U.S. patent application number 13/404723 was filed with the patent office on 2012-08-30 for gaming terminal with an adjustable display.
This patent application is currently assigned to WMS Gaming Inc.. Invention is credited to Michael R. Bytnar, Frank E. Rodriguez.
Application Number | 20120220363 13/404723 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46719351 |
Filed Date | 2012-08-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120220363 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bytnar; Michael R. ; et
al. |
August 30, 2012 |
GAMING TERMINAL WITH AN ADJUSTABLE DISPLAY
Abstract
A gaming terminal for playing a wagering game includes an input
device configured to receive a wager to play the wagering game, a
support cabinet, a rocker base connected to the support cabinet,
and a primary display device coupled to the rocker base. The
primary display device includes an electronic graphical display
screen operable to display the wagering game. The primary display
device and the rocker base are configured to be movable to a
plurality of different display positions relative to the support
cabinet. The plurality of different display positions are along a
common arc defined by the rocker base.
Inventors: |
Bytnar; Michael R.;
(Naperville, IL) ; Rodriguez; Frank E.; (Chicago,
IL) |
Assignee: |
WMS Gaming Inc.
Waukegan
IL
|
Family ID: |
46719351 |
Appl. No.: |
13/404723 |
Filed: |
February 24, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61549028 |
Oct 19, 2011 |
|
|
|
61447424 |
Feb 28, 2011 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/25 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/3213 20130101;
G07F 17/3227 20130101; G07F 17/3216 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/25 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Claims
1. A gaming terminal for playing a wagering game, the gaming
terminal comprising: an input device configured to receive a wager
to play the wagering game; a support cabinet; a rocker base
connected to the support cabinet; and a primary display device
coupled to the rocker base, the primary display device including an
electronic graphical display screen operable to display the
wagering game, the primary display device and the rocker base
configured to be movable to a plurality of different display
positions relative to the support cabinet, the plurality of
different display positions being along a common arc defined by the
rocker base.
2. The gaming terminal of claim 1, further comprising a mounting
plate, the mounting plate fixed to the rocker base, the primary
display device mounted to the mounting plate.
3. The gaming terminal of claim 1, wherein said common arc is an
elliptical arc.
4. The gaming terminal of claim 1, wherein the rocker base is
connected to the support cabinet via a roller connection.
5. The gaming terminal of claim 4, wherein the roller connection
includes a plurality of rotating elements connected to one or more
fixed supports extending from the support cabinet, and wherein the
rocker base includes one or more elongated arc-shaped track
supports, the rotating elements engaging the one or more elongated
arc-shaped track supports.
6. The gaming terminal of claim 5, wherein the rotating elements
include one or more rollers.
7. The gaming terminal of claim 5, wherein the rotating elements
include one or more drive gears.
8. The gaming terminal of claim 5, wherein rocker base includes two
elongated arc-shaped track supports.
9. The gaming terminal of claim 1, further comprising a locking
device configured to fix the primary display device and the rocker
base in one of the plurality of different display positions.
10. The gaming terminal of claim 9, wherein the rocker base
includes an arc-shaped support having at least one aperture, the
locking device including a locking pin configured to extend through
the aperture.
11. The gaming terminal of claim 9, wherein the rocker base
includes an arc-shaped support, the locking device configured to
frictionally engage an arc-shaped support.
12. The gaming terminal of claim 1, wherein the plurality of
different display positions for the primary display device includes
positions extending from a generally upright position to a
generally horizontal position.
13. The gaming terminal of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality
of different display positions are associated with a different game
state during play of the wagering game.
14. The gaming terminal of claim 12, further comprising a driving
mechanism configured to automate changing the primary display
device between the generally upright position and the generally
horizontal position.
15. The gaming terminal of claim 1, wherein the rocker base is
connected to the support cabinet via a sliding connection.
16. The gaming terminal of claim 15, wherein the sliding connection
includes an arc-shaped track at least partially defined within an
upper portion of the support cabinet and an elongated arc-shaped
rail connected to the rocker base, the elongated arc-shaped rail
having a curvature similar to the arc-shaped track such that the
elongated arc-shaped rail slidingly engages the arc-shaped
track.
17. The gaming terminal of claim 15, wherein the sliding connection
includes a pin extending from the support cabinet, the pin
extending through an elongated arc-shaped aperture defined by the
rocker base.
18. The gaming terminal of claim 16, wherein the rocker base
includes two elongated arc-shaped rails.
19. A gaming terminal for playing a wagering game, the gaming
terminal comprising: an user interface including an input device
for receiving a wager to play the wagering game; a support cabinet;
a rocker base attached to the support cabinet; and a primary
display coupled to the rocker base, the primary display including a
lower edge and an electronic graphical display screen operable to
display information, the user interface abutting the lower edge of
the primary display, the primary display and the rocker base
configured to be movable to a plurality of different display
positions relative to the support cabinet during play of the
wagering game, the plurality of different display positions being
along a common arc defined by the rocker base.
20. The gaming terminal of claim 19, further comprising a secondary
display positioned above the primary display, wherein one of the
plurality of different display positions for the primary display
includes a generally upright position, the primary display in the
generally upright position abutting the secondary display.
21. The gaming terminal of claim 19, further comprising a secondary
display positioned above the primary display, the secondary display
being adjustable to a plurality of viewing positions, the secondary
display being in a generally vertical viewing position in response
to the primary display being in a generally upright position.
22. The gaming terminal of claim 19, further comprising a secondary
display positioned above the primary display, the secondary display
being adjustable to a plurality of viewing positions, the secondary
display moving from a generally vertical viewing position toward a
generally downward viewing position in response to the primary
display moving from a generally upright position to a generally
horizontal position.
23. The gaming terminal of claim 19, wherein the user interface
includes a flat panel that is generally horizontal in response to
the primary display being in a generally upright position.
24. The gaming terminal of claim 19, where the user interface
includes a flat panel configured to tilt downwardly at an interface
between the user interface and the primary display, the flat panel
tilting downwardly from a generally horizontal position in response
to the primary display moving from a generally upright position to
a generally horizontal position.
25. The gaming terminal of claim 19, further comprising a
processing unit configured to receive player-characteristic
information from at least one sensor coupled to the support
cabinet, the processing unit configured to adjust the position of
the primary display based on the received player-characteristic
information.
26. The gaming terminal of claim 19, further comprising an operator
seat positioned on a viewing side of the primary display, the
operator seat configured to horizontally slide in a direction
generally perpendicular to the support cabinet and the viewing side
of the primary display such that the operator seat is configured to
move toward and away from the primary display, wherein the operator
seat slides away from the support cabinet in response to the
primary display moving from a generally upright position to a
generally horizontal position.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is related to and claims the benefits of
U.S. Patent Application No. 61/447,424, filed Feb. 28, 2011, and
U.S. Patent Application No. 61/549,028, filed Oct. 19, 2011, which
are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their
entireties.
COPYRIGHT
[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright
owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of
the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark
Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all
copyright rights whatsoever.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0003] The present invention relates generally to a wagering game
machines and gaming systems, and more particularly, to displays for
wagering games and gaming terminals with an adjustable display.
BACKGROUND
[0004] Gaming machines, such as slot machines, video poker machines
and the like, have been a cornerstone of the gaming industry for
several years. Generally, the popularity of such machines with
players is dependent on the likelihood (or perceived likelihood) of
winning money at the machine and the intrinsic entertainment value
of the machine relative to other available gaming options.
[0005] Many gaming machines include a variety of visual attractions
and displays, such as models, signs, and other forms of
information. These items typically include fixed
permanently-printed glass, video displays, artwork, models, and/or
marquees. In many gaming regions, regulations provide for gaming
terminals to include top-box mounted lighting and signage that
indicate, for example, the class of machine, when the machine is of
out of funds, or when the machine is malfunctioning.
[0006] Historically, gaming machines have been limited to a single
game with a dedicated top box display and top-box mounted
flat-screen display or marquee assembly. In most configurations,
the gaming machine's various display devices are rigidly mounted to
the cabinet in a fixed location for all modes of game play.
SUMMARY
[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a gaming
terminal for playing a wagering game includes an input device
configured to receive a wager to play the wagering game, a support
cabinet, a rocker base connected to the support cabinet, and a
primary display device coupled to the rocker base. The primary
display device includes an electronic graphical display screen
operable to display the wagering game. The primary display device
and the rocker base are configured to be movable to a plurality of
different display positions relative to the support cabinet. The
plurality of different display positions are along a common arc
defined by the rocker base.
[0008] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
gaming terminal for playing a wagering game includes a user
interface having an input device for receiving a wager to play the
wagering game. The gaming terminal further includes a support
cabinet, a rocker base attached to the support cabinet, and a
primary display coupled to the rocker base. The primary display
includes a lower edge and an electronic graphical display screen
operable to display information. The user interface abuts the lower
edge of the primary display. The primary display and the rocker
base are configured to be movable to a plurality of different
display positions relative to the support cabinet during play of
the wagering game. The plurality of different display positions are
along a common arc defined by the rocker base.
