U.S. patent application number 13/530374 was filed with the patent office on 2012-10-18 for gaming system and a method of gaming.
This patent application is currently assigned to ARISTOCRAT TECHNOLOGIES AUSTRALIA PTY LIMITED. Invention is credited to Hyong Joo Kim.
Application Number | 20120264501 13/530374 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40873568 |
Filed Date | 2012-10-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120264501 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kim; Hyong Joo |
October 18, 2012 |
GAMING SYSTEM AND A METHOD OF GAMING
Abstract
A gaming apparatus comprises a movable symbol selector and a
reference object. The symbol selector has a plurality of
presentation portions. Each portion is associated with one or more
symbols of a first set of symbols. The reference object comprises a
plurality of parts over which the selector can be moved. Each part
is associated with one or more symbols of a second set of symbols.
When the symbol selector moves relative to the reference object at
least one relationship is formed between at least one of the
selector portions and at least one of the reference object parts.
The at least one relationship is for use in determining a game
outcome.
Inventors: |
Kim; Hyong Joo; (Meadowbank,
AU) |
Assignee: |
ARISTOCRAT TECHNOLOGIES AUSTRALIA
PTY LIMITED
North Ryde
AU
|
Family ID: |
40873568 |
Appl. No.: |
13/530374 |
Filed: |
June 22, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12339727 |
Dec 19, 2008 |
8226464 |
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13530374 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
463/20 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/34 20130101;
G07F 17/3262 20130101; G07F 17/3213 20130101; G07F 17/32 20130101;
G07F 17/3276 20130101; G07F 17/3244 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
463/20 |
International
Class: |
A63F 9/24 20060101
A63F009/24 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 21, 2007 |
AU |
2007907036 |
Claims
1. A gaming apparatus comprising: a movable symbol selector having
a plurality of presentation portions, wherein each portion is
associated with one or more symbols of a first set of symbols; a
reference object comprising a plurality of parts over which the
selector can be moved, wherein each part is associated with one or
more symbols of a second set of symbols, wherein when the symbol
selector moves relative to the reference object at least one
relationship is formed between at least one of the selector
portions and at least one of the reference object parts; wherein
the at least one relationship is for use in a determining a game
outcome.
2. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the portions
are arranged over a surface of the selector.
3. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the reference
object comprises one or more game surfaces.
4. A gaming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the or each
game surface comprises at least one of the parts.
5. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least
one relationship is formed by the at least one portion contacting
at least one part.
6. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the selector is
rollable and the movement of the selector is by rolling.
7. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the parts of
the reference object are spaced apart from each other.
8. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the parts of
the reference object are connected to each other.
9. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the reference
object is stationary.
10. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the reference
object is movable.
11. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the or each
symbol associated with each portion is displayed in the
portion.
12. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the or each
symbol associated with each part is displayed in the part.
13. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein of symbol
selector is a ball.
14. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the symbol
selector is one of a plurality of symbol selectors which are moved
relative to the reference object.
15. A gaming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the symbol
selectors have the same symbols associated with their respective
portions.
16. A gaming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein there is a
different set of symbols for each symbol selector.
17. A gaming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the symbol
selectors have the same arrangement of symbols on their respective
surfaces.
18. A gaming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein there is a
different arrangement of symbols on each symbol selector.
19. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first set
of symbols is the same as the second set of symbols.
20. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein some of the
first set of symbols are also in the second set of symbols.
21. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first set
of symbols is different to the second set of symbols.
22. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the parts of
the reference object are arranged in a lane of sequential
parts.
23. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the parts of
the reference object are arranged into a plurality of lanes and a
symbol selector is provided for each lane.
24. A gaming apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the symbols
in each lane are the same.
25. A gaming apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the sequence
of symbols differs between lanes.
26. A gaming apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the symbols
differ between lanes.
27. A gaming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the game
surface is inclined and the symbol selector is released to roll
down the game surface when the game is played.
28. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first set
of symbols and the second set of symbols are faces of playing
cards.
29. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the symbols
are shapes, colours, letters, numbers or combinations of these.
30. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the gaming
apparatus is arranged to electronically simulate the symbol
selector and the reference object.
31. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a
monitor for determining which of the selector portions form a
relationship with which of the reference object parts such that the
symbols corresponding to the determined portions and parts can be
determined.
32. A gaming apparatus according to claim 31, wherein the gaming
apparatus comprises a comparator for comparing the determined
symbols with game criteria to determine the game outcome.
33. A gaming apparatus according to claim 32, wherein the
comparator is arranged to determine that the game outcome is a win
in the event that one of more of the determined symbols of the
selector is the same as one or more of the determined symbols of
the reference object.
34. A gaming apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the
comparator is arranged to determine the outcome of the game
according to the number of determined selector symbols that are the
same as the determined reference object symbols.
35. A gaming apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the
comparator is arranged to determine that the outcome of the game is
a win in the event that a combination of the determined symbols
indicate a win.
36. A gaming apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the
comparator is arranged to determine that the outcome of the game is
a loss in the event that none of determined symbols are the
same.
37. A gaming apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the
comparator is arranged to determine that the outcome of the game is
a loss in the event that a combination of the determined symbols do
not indicate a win.
38. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the gaming
apparatus comprises a prize allocator for allocating a prize to a
player of the game based on the game outcome.
39. A gaming apparatus according to claim 38, wherein the prize
allocator allocates a prize having a quantum based on the number of
determined symbols that are the same.
40. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein gaming
apparatus is arranged such that a player is able to choose to enter
into one or more rounds of the game such that entry into each
subsequent round after the first round risks losing a prize or a
portion of a prize, or the player is able to choose to end the game
and receive a prize won thus far.
41. A gaming apparatus according to claim 38, wherein the or each
prize may be in the form of a monetary amount, points, tokens,
progressive prizes, eligibility for feature games, tournament
entitlements, or entitlements to inclusion of special symbols in
subsequent rounds of the game, such as wildcard symbols.
