Patents by Inventor Kirk A. Tedsen

Kirk A. Tedsen has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 7896734
    Abstract: A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event including the shared display. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Joseph E. Kaminkow, Anthony J. Baerlocher, Zeke Brill, Hans Elias, Paulina Rodgers, Kehl T. LeSourd, Eric L. Wagner, Christopher D. Carlisle, Kirk A. Tedsen, Michael MacVittie
  • Patent number: 7771270
    Abstract: A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event including the shared display. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Joseph E. Kaminkow, Anthony J. Baerlocher, Zeke Brill, Hans Elias, Paulina Rodgers, Kehl T. LeSourd, Eric L. Wagner, Christopher D. Carlisle, Kirk A. Tedsen, Michael MacVittie
  • Patent number: 7758423
    Abstract: A group bonus round game may be played on a gaming system comprising a plurality of gaming units connected together to form a networked gaming system. Each of the gaming units having a light device located thereon, wherein the light device is adapted to display a bonus indicia. The group bonus game includes the generation of a display of bonus indicia on a first subset of the gaming units, and subsequently a second subset of the gaming units, wherein the display of the bonus indicia on the different subsets of gaming units creates an illusion that the bonus indicia are spinning, or revolving through the gaming system before stopping at a specific gaming unit. The group bonus round may additionally utilize music and/or bonus stages to create other bonus round gaming themes, for example a “musical chairs” type group bonus round.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: William J. Foster, Kirk Tedsen
  • Patent number: 7666092
    Abstract: A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event including the shared display. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device however receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Joseph E. Kaminkow, Anthony J. Baerlocher, Zeke Brill, Hans Elias, Paulina Rodgers, Kehl T. LeSourd, Eric L. Wagner, Christopher D. Carlisle, Kirk A. Tedsen, Michael MacVittie
  • Patent number: 7641556
    Abstract: A gaming machine shock prevention device having a door hingedly coupled to a cabinet of the gaming machine, a gaming machine display positioned between the cabinet and the door, the gaming machine display hingedly coupled to the cabinet, and at least one spring, a first end of the spring coupled to the gaming machine display and a second end of the spring coupled to a cabinet interior, wherein the gaming machine display and door are moveable between a first position which defines the cabinet interior and a second position which exposes the cabinet interior, wherein compression of the at least one spring reduces shock to the gaming machine display when moved to the first position, and wherein opening the door to the second position releases the at least one spring to move the gaming machine display to the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Kirk A. Tedsen, Kehl T. LeSourd, Jeffrey F. Macedo
  • Patent number: 7485038
    Abstract: A gaming device having a display with multiple rotating award reels and an award indicator that moves in multiple directions to indicate one of the awards on one of the award reels is provided. In one embodiment, the reels rotate horizontally and in different directions. The indicator resides at the distal end of a member. The member is attached to a base. The base moves at least vertically so that the indicator covers or reaches each rotating award reel. The base can also move horizontally or rotate to change in both X and Y directions. When the indicator and reels stop moving, the indicator points to or indicates an award that is provided to a player as either a primary or bonus award of the gaming device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Markus Rothkranz, Kirk A. Tedsen, Kehl T. LeSourd
  • Patent number: 7448949
    Abstract: A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event including the shared display. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device however receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Joseph E. Kaminkow, Anthony J. Baerlocher, Zeke Brill, Hans Elias, Paulina Rodgers, Kehl T. LeSourd, Eric L. Wagner, Christopher D. Carlisle, Kirk A. Tedsen, Michael MacVittie
  • Patent number: 7427236
    Abstract: A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event including the shared display. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device however receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Joseph E. Kaminkow, Anthony J. Baerlocher, Zeke Brill, Hans Elias, Paulina Rodgers, Kehl T. LeSourd, Eric L. Wagner, Christopher D. Carlisle, Kirk A. Tedsen, Michael MacVittie
  • Publication number: 20080113820
    Abstract: A gaming machine having a cabinet having an interior portion, the interior portion having a front section and a back section, a gaming machine door coupled to the cabinet, a display positioned between the gaming machine door and the interior portion to display a game of chance, the display having a top, a bottom, a first side, and a second side, a connection assembly to couple the display to the gaming machine, and at least one lock coupled to the connection assembly to releasably lock the display in a closed position to prevent unauthorized access to the interior portion, the interior portion having at least one of a cash box, a coin hopper, a printer, or a paper holder, wherein the display is configured to be moved when the at least one lock is in an unlocked position to provide access to the interior portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Applicant: IGT
    Inventors: Kirk A. Tedsen, Kehl T. LeSourd, Jeffrey F. Macedo, Steve McGahn
  • Publication number: 20080113819
    Abstract: A gaming machine shock prevention device having a door hingedly coupled to a cabinet of the gaming machine, a gaming machine display positioned between the cabinet and the door, the gaming machine display hingedly coupled to the cabinet, and at least one spring, a first end of the spring coupled to the gaming machine display and a second end of the spring coupled to a cabinet interior, wherein the gaming machine display and door are moveable between a first position which defines the cabinet interior and a second position which exposes the cabinet interior, wherein compression of the at least one spring reduces shock to the gaming machine display when moved to the first position, and wherein opening the door to the second position releases the at least one spring to move the gaming machine display to the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Applicant: IGT