[0009] Additional aspects of the invention will be apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the detailed
description of various aspects of the present disclosure, which is
made with reference to the drawings, a brief description of which
is provided below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1A is a perspective-view illustration of an example of
an upright free-standing gaming terminal in accordance with aspects
of the present disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 1B is a perspective-view illustration of an example of
a slant-top free-standing gaming terminal in accordance with
aspects of the present disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary gaming system
according to aspects of the present disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 3 is a screen shot of a basic-game screen from an
exemplary wagering game that can be played, for example, on the
gaming terminals of FIG. 1A or 1B or the gaming system of FIG.
2.
[0014] FIG. 4 is a screen shot of a bonus-game screen from an
exemplary wagering game that can be played, for example, on the
gaming terminals of FIG. 1A or 1B or the gaming system of FIG.
2.
[0015] FIGS. 5 and 6 are perspective-view illustrations of
exemplary gaming terminals with adjustable display devices in
accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a perspective-view illustration of an exemplary
gaming terminal supporting different adjustable display devices in
accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.
[0017] FIGS. 8 and 9 are perspective-view illustrations of
exemplary gaming terminals with adjustable display device in
accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.
[0018] FIGS. 10A and 10B are side-view illustrations of exemplary
gaming terminals with adjustable primary and secondary display
devices in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.
[0019] FIGS. 11A-11C are perspective-view illustrations of
exemplary banks of gaming terminals with adjustable primary and
secondary display devices in accordance with aspects of the present
disclosure.
[0020] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way
of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein.
It should be understood, however, that the invention is not
intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather,
the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and
alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention
as defined by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many
different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be
described in detail preferred embodiments of the invention with the
understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an
exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not
intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the
embodiments illustrated.
[0022] Referring to FIG. 1A, there is shown a gaming terminal 10
similar to those used in gaming establishments, such as casinos.
With regard to the present disclosure, the gaming terminal 10 may
be any type of gaming terminal and may have varying structures and
methods of operation. For example, in some aspects, the gaming
terminal 10 is be an electromechanical gaming terminal configured
to play mechanical slots, whereas in other aspects, the gaming
terminal is an electronic gaming terminal configured to play a
video casino game, such as slots, keno, poker, blackjack, roulette,
craps, etc. It should be understood that although the gaming
terminal 10 is shown as a free-standing terminal of the upright
type, the gaming terminal is readily amenable to implementation in
a wide variety of other forms such as a free-standing terminal of
the slant-top type, such as the terminal 100 of FIG. 1B, a portable
or handheld device primarily used for gaming, such as is disclosed
by way of example in PCT Patent Application No. PCT/US2007/000792
filed Jan. 11, 2007, titled "Handheld Device for Wagering Games,"
which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, a mobile
telecommunications device such as a mobile telephone or personal
digital assistant (PDA), a counter-top or bar-top gaming terminal,
or other personal electronic device, such as a portable television,
MP3 player, entertainment device, etc.
[0023] The gaming terminal 10 illustrated in FIG. 1A comprises a
cabinet or housing 12. For output devices, this embodiment of the
gaming terminal 10 includes a primary display area 14, a secondary
display area 16, and one or more audio speakers 18. The primary
display area 14 and/or secondary display area 16 variously displays
information associated with wagering games, non-wagering games,
community games, progressives, advertisements, services, premium
entertainment, text messaging, emails, alerts or announcements,
broadcast information, subscription information, etc. appropriate
to the particular mode(s) of operation of the gaming terminal. For
input devices, the gaming terminal 10 illustrated in FIG. 1A
includes a bill validator 20, a coin acceptor 22, one or more
information readers 24, one or more player-input devices 26, and
one or more player-accessible ports 28 (e.g., an audio output jack
for headphones, a video headset jack, a wireless
transmitter/receiver, etc.). While these typical components found
in the gaming terminal 10 are described below, it should be
understood that numerous other peripheral devices and other
elements exist and are readily utilizable in any number of
combinations to create various forms of a gaming terminal in accord
with the present concepts.
[0024] The primary display area 14 include, in various aspects of
the present concepts, a mechanical-reel display, a video display,
or a combination thereof in which a transmissive video display is
disposed in front of the mechanical-reel display to portray a video
image in superposition over the mechanical-reel display. Further
information concerning the latter construction is disclosed in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,517,433 to Loose et al. entitled "Reel Spinning Slot
Machine With Superimposed Video Image," which is incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety. The video display is, in
various embodiments, a cathode ray tube (CRT), a high-resolution
liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display, a light emitting
diode (LED), a DLP projection display, an electroluminescent (EL)
panel, or any other type of display suitable for use in the gaming
terminal 10, or other form factor, such as is shown by way of
example in FIG. 1A. The primary display area 14 includes, in
relation to many aspects of wagering games conducted on the gaming
terminal 10, one or more paylines 30 (see FIG. 3) extending along a
portion of the primary display area. In the illustrated embodiment
of FIG. 1A, the primary display area 14 comprises a plurality of
mechanical reels 32 and a video display 34, such as a transmissive
display (or a reflected image arrangement in other embodiments), in
front of the mechanical reels 32. If the wagering game conducted
via the gaming terminal 10 relies upon the video display 34 only
and not the mechanical reels 32, the mechanical reels 32 are
optionally removed from the interior of the terminal and the video
display 34 is advantageously of a non-transmissive type. Similarly,
if the wagering game conducted via the gaming terminal 10 relies
only upon the mechanical reels 32, but not the video display 34,
the video display 34 depicted in FIG. 1A is replaced with a
conventional glass panel. Further, in still other embodiments, the
video display 34 is disposed to overlay another video display,
rather than a mechanical-reel display, such that the primary
display area 14 includes layered or superimposed video displays. In
yet other embodiments, the mechanical-reel display of the
above-noted embodiments is replaced with another mechanical or
physical member or members such as, but not limited to, a
mechanical wheel (e.g., a roulette game), dice, a pachinko board,
or a diorama presenting a three-dimensional model of a game
environment.
[0025] Video images in the primary display area 14 and/or the
secondary display area 16 are rendered in two-dimensional (e.g.,
using Flash Macromedia.TM.) or three-dimensional graphics (e.g.,
using Renderware.TM.). In various aspects, the video images are
played back (e.g., from a recording stored on the gaming terminal
10), streamed (e.g., from a gaming network), or received as a TV
signal (e.g., either broadcast or via cable) and such images can
take different forms, such as animated images, computer-generated
images, or "real-life" images, either prerecorded (e.g., in the
case of marketing/promotional material) or as live footage. The
format of the video images can include any format including, but
not limited to, an analog format, a standard digital format, or a
high-definition (HD) digital format.
[0026] The player-input or user-input device(s) 26 include, by way
of example, a plurality of buttons 36 on a button panel, as shown
in FIG. 1A, a mouse, a joy stick, a switch, a microphone, and/or a
touch screen 38 mounted over the primary display area 14 and/or the
secondary display area 16 and having one or more soft touch keys
40, as is also shown in FIG. 1A. In still other aspects, the
player-input devices 26 comprise technologies that do not rely upon
physical contact between the player and the gaming terminal, such
as speech-recognition technology, gesture-sensing technology,
eye-tracking technology, etc. The player-input or user-input
device(s) 26 thus accept(s) player input(s) and transforms the
player input(s) to electronic data signals indicative of a player
input or inputs corresponding to an enabled feature for such
input(s) at a time of activation (e.g., pressing a "Max Bet" button
or soft key to indicate a player's desire to place a maximum wager
to play the wagering game). The input(s), once transformed into
electronic data signals, are output to a CPU or controller 42 (see
FIG. 2) for processing. The electronic data signals are selected
from a group consisting essentially of an electrical current, an
electrical voltage, an electrical charge, an optical signal, an
optical element, a magnetic signal, and a magnetic element.
[0027] The information reader 24 (or information reader/writer) is
preferably located on the front of the housing 12 and comprises, in
at least some forms, a ticket reader, card reader, bar code
scanner, wireless transceiver (e.g., RFID, Bluetooth, etc.),
biometric reader, or computer-readable-storage-medium interface. As
noted, the information reader may comprise a physical and/or
electronic writing element to permit writing to a ticket, a card,
or computer-readable-storage-medium. The information reader 24
permits information to be transmitted from a portable medium (e.g.,
ticket, voucher, coupon, casino card, smart card, debit card,
credit card, etc.) to the information reader 24 to enable the
gaming terminal 10 or associated external system to access an
account associated with cashless gaming, to facilitate player
tracking or game customization, to retrieve a saved-game state, to
store a current-game state, to cause data transfer, and/or to
facilitate access to casino services, such as is more fully
disclosed, by way of example, in U.S. Patent Publication No.
2003/0045354, published on Mar. 6, 2003, entitled "Portable Data
Unit for Communicating With Gaming Machine Over Wireless Link,"
which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The
noted account associated with cashless gaming is, in some aspects
of the present concepts, stored at an external system 46 (see FIG.
2) as more fully disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,280,328 to Holch et
al. entitled "Cashless Computerized Video Game System and Method,"
which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, or is
alternatively stored directly on the portable storage medium.
Various security protocols or features can be used to enhance
security of the portable storage medium. For example, in some
aspects, the individual carrying the portable storage medium is
required to enter a secondary independent authenticator (e.g.,
password, PIN number, biometric, etc.) to access the account stored
on the portable storage medium.
