Game Supporting Tables Or Surfaces Patents (Class 273/309)
  • Patent number: 7744470
    Abstract: A console for receiving an entertainment machine thereon is disclosed, which includes side- and rear walls that are defining a space for use as a foot rest space, which space is illuminated by associated lighting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: ADP Gauselmann GmbH
    Inventor: Paul Gauselmann
  • Patent number: 7727060
    Abstract: An on-line poker game system includes a poker table staffed with a live dealer with a plurality of designated seats assigned to at least one a remote player and one or more live players or to a plurality of remote players. Remote players connect to the system via a wide area network. Located at each designated seat is a private card camera that produces and transmits images of face down cards dealt thereto. A public card camera produces and transmits images of all face up cards dealt on the poker table. A table camera constantly provides an image of the entire table and dealer. A deck of cards with an identifying RFID tag is used with images to verify the identity of the private and public cards. A game logic server connects to a network server and host and client-side software programs enable the remote players to connect to the server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Maurice Mills
  • Publication number: 20100102507
    Abstract: A gaming table, method and device including a plurality of rotors interchangeably operable in a decoupled mode and a coupled mode. The system includes a rotor coupler and a coupler actuator. The system provides an award associated with an indication of a combination of symbols of the rotors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: IGT
    Inventors: David K. Bontempo, Mark C. Nicely, Benjamin J. Zoltewicz
  • Publication number: 20100105460
    Abstract: Game systems and methods facilitate remote card games. A game system can include a game table, a card reader, a processing system, and a plurality of state indicators. The game table can receive a plurality of playing cards during a card game. The game table can have a plurality of player regions, and a first player region on the game table can comprise a card sensor for detecting a presence of one or more of the plurality of playing cards in the first player region. The card reader can detect identities of the plurality of playing cards. The processing system can automatically detect a game state of the card game based at least partially on data received from the card sensor in the first player region. The plurality of state indicators can be in communication with the processing system and can direct game play based on the detected game state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: Innovative Casino Games, LLC
    Inventors: George Makhoul, Jerry Rosemeyer, Andrew Brimer
  • Patent number: 7699695
    Abstract: A system and method provides an electronic poker game to a plurality of players on an electronic poker table. A game computer administers the electronic poker game by dealing one or more hands using electronic cards and electronic chips. Each hand includes one or more betting rounds. The game computer allows the players to make wagers into a pot with the electronic chips during the one or more betting rounds. The game computer dynamically determines a rake amount of a pot and retains the rake amount from the pot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: PokerTek, Inc.
    Inventors: Gehrig Henderson White, James T. Crawford, III
  • Patent number: 7701344
    Abstract: Various techniques are disclosed for facilitating tracking locations of players and/or wireless communication devices in a casino network. In at least one embodiment, an electronically switched Doppler antenna array may be utilized to detect a first wireless signal from a first signal source. Bearing information may be generated using information from the detected signal. In at least one embodiment, the bearing information may include a first directional bearing to the first signal source. Using at least a portion of the first bearing information, a first location of the first signal source may be determined. According to specific embodiments, the first signal source may correspond to a wireless communication device such as an RFID-enabled player tracking card or gaming chip. In at least one embodiment, a current location of the wireless communication device may be automatically tracked in real-time as the wireless communication device is moved through a first region of the casino.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Harold E. Mattice, Chris Gadda, Chan Griswold, James Stockdale, Richard Wilder
  • Patent number: 7669851
    Abstract: A card viewing device has a housing having opposed first and second side walls, opposed front and rear walls, a card-accepting entranceway in a lower portion of the front wall, a viewing aperture in an upper portion of the rear wall, and an optical system within the housing for projecting an image of a portion of at least one card received within the device through the entranceway through the viewing window for observation by a user. The device is particularly adapted to allow private viewing of playing cards lying face-down on a playing surface, allowing the user of the device to view the card faces without lifting the cards off the playing surface or otherwise making them viewable by others.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Al Blake
  • 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: 7661676
    Abstract: A gaming system simulates events in a casino table card wagering game where there has traditionally been a dealer, whether or not the dealer is an active player in the game. Two distinct video areas are preferably provided, one providing video images of a virtual dealer, and the second video display providing a simulation of a table top for player cards, and optionally also dealer cards. The players have individual play areas with player input, and these play areas have individual processing intelligence that communicates directly with at least one processor. Delivery order of cards is determined by actual shuffling or randomization of a physical deck of cards, reading the cards, then creating an electronic file of the order of the shuffled or randomized cards, then using an order of cards contained in the electronic file to deliver virtual cards to players, dealer and flop as needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Shuffle Master, Incorporated
    Inventors: Philip Stephen Smith, Ezra Christopher MacKenna, Donald T. Bush, Daymon B. Savage, Atilla Grauzer, Oliver M. Schubert, James V. Kelly, James B. Stasson, Feraidoon Bourbour, Paul K. Scheper
  • Patent number: 7656272
    Abstract: In various embodiments, the present invention provides a keyless management system for automating selective access to a lockable device and a method for selectively granting access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Marcon International, Inc.