42. A gaming apparatus according to claim 31, further comprising an
indicator for indicating the determined symbols.
43. A gaming apparatus according to claim 42, wherein the indicator
indicates the determined selector symbols separately from the
determined reference object symbols.
44. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the gaming
apparatus is implemented as a stand alone gaming machine or across
a network.
45. A gaming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the gaming
apparatus forms part of a gaming system.
46. A method of playing a game using a gaming apparatus comprising
a movable symbol selector having a plurality of presentation
portions, wherein each portion is associated with one or more
symbols of a first set of symbols; and a reference object
comprising a plurality of parts over which the selector can be
moved, wherein each part is associated with one or more symbols of
a second set of symbols, wherein when the symbol selector moves
relative to the reference object at least one relationship is
formed between at least one of the selector portions and at least
one of the reference object parts, and wherein the at least one
relationship is for use in a determining a game outcome, the method
comprising: moving the symbol selector relative to the reference
object; determining which of the portions form a relationship with
which of the parts and the corresponding symbols according to the
at least one portion-part relationship; determining the game
outcome according the determined symbols.
47. A method according to claim 46, wherein the outcome of the game
is a win in the event that the one or more of the related symbols
are the same.
48. A method according to claim 46, wherein a quantum of the
outcome the game is based on the number of related symbols that are
the same.
49. A method according to claim 46, wherein a quantum of the
outcome the game is based on which selector symbols are related to
which reference object symbols.
50. A game controller for controlling a gaming system, the gaming
system comprising: a movable symbol selector having a plurality of
presentation portions, wherein each portion is associated with one
or more symbols of a first set of symbols; and a reference object
comprising a plurality of parts over which the movable object can
be moved, wherein each part is associated with one or more symbols
of a second set of symbols, wherein the game controller is arranged
to cause: the movable object to move relative to the reference
object so that at least one relationship is formed between at least
one of the selector portions and at least one of the reference
object parts; wherein the at least one relationship is for use in
determining a game outcome.
51. A game controller according to claim 50, wherein the game
controller is arranged to determine the respective symbols
associated with each portion and part of each formed relationship
for use in determining the outcome of the game.
52. A game controller according to claim 50, wherein the game
controller is arranged to cause displaying of the movable symbol
selector and the reference object on a display.
53. A game controller according to claim 52, comprising a processor
configured to control movement of the symbol selector relative to
the reference object.
54. A game controller according to claim 51, wherein the processor
is configured to control the display to separately display the
determined symbols.
55. A game controller according to claim 53, wherein the processor
is configured to operate a symbol selection component which
determines the movement or movements of the movable object so that
when the symbol selector is moved the at least one relationships
are formed according to the determined movement or movements.
56. A method of playing a game using a game controller for
controlling a gaming system, the gaming system comprising: a
movable symbol selector having a plurality of presentation
portions, wherein each portion is associated with one or more
symbols of a first set of symbols; and a reference object
comprising a plurality of parts over which the movable object can
be moved, wherein each part is associated with one or more symbols
of a second set of symbols, and wherein the game controller is
arranged to cause: the movable object to move relative to the
reference object so that at least one relationship is formed
between at least one of the selector portions and at least one of
the reference object parts, wherein the at least one relationship
is for use in determining a game outcome, the method comprising:
displaying moving of the symbol selector over the reference object;
determining the game outcome according the determined symbols.
57. A method of playing a game comprising: moving a symbol selector
over a reference object, wherein the symbol selector has a
plurality of presentation portions, wherein each portion is
associated with one or more symbols of a first set of symbols,
wherein the reference object has a plurality of parts over which
the selector can move, wherein each part is associated with one or
more symbols of a second set of symbols, wherein when the symbol
selector moves relative to the reference object at least one of the
portions will form at least one relationship with at least one of
the parts; determining a game outcome according to the formed
relationships.
58. A method according to claim 57, further comprising determining
which of the portions form a relationship with which of the parts
and which respective symbols are associated with each part of the
formed relationships, and determining the game outcome based on the
determined symbols.
59. Logic embodied in a machine readable form for controlling a
processor to perform a method of playing a game comprising
instructions for controlling the processor to: display a moveable
symbol selector having a plurality of presentation portions,
wherein each portion is associated with one or more symbols of a
first set of symbols; display a reference object comprising a
plurality of parts over which the selector can move, wherein each
part is associated with one or more symbols of a second set of
symbols; display the symbol selector moving relative to the
reference object with at least one of the portions forming at least
one relationship with at least one of the parts; wherein the at
least one relationship is for use in determining a game
outcome.
60. The logic according to claim 59, wherein the instructions are
further configured to determine which of the portions form a
relationship with which of the parts and which respective symbols
are associated with each part of the formed relationships for use
in determining the game outcome.
61. The logic of claim 59, wherein the logic is embodied in a
computer program comprising instructions which when executed
control the operation of the processor.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims the benefit of priority to
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/339,727, filed on Dec. 19,
2008, entitled "A GAMING SYSTEM AND A METHOD OF GAMING," and
Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2007907036, filed
Dec. 21, 2007, entitled "A GAMING SYSTEM AND A METHOD OF GAMING,"
which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a gaming system and to a
method of gaming.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] It is known to provide a gaming machine which comprises a
plurality of reels, each of which spin about a common axis of
rotation and have symbols located on their circumferential surface.
Such gaming machines are played by activating the machine to rotate
the reels. When the reels come to a stop the aligned symbols in a
"pay line" determine the outcome of the game.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention there
is provided a gaming apparatus including:
[0005] a movable symbol selector having a plurality of presentation
portions, wherein each portion is associated with one or more
symbols of a first set of symbols; and
[0006] a reference object including a plurality of parts over which
the selector can be moved, wherein each part is associated with one
or more symbols of a second set of symbols,
[0007] wherein when the symbol selector moves relative to the
reference object at least one relationship is formed between at
least one of the selector portions and at least one of the
reference object parts, wherein the at least one relationship is
for use in determining a game outcome.