[0028] Referring now to FIG. 1B, an exemplary gaming terminal or
machine 100 of the "slant-top" type is shown in accord with at
least some aspects of the disclosed concepts. Although differing in
appearance, the gaming terminal 100 can be similar in function,
operation, and connectivity to the gaming terminal 10 discussed
above with respect to FIG. 1A. For instance, the gaming terminal
100 may be an electromechanical gaming terminal configured, for
example, to play mechanical slots, or it may be an electronic
gaming terminal configured, for example, to play a video casino
game, such as keno, poker, slots, blackjack, roulette, or
combinations thereof. The illustrated gaming terminal 100 comprises
a cabinet 112 for housing and/or supporting a variety of
operational and peripheral componentry (e.g., CPU 42, memory 44,
external systems interface 58, etc.). For output devices, the
gaming terminal 100 includes a primary display area (or "first
display device") 114, an optional secondary display area (or
"second display device") 116, and one or more audio speakers 118.
These display devices 114, 116 can take on any of the possible
types, include any of the optional features, and can operate in any
manner described above with respect to the various displays of the
gaming machine 10 of FIG. 1A. For input devices, the gaming
terminal 100 may include, in any combination, a bill-receiving and
validating device 120, a coin acceptor, one or more information
readers 124, one or more player-input devices 126, and one or more
player-accessible ports (e.g., an audio output jack for headphones,
a video headset jack, an internet cable jack, a wireless
transmitter/receiver, etc.). While these typical components found
in the gaming terminal 100 are described above, it should be
understood that numerous additional/alternative peripheral devices
and other elements may exist and may be used in any number of
combinations to create various forms of a gaming terminal.
[0029] Turning now to FIG. 2, the various components of the gaming
terminal 10 are controlled by one or more processors (e.g., CPU,
distributed processors, etc.) 42, also referred to herein generally
as a controller (e.g., microcontroller, microprocessor, etc.). The
controller 42 can include any suitable processor(s), such as an
Intel.RTM. Pentium processor, Intel.RTM. Core 2 Duo processor, AMD
Opteron.TM. processor, or UltraSPARC.RTM. processor. By way of
example, the controller 42 includes a plurality of microprocessors
including a master processor, a slave processor, and a secondary or
parallel processor. Controller 42, as used herein, comprises any
combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware disposed in
and/or disposed outside of the gaming terminal 10 that is
configured to communicate with and/or control the transfer of data
between the gaming terminal 10 and a bus, another computer,
processor, or device and/or a service and/or a network. The
controller 42 comprises one or more controllers or processors and
such one or more controllers or processors need not be disposed
proximal to one another and may be located in different devices
and/or in different locations. For example, a first processor is
disposed proximate a user interface device (e.g., a push button
panel, a touch screen display, etc.) and a second processor is
disposed remotely from the first processor, the first and second
processors being electrically connected through a network. As
another example, the first processor is disposed in a first
enclosure (e.g., a gaming machine) and a second processor is
disposed in a second enclosure (e.g., a server) separate from the
first enclosure, the first and second processors being
communicatively connected through a network. The controller 42 is
operable to execute all of the various gaming methods and other
processes disclosed herein.
[0030] To provide gaming functions, the controller 42 executes one
or more game programs comprising machine-executable instructions
stored in local and/or remote computer-readable data storage media
(e.g., memory 44 or other suitable storage device). The term
computer-readable data storage media, or "computer-readable
medium," as used herein refers to any media/medium that
participates in providing instructions to controller 42 for
execution. The computer-readable medium comprises, in at least some
exemplary forms, non-volatile media (e.g., optical disks, magnetic
disks, etc.), volatile media (e.g., dynamic memory, RAM), and
transmission media (e.g., coaxial cables, copper wire, fiber
optics, radio frequency (RF) data communication, infrared (IR) data
communication, etc). Common forms of computer-readable media
include, for example, a hard disk, magnetic tape (or other magnetic
medium), a 2-D or 3-D optical disc (e.g., a CD-ROM, DVD, etc.),
RAM, PROM, EPROM, FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or solid state
digital data storage device, a carrier wave, or any other medium
from which a computer can read. By way of example, a plurality of
storage media or devices are provided, a first storage device being
disposed proximate the user interface device and a second storage
device being disposed remotely from the first storage device,
wherein a network is connected intermediate the first one and
second one of the storage devices.
[0031] Various forms of computer-readable media may be involved in
carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to
controller 42 for execution. By way of example, the instructions
may initially be borne on a data storage device of a remote device
(e.g., a remote computer, server, or system). The remote device can
load the instructions into its dynamic memory and send the
instructions over a telephone line or other communication path
using a modem or other communication device appropriate to the
communication path. A modem or other communication device local to
the gaming machine 10 or to an external system 46 associated with
the gaming machine can receive the data on the telephone line or
conveyed through the communication path (e.g., via external systems
interface 58) and output the data to a bus, which transmits the
data to the system memory 44 associated with the processor 42, from
which system memory the processor retrieves and executes the
instructions.
[0032] Thus, the controller 42 is able to send and receive data,
via carrier signals, through the network(s), network link, and
communication interface. The data includes, in various examples,
instructions, commands, program code, player data, and game data.
As to the game data, in at least some aspects of the present
concepts, the controller 42 uses a local random number generator
(RNG) to randomly generate a wagering game outcome from a plurality
of possible outcomes. Alternatively, the outcome is centrally
determined using either an RNG or pooling scheme at a remote
controller included, for example, within the external system
46.
[0033] As shown in the example of FIG. 2, the controller 42 is
coupled to the system memory 44. The system memory 44 is shown to
comprise a volatile memory (e.g., a random-access memory (RAM)) and
a non-volatile memory (e.g., an EEPROM), but optionally includes
multiple RAM and multiple program memories.
[0034] As shown in the example of FIG. 2, the controller 42 is also
coupled to a money/credit detector 48. The money/credit detector 48
is configured to output a signal the controller 42 that money
and/or credits have been input via one or more value-input devices,
such as the bill validator 20, coin acceptor 22, or via other
sources, such as a cashless gaming account, etc. The value-input
device(s) is integrated with the housing 12 of the gaming terminal
10 and is connected to the remainder of the components of the
gaming terminal 10, as appropriate, via a wired connection, such as
I/O 56, or wireless connection. The money/credit detector 48
detects the input of valid funds into the gaming terminal 10 (e.g.,
via currency, electronic funds, ticket, card, etc.) via the
value-input device(s) and outputs a signal to the controller 42
carrying data regarding the input value of the valid funds. The
controller 42 extracts the data from these signals from the
money/credit detector 48, analyzes the associated data, and
transforms the data corresponding to the input value into an
equivalent credit balance that is available to the player for
subsequent wagers on the gaming terminal 10, such transforming of
the data being effected by software, hardware, and/or firmware
configured to associate the input value to an equivalent credit
value. Where the input value is already in a credit value form,
such as in a cashless gaming account having stored therein a credit
value, the wager is simply deducted from the available credit
balance.
[0035] As seen in FIG. 2, the controller 42 is also connected to,
and controls, the primary display area 14, the player-input
device(s) 26, and a payoff mechanism 50. The payoff mechanism 50 is
operable in response to instructions from the controller 42 to
award a payoff to the player in response to certain winning
outcomes that occur in the base game, the bonus game(s), or via an
external game or event. The payoff is provided in the form of
money, credits, redeemable points, advancement within a game,
access to special features within a game, services, another
exchangeable media, or any combination thereof. Although payoffs
may be paid out in coins and/or currency bills, payoffs are
alternatively associated with a coded ticket (from a ticket printer
52), a portable storage medium or device (e.g., a card magnetic
strip), or are transferred to or transmitted to a designated player
account. The payoff amounts distributed by the payoff mechanism 50
are determined by one or more pay tables stored in the system
memory 44.
[0036] Communications between the controller 42 and both the
peripheral components of the gaming terminal 10 and the external
system 46 occur through input/output (I/O) circuit 56, which can
include any suitable bus technologies, such as an AGTL+ frontside
bus and a PCI backside bus. Although the I/O circuit 56 is shown as
a single block, it should be appreciated that the I/O circuit 56
alternatively includes a number of different types of I/O circuits.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, the components of the gaming
terminal 10 can be interconnected according to any suitable
interconnection architecture (e.g., directly connected, hypercube,
etc.).
[0037] The I/O circuit 56 is connected to an external system
interface or communication device 58, which is connected to the
external system 46. The controller 42 communicates with the
external system 46 via the external system interface 58 and a
communication path (e.g., serial, parallel, IR, RC, 10bT, near
field, etc.). The external system 46 includes, in various aspects,
a gaming network, other gaming terminals, a gaming server, a remote
controller, communications hardware, or a variety of other
interfaced systems or components, in any combination. In yet other
aspects, the external system 46 may comprise a player's portable
electronic device (e.g., cellular phone, electronic wallet, etc.)
and the external system interface 58 is configured to facilitate
wireless communication and data transfer between the portable
electronic device and the controller 42, such as by a near field
communication path operating via magnetic field induction or a
frequency-hopping spread spectrum RF signals (e.g., Bluetooth,
etc.).