    Inventor: L. Stephen Baucom
  • Patent number: 7637506
    Abstract: Blackjack tournaments are described which provide for rules and practices that facilitate counting of cards by players, such as dealing from a single deck of 52 cards down to the last card in the deck. The proprietor of the tournament limits its exposure to losses by forming a pool of prize money from entrance fees paid by players, sponsorship fees, a limited contribution to the pool of prize money, or combinations thereof. Players play with chips provided by the proprietor of the tournament. The tournament may be captured with one or more video cameras and broadcast over an entertainment network. The broadcast may feature card counting reports, commentary by experts, and a display of the sequence of cards to be dealt to the players and the dealer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Waterleaf Limited
    Inventor: Theo Naicker
  • Patent number: 7621534
    Abstract: A wager is received on a designated hand. At least two hands are dealt. Optionally, if a hand has a natural hand score, wagers on the hand with the natural hand score may be rewarded. A hand score (the sum modulo ten of the values of the cards) is calculated for each hand and compared to a target value. A card is dealt to the hand further from the target value and a new hand score is calculated for that hand. If the new hand score remains further from the target value than the other hand, wagers on that hand are collected and wagers on the hand closer to the target value are rewarded. If the new hand score is closer to the target value than the other hand, a card is dealt to the hand further from the target value. Hand scores are re-calculated and wagers resolved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Masterwork Group Limited
    Inventor: Victor Hui
  • Patent number: 7618321
    Abstract: An electronic card table and method provides an electronic card game to a plurality of players. The electronic card table includes a table top with a playing surface and a plurality of electronic player interaction areas located around a periphery of the table top. Each electronic player interaction area provides a player interface for interaction with one of the players. A computer administers the electronic card game using electronic cards, determines a winner from among the players and awards a pot to the winner at the end of each hand. The computer further detects possible collusion between two or more of the players.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: PokerTek, Inc.
    Inventors: James T Crawford, III, Gehrig Henderson White
  • Patent number: 7604237
    Abstract: A math game is described herein which can effectively improve one's math skills while being simple, entertaining, and eye-pleasing. Players attach randomly selected octagonal tiles that bare digits in the middle and math operation symbols on their sides creating various numbers. Then they join two of his/her numbers to the number from the table creating math equation. The player that exhausts his tiles first is the winner of the game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Inventor: Marek Czekanski
  • Publication number: 20090253478
    Abstract: Session blackjack is modified by providing group sessions of blackjack in which each player may purchase a separate session of blackjack and cooperatively or competitively play towards group awards based on game play within the respective sessions of the group players.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Jay S. Walker, Robert C. Tedesco, Jeffrey Y. Hayashida
  • Patent number: 7584967
    Abstract: Each player participating in a casino game makes two wagers and receives two cards. A dealer receives at least one card, and the dealer deals at least two community hands. Each player subsequently forms two player hands by associating one each of the two cards with each of the community hands. The dealer forms a dealer hand by associating the at least one card with one of the community hands. Wagers are resolved by comparing the two player hands with the dealer hand. The game may also include an optional proposition wager that is resolved based on the initial two cards dealt to each player.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Prime Table Games LLC
    Inventors: Derek J. Webb, Shenli Ko
  • Patent number: 7584968
    Abstract: A poker card game and apparatus and software for its play are disclosed, particularly adapted for casino play, in which each player in a given game, using only a single dealt hand, plays simultaneously separately against the dealer (the house) and against the other players. Betting for the two lines of play may be separate or linked, and a player can elect to play only against the dealer or to play both games together. The game is played as a form of five-card stud with betting before each deal. At the end of each game a player's status as to whether he/she beat the dealer, beat the other players or both is determined and displayed, and winners are paid accordingly. Conventional dealing may be used, but it is preferred that a biased deal, which enhances the opportunities for players to be dealt reasonably good poker hands, be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Seven Generations, Inc.