[0008] In an embodiment the respective symbols associated with each
portion and part of each formed relationship are determined for use
in determining the game outcome.
[0009] In an embodiment the portions are arranged over a surface of
the selector.
[0010] In an embodiment the reference object includes one or more
game surfaces. In an embodiment the or each game surface includes
at least one of the parts.
[0011] In an embodiment the at least one relationship is formed by
the at least one portion contacting at least one part.
[0012] In an embodiment selector is rollable and the movement of
the selector is by rolling.
[0013] In one embodiment the parts of the reference object are
spaced apart from each other. In an alternative embodiment the
parts of the reference object are connected to each other.
[0014] In an embodiment the reference object has a single game
surface, the game surface including the plurality of parts.
[0015] In an embodiment the reference object is stationary. In an
alternative embodiment the reference object is movable.
[0016] In an embodiment the or each symbol associated with each
portion is displayed in the portion. In an embodiment the or each
symbol associated with each part is displayed in the part. A
relationship between a portion and a part is regarded as a
relationship between the respective symbols. In an embodiment a
contact between a portion and a part is regarded as a contact
between the respective symbols.
[0017] In an embodiment of symbol selector is a ball. In an
embodiment the symbol selector is spherical in shape.
[0018] In an embodiment the symbol selector is one of a plurality
of symbol selectors which are moved relative to the reference
object. In an embodiment the symbol selector is one of a plurality
of symbol selectors which are rolled over the game surface.
Movement of each symbol selector relative to the reference object
forms one or more relationships between respective at least one of
the selector portions and at least one of the reference object
parts, which are used in the game outcome.
[0019] In an embodiment the symbol selectors have the same symbols
associated with their respective portions. In an alternate
embodiment there is a different set of symbols for each symbol
selector.
[0020] In an embodiment the symbol selectors have the same
arrangement of symbols on their respective surfaces. In an
alternative embodiment there is a different arrangement of symbols
on each symbol selector.
[0021] In an embodiment the first set of symbols is the same as the
second set of symbols. In an embodiment some of the first set of
symbols are also in the second set of symbols. In an embodiment the
first set of symbols is different to the second set of symbols.
[0022] In an embodiment the parts of the reference object are
arranged in a lane.
[0023] In an embodiment the parts of the reference object are
arranged into a plurality of lanes and a symbol selector is
provided for each lane.
[0024] In an embodiment the symbols in each lane are the same. In
an embodiment the sequence of symbols differs between lanes. In an
embodiment the symbols differ between lanes.
[0025] In an embodiment the game surface is inclined and the symbol
selector is released to roll down the game surface when the game is
played.
[0026] In an embodiment the first set of symbols and the second set
of symbols are faces of playing cards. In alternative embodiment
the symbols are shapes, colours, letters, numbers or combinations
of these.
[0027] In an embodiment the gaming apparatus is arranged to
electronically simulate the symbol selectors and the reference
object.
[0028] In an embodiment the gaming apparatus includes a monitor for
determining which of the selector portions form a relationship with
which of the reference object parts such that the symbols
corresponding to the determined portions and parts can be
determined.
[0029] In one arrangement, the gaming apparatus includes a
comparator for comparing the determined symbols with game criteria
to determine the game outcome.
[0030] In an embodiment the comparator is arranged to determine
that the game outcome is a win in the event that one of more of the
determined symbols of the selector is the same as one or more of
the determined symbols of the reference object.
[0031] In an embodiment the comparator is arranged to determine the
outcome of the game according to the number of determined selector
symbols that are the same as the determined reference object
symbols.
[0032] In an embodiment the comparator is arranged to determine
that the outcome of the game is a win in the event that a
combination of the related symbols indicate a win.
[0033] In an embodiment the comparator is arranged to determine
that the outcome of the game is a loss in the event that none of
related symbols are the same.
[0034] In an embodiment the comparator is arranged to determine
that the outcome of the game is a loss in the event that a
combination of the related symbols do not indicate a win.
[0035] In an embodiment the gaming apparatus includes a prize
allocator for allocating a prize to a player of the game based on
the game outcome.
[0036] In an embodiment the prize allocator allocates a prize
having a quantum based on the number of related symbols that are
the same.
[0037] The gaming apparatus may be arranged such that a player is
able to choose to enter into another round of the game and thereby
risk losing a prize or a portion of a prize, or to end the game and
receive a prize won thus far.
[0038] The or each prize may be in the form of a monetary amount,
points, tokens, progressive prizes, eligibility for feature games,
tournament entitlements, or entitlements to inclusion of special
symbols in subsequent rounds of the game, such as wildcard
symbols.
[0039] In an embodiment the gaming apparatus further includes an
indicator for indicating the determined symbols. In an embodiment
the indicator indicates the determined selector symbols separately
from the determined reference object symbols.
[0040] The gaming apparatus may be implemented as a stand alone
gaming machine or across a network.
[0041] The gaming apparatus may form part of a gaming system.
[0042] According to a second aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method of playing a game using the gaming apparatus
including:
[0043] moving the symbol selector relative to the reference
object;
[0044] determining which of the portions form a relationship with
which of the parts and the corresponding symbols according to the
at least one portion-part relationship;
[0045] determining a game outcome according the determined
symbols.
[0046] In an embodiment the outcome of the game is a win in the
event that the one or more of the related symbols are the same.
[0047] In an embodiment a quantum of the outcome the game is based
on the number of related symbols that are the same.
[0048] In an embodiment a quantum of the outcome the game is based
on which selector symbols are related to which reference object
symbols.
[0049] According to a third aspect of the present invention there
is provided a game controller for controlling a gaming system, the
gaming system including:
[0050] a movable symbol selector having a plurality of presentation
portions, wherein each portion is associated with one or more
symbols of a first set of symbols, and
[0051] a reference object including a plurality of parts over which
the movable object can be moved, wherein each part is associated
with one or more symbols of a second set of symbols;
wherein the game controller is arranged to cause:
[0052] the movable object to move relative to the reference object
so that at least one relationship is formed between at least one of
the selector portions and at least one of the reference object
parts;
[0053] wherein the at least one relationship is for use in
determining a game outcome.