[0038] The gaming terminal 10 optionally communicates with external
system 46 (in a wired or wireless manner) such that each terminal
operates as a "thin client" having relatively less functionality, a
"thick client" having relatively more functionality, or with any
range of functionality therebetween (e.g., an "intermediate
client"). In general, a wagering game includes an RNG for
generating a random number, game logic for determining the outcome
based on the randomly generated number, and game assets (e.g., art,
sound, etc.) for presenting the determined outcome to a player in
an audio-visual manner. The RNG, game logic, and game assets are
contained within the gaming terminal 10 ("thick client" gaming
terminal), the external systems 46 ("thin client" gaming terminal),
or are distributed therebetween in any suitable manner
("intermediate client" gaming terminal).
[0039] Referring now to FIG. 3, an image of a basic-game screen 60
adapted to be displayed on the primary display area 14 is
illustrated, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
A player begins play of a basic wagering game by providing a wager.
A player can operate or interact with the wagering game using the
one or more player-input devices 26. The controller 42, the
external system 46, or both, in alternative embodiments, operate(s)
to execute a wagering game program causing the primary display area
14 to display the wagering game that includes a plurality of visual
elements.
[0040] In accord with various methods of conducting a wagering game
on a gaming system in accord with the present concepts, the
wagering game includes a game sequence in which a player makes a
wager, such as through the money/credit detector 48, touch screen
38 soft key, button panel, or the like, and a wagering game outcome
is associated with the wager. The wagering game outcome is then
revealed to the player in due course following initiation of the
wagering game. The method comprises the acts of conducting the
wagering game using a gaming apparatus, such as the gaming terminal
10 depicted in FIG. 1A, following receipt of an input from the
player to initiate the wagering game. The gaming terminal 10 then
communicates the wagering game outcome to the player via one or
more output devices (e.g., primary display 14) through the display
of information such as, but not limited to, text, graphics, text
and graphics, static images, moving images, etc., or any
combination thereof. In accord with the method of conducting the
wagering game, the controller 42, which comprises one or more
processors, transforms a physical player input, such as a player's
pressing of a "Spin Reels" soft key 84 (see FIG. 3), into an
electronic data signal indicative of an instruction relating to the
wagering game (e.g., an electronic data signal bearing data on a
wager amount).
[0041] In the aforementioned method, for each data signal, the
controller 42 is configured to processes the electronic data
signal, to interpret the data signal (e.g., data signals
corresponding to a wager input), and to cause further actions
associated with the interpretation of the signal in accord with
computer instructions relating to such further actions executed by
the controller. As one example, the controller 42 causes the
recording of a digital representation of the wager in one or more
storage devices (e.g., system memory 44 or a memory associated with
an external system 46), the controller, in accord with associated
computer instructions, causing the changing of a state of the data
storage device from a first state to a second state. This change in
state is, for example, effected by changing a magnetization pattern
on a magnetically coated surface of a magnetic storage device or
changing a magnetic state of a ferromagnetic surface of a
magneto-optical disc storage device, a change in state of
transistors or capacitors in a volatile or a non-volatile
semiconductor memory (e.g., DRAM), etc.). The noted second state of
the data storage device comprises storage in the storage device of
data representing the electronic data signal from the controller
(e.g., the wager in the present example). As another example, the
controller 42 further, in accord with the execution of the
instructions relating to the wagering game, causes the primary
display 14 or other display device and/or other output device
(e.g., speakers, lights, communication device, etc.), to change
from a first state to at least a second state, wherein the second
state of the primary display comprises a visual representation of
the physical player input (e.g., an acknowledgement to a player),
information relating to the physical player input (e.g., an
indication of the wager amount), a game sequence, an outcome of the
game sequence, or any combination thereof, wherein the game
sequence in accord with the present concepts comprises acts
described herein. The aforementioned executing of computer
instructions relating to the wagering game is further conducted in
accord with a random outcome (e.g., determined by the RNG) that is
used by the controller 42 to determine the outcome of the game
sequence, using a game logic for determining the outcome based on
the randomly generated number. In at least some aspects, the
controller 42 is configured to determine an outcome of the game
sequence at least partially in response to the random
parameter.
[0042] The basic-game screen 60 is displayed on the primary display
area 14 or a portion thereof. In FIG. 3, the basic-game screen 60
portrays a plurality of simulated movable reels 62a-e.
Alternatively or additionally, the basic-game screen 60 portrays a
plurality of mechanical reels or other video or mechanical
presentation consistent with the game format and theme. The
basic-game screen 60 also advantageously displays one or more
game-session meters and various buttons adapted to be actuated by a
player.
[0043] In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 3, the game-session
meters include a "credit" meter 64 for displaying a number of
credits available for play on the terminal; a "lines" meter 66 for
displaying a number of paylines to be played by a player on the
terminal; a "line bet" meter 68 for displaying a number of credits
wagered (e.g., from 1 to 5 or more credits) for each of the number
of paylines played; a "total bet" meter 70 for displaying a total
number of credits wagered for the particular round of wagering; and
a "paid" meter 72 for displaying an amount to be awarded based on
the results of the particular round's wager. The depicted
user-selectable buttons include a "collect" button 74 to collect
the credits remaining in the credits meter 64; a "help" button 76
for viewing instructions on how to play the wagering game; a "pay
table" button 78 for viewing a pay table associated with the basic
wagering game; a "select lines" button 80 for changing the number
of paylines (displayed in the lines meter 66) a player wishes to
play; a "bet per line" button 82 for changing the amount of the
wager which is displayed in the line-bet meter 68; a "spin reels"
button 84 for moving the reels 62a-e; and a "max bet spin" button
86 for wagering a maximum number of credits and moving the reels
62a-e of the basic wagering game. While the gaming terminal 10
allows for these types of player inputs, the present disclosure
does not require them and can be used on gaming terminals having
more, less, or different player inputs.
[0044] As shown in the example of FIG. 3, paylines 30 extend from
one of the payline indicators 88a-i on the left side of the
basic-game screen 60 to a corresponding one of the payline
indicators 88a-i on the right side of the screen 60. A plurality of
symbols 90 is displayed on the plurality of reels 62a-e to indicate
possible outcomes of the basic wagering game. A winning combination
occurs when the displayed symbols 90 correspond to one of the
winning symbol combinations listed in a pay table stored in the
memory 44 of the terminal 10 or in the external system 46. The
symbols 90 may include any appropriate graphical representation or
animation, and may further include a "blank" symbol.
[0045] Symbol combinations are evaluated in accord with various
schemes such as, but not limited to, "line pays" or "scatter pays."
Line pays are evaluated left to right, right to left, top to
bottom, bottom to top, or any combination thereof by evaluating the
number, type, or order of symbols 90 appearing along an activated
payline 30. Scatter pays are evaluated without regard to position
or paylines and only require that such combination appears anywhere
on the reels 62a-e. While an embodiment with nine paylines is
shown, a wagering game with no paylines, a single payline, or any
plurality of paylines will also work with the present disclosure.
Additionally, though an embodiment with five reels is shown in FIG.
3, different embodiments of the gaming terminal 10 comprise a
greater or lesser number of reels in accordance with the present
disclosure.
[0046] Turning now to FIG. 4, an example of a bonus game to a basic
wagering game is illustrated. A bonus-game screen 92 includes an
array of markers 94 located in a plurality of columns and rows. The
bonus game is entered upon the occurrence of a triggering event,
such as the occurrence of a start-bonus game outcome (e.g., symbol
trigger, mystery trigger, time-based trigger, etc.) in or during
the basic wagering game. Alternatively, any bonus game described
herein is able to be deployed as a stand-alone wagering game
independent of a basic wagering game.
[0047] In the illustrated bonus game of FIG. 4, a player selects,
one at a time, from the array of markers 94 to reveal an associated
bonus-game outcome. According to one embodiment of this bonus game,
each marker 94 in the array is associated with an award outcome 96
(e.g., credits or other non-negative outcomes) or an end-game
outcome 98. In the illustrated example, a player has selected an
award outcome 96 with the player's first two selections (25 credits
and 100 credits, respectively). When one or more end-game outcome
98 is selected (as illustrated by the player's third pick), the
bonus game is terminated and the accumulated award outcomes 96 are
provided to the player.
[0048] Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, perspective-views of
exemplary gaming terminals 510, 610 with adjustable display devices
are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present
disclosure. Although differing in appearance, the gaming terminals
510, 610 can be similar in function, operation and connectivity to
the gaming terminals 10, 100 discussed above with respect to FIGS.
1-4. For example, the gaming terminals 510, 610 (also referred to
herein as "wagering game machine" or "gaming machine") may be an
electronic gaming terminal configured, for example, to play a video
casino game, such as keno, poker, slots, blackjack, roulette, etc.
The gaming terminals 510, 610 are purely representative in nature,
and presented solely for explanatory purposes.