    Inventors: Darrell Campbell, David J. Richards, Spencer Peterson
  • Patent number: 7578507
    Abstract: A card table, card table topper and card serving segments are disclosed which facilitate the removal of cards placed on a card table. The card table and table topper include a card server track which, in certain preferred embodiments, includes an elevated surface which lifts a card from the top surface of a card table as the card is drawn towards an inner face of the track. Thereafter, an abrupt declination of an outer face of the track exposes edges of the card thereby facilitating lifting and/or removing the card from the table. Alternate preferred embodiments include a card server comprised of a groove wherein cards drawn across the groove are easily grasped for identification or removal from the table. Card server segments are also disclosed wherein each segment includes a right end, a left end, an inner face, outer face and a maximum height adjacent to the outer face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Slappay
  • Patent number: 7575240
    Abstract: A folding game table having a collapsible construction is disclosed. The folding game table has a pair of table members interconnected with at least one hinge and movable between an extended position and a folded position. At least one game template is configured to be removably positioned on at least one of the pair of table sections for game play thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Justin L. Voden
  • Publication number: 20090200737
    Abstract: A mechanism for treat choosing game sets includes a choosing device including at least one treat received in a box and the at least one treat is connected to a plate made by magnetic material. A rotation disk connected with the plate via a magnetic member located therebetween. A rotation device includes a motor and a transmission device which is driven by the motor. The transmission device includes a shaft and a belt wheel driven by the motor, a belt connected between the belt wheel and the shaft. The magnetic member is connected to the shaft and magnetically connected to the plate. When the box in which the at least one treat is received is stopped by the player, the transmission device drives the rotation disk as usual while the magnetic member is rotated relative to the plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Yi-Chiang Yang
  • Publication number: 20090189351
    Abstract: A game table having a multiplayer interactive display/input device which enables multiple players to simultaneously play primary or base wagering games and/or secondary or bonus games using the display/input device. The display/input device enables multiple players to simultaneously interact with the game table and the various games using the same display/input device. The game table enables multiple players to manipulate displayed objects (such as virtual cards or other game symbols) displayed by the display/input device at the same time. This enables the display/input device to simultaneously display the same game to multiple players in an integrated seamless manner without the need for multiple different sets of display devices and input devices for each of the players.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Applicant: IGT
    Inventors: Anthony J. Baerlocher, Kimberly M. Campbell, Christiaan R. Champagne, Dwayne A. Davis, Hans Elias, Damien C. Ennis, Michael P. Khamis, David N. Myers, David M. Palmer
  • Patent number: 7566274
    Abstract: Disclosed are stand-alone and networked game table video or entertainment system for use in conjunction with a primary or underlying table game. The system includes a video display, and table interface device, and a player input device associated with one or more game tables. The video display, table interface device, and player interface device communicate via a computer, which cooperatively provide video, audio, text, or images on the video display and provide the game player with the opportunity to play a side wager or secondary game of chance at the game table. The system may be used to also provide other types of video content, such as attract mode video, conventional TV or cable channels, audio entertainment, and text or image banner information or advertisements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Paltronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley W. Johnson, Vaughn D. Place, Andrew Trzeciak
  • Patent number: 7556561
    Abstract: A system and method for providing an electronic poker game of the present invention includes a table having a table top with a playing surface and a plurality of electronic player interaction areas (EPIAs) located around the playing surface. Each electronic player interaction area is designed to provide a player interface for interaction with one of the players. A seat request button is defined in each EPIA to allow the players to request a new electronic player interaction area. A game computer is coupled to the plurality of EPIAs for administering the electronic poker game and for assigning one of the players to the new electronic player interaction area as one of the electronic player interaction areas becomes available as the player activated the seat request button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: PokerTek, Inc.