[0054] In an embodiment the game controller is arranged to
determine the respective symbols associated with each portion and
part of each formed relationship for use in determining the outcome
of the game.
[0055] In an embodiment the gaming system includes a display for
displaying of the movable symbol selector and the reference
object.
[0056] In an embodiment the game controller includes a processor
configured to control the display.
[0057] In an embodiment the processor is configured to control the
display to separately display the determined symbols.
[0058] In an embodiment the processor is configured to operate a
symbol selection component which determines the movement or
movements of the movable object so that when the symbol selector is
moved the at least one relationships are formed according to the
determined movement or movements.
[0059] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method of playing a game using the game controller
including:
[0060] displaying moving of the symbol selector over the reference
object;
[0061] determining the game outcome according the determined
symbols.
[0062] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method of playing a game including:
[0063] moving a symbol selector over a reference object, wherein
the symbol selector has a plurality of presentation portions,
wherein each portion is associated with one or more symbols of a
first set of symbols, wherein the reference object has a plurality
of parts over which the selector can move, wherein each part is
associated with one or more symbols of a second set of symbols,
wherein when the symbol selector moves relative to the reference
object at least one of the portions will form at least one
relationship with at least one of the parts;
[0064] determining a game outcome according to the formed
relationships.
[0065] In an embodiment the method includes determining which of
the portions form a relationship with which of the parts and which
respective symbols are associated with each part of the formed
relationships, and determining the game outcome based on the
determined symbols.
[0066] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there
is provided logic embodied in a machine readable form for
controlling a processor to perform a method of playing a game
including instructions for controlling the processor to:
display a moveable symbol selector having a plurality of
presentation portions, wherein each portion is associated with one
or more symbols of a first set of symbols; display a reference
object including a plurality of parts over which the selector can
move, wherein each part is associated with one or more symbols of a
second set of symbols; display the symbol selector moving relative
to the reference object with at least one of the portions forming
at least one relationship with at least one of the parts;
[0067] wherein the at least one relationship is for use in
determining a game outcome.
[0068] In an embodiment the instructions are further configured to
determine which of the portions form a relationship with which of
the parts and which respective symbols are associated with each
part of the formed relationships for use in determining the game
outcome.
[0069] In an embodiment the logic is embodied in a computer program
including instructions which when executed control the operation of
the processor.
[0070] In an embodiment the logic is embodied in a data signal.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0071] Certain embodiments of the present invention will now be
described, by way of example only, with reference to the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0072] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic block diagram of a gaming system in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
[0073] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic representation of a gaming system
in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention with the
gaming system implemented in the form of a stand alone gaming
machine;
[0074] FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of operative components
of the gaming machine shown in FIG. 2;
[0075] FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of components of a
memory of the gaming machine shown in FIG. 2;
[0076] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a gaming system in
accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention
with the gaming system implemented over a network;
[0077] FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view of a gaming system according
to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0078] FIG. 7 is a schematic side elevation of the gaming system of
FIG. 6;
[0079] FIG. 8 is a schematic representation of a ball of the gaming
system of FIG. 6;
[0080] FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic representation of a bet pay table
used to determine a prize based on an outcome of the game played
using the gaming system of FIG. 6 according to an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0081] FIG. 10 is a schematic representation of a matching scenario
using the gaming system of FIG. 6;
[0082] FIG. 11 is a schematic representation of a non-matching
scenario using the gaming system of FIG. 6;
[0083] FIG. 12 is a schematic representation of the gaming system
of FIG. 6 after the game has been played, in which matching symbols
are highlighted; and
[0084] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of
determining a prize allocation in accordance with an embodiment to
the present invention.
[0085] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed
description of certain embodiments of the present invention, will
be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended
drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, certain
embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should be understood,
however, that the present invention is not limited to the
arrangements and instrumentality shown in the attached
drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS
[0086] Referring to the drawings, there is shown a gaming system
arranged to implement a probabilistic wagering game wherein a
player wagers a bet amount and a prize is allocated to the player
depending on a game result.
[0087] The game implemented by the gaming system operates such that
a player places a bet on a game outcome and will be awarded a prize
according to the result of the game and in some embodiments
according to the amount wagered.
[0088] The gaming system includes a gaming apparatus including a
moveable symbol selector, such as a ball, and a reference object
such as a game surface. The symbol selector has a plurality of
presentation portions over the selector surface. Each portion is
associated with one or more symbols of a first set of symbols.
Typically the symbol associated with the portion is displayed in
the portion. Therefore the first symbols are arranged over a
surface of the selector. In another embodiment the symbol selector
has a plurality of edges that form the presentation portions. In an
embodiment the reference object has a plurality of game surfaces,
such as platforms. The selector and/or the reference object may be
2 dimensional or 3 dimensional.
[0089] The game surface is for the symbol selector to move relative
to. The game surface has a plurality of parts arranged over the
game surface. Each part is associated with one or more symbols of a
second set of symbols. The symbols associated with each part are
typically displayed in the part. When the symbol selector moves
relative to the game surface at least some of the selector portions
will form a relationship with at least some of the game surface
parts, such as by rolling, bouncing, flipping etc. Typically the
relationship is formed by a contact between a portion and a part,
however other methods of forming the relationship are contemplated.
By association at least some of the selector symbols are regarded
as forming a relationship with at least some of the game surface
symbols.
[0090] In the example embodiment, to play the game the ball is
intended to be rolled over the game surface and depending on which
selector portions contact which game surface parts at least some of
the selector symbols and at least some of the game surface symbols
will be regarded as making contact with each other. The contact of
the respective symbols with each other can be monitored and used to
determine the outcome of the game.
[0091] The outcome of the game is determined according to the rules
of the specific implementation of the game and the related symbols.