[0049] Gaming terminals 510, 610 can include respective support
cabinets 512, 612 for housing and/or supporting a variety of
operational componentry (e.g., a CPU 42, a memory 44, an external
systems interface 58, etc.). The support cabinets 512, 612 may
include respective lower portions (e.g., 513a) and respective upper
portions 513b, 613 that integrally or separately form cabinets 512,
612. The lower portion (e.g., 513a) can be broader than the upper
portion and generally provide a stable, balanced, support to the
upper portion 513b, 613 and any other components connected thereto
(e.g., a display) during play of the wagering game. By way of
another non-limiting example, the support cabinet 512, 612 can also
be a standard trapezoidal-style cabinet. For output devices, the
gaming terminals 510, 610 can include respective adjustable primary
display areas (or "display device") 514, 614 that are connected to
the respective upper portions 513b, 613 of support cabinets 512,
612. The gaming terminals may also include a bill-receiving and
validating device (not shown), a coin acceptor (not shown), one or
more information readers (not shown), and one or more player-input
devices, which may be collectively represented by a button panel
528 or touch-screen button panel 628 associated with respective
user interfaces 526, 626. In certain aspects of a gaming terminal,
other player input devices or user interfaces, such as those
described in FIGS. 1A and 1B, are contemplated. While typical
components found in gaming terminals 510, 610 are described above,
it should be understood that numerous additional/alternative
peripheral devices or combinations of devices along with other
elements may exist and may be used in any number of combinations to
create various forms of a gaming terminal.
[0050] The primary display devices 514, 614 (also referred to
herein as "adjustable display device") can be mounted to their
respective support cabinets 512, 612 via, for example, a support
assembly that allows the primary display device to be movable to a
plurality of different player-viewing positions. The primary
display device 514, 614 can include an electronic graphical display
screen that is operable to dynamically display information related
to the wagering game. As used herein, the term "electronic
graphical display screen" should be defined or interpreted as
inclusive of, but not exclusive to, display devices that create
visual images, both moving and stationary alike, through the
electronic generation and manipulation of light. By way of
non-limiting example, the display screen may include an organic
light emitting diode (OLED) panel. One such OLED display panel is
the AMOLED screen, which is manufactured by LG Display Co., Ltd.,
of Seoul, South Korea. In another optional configuration, the
display screen may include an organic thin-film transistor (OTFT)
display panel, which may be integrated with OLED technology. One
such OTFT display is the Rollable OTFT-Driven OLED Panel, which is
manufactured by Sony Corp., of Tokyo, Japan. In yet another
optional configuration, the display screen includes a light
emitting diode (LED) tube display comprising a plurality of
juxtaposed LED tubes. One such LED tube display is the LED Tube
Screen, which is manufactured by Zhuhai iTech Electronic Technology
Co., Ltd., of Guangdong Province, China. As used herein, the term
"electronic graphical display screen" should not be defined or
interpreted as consisting of a projector screen or an
electro-mechanically automated exhibit, such as moving marquees and
mechanized cabinet ornaments.
[0051] The primary display device 514 illustrated in FIG. 5 can be
mounted to a plate 580 that is further secured to one or more
rocker base supports (also referred to herein as "rocker base").
The plate 580 and rocker base 560 may be flat and fabricated out of
metal, plastic, wood, or a composite material. The rocker base 560
can have a side-view that is defined by an area enclosed by a chord
of a circle or ellipse such that the perimeter of the rocker base
560 includes a first edge 562 that is arc-shaped or curved and a
second edge 563 that is flat and abuts the plate 580. The first
edge 562 may be parabolic or partially-elliptical. It is also
contemplated that the first edge 562 can have a fixed radius of
curvature. In certain aspects, it is contemplated that the flat
second edge 563 may directly abut the primary display device 514,
such that the primary display device 514 is mounted directly to the
rocker base 560 without an intermediate plate or other intervening
structure. It is further contemplated that in certain aspects, the
rocker base may have a side-view that is crescent-like or
half-crescent-like in shape.
[0052] It is contemplated that the first edge 562 of the rocker
base 560 may be smooth or may include teeth configured to engage a
rotating gear 564 or other driving mechanism(s) so that the
combination of the rocker base 560, the plate 580, and the primary
display device 514 is repositionable relative to the support
cabinet 512. The different positions may be determined by the arc
shape or curve of at least a portion of the first edge 562 of the
rocker base 560. It is also contemplated that the different
positions can be determined by substantially the entire length of
the first edge 562. The gear 564 or other drive mechanism may be
supported by the support cabinet 512 via, for example, a shaft (not
shown) extending laterally out from the side of the upper portion
513b of support cabinet 512. The gear 564 can remain fixed except
for being rotatable about the shaft.
[0053] The gear 564 extending from one side, or a series of gears
(not shown) extending from both sides, of the support cabinet may
engage the first edge 562 of the rocker base 560 and allow the
primary display device 514 to transition or rock from a generally
upright position to a generally flat position. An operator of the
gaming terminal may be protected from the gear(s) and associated
teeth along the first edge 562 of the rocker base through an
elongated shield 570 connected to the rocker base 560. The
elongated shield 570 may desirably have a similar length and
similar arc shape or curve as the first edge. Furthermore, the
elongated shield 570 may include a first end and a second end that
are tapered to limit the range of movement of the primary display
device 514 to the length of the arc shaped or curved path of the
first edge or a slightly shorter length. The gear 564 or series of
gears may also physically support the rocker base 560 and in
combination with the elongated shield 570 keep the primary display
device 514 physically attached to the support cabinet 512.
[0054] In some embodiments, the position of the primary display
device 514 relative to the support cabinet 512 is manually changed,
for example, by pulling or pushing on the lateral edges of the
primary display device 514. Alternatively, the change in position
of the primary display device 514 is automated. For example, it is
contemplated that the gear(s), or shaft(s) thereof, that engage the
rocker base may be used to relocate or reposition the primary
display device 514 via a drive mechanism. The driving mechanism may
comprise one or more pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders, electrically
driven DC or servo motors, linear actuators, etc. By way of further
example, and not limitation, one or more of the gears may be
connected directly or through additional gear, screw, shaft, and/or
belt features to an electric motor that controls the movement of
the primary display device 514 from an upright position to a
horizontal position, the reverse, or any intermediate position. In
certain aspects, the drive mechanism, including the placement of
the primary display device in different positions, may be
controlled via the CPU 42 or via external system(s) 46 described
above.
[0055] It is further contemplated that the position of primary
display device 514 can also be locked or fixed by temporarily
preventing the gear from moving until it is desired to adjust or
reposition the primary display device 514. It is further
contemplated that the gear may be associated with a hydraulic
mechanism that controls the movement of the primary display device
514. The hydraulic mechanism may allow the primary display device
514 to be moved to any position along the arc shaped or curved path
define by the first edge 562. Furthermore, the hydraulic mechanism
can allow the primary display device 514 to remain at a selected
position. The primary display device 514 may then be fixed at that
location via the hydraulic mechanism. It is also contemplated that
the primary display device 514 may be held stationary through a
resistive force provided through the hydraulic mechanism and can
subsequently be moved through the application of a force to the
primary display device 514 that overcomes the resistance provided
by the hydraulic mechanism.
[0056] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the primary display device 614 can
be mounted directly to a rocker base 660. It is further
contemplated that a primary display device may be secured, directly
or via a plate or other support structure, to one rocker base or a
plurality of rocker bases as generally illustrated in FIGS. 5 and
6.
[0057] The gaming terminal 610 of FIG. 6 includes many similar
features as the gaming terminal 510. One primary difference is that
rather than support and provide for movement of a primary display
device via a gear-type system as illustrated in FIG. 5, gaming
terminal 610 has a roller-type connection 664 for connecting the
primary display device 614 to the support cabinet 612. The roller
connection 664 includes a plurality of rotating elements 664a, 664b
that engage an elongated rail 670 (e.g., and I-beam or C-beam
shaped support) connected to an arc-shaped or curved edge of rocker
base 660. The rotating elements 664a, 664b may be fixed to the
support cabinet 612 and have limited moving components such as
rotating elements (e.g., a wheel, roller, etc.).
[0058] It is contemplated that the elongated rail 670 may have a
similar arc shape or curve as the arc-shaped edge of rocker base
660. In certain embodiments, the elongated rail itself may be
directly connected to the primary display device 614 and form a
rocker-type base without intervening feature 660. The rotating
elements (e.g., wheels, rollers, etc.) of the roller-type
connection 664 can then be allowed to rotate allowing the elongated
rail, and thus, the primary display device, to transition along the
arc-shaped or curved path defined by the rail 670. The primary
display device 614 may then be moved or transitioned from a
generally upright position to a generally horizontal position or
somewhere in between (e.g., slant-top orientation), or vice versa.
The rail 670 may be configured to rest on the roller connection
elements including one or more of the plurality of rotating
elements. It is further contemplated that similar hydraulic
mechanisms, as those described for FIG. 5, may be used to hold the
primary display device 614 in a desired position or to move the
primary display device 614 from one position to another.
[0059] It is contemplated that in certain aspects of the present
disclosure, an adjustable primary display device may include
features of both gaming terminal 510 and gaming terminal 610. By
way of a non-limiting example, a primary display device may have
two rocker bases with one rocker base connected to a support
cabinet via the gear-type connection as described for FIG. 5 and
the other rocker base having a roller-type connection as described
for FIG. 6. By way of another non-limiting example, the primary
display device may be adjusted or repositioned driven by a
combination of automated drive mechanisms or a hybrid of a
hydraulic mechanism and a motor based mechanism. It is further
contemplated that the primary display device can have an adjoining
user interface that may include both a button panel (e.g., 528) and
a touch-screen panel (e.g., 628). It is further contemplated that
the user interface may be configured to pivot about the bottom edge
(e.g., 515, 615) of the primary display device so that when the
primary display device is in a generally upright position the user
interface may be generally horizontal and with the primary display
device generally horizontal the user interface may be angled
downwardly from horizontal so that the panel elements face towards
a player.