    Inventors: Gehrig Henderson White, James T. Crawford, III
  • Patent number: 7553236
    Abstract: A casino gaming station includes a free standing gaming table and a free standing canopy which can be positioned above the gaming table where the canopy is supported by a pedestal positioned adjacent to the table. The gaming table has an upper surface with markings thereon for use in the playing of one of the games of chance of a casino. The pedestal supports an upwardly extending vertical post with the upper end of the post extending horizontally outward of the pedestal and over the table. At the outer end of the vertical extension is the canopy having a motion video camera therein directed downward towards the surface of the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventors: Anthony C. Parra, Debra L. Parra
  • Publication number: 20090140492
    Abstract: A semi-automatic gaming table system is disclosed, comprising; a gaming table surface; at least one playing card delivery device, the playing card delivery device comprising a card storage area, an internal processor, a card moving system, a delivery end and a card imaging system; a plurality of electronic player interfaces mounted in the gaming table surface that communicate with a game controller; a game controller, the game controller programmed to communicate with the internal processor and the player interfaces, to detect at least one condition and respond by instructing the card handling system to stop delivering cards to the delivery end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventors: Mark L. Yoseloff, Attila Grauzer, James P. Jackson, Nathan J. Wadds
  • Patent number: 7540498
    Abstract: Methods and systems for conducting gaming activities are disclosed. In one method, wagers are placed on a game and cards are dispensed. An indicia of a play card is used to determine an outcome of the game. A feature bet is included, wherein if the indicia of the play card is a predetermined indicia, an indicia of the second card is identified. If a predetermined indicia on the second card is identified, a feature bet payoff is made to players that wagered on the feature bet. A method and system for a roulette game are also disclosed. A roulette wheel is used to determine which card of a deck of cards determines the outcome of the roulette game. A craps game system and method are further described. Dice are used to determine which card of a deck of cards determines the outcome of the craps game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: The Pala Band of Mission Indians
    Inventors: Michael P. Crenshaw, David F. Fendrick, Jerome H. Turk
  • Publication number: 20090134579
    Abstract: An apparatus for holding and marking a lottery ticket during playing conditions includes a base plate with a planar top surface provided with upwardly extending walls contiguously surrounding a periphery thereof. A lid is pivotally coupled to the base plate in such a manner that the lid and base plate pivot about a fulcrum axis extending along respective proximal latitudinal edges of the lid and the base plate. The apparatus further includes a plurality of brackets attached to opposed ones of the walls of the lid. Each of such brackets is linearly slidable along a corresponding edge of the lid, and the brackets are slidable along mutually exclusive linear paths defined along the corresponding lids respectively. The apparatus further includes a scratching implement removably coupled to one of the brackets, and a marking implement removably coupled to another one of the brackets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 23, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Paula Milbourne
  • Patent number: 7537216
    Abstract: A computationally generated playing card sequence (e.g., pseudo-random, non pseudo-random, or partially pseudo-random) allows shuffled distribution of playing cards. Playing cards may be organized into card holders by at least one or a rank and a suit, and retrieved in the computationally generated order. Alternatively, playing cards may be organized into card holders in order of a computationally generated sequence, and retrieve as necessary. Unreadable playing cards may be automatically removed from play.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: ARL, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Soltys, Richard Huizinga
  • Patent number: 7527265
    Abstract: A method of dealing a card game is taught wherein cards are used in place of dice. The cards are dealt to locations on a table and a randomizing event is used to select from one or more of the dealt cards which appear on a gaming table. To allow the player to exercise some control, one or more cards are selected to determine a roll utilizing a random method; such as dice, a spinning wheel, selection of a space at random or a random number generator. A method is used to select a card based on the selection of the space on which the card is dealt. A method of dealing a card game is taught wherein cards representing dice having a least four sides are utilized using variations of rules for games such as 1) traditional craps game, 2) Four The Money game, 3) high low craps, or 4) roulette. By repeatedly shuffling either two sets of six cards numbered 1 through 6, or one set of 36 cards (representing all of the rolls of a set of two six sided dice) traditional craps rules may be followed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Lakes Entertainment, Inc.