A typical rule is to determine if the related selector symbol and
game surface symbol are the same, that is they match. In the event
that they match, then the symbol is used in the game outcome, and
if they are not, then the related symbols are not used any further.
In a variation of this rule, if a quality of the symbol is the same
then the quality may be used in the game outcome. For example if
the symbols are of playing cards, then the quality may be the rank
of the card or the suit of the card (eg Kings or clubs). Another
variation of the game rules would combine the related symbols for
use in the game outcome. For example if the symbols were numbers,
the combined result of the related symbols may be used (e.g., the
selector symbol is a 4 and the game surface symbol is a 3, then the
combined result used in the game outcome is a 7). Other
implementations are possible.
[0092] A monitoring component can be used to determine which of the
selector symbols forms a relationship with which of the reference
object symbols.
[0093] In relation to the player's wager the outcome can be a
success, a loss, or a neutral outcome, which will depend on the
specific implementation of the game. A successful outcome will
result in winning of a prize. A loss will result in no prize and
loss of the wager. A neutral outcome will be no awarded prize, but
no loss of the wager amount. In this case, another round of the
gamer can therefore be played without making a further wager.
[0094] The symbols may take any suitable form such as
representations of dice, cards, dominoes, tiles, shapes, numbers,
letters, currency amounts or any other type of symbols. The symbols
may have an associated ranking or a ranking can be applied so that
a comparison of other symbol(s) with the selected pairs of symbols
yields a success or failure result. The ranking may be fixed or may
vary according to a schedule, such as in the game "scissors, paper,
rock".
[0095] In one example, the symbols are currency amounts and success
is determined on the basis of the currency amounts in each selected
pair of related symbols that match. In one implementation the
quantum of the prize won is determined by the value of the amounts
of the related symbols.
[0096] In an alternative example, the selected pair(s) of related
symbols are compared to reference symbols and success is determined
on the basis of a comparison with the reference symbols. For
example, the symbols are numbers, if the sum of the numbers shown
on the selected pairs is greater than or equal to the sum of the
numbers shown on the reference numbers, the player wins.
[0097] The sets of symbols may include numbers, letters, one or
more colours, or at least one special symbol or colour having an
allocated special function or prize.
[0098] The game may be multi-levelled, where successive rounds are
played and depending on the success or otherwise, in each round,
the game may progress through the levels.
[0099] More than one symbol selector and or playing surface may be
used. The number of these may be constant or may vary according to
game rules, for example the number of selectors may increase or
decrease with each succeeding game level. The selectors or game
surface(s) used may include the same symbols or may have different
combinations of symbols in different rounds.
[0100] The symbols may include standard symbols and may
additionally include one or more function symbols, and the ranking
associated with a symbol or combination of symbols may be
determined on the basis of the displayed standard symbols and the
function associated with any displayed function symbol. The
function associated with a function symbol may be for example a
wild function wherein display of the function symbol is treated
during consideration of the game outcome as any of the standard
symbols or as a predetermined function selected by the gaming
system on commencement of the game.
[0101] The game may be played using a physical implementation or an
electronic simulated implementation. In the physical implementation
the selector(s) and reference object are physical objects. In the
simulated implementation the selector(s) and reference object are
displayed on a display.
[0102] The game may be a secondary game in which the game is used
to determine a secondary or bonus prize of another game.
[0103] The game may be implemented as part of another game, wherein
the game is activated as a result of any predetermined action, such
as a game outcome related event, an operator initiated event, a
random event, an event related to turnover, or an event related to
special bets being placed.
[0104] Referring to FIG. 1, a gaming system 10 for implementing an
electronic embodiment of the game is shown in diagrammatic form.
The gaming system 10 includes a player interface 6 and a game
controller 4. The player interface 6 is arranged to enable
interaction between a player and the gaming system and for this
purpose includes input/output components for the player to enter
instructions and play the game.
[0105] Components of the player interface 6 may vary but will
typically include a credit mechanism 7 to enable a player to input
credits and receive payouts, one or more displays 8 which may
include a touch screen, and a game play mechanism 9 arranged to
enable a player to input game play instructions.
[0106] The game controller 4 is in data communication with the
player interface 6 and typically includes a processor 5 arranged to
process game play instructions and output game player outcomes to
the display 8. Typically, the game play instructions are stored as
program code in a memory 12 that can also be hardwired. It will be
understood that in this specification the term "processor" is used
to refer generically to any device that can process game play
instructions and may include a microprocessor, microcontroller,
programmable logic device or any other computational device such as
a personal computer or a server.
[0107] The memory 12 arranged to store symbols data 14 indicative
of a plurality of symbols for selection and display to a player
during a game, function data 16 indicative of one or more functions
associated with one or more of the symbols, prize data 18
indicative of prize amounts of the game, and game instruction data
20 indicative of game instructions usable by the gaming machine 10
to control operation of the game.
[0108] The game controller 4 also includes a symbol selection
component 22 which is arranged to implement the moving (e.g.
rolling) of the selector(s) relative to (e.g. over) the game
surface. In one implementation the symbol selection component 22
includes a symbol selector, such as a ball, and a reference object
such as a game surface. In this example a monitoring component may
for part of the symbol selection component 22 so that the related
symbols can be determined. In another implementation the symbol
selector and reference object are simulated. In this example the
symbol selection component 22 uses a random number generator 24 to
determine which symbols of the symbol selector form a relationship
with (e.g. such as by making contact) which symbols of the
reference object.
[0109] It will be appreciated that the random number generator 24
may be of a type which is arranged to generate pseudo random
numbers based on a seed number, and that in this specification the
term "random" will be understood accordingly to mean truly random
or pseudo random.
[0110] The game controller 4 also includes a comparator 30 arranged
to compare the related symbols in accordance with the game
instruction data 20, and an outcome generator 32 which in
accordance with the game instruction data 20 determines whether the
player is successful or unsuccessful and therefore wins a prize or
not.
