
include an optional second spinning mechanism 110, second spinner
play may also be allowed during the allotted time, however, there
may exist additional requirements to initiating the second spinner
mechanism 110. The control unit will determine whether the player
has met the additional requirements criteria prior to allowing
second spinner play 580. Upon the expiration of the allotted time
game play is over 610 and a player must redeem accumulated game
value 560.
[0056] FIG. 7 is a flowchart depicting the spin limited game play
methodology in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention. Spin limited game play is very similar to time
limited play except a player is allotted a set number of spins 700
rather than a set amount of time. After each initiation of the
first spinning mechanism 105, the allotted number is reduced. Prior
to initiating either the first or second spinning mechanism there
exist a step of determining if the player's allotted spins have
been exhausted 710. Upon expiration of a players spins game play is
terminated and game value may be redeemed 560.
[0057] FIG. 8 is a flowchart depicting the event limited play
methodology. In event limited play methodology a player is allowed
unlimited, untimed play until a zone stating "GAME OVER" or a
similar message is landed on, at which point play is terminated
800. A player may then redeem game value 560. Both the first and
second spinning mechanism 105, 110 may contain game ending
zones.
[0058] The enablements described in detail above are considered
novel over the prior art of record and are considered critical to
the operation of at least one aspect of the apparatus and its
method of use and to the achievement of the above described
objectives. The words used in this specification to describe the
instant embodiments are to be understood not only in the sense of
their commonly defined meanings, but to include by special
definition in this specification: structure, material or acts
beyond the scope of the commonly defined meanings. Thus if an
element can be understood in the context of this specification as
including more than one meaning, then its use must be understood as
being generic to all possible meanings supported by the
specification and by the word or words describing the element.
[0059] The definitions of the words or drawing elements described
herein are meant to include not only the combination of elements
which are literally set forth, but all equivalent structure,
material or acts for performing substantially the same function in
substantially the same way to obtain substantially the same result.
In this sense it is therefore contemplated that an equivalent
substitution of two or more elements may be made for any one of the
elements described and its various embodiments or that a single
element may be substituted for two or more elements in a claim.
[0060] Changes from the claimed subject matter as viewed by a
person with ordinary skill in the art, now known or later devised,
are expressly contemplated as being equivalents within the scope
intended and its various embodiments. Therefore, obvious
substitutions now or later known to one with ordinary skill in the
art are defined to be within the scope of the defined elements.
This disclosure is thus meant to be understood to include what is
specifically illustrated and described above, what is conceptually
equivalent, what can be obviously substituted, and also what
incorporates the essential ideas.
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