    Inventor: Lyle Berman
  • Publication number: 20090108532
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a changeable gaming table system including one or more projectors for projecting an image of a game onto the gaming table. The gaming table can be formed of felt. The image can include a playing portion and a betting portion. Game pieces can be received in the playing portion. In one embodiment, the image is changed during or playing of the game. In one embodiment, the image or portions of the image can be highlighted during or after playing of the game.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventor: Richard Darling
  • Patent number: 7523935
    Abstract: A card shuffling device includes a top surface, a card receiving area for receiving an initial set of playing cards, a randomizing system for randomizing the initial set of playing cards, a collection surface in a card collection area for receiving randomized playing cards, the collection surface receiving cards positioned so that all cards collected are below the top surface of the device, and an elevator for raising the collection surface so that at least some randomized cards are elevated above the top surface of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Shuffle Master, Inc.
    Inventors: Attila Grauzer, Feraidoon Bourbour, Troy D. Nelson, Paul K. Scheper, James B. Stasson, Ronald R. Swanson
  • Publication number: 20090091086
    Abstract: Certain game tables requiring a level playing surface for an unbiased playing experience. However, due to physical motion and natural settling most game tables pitch and roll change over time, thereby developing a table bias. Most of the time a player would not know if and when a table bias was affecting their game. Therefore a player could never be sure that they were engaged in an entirely fair competition. This is very unsatisfactory. I propose incorporating a level indicating device into a game table so that a player will always be assured that the playing surface is in an equilibrium orientation. Alternatively if bias were to occur it could be easily identified and corrected through use of the level-indicating device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventors: Luke E. Debevec, David Fitzgibbon
  • Patent number: 7506871
    Abstract: A combination of an elevated platform and a game table having a support structure including a game table and an elevated platform. The elevated platform including at least one support arm releasably connectable to the support structure in a play position and further connectable to the support structure in a storage position. The elevated platform may be coupled to the game table for translation relative to the support structure between the play and storage positions. The elevated platform may also be hingedly coupled to the supporting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: DMI Sports, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Giegerich
  • Publication number: 20090048017
    Abstract: The exemplary embodiments described herein relate to table games and, more particularly, to table games that incorporate an individualized display at each player position and, still more particularly, to inset bezels for supporting such displays. According to certain exemplary embodiments, an inset bezel for insertion into a table game is provided. The main body of the inset bezel extends inwardly into the table game's body. First and second feet are formed on the main body of the inset bezel proximate to the top surface of the table game. The feet are formed so as to engage with first and second recessed portions of the body of the table game, respectively. The first foot and the second foot are arranged so as to hold the inset bezel in place with respect to the table game, and the inset bezel is configured to support a display associated with a player position on the table game. In certain exemplary embodiments, the inset bezel may be substantially triangle shaped, substantially U-shaped, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: PALTRONICS, INC.