[0060] In some embodiments, the elongated rail 670 may include one
or a plurality of spaced-apart holes (e.g., 674) extending through
the rail (e.g., extending through the web of an I-beam shaped
rail). Each of the holes can be configured or sized to accept a pin
(e.g., 672). The pin may be removable or fixed. The pin can be
inserted into the hole 674 and used to either hold the primary
display device in a desired position along the arc shaped or curved
path defined by the rail or it can be used to establish range(s)
between which the primary display device 614 may be moved along the
length of the path defined by the rail. Similarly, the shield 570
illustrated in FIG. 5 may include similar pin and hole features
engaging the gear 564 to limit the movement of the rocker base 560
along the length of the first edge 562. It is further contemplated
that the pin may include a threaded end that can be screwed into
the hole. Other features for temporarily fixing, locking, or
limiting the range of movement of the primary display device are
also contemplated by the present disclosure.
[0061] In some embodiments, in addition to the adjustable primary
display device being configured to transition to different
positions along the arc shaped or curved path defined by the
elongated rail 670 or rocker base (e.g., 560, 660), the primary
display device can be adjusted to other positions or orientations.
By way of non-limiting example, the primary display device may be
configured to also rotate from a portrait position, as generally
illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, to a landscape position or to rotate
an entire 360 degrees. Furthermore, the back of the primary display
device may include horizontal and/or vertical tracks or a rack and
pinion-shaft type arrangement connected to the plate and/or to the
rocker base that allow the primary display device to slide up and
down or left and right along the plane define by a display screen
(e.g., the viewing surface) of the primary display device.
[0062] Referring now to FIG. 7, a perspective-view of an exemplary
gaming terminal 710 supporting different adjustable display devices
is illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present
disclosure. It is contemplated that display devices of different
sizes may be connected to a standard support cabinet 712. By way of
non-limiting example, primary display device 714a may be removed
and replaced with primary display device 714b, which has a larger
display area, but a similar configuration of support features for
attaching the primary display device 714b to the support cabinet
712. This may be accomplished by the same or a similar
configuration of support features being used for display device
714a and display device 714b, and can include, for example, a
support feature having the same or a similar rocker base and
elongated rail configured to engage rotating elements (see, e.g.,
FIG. 6) fixed to the support cabinet 712, or the same or similar
support features such as those described in FIG. 5. The dimensions
of certain key aspects of the support features, such as the
elongated rail or the teeth along the arc-shaped edge are desirably
kept the same or very similar so that the gear or rolling
connection fixed to the support cabinet can readily engage the rail
or teeth.
[0063] FIGS. 8 and 9 are perspective-view illustrations of
exemplary gaming terminals with adjustable display devices in
accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Similar to the
exemplary gaming terminals illustrated in FIGS. 5-7, gaming
terminals 810, 910 include an adjustable primary display device
814, 914 connected to and supported via a support cabinet 812, 912.
FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate additional exemplary aspects of support
features for the adjustable primary display devices 814, 914. For
example, FIG. 8 illustrates another exemplary aspect including a
rocking base 860 having a similar arc-shaped or curved first edge
862 and a flat second edge (not shown) coupled at the back of the
primary display device 814. The support cabinet 812 has a
protrusion 865, such as a pin or roller, extending out from a side
panel 813 of the support cabinet that engages an elongated
arc-shaped or curved aperture 863 extending through and defined by
the rocker base 860. Similar to the exemplary gaming terminals
illustrated above, the adjustable primary display device 814 can be
similarly transitioned along a path defined by the arc-shaped
aperture or replaced by a larger primary display device as
discussed for the exemplary gaming terminals described above.
Furthermore, similar drive mechanisms (e.g., manual, motor-driven,
hydraulic) may be used as well for transitioning the primary
display device 814 to different viewing positions.
[0064] It is further contemplated that the gaming terminals
described herein, such as those similar to gaming terminal 810, may
also include a single sensing device 880 and a sensor cluster 882
for detecting or sensing various physical player characteristics.
The sensor(s) can perform one or more functions and are typically
coupled to the CPU 34 (FIG. 2) of the gaming system. For example,
the sensor(s) can find the location of the player relative to
primary display device 814 or the location of the head of the
player relative to the primary display 814. In one non-limiting
example, the sensor(s) can include e-field sensors for location
determination. Example e-field sensor chips are available through
Freescale Semiconductor of Austin, Tex. The e-field sensor is a
non-contact location sensor and contains circuitry necessary to
generate a low level electric field in a semi-circular arc between
a set of electrodes on each of the sensors. The e-field sensor
measures the field loading caused by conductor objects, such as the
head, that move into the low level electrical field. A low
frequency sine wave is generated via the low level electrical
field. The frequency can be adjusted using an external resistor and
can also be optimized for a certain frequency, such as 125 kHz. The
sine wave can have very low harmonic content to avoid the
generation of harmonic interference. The detected object can act as
a capacitor to a virtual ground while the electrode forms the other
capacitor plate. The current flowing between the electrode and its
surrounding virtual ground will result in a voltage drop across the
internal resistance. This, in turn, can lead to a voltage change at
the electrode. The signals for the set of electrodes may be
analyzed to determine both the position and the size of the object.
For example, the voltage can change at the electrode (for the
e-field sensors, for example) in the sensors when the object such
as the player's head moves to a different location. The
interposition of the object in the low level electrical field at a
different position will result in a different voltage at the
electrode. The set of electrodes may be of sufficient area roughly
corresponding to a player's head in order to provide optimal object
detection. In order to increase the number of electrodes, multiple
electrodes in an array may be used with a multi-plexing
arrangement. Other sensors known in the field of the present
disclosure are also contemplated, including, for example, LED
sensors, potentiometric sensors, capacitive sensors, inductive
sensors, optical sensors, thermal sensors, motion sensors, and
others.
[0065] It is further contemplated that different arrangements and
combinations of sensors can be disposed on the support cabinet 812
to sense various player characteristics such as the player height,
whether the player is sitting in seat 890 or standing in front of
the gaming terminal, and/or the approximate location of the
player's head. By sensing such characteristics, the primary display
device 814 may automatically adjust position along the arc-shaped
path via signals sent from the sensor(s), processed by the
controller, and subsequent instructions transmitted from the
controller to the drive mechanism to position the primary display
device 814 at an optimal viewing position for the received player
characteristics.
[0066] In certain aspects of the present disclosure, the position
of the adjustable primary display 814 can also be determined by
other sensed player characteristics. For example, the seat 890 or a
floor pad (not shown) can include a weight sensing sensor (not
shown). If it is determined a player is sitting, the primary
display device 814 may be placed in one position, and if the player
is determined to be sitting, the primary display device 814 may be
placed in a second position having a different incline from the
first position.
[0067] It is also contemplated that in certain aspects of gaming
terminal, sensors, such as sensing device 880 or sensor cluster
882, may be positioned to receive or measure certain types of
feedback information related to a player, a gaming terminal, a
chair, and/or environmental aspects surrounding the gaming
terminal. For example, feedback mechanisms associated with the
sensors and/or a controller may be used to slow or halt movement of
the adjustable display and/or chair based on certain measured
feedback. It is also contemplated that the feedback mechanisms
associated with the sensors and/or a controller can be used to
slow, alter, or halt movements of the adjustable display and/or
chair based on a determination from the feedback information of
unexpected conditions or movements related to the gaming terminal
or chair.
[0068] FIG. 9 illustrates yet another non-limiting exemplary aspect
of a support feature for an adjustable primary display device 914.
Gaming terminal 910 includes an adjustable primary display device
914 supported via a support feature 950 comprising a single
rocker-type base 960 connected to an elongated rail 970. The
elongated rail 970 is configured to slidingly engage (e.g., slides
to engage, slides and engages) a track 915 having surface
boundaries defined by the upper portion 913 of support cabinet 912.
The elongated rail 970 has a curved or arc-shape that defines the
length of a path that the primary display device can be
transitioned along. The length of the path and the shape of the
elongated rail 970 allow the primary display device to be
positioned from a generally horizontal position (not shown) to a
generally upright position (shown). The cross-sectional dimensions
of the elongated rail are slight smaller than the cross-sectional
dimensions of the track 915 defined by upper portion 913 so that
the rail can slide along the track. The elongated rail may
frictionally engage the track 915 so that the primary display
device can be held in any of a number of desired positions. It is
also contemplated that a pin, wheel, or plate within the upper
portion 913 of the support cabinet 912 may extend into the track
915 to frictionally engage the elongated rail 970 and allow it to
be temporarily fixed at a desired position. Similar to the
exemplary gaming terminals illustrated above, the adjustable
primary display device 914 can be similarly transitioned and
replaced as described for the exemplary gaming terminals described
above in FIGS. 5-8. Furthermore, similar drive mechanisms (e.g.,
manual, motor-driven, hydraulic) may be used as well for
transitioning the primary display device 914 to different viewing
positions.