[0111] While in this example the comparator 30 and the outcome
generator 32 are shown as separate components, it will be
understood that the functions of the outcome generator 32 and the
comparator 30 may be implemented by one component.
[0112] The game controller 4 also includes a prize allocator 34
which communicates with the prize data 18 stored in the memory 12
and with the outcome generator 30, and determines an appropriate
prize to allocate to a player depending on the outcome of the game
and in some embodiments depending on the related symbols selected
by the symbol selector 22.
[0113] Additional prizes may be allocated on the basis of
occurrence of a predetermined combination, such as for example the
same symbol in one or more of the pairs, a consecutive sequence in
or between the pairs, occurrence of all odd or all even numbers,
occurrence of the same symbol combination, a predetermined sequence
in consecutive turns, and so on. The additional prizes may take the
form of one or more additional turns.
[0114] The gaming system 10 may also be arranged such that a player
has the option of choosing to continue with another round of the
game and thereby attempt to wager the winnings of the previous
round or to win a game in which the results of subsequent rounds
determines he outcome of the game.
[0115] Instead of providing monetary prize amounts, the prize
allocated to a player for reaching a level and/or any additional
prize may be in the form of points, tokens, progressive prizes,
eligibility for feature games, tournament entitlements, or special
symbol entitlements in other games, such as an additional wild
symbol for a predetermined number of games.
[0116] In the embodiment described below, the symbol selection
component 22, the comparator 30, the prize allocator 34 and the
outcome generator 30 are implemented using the processor and
associated programs, although it will be understood that other
implementations are envisaged.
[0117] The gaming system 10 can take a number of different
forms.
[0118] In a first form, a stand alone gaming machine is provided
wherein all or most components for implementing the game are
present in a player operable gaming machine.
[0119] In a second form, a distributed architecture is provided
wherein some of the components for implementing the game are
present in a player operable gaming machine and some of the
components for implementing the game are located remotely relative
to the gaming machine. For example, a "thick client" architecture
may be used wherein part of the game is executed on a player
operable gaming machine and part of the game is executed remotely,
such as by a gaming server; or a "thin client" architecture may be
used wherein most of the game is executed remotely such as by a
gaming server and a player operable gaming machine is used only to
display audible and/or visible gaming information to the player and
receive gaming inputs from the player.
[0120] However, it will be understood that other arrangements are
envisaged. For example, an architecture may be provided wherein a
gaming machine is networked to a gaming server and the respective
functions of the gaming machine and the gaming server are
selectively modifiable. For example, the gaming system may operate
in stand alone gaming machine mode, "thick client" mode or "thin
client" mode depending on the game being played, operating
conditions, and so on. Other variations will be apparent to persons
skilled in the art.
[0121] A gaming system in the form of a stand alone gaming machine
40 is illustrated in FIG. 2. The gaming machine 40 includes a
console 42 having a display 44 on which is displayed
representations of a game 46 that can be played by a player. A
mid-trim 50 of the gaming machine 40 houses a bank of buttons 52
for enabling a player to interact with the gaming machine during
gameplay, including enabling the player to select the bet amount
and to receive other inputs. The mid-trim 50 also houses a credit
input mechanism 54 which in this example includes a coin input
chute 54A and a bill collector 54B. Other credit input mechanisms
may also be employed, for example, a card reader for reading a
smart card, debit card or credit card. A reading device may also be
provided for the purpose of reading a player tracking device, for
example as part of a loyalty program. The player tracking device
may be in the form of a card, flash drive or any other portable
storage medium capable of being read by the reading device.
[0122] A top box 56 may carry artwork 58, including for example pay
tables and details of bonus awards and other information or images
relating to the game. Further artwork and/or information may be
provided on a front panel 59 of the console 42. A coin tray 60 is
mounted beneath the front panel 59 for dispensing cash payouts from
the gaming machine 30.
[0123] The display 44 is in the form of a video display unit,
particularly a cathode ray tube screen device. Alternatively, the
display 44 may be a liquid crystal display, plasma screen, any
other suitable video display unit. The top box 56 may also include
a display, for example a video display unit, which may be of the
same type as the display 44, or of a different type. The display
may include a touch screen usable by a player to interact with the
gaming machine, in particular during game play.
[0124] The display 44 in this example is arranged to display
representations of the selector and game surface, each of which has
several associated symbols. Typically 2, 3, 4 or 5 selectors are
provided, which each selector rolling over a respective lane of the
game surface.
[0125] A player marketing module (PMM) 62 having a display 64 is
connected to the gaming machine 10. The main purpose of the PMM 62
is to allow the player to interact with a player loyalty system.
The PMM has a magnetic card reader for the purpose of reading a
player tracking device, for example as part of a loyalty program.
However other reading devices may be employed and the player
tracking device may be in the form of a card, flash drive or any
other portable storage medium capable of being read by the reading
device. In this example, the PMM 62 is a Sentinel III device
produced by Aristocrat Technologies Pty Ltd.
[0126] FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of operative components of a
typical gaming machine 100 which may be the same as or different to
the gaming machine shown in FIG. 2.
[0127] The gaming machine 100 includes a game controller 101 having
a processor 102. Instructions and data to control operation of the
processor 102 in accordance with the present invention are stored
in a memory 103 which is in data communication with the processor
102.
[0128] Typically, the gaming machine 100 will include both volatile
and non-volatile memory and more than one of each type of memory,
with such memories being collectively represented by the memory
103.
[0129] FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of the main components of an
exemplary memory 103. The memory 103 includes RAM 103A, EPROM 103B
and a mass storage device 103C. The RAM 103A typically temporarily
holds program files for execution by the processor 102 and related
data. The EPROM 103B may be a boot ROM device and/or may contain
some system or game related code. The mass storage device 103C is
typically used to store game programs, the integrity of which may
be verified and/or authenticated by the processor 102 using
protected code from the EPROM 103B or elsewhere, and data
indicative of symbols, prize amounts and symbol functions used in
the game.