    Inventor: Angelo Palmisano
  • Publication number: 20090045576
    Abstract: An improved method of playing a twenty-one or blackjack type of game, comprising allowing a player to place an additional bet, the additional bet entitling the player to discard one of the cards initially dealt. The additional bet may be a percentage of the main bet played, and may be lost regardless of whether the player elects to discard one of the two initial cards or elects to keep the two cards originally dealt. The method may be played on a traditional table layout, or on a table layout displayed by an electronic gaming device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Ioannis E. Andrianakos
  • Publication number: 20090029756
    Abstract: The technology described herein provides a multimedia poker table and a deck of playing cards having machine readable indicia for use in teaching a player to improve card playing skills and reviewing the entirety of a previously played game including collected and analyzed video, audio, cards, wagers, and odds of winning information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventor: Frederick Guest
  • Publication number: 20090026705
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for playing a variation of Texas hold'em having preset opening hands and odds for winning by betting on the opening hands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventors: David Siemiaszko, Bobby Siemiaszko
  • Publication number: 20090020953
    Abstract: An aluminum floor for fencing has an improved friction surface with traction-enhancing grooves and is configured to reduce noise. Aluminum extrusions forming the floor define a flat surface but with series of parallel grooves separated by non-grooved spaces. In a preferred embodiment the grooves are essentially square cut. The grooves and spaces between the series of grooves are configured so as to allow sliding on the floor with the essentially flat soles of a user's fencing shoes when desired, but so as to grip the soles with significant friction when the shoe is heavily weighted causing the sole to deform down into the grooves. The fencing floor is intended to lie over an existing floor, as a series of easily connected floor sections. Rubbery sheet material is secured to the bottom of the fencing floor, preferably in transverse strips, directly beneath each joint and preferably at additional locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Hallsten
  • Publication number: 20090017888
    Abstract: Electronic gaming system with real playing cards and multiple player displays for virtual card and betting images. In one implementation, the exemplary system allows real playing cards to be used in electronic gaming systems that provide multiple video displays for multiple live participants at a gaming table. The system can post virtual images of the cards in play on the participant displays and can also display virtual bets, e.g., wagering chips, on the same displays. The real playing cards provide the look, feel, and action of playing a card game while the electronic gaming system provides elements of automation, security, and virtual display of the cards and bets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventors: Michael J. Kuhn, Donald Evans, David A. Krise
  • Patent number: 7472909
    Abstract: A card game tabletop used for playing various types of card games. The tabletop includes a circular felt covered panel. The felt covered panel is adapted for receiving playing cards and betting chips thereon. A circular, transparent advertising cover is mounted on a lower panel. The advertising cover is disposed next to and around a perimeter of the felt covered panel. The felt covered panel is also received on top of the lower panel. An advertising space is provided between a bottom of the advertising cover and a portion of the lower panel. The advertising space is used for receiving advertising therein. The advertising can be permanently installed or mounted on removable cards or blocks for inserting into the advertising space. A raised padded rail can be disposed around the perimeter of the advertising cover and mounted to a side of the lower panel. The padded rail is used for players to rest their lower arms and hands thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2009
    Inventor: Jarrett Gordon
  • Patent number: 7459002
    Abstract: An example presentation apparatus having a cabinet-like base and a surface coupled to the cabinet-like base and configured to hold an object. The cabinet-like base and the surface are configured to cooperate functionally with a function of the object. A portion of an air processing apparatus is disposed within the cabinet-like base and configured to move ambient air through the cabinet-like base to generate processed air. An exhaust structure is operatively coupled to the cabinet-like base and configured to enable the processed air to exit the presentation apparatus via a flow path that is spatially associated with a substantially predetermined position of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Airistar Technologies LLC
    Inventors: D. Scott Kalous, Charles Harris
  • Publication number: 20080287200
    Abstract: A gaming table includes a table body, a display device, and a positioning unit. The display device is mounted pivotably to the table body, is pivotable relative to the table body between at least one viewing position and a storage position, and is operable to display a gaming screen thereon. The positioning unit is for positioning releasably the display device at the viewing position relative to the table body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: ASTRO CORPORATION, Arden Yang - President
    Inventor: Arden Yang
  • Publication number: 20080265510
    Abstract: A floating game table for playing a predetermined game thereon while relaxing in a receptacle containing a predetermined fluid therein. The floating game table includes a main body member manufactured from a predetermined material capable of floating on such predetermined fluid. The main body member has each of a predetermined shape and a predetermined size. Such main body member also has each of an upper surface for playing the predetermined game thereon and a bottom surface for contacting such predetermined fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Robert Howland
  • Patent number: 7431298