[0069] Referring now to FIGS. 10A and 10B, side-views of exemplary
gaming terminals with adjustable primary and secondary display
devices are illustrated in accordance with aspects of the present
disclosure. Gaming terminal 1010 illustrated in FIG. 10A includes
similar support features described in greater detail for gaming
terminal 814, but can also include the support features discussed
for the other gaming terminals described herein. The gaming
terminal 1010a includes a support cabinet 1012a, a rocker base
1060a, an elongated arc-shaped aperture 1063a extending into or
through the rocker base, and a supporting protrusion 1065a that
slidingly engages (e.g., slides and engages, slides to engage) the
rocker base 1060a via aperture 1063a. Furthermore, a primary
display device 1014a is mounted to the rocker base 1060a with the
display device shown in a generally upright position. A seat 1090a
is positioned in a first position in front of the viewing surface
of the upright primary display device 1014a. Gaming terminal 1010a
further includes a secondary display device 1016a that is secured
to secondary display support 1017 that allows the secondary display
device 1016a to be adjusted to different viewing angles. In the
aspect illustrated in FIG. 10A, the upright primary display device
1014a is positioned so that a top edge 1015a of the primary display
device nearly abuts a bottom edge 1018a of the secondary display
device 1016a.
[0070] In FIG. 10B, a gaming terminal 1010b is illustrated and
provides alternate exemplary aspects of gaming terminal 1010a. In
response to a predetermined event, the gaming terminal 1010b may be
reconfigured so that the primary display device 1014a moves from a
generally upright position as illustrated in FIG. 10A to a
generally horizontal position as illustrated by primary display
device 1014b in FIG. 10B. Simultaneous with the primary display
device changing positions, the secondary display device 1017 may
also move or pivot about secondary display support 1017 to a second
downwardly-angled position as illustrated by secondary display
device 1016b. In addition, in certain aspects of the present
disclosure the seat 1090a may move from a first position as
illustrated in FIG. 10A to a second position as illustrated by seat
1090b in FIG. 10B. The movements of the primary display device
1014a, 1014b, the secondary display device 1016a, 1016b, and the
seat 1090a, 1090b may all be synchronized to begin and end at
approximately the same time or to occur in some sequentially order.
In certain embodiments, the gaming terminal may also include a user
interface 1026 that pivots about a bottom edge 1080 of the primary
display device 1014b from a first position to a second position
corresponding to the movements of the primary display device from
the generally upright position to the generally horizontal
position. As described above for the other gaming terminals, and as
illustrated in FIG. 10B, support cabinet 1012b can include a fixed
component 1065b extending out of the side of the cabinet 1012b that
engages an arc-shaped aperture feature 1063b that is integral to or
attached to a rocker base 1060b. The rocker base 1060b may be
coupled to the back of the primary display device 1014b via a
direct connection or through an intermediate supporting structure
(e.g., plate).
[0071] It is contemplated that in certain non-limiting exemplary
aspects that sensors such as those described above may be
associated with a gaming terminal such as gaming terminal 1010a or
1010b. The sensor(s) (not shown) may be connected with a CPU 42 for
the gaming terminal and can detect whether a player is at the
gaming terminal and/or if the player is sitting or standing. Based
on the assessment of if a player is sitting or standing, the gaming
terminal components may be either be arranged similar to the
configuration of FIG. 10A or the configuration of FIG. 10B. By way
of a non-limiting example, if a player is detected in front of the
gaming terminal 1010a and is further detected to be sitting in seat
1090a, the primary display device may be moved so that the primary
display device 1014a is in an upright position as illustrated in
FIG. 10A and the secondary display device 1016b is positioned at a
downward facing angle, such as illustrated in FIG. 10B. If the
player is then detected to be sitting in seat 1090a, the gaming
terminal components may then move to different positions via
instructions provided by the CPU 42. For example, the position of
seat 1090a may move to a new position farther away from the support
cabinet 1012 as illustrated by seat 1090b in FIG. 10B. Furthermore,
the primary display device 1014a may be repositioned to a second
generally horizontal position as illustrated by primary display
device 1014b in FIG. 10B. In addition, a secondary display device
1016b may also be moved from a downward facing angle to a generally
vertical view such as secondary display device 1016a in FIG. 10A.
As generally described above, all the movements may be coordinated
through the CPU 42 to occur either simultaneously or via a
predetermined sequential order.
[0072] In some configurations, it is contemplated that a primary
display device and/or a secondary display device may automatically
change position in response to events in a wagering game,
user-input preferences, operator-input preferences, save
preferences, and other game-related and non-game-related
occurrences. In certain aspects, it is also contemplated that a
display device position can be controlled centrally by a casino. In
one instance, a driving mechanism can be operated to selectively
reconfigure (e.g., relocate, reorient, or a combination thereof) a
display device in response to random events occurring in the
wagering game so as to simulate those random events. If the
wagering game were to include, for example, a bonus-game feature,
the display device can be made to change from a portrait-view
orientation to a landscape-view orientation, or to switch from a
generally horizontal configuration to an upright configuration.
Moreover, during play of the bonus-game feature, the display device
can be made to pitch forward and backward, swing side-to-side, or
move up-and-down.
[0073] Automation of the display device can also be employed for
other gaming and non-gaming functions. According to various aspects
of the disclosed concepts, the driving mechanism for repositioning
the display devices can respond to signals from a button panel,
joystick, or other player input device on the gaming terminal,
which would allow the player to reconfigure a display device, for
example, to meet the player's particular preferences. Some examples
include setting the primary display device to a particular screen
height, moving the primary display device from a slant-top to an
upright orientation, changing the viewing angle of the secondary
display device, etc. Optionally, the driving mechanism can respond
to signals from an onboard controller (e.g., CPU 42 of FIG. 2), a
central controller (e.g., remotely located in the external system
46 depicted in FIG. 2), or other operator input device on the
gaming terminal to allow the operator or a central server to
reconfigure a primary or secondary display device, for example, to
provide new/different gaming features, to implement a display-based
"attract mode" to draw new players to the gaming terminal, or to
meet a particular set of parameters (e.g., to create additional
room for adjacent gaming devices). An additional benefit would be
to allow the player/operator to adjust the display to reduce/remove
glare from environmental lighting, or automatically sense both the
player's facial position, and surrounding lighting, and adjust
accordingly to reduce such reflection.
[0074] In some aspects of the present disclosure, it is
contemplated that special lighting, certain color schemes, or
various game themes are accessible or applied when a particular
primary and/or secondary display device is in one of the various
positions described above. Otherwise, it is contemplated that in
certain aspects the special lighting, color scheme, or game theme
may not be available or applied. Furthermore, in certain aspects,
the characteristics of the display area of a display device may be
adjusted based a display device position. By way of non-limiting
example, the brightness, contrast, or various anti-glare controls
may be implemented depending on whether the display device is in an
upright position, a horizontal position, or a slanted position.
Sensors on the display device or the support cabinet can be used to
sense various environmental conditions such as the lighting of the
gaming environment.
[0075] Referring now to FIGS. 11A-11C, perspective-views of
exemplary banks of gaming terminals with adjustable primary and
secondary display devices are illustrated in accordance with
aspects of the present disclosure.
[0076] FIGS. 11A-11C illustrates an exemplary bank of gaming
terminals 1110 similar to the gaming terminals described for FIGS.
5-10 and elsewhere herein. In FIG. 11A, a representative primary
display device 1114 is illustrated in a generally upright position
among the bank of similarly positioned gaming terminals. A
representative secondary display device 1116 is coupled to a
secondary support frame 1117 that supports a plurality of secondary
display devices above the primary display devices in the bank of
gaming terminals 1110. The secondary display devices can pivot or
tilt downward and upward so that the front viewing area is more
visible to a player and/or to move, for example, to a predetermined
viewing position associated with a particular game state. The
secondary support frame 1117 can also support representative end
secondary display device 1119, which is not associated with a
particular gaming terminal, but may be used to display other
information related to a wagering game including information
related to bonus, community, or progressive games, or information
associated with an attract mode. Each of the gaming terminals in
the bank of gaming terminals 1110 may also include a seat similar
to representative seat 1190.
[0077] FIG. 11B illustrates the exemplary bank of gaming terminals
1110 with the primary display devices having moved from a first
position with the viewing surface of the primary display device
generally upright (see FIG. 11A) to a second position with the
viewing surface of the primary display device generally horizontal.
The movement of the primary display devices from a generally
upright position to the general horizontal position can be
synchronized among all the primary display devices in the bank of
gaming terminals 1110 such that the primary display devices align
to form a generally horizontal display surface. The generally
horizontal display surface formed by the bank of gaming terminals
1110 can include a predetermined spacing between each of support
cabinets 1112 such that when the primary display devices are in a
fully horizontal position the group of individual primary displays
gives the general appearance of one semi-continuous horizontal
display surface. For example, the edge-to-edge spacing between the
primary display surfaces of any two gaming terminals can be less
than two inches or less than one inch. It is further contemplated
that any images displayed on the primary display device forming the
semi-continuous horizontal display surface can be synchronized or
coordinated to present a continuous single aspect of the wagering
game (e.g., a group bonus game, a community game, a progressive
game) across a plurality of the primary display devices.
[0078] As illustrated in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the position of seat
1190 is initially closer to the support cabinet when the primary
display device 1114 is in a generally upright position (see FIG.