    Inventors: Kirk A. Tedsen, Kehl T. LeSourd, Jeffrey F. Macedo
  • Publication number: 20080070702
    Abstract: A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event including the shared display. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device however receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Applicant: IGT
    Inventors: Joseph Kaminkow, Anthony Baerlocher, Zeke Brill, Hans Elias, Paulina Rodgers, Kehl LeSourd, Eric Wagner, Christopher Carlisle, Kirk Tedsen, Michael MacVittie
  • Publication number: 20080064485
    Abstract: Gaming machines, systems and methods that present reel-based games are disclosed. Reel symbols can move or appear to move from one gaming reel to another gaming reel. Such reel symbols may include lenticular images, such as those that are implemented onto a medium via a lenticular process, whereby the medium is then applied to various gaming machine reels so that a viewer can perceive effects such as motion and depth. The medium can be a multi-image sheet containing regions of overlapping images where different images are visually predominant at different viewing angles, and the movable base can comprise a gaming reel. Multiple gaming reels can be used, and can be adapted to rotate in any direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Inventors: Kirk Tedsen, Gene Spoor, Keith Murray
  • Publication number: 20080051168
    Abstract: A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event including the shared display. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Applicant: IGT
    Inventors: Joseph Kaminkow, Anthony Baerlocher, Zeke Brill, Hans Elias, Paulina Rodgers, Kehl LeSourd, Eric Wagner, Christopher Carlisle, Kirk Tedsen, Michael MacVittie
  • Publication number: 20080020842
    Abstract: A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event including the shared display. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device however receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Applicant: IGT
    Inventors: Joseph Kaminkow, Anthony Baerlocher, Zeke Brill, Hans Elias, Paulina Rodgers, Kehl LeSourd, Eric Wagner, Christopher Carlisle, Kirk Tedsen, Michael MacVittie
  • Publication number: 20080020817
    Abstract: A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event including the shared display. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Publication date: January 24, 2008
    Applicant: IGT
    Inventors: Joseph Kaminkow, Anthony Baerlocher, Zeke Brill, Hans Elias, Paulina Rodgers, Kehl LeSourd, Eric Wagner, Christopher Carlisle, Kirk Tedsen, Michael MacVittie
  • Patent number: 7311598
    Abstract: A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event including the shared display. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device however receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Joseph E. Kaminkow, Anthony J. Baerlocher, Zeke Brill, Hans Elias, Paulina Rodgers, Kehl T. LeSourd, Eric L. Wagner, Christopher D. Carlisle, Kirk A. Tedsen, Michael MacVittie
  • Patent number: 7311604
    Abstract: A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event including the shared display. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device however receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Joseph E. Kaminkow, Anthony J. Baerlocher, Zeke Brill, Hans Elias, Paulina Rodgers, Kehl T. LeSourd, Eric L. Wagner, Christopher D. Carlisle, Kirk A. Tedsen, Michael MacVittie
  • Patent number: 7311607
    Abstract: Inexpensive yet effective three-dimensional image displays for gaming machines are disclosed. Images are implemented onto a medium via a lenticular process, and the medium is applied to various gaming machine surfaces whereby a viewer can perceive effects such as motion and depth. Steps can include developing a game theme, designing visual images for this game theme, generating digital files containing these visual images, previewing these digital files, modeling the visual images in a computer assisted simulation, implementing these visual images onto a medium, attaching the medium to a movable base, and installing the movable base to the gaming machine. The medium can be a multi-image sheet containing regions of overlapping images where different images are visually predominant at different viewing angles, and the movable base can comprise a gaming reel. Multiple gaming reels can be used, and can be adapted to rotate in any direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Kirk A. Tedsen, Gene A. Spoor, Keith S. Murray
  • Publication number: 20070149292
    Abstract: A gaming device system in which a plurality of gaming devices are linked by a common bonus event is provided. In one embodiment, the linked gaming device system includes a shared symbol generation display that is positioned adjacent to each of a plurality of associated gaming devices and has a plurality of sections and values displayed at each section. Upon a triggering of the bonus event, any player eligible to participate in the bonus may achieve an outcome generated from the bonus event including the shared display. When the shared display is activated, it simultaneously generates a separate or individual outcome associated with each of the gaming devices. The outcomes are spatially related to one another so that a random generation of an outcome associated with one gaming device automatically generates random outcomes associated with each gaming device. Each gaming device however receives the outcome only if it has participated in the random generation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Publication date: June 28, 2007
    Applicant: IGT
    Inventors: Joseph Kaminkow, Anthony Baerlocher, Zeke Brill, Hans Elias, Paulina Rodgers, Kehl LeSourd, Eric Wagner, Christopher Carlisle, Kirk Tedsen, Michael MacVittie
  • Patent number: D548288
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Anthony J. Baerlocher, Kehl T. LeSourd, Kirk A. Tedsen, Eric L. Wagner, Christopher D. Carlisle