    Abstract: The roulette game is based upon a wheel having multiple series of consecutive numbers thereon. Each number is distinguished by a color, with a different quantity of colors repeating to provide a unique color and number combination for each position on the wheel. The colors may be selected to represent the colors of a national flag, e.g., red, white, and blue for the U.S., red, white, and green for Mexico, etc. House profit is provided by the retention of a percentage of winning wagers, rather than by payment of lower than actual odds or by designating one or more wheel positions as winning positions for the house. This system facilitates a progressive wagering system wherein retention of the house profit is waived for players who choose to place progressive wagers on consecutive plays of the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventor: Anthony M. Carbonaro
  • Publication number: 20080224411
    Abstract: By providing a playing surface which is dimensioned for enabling a desired game to be played with all competitors positioned thereon, with the playing surface being rotated, a competitive game and/or playing system/environment is created which enables all individuals to compete equally and fairly regardless of their physical capabilities. In the preferred embodiment, the rotation of the playing surface is maintained at a constant rate of speed, although added dimensions and difficulties can be added to the game by altering the rotational speed of the playing surface during the competition. By providing a playing surface upon which any desired game can be played, particularly an action oriented game, with the playing surface being continuously rotated throughout the play of the game, forces previously unknown to each competitor are continuously imposed on each competitor, effectively rendering each competitor to possess equal capabilities, regardless of their strength, agility, proficiency, or size.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventor: Nicholas J. Georgis
  • Publication number: 20080227557
    Abstract: A rotary game table includes a combination game table, two side support members, and at least one cross member. The combination game table includes one type of game on one side and another type of game on the other side. The at least one cross member is terminated on each end by a single side support member. The combination game table is pivotall retained by one side support member on each end thereof. A locking device is used to pivotally constrain rotation of the combination game table. At least one table cross member is used to internally brace the combination game table with at least one air passage formed therethrough. In another embodiment, a substantially U-shaped side member is attached to one cross member and one end of the two side support members. In another embodiment, a collapsible support is used to increase rigidity of the side support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventor: Justin L. Voden
  • Publication number: 20080150234
    Abstract: A gambling table, such as blackjack card table, is provided. Upper surface of the gambling table has a replace-able center portion. Depth of the center portion is less than half of the thickness of the upper surface. Over view of the gambling table is a hemi-circle equipped with two small aprons. A small wave shape apron is attached at the left end of the bottom line of the hemi-circle and a trapezoid apron is attached at the right end of the bottom line thereof. The replace-able center portion is a flat panel of hemi-circle. Hotchpots and their controller, dealer's chip box pocket and other pockets are located outside of the hemi-circle of the center portion. The center portion is replaced for cleaning the table cloth and change to other game without removing the bulky and rubbery arm rest from the table.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2006
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventor: John Paul Makieil
  • Patent number: 7387299
    Abstract: A folding game table having a collapsible construction is disclosed. The folding game table has a plurality of table top portions connected with at least one hinge and movable between an extended position and a folded position. At least one retention coupler is configured to be removably secured to the plurality of table top portions and configured to removably attach at least one table inlay to the plurality of table top portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Inventor: Justin L. Voden
  • Publication number: 20080136108
    Abstract: The present invention provides a modular gaming table comprising: (a) a modular table top comprising a main table surface having a top side and a bottom side; (b) at least one personal player area module receiving area; (c) at least one personal player area module insertably integral with the table top, the personal player area module having a top module side and a bottom module side, the top module side being about approximately flush with the table top surface in the horizontal plane; (d) a subsurface having a top side and a bottom side, wherein the subsurface top side is attachable to the main table surface bottom side; (e) a surface-subsurface attachment means; (f) a trim ring positioned approximately around the outer perimeter of the table top in the horizontal plane; (g) personal player area module attachment means. According to a preferred embodiment, the personal player area module is slidably insertable into the tabletop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Andrew Polay
  • Publication number: 20080122176
    Abstract: Disclosed, is a new bet for the game of Craps referred to as “spot bets” wherein a player places a bet that one or both of the dice will show up with a certain number of spots on its upward face. The spot bet combines turn bets and hopper bets, except in this case one individual bet takes the place of 6 separate bets. The player can bet on the 2 spot, for example, and this takes place of individual turning bets on the 1-2, the 3-2, the 4-2, the 5-2 and the 6-2 and a hopper bet on the 2-2. Furthermore, the player can make analogous spot bets on the 1-spot, the 3-spot, the 4-spot, the 5-spot, and/or the 6-spot. Another option is the small spot bet wherein the player is betting on 5 separate numbers, none of which adds to 7. The player can bet on the 2 “small spot”, for example, and this takes place of individual turning bets on the 1-2, the 3-2, the 4-2, and the 6-2 and a hopper bet on the 2-2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventor: Robert Allen Dickerson