[0130] The gaming machine has hardware meters 104 for purposes
including ensuring regulatory compliance and monitoring player
credit, an input/output (I/O) interface 105 for communicating with
a player interface 120 of the gaming machine 100, the player
interface 120 having several peripheral devices. The input/output
interface 105 and/or the peripheral devices may be intelligent
devices with their own memory for storing associated instructions
and data for use with the input/output interface or the peripheral
devices. A random number generator module 113 generates random
numbers for use by the processor 102.
[0131] In the example shown in FIG. 3, the peripheral devices that
communicate with the game controller 101 include one or more
displays 106, a touch screen and/or bank of buttons 107, a card
and/or ticket reader 108, a printer 109, a bill acceptor and/or
coin input mechanism 110 and a coin output mechanism 111.
Additional hardware may be included as part of the gaming machine
100, or hardware may be omitted based on the specific
implementation.
[0132] In addition, the gaming machine 100 may include a
communications interface, for example a network card 112. The
network card may, for example, send status information, accounting
information or other information to a central controller, server or
database and receive data or commands from the central controller,
server or database.
[0133] It is also possible for the operative components of the
gaming machine 100 to be distributed, for example input/output
devices 106,107,108,109,110,111 may be provided remotely from the
game controller 101.
[0134] The gaming system may include a network, which for example
may be an Ethernet network, a LAN or a WAN. In this example, banks
of two gaming machines are connected to the network.
[0135] FIG. 5 shows a gaming system 200 in accordance with an
alternative embodiment. The gaming system 200 includes a network
201, which for example may be an Ethernet network, a LAN or a WAN.
In this example, three banks 203 of two gaming machines 202 are
connected to the network 201. The gaming machines 202 provide a
player operable interface and may be the same as the gaming
machines 10,100 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, or may have simplified
functionality depending on the requirements for implementing game
play. While banks 203 of two gaming machines are illustrated in
FIG. 5, banks of one, three or more gaming machines are also
envisaged.
[0136] One or more displays 204 may also be connected to the
network 201. The displays 204 may, for example, be associated with
one or more banks 203 of gaming machines. The displays 204 may be
used to display representations associated with game play on the
gaming machines 202, and/or used to display other representations,
for example promotional or informational material.
[0137] In a thick client embodiment, a game server 205 implements
part of the game played by a player using a gaming machine 202 and
the gaming machine 202 implements part of the game. With this
embodiment, as both the game server 205 and the gaming machine 202
implement part of the game, they collectively provide a game
controller. A database management server 206 may manage storage of
game programs and associated data for downloading or access by the
gaming devices 202 in a database 206A. Typically, if the gaming
system enables players to participate in a Jackpot game, a Jackpot
server 207 will be provided to monitor and carry out the Jackpot
game.
[0138] In a variation of the above thick client embodiment, the
gaming machine 202 may implement the game, with the game server 205
functioning merely to serve data indicative of a game to the gaming
machine 202 for implementation.
[0139] With this implementation, a data signal containing a
computer program usable by the client terminal to implement the
gaming system may be transferred from the game server to the client
terminal, for example in response to a request by the client
terminal.
[0140] In a thin client embodiment, the game server 205 implements
most or all of the game played by a player using a gaming machine
202 and the gaming machine 202 essentially provides only the player
interface. With this embodiment, the game server 205 provides the
game controller. The gaming machine will receive player
instructions, and pass the instructions to the game server which
will process them and return game play outcomes to the gaming
machine for display. In a thin client embodiment, the gaming
machines could be computer terminals, e.g. PCs running software
that provides a player interface operable using standard computer
input and output components.
[0141] Servers are also typically provided to assist in the
administration of the gaming system 200, including for example a
gaming floor management server 208 and a licensing server 209 to
monitor the use of licenses relating to particular games. An
administrator terminal 210 is provided to allow an administrator to
monitor the network 201 and the devices connected to the
network.
[0142] The gaming system 200 may communicate with other gaming
systems, other local networks such as a corporate network, and/or a
wide area network such as the Internet, for example through a
firewall 211.
[0143] The gaming system 200 may also include a loyalty program
server 212.
[0144] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that in
accordance with known techniques, functionality at the server side
of the network may be distributed over a plurality of different
computers. For example, elements may be run as a single "engine" on
one server or a separate server may be provided. For example, the
game server 205 could run a random number generator engine.
Alternatively, a separate random number generator server could be
provided.
[0145] During operation, the game controller, whether implemented
in a stand alone gaming machine 10, 100 or over a network 201,
implements a probabilistic wagering game wherein a prize is
allocated to a player based on the game outcome.
[0146] An example of a specific implementation of the gaming system
will now be described in relation to a stand alone gaming machine
40, 100, although it will be understood that implementation may
also be carried out using other gaming system architectures such as
a network architecture such as one of the type shown in FIG. 5.
[0147] In the present embodiment, the gaming system 10 is arranged
to display virtual symbols using a video graphical display device,
although it will be understood that other arrangements are
envisaged.
[0148] Referring the FIGS. 6 to 8, 10 and 11, an embodiment of the
game is explained in more detail. A game apparatus includes a game
surface 300 and one or more symbol selectors. In this embodiment
the symbol selectors are balls 310, although other moveable objects
could be used. In this example the reference object is a game
surface 300 that has three lanes 302, 304, and 306. Each lane is
sequentially divided into parts 308, with each part 308 having a
symbol 314 displayed thereon. The game surface 300 is sloped as
seen in FIG. 7 so that the balls 310 roll down the slope (from
right to left in FIGS. 6 and 7). One ball 310 is allocated to each
lane 302, 304 and 306. As each ball rolls down the respective lane
its surface will contact the parts 308 in turn. The lanes may have
a divider 312 between them to prevent the balls from straying from
their respective lane.
[0149] Each ball 310 has its spherical surface divided into a
plurality of surface portions 320, for example 20 to 200 surface
portions, more typically about 50. Each of the surface portions 320
has a symbol 322 allocated thereto. In one example there are 52
surface portions, with each surface portion representing one card
of a standard desk of playing cards.