11A) but then the seat 1190 moves as positioned in FIG. 11B when
the primary display device 1114 is moved the generally horizontal
position. The movement of seat 1190 may be synchronized or
coordinated to be in different positions depending on the position
of the primary display device 1114. For example, seat 1190 can be
moved horizontally to and from the primary display device in a
direction generally perpendicular to the front viewing surface of
the primary display device. When the primary display device 1114 is
in an upright position, the seat 1190 may be positioned closer to
the support cabinet 1112 and as the primary display device moves to
a slant-top or horizontal position (see FIG. 11B), the seat 1190
can move horizontally and perpendicularly away from the support
cabinet 1112 to maintain approximately the same horizontal distance
between the seat 1190 and the bottom edge 1115 of the primary
display device 1114. It is also contemplated that the seat 1190 may
move back from the support cabinet 1115 a sufficient distance to
allow a player to stand up during a group bonus game (e.g.,
progressive game, community game, group bonus game) when the
primary display devices are, for example, in the generally
horizontal position. The distance can be enough so that the sitting
player would have a difficult time playing (e.g., difficulty
reaching the user interface or seeing the viewing surface of the
display devices) the wagering game without standing up, thus
encouraging the players in the bank of gaming terminals to stand
up.
[0079] FIGS. 11A and 11B also illustrate the representative
secondary display device 1116 pivotally or rotatably connected to
the secondary support frame 1117 so that it may pivot or rotate
from a generally vertical position (e.g., viewing side facing a
player) to a downwardly-facing generally horizontal position (e.g.,
the viewing side facing the horizontally positioned primary display
device). It is also contemplated that the secondary display device
1117 can be adjusted from a generally vertical position to
downward-facing angled position (see FIG. 10B). The adjustment of
each secondary display device between the generally vertical
position to the downward-facing position can be synchronized with
the other secondary display devices in the bank of gaming terminals
such that all of the secondary display devices are at the same
position. The movement of the secondary display device may occur
simultaneously or in some sequential order. It is further
contemplated that certain secondary display devices such as the end
display device 1119 may not move at all or may move to a position
that is opposite of the position of the other secondary display
devices. For example, the end secondary display device 1119 may be
in a generally vertical position while representative secondary
display device 1116 may be in a generally horizontal position. In
general, it is contemplated that the movement of the secondary
display device is completed to position the devices at an angle
that improves the player viewing experience during an individual or
group bonus game. The movement of the secondary display device may
also include minimizing the viewability of the secondary display
device to further highlight the player viewing experience of the
primary display device(s). For example, a particular game or game
state may include focusing player attention on the primary display
devices, and thus, the secondary display devices may be positioned
with their viewing surfaces horizontal so as to minimize
interference with the desired player-viewing experience.
[0080] FIG. 11C illustrates another exemplary aspect of the bank of
gaming terminals 1110. Specifically, FIG. 11C illustrates the
primary display devices (e.g., 1114) for the bank of gaming
terminals in a generally horizontal position with the secondary
display devices (e.g., 1116) in a generally vertical position.
Depending on the height of the secondary display devices or the
configuration of the secondary support frame 1117, a vertical
orientation of the secondary display devices may provide a more
desirable viewing angle when the primary display devices are
generally horizontal.
[0081] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, a
gaming terminal for playing a wagering game can include an input
device configured to receive a wager to play the wagering game, a
support cabinet, a rocker base connected to the support cabinet,
and a primary display device coupled to the rocker base. The
primary display device can have an electronic graphical display
screen operable to dynamically display information related to the
wagering game. The primary display device and the rocker base can
be configured to be movable to a plurality of different display
positions relative to the support cabinet during play of the
wagering game. The plurality of different display positions can be
along a common arc defined by the rocker base.
[0082] It is further contemplated that the gaming terminal may
include a mounting plate. The mounting plate can be fixed to the
rocker base with the primary display device mounted to the mounting
plate. The gaming terminal can also include the common arc being an
elliptical arc. It is also contemplated that the rocker base can be
connected to the support cabinet via a roller connection. The
roller connection may include a plurality of rotating elements
connected to one or more fixed supports extending from the support
cabinet. The rocker base can also include one or more elongated
arc-shaped track supports with the rotating elements engaging the
one or more elongated arc-shaped track supports. The rotating
elements can include one or more rollers, or the rotating elements
can include one or more drive gears. The rocker base can include
two elongated arc-shaped track supports.
[0083] It is further contemplated that the gaming terminal can
include a locking device configured to fix the primary display
device and the rocker base in one of the plurality of different
display positions. In certain aspects, the gaming terminal may
include a rocker base having an arc-shaped support with at least
one aperture. The locking device can include a locking pin
configured to extend through the aperture. In certain aspects, the
gaming terminal may include a rocker base having an arc-shaped
support with the locking device configured to frictionally engage
an arc-shaped support.
[0084] It is further contemplated that the plurality of different
display positions for the primary display device of the gaming
terminal may include positions extending from a generally upright
position to a generally horizontal position. Each of the plurality
of different display positions can be associated with a different
game state. The different game states can include a bonus game and
progressive game. The gaming terminal may also include a driving
mechanism configured to automate changing the primary display
device between the generally upright position and the generally
horizontal position.
[0085] In certain aspects of the present disclosure, the rocker
base for the display may be connected to the support cabinet via a
sliding connection. The sliding connection can include an
arc-shaped track at least partially defined within an upper portion
of the support cabinet and an elongated arc-shaped rail connected
to the rocker base. The elongated arc-shaped rail can have a
curvature similar to the arc-shaped track such that the elongated
arc-shaped rail slidably engages (e.g., slides and engages, slides
to engage) the arc-shaped track. The sliding connection can include
a pin extending from the support cabinet with the pin extending
through an elongated arc-shaped aperture defined by the rocker
base. The rocker base may include two or more elongated arc-shaped
rails.
[0086] It is further contemplated that the gaming terminal can
include a secondary display device positioned above the primary
display device such that one of the plurality of different display
positions for the primary display device includes a generally
upright position. The primary display device in the generally
upright position can abut the secondary display device. In certain
aspects, a secondary display device may be positioned above the
primary display device with the secondary display device being
adjustable to a plurality of viewing positions. The secondary
display device may be in a generally vertical viewing position in
response to the primary display device being in a generally upright
position. In certain aspects, the secondary display device may move
from a generally vertical viewing position toward a generally
downward viewing position in response to the primary display device
moving from a generally upright position to a generally horizontal
position. It is also contemplated that the secondary display device
can be in a generally vertical viewing position in response to the
primary display device moving to a generally horizontal
position.
[0087] It is further contemplated that the gaming terminal can
include a user interface abutting a lower edge of the primary
display device. An input device may be integrated into the user
interface. In certain aspects, the user interface includes a flat
panel that is generally horizontal in response to the primary
display device being in a generally upright position. The user
interface can also include a flat panel configured to tilt
downwardly at an interface between the user interface and the
primary display device. The flat panel may tilt downwardly from a
generally horizontal position in response to the primary display
device moving from a generally upright position to a generally
horizontal position.
[0088] It is further contemplated that the gaming terminal includes
a processing unit configured to receive player-characteristic
information from at least one sensor coupled to the support
cabinet. The processing unit may be configured to adjust the
position of the primary display device based on the received
player-characteristic information. In certain aspects of the gaming
terminal, the primary display device may be operable to
automatically move to a different position in response to events in
the wagering game, user-input preferences, or operator-input
preferences.
[0089] It is further contemplated that the gaming terminal includes
an operator seat positioned on a viewing side of the primary
display device. The operator seat can be configured to horizontally
slide in a direction generally perpendicular to the support cabinet
and the viewing side of the primary display device such that the
operator seat is configured to move toward and away from the
primary display device. The operator seat may slide away from the
support cabinet in response to the primary display device moving
from a generally upright position to a generally horizontal
position.
[0090] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, it
is contemplated that a primary display device is one of a plurality
of primary display devices in a bank of gaming terminals. Each
gaming terminal in the bank of gaming terminals can have a primary
display device mounted to a rocker base connected to a support
cabinet via a roller connection or otherwise. The movement of the
primary display device from a generally upright position to a
general horizontal position can be synchronized with movements of
other primary display devices in the bank of gaming terminals such
that the primary display device and the other primary display
devices align to form a generally horizontal display surface for
the entire bank of gaming terminals. The generally horizontal
display surface can include a predetermined spacing between each of
the primary display devices such that the individual primary
displays give the general appearance of one semi-continuous
horizontal display surface.
[0091] It is further contemplated that the gaming terminal may
include a secondary display device. The secondary display device
can be one of a plurality of secondary display devices associated
with the bank of gaming terminals. The secondary display can be
adjustable from a generally vertical position to downward-facing
angled position. The adjustment of the secondary display device
between the generally vertical position to the downward-facing
angled position can be synchronized with each of the other
secondary display devices in the bank of gaming terminals such that
all of the secondary display devices are at the same position. In
certain aspects, the adjustment of the secondary display device can
be further synchronized with movement of the primary display device
such that the secondary display devices are in the generally
vertical position in response to the primary display devices being
in generally upright positions.
[0092] Each of these embodiments and obvious variations thereof is
contemplated as falling within the spirit and scope of the claimed
invention, which is set forth in the following claims.
* * * * *