[0150] The balls 310 are of a diameter relative to the length of
each part such that one, two or relatively few, say up to 6, of the
surface portions 320 can contact the parts 308 as the ball rolls
over them.
[0151] In a physical implementation, each ball 310 is formed of a
suitable material, such as plastics or metal and has the symbols
marked on its surface (such as by printing or etching). The balls
310 may be released for rolling down the lanes 302, 304 and 306 by
the player, by another person (such as a croupier) or by a
motorised release mechanism. The balls may be given an impetus to
commence rolling by for example a flipper, plunger or launcher.
[0152] The game machine has a monitor which determines which of the
surface portions 320 contact which of the parts 308 as each ball
rolls down the surface. This in turn is used to determine which
symbols 322 on each ball 310 contact which symbols 314 on the game
surface 300. This is used to determine the outcome of the game.
[0153] The monitor can take various forms. If the apparatus takes a
physical form, then the monitor may include an optical sensor in
each part which detects the presence of the ball and senses which
surface portion is making contact. The monitor may include a camera
based image recognition system. The monitor may use magnetic,
inductance or RFID sensing.
[0154] In a simulated implementation the balls may be rolled upon
completion of a player placing a bet. In this implementation
rolling of the balls may be modelled, or the relationships may be
randomly determined and the position of the balls calculated based
on the determined relationships. Alternatively the speed and
direction of movement of the balls may be randomised. One or more
of the balls may be animated to move in some other manner in
addition to rotation.
[0155] FIG. 13 shows a method 400 of playing the game performed by
the gaming system 10 with reference to the example embodiment
described in relation to FIGS. 6 to 8, 10 and 11. The game is
initialised 402. Initialisation may for example involve placing the
balls at the top of the sloped surface, with one ball in each lane.
Initialisation may also include taking a wager on the outcome of
the game, play of a precursor game or some other preliminary
step.
[0156] Next the balls 310 are released 404 so that they roll down
the sloped surface in each lane 304. The comparator 30 tracks 406
which symbols 322 on the ball 310 make contact with each of the
symbols 314 on the surface of each lane 306. The comparator 30 also
determines 408 if the symbols 322 on the ball 310 that contact each
of the symbols 314 of each lane 302 match. This will produce a set
of symbols for each lane 302 where the symbol 322' on the ball 310
contacted its matching symbol 314' (in this case a `9`) on the lane
302, 304, 306. From this the outcome generator 32 determines 410
the outcome of the game. The prize allocator 34 determines 412 the
prize allocation according to the game outcome and typically the
wager(s) on the outcome of the game.
[0157] FIG. 10 schematically shows matching of portion 322'' to
part 314''. In this case, part 314'' has a King symbol and portion
322'' also has a King symbol. As can be seen portion 322'' contacts
part 314'', and thus the King in portion 322'' is regarded as
contacting the King in 314''.
[0158] FIG. 11 schematically shows a miss matching of portion 322
to part 314. In this case, part 314 has a King symbol and portion
322 has a `10` symbol. As can be seen, portion 322 contacts part
314, however, the symbol in portion 322 does not match the symbol
in part 314. Therefore while the `10` is determined to contact the
King, the rules of the game result in this portion-part contact not
being used any further to determine the result of the game.
[0159] FIG. 12 shows an example of an outcome of the game, where
the three balls 310 have each rolled down their respective lane
302, 304 and 306. During the course of rolling down these
respective lanes, the portion-part contacts have been monitored. In
those cases where the symbol of the portion-part contact matched
the part has been highlighted, such as by back lighting the surface
of the part. The highlighted parts are indicated as 315.
[0160] It can be seen from FIG. 12 that a total of 3 PIC3, 1 PIC1,
3 Js, 1 Q and 1 A are highlighted. These results can then be used
to determine payout winnings by for example using a betting table.
FIG. 9 shows example of a betting table, where for example, if
3.times.PIC1 are lit, the payout is five times the amount bet. If
4.times.PIC2 are lit the payout is 10 times the amount bet. If 5
PIC3 is lit the payout is 30 times the amount bet. Various other
combinations of betting results can be determined and placed in the
betting table.
[0161] It is noted that ball might not be spherical. The surface
areas or portions may not be uniform. Some or all of the symbols
may repeat in the portions or in the parts. The size of each part
may not be uniform. The parts may not have the same symbols. The
parts are generally greater in area than the area of the portions.
However, in an alternative embodiment the portions may be greater
in area than the parts.
[0162] Modifications and variations as be apparent to a skilled
addressee are deemed to be within the scope of the present
invention.
[0163] It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication is
referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission
that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge
in the art in any country.
[0164] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that
numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the
invention as shown in the specific embodiments without departing
from the spirit or scope of the invention as broadly described. The
present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all
respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Several embodiments
are described above with reference to the drawings. These drawings
illustrate certain details of specific embodiments that implement
the systems and methods and programs of the present invention.
However, describing the invention with drawings should not be
construed as imposing on the invention any limitations associated
with features shown in the drawings. The present invention
contemplates methods, systems and program products on any
electronic device and/or machine-readable media suitable for
accomplishing its operations. Certain embodiments of the present
invention may be implemented using an existing computer processor
and/or by a special purpose computer processor incorporated for
this or another purpose or by a hardwired system, for example.
[0165] Embodiments within the scope of the present invention
include program products comprising machine-readable media for
carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data
structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any
available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or
special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way
of example, such machine-readable media may comprise RAM, ROM,
PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, Flash, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage,
magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any
other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program
code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data
structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose or
special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. When
information is transferred or provided over a network or another
communications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a
combination of hardwired or wireless) to a machine, the machine
properly views the connection as a machine-readable medium. Thus,
any such a connection is properly termed a machine-readable medium.
Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of
machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions comprise,
for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose
computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing
machines to perform a certain function or group of functions.
* * * * *