Abstract: A device for dispensing prizes includes a housing having a plurality of compartments, a door attached to the housing for coving the compartments, and a lock for limiting access to the compartments. The contents of the compartments are visible from the outside. Each compartment contains a prize, such as a diamond. The housing may be part of, or linked to, a gaming device. When a player wins a game, which entitles the player to select a tangible award, the device signals this fact to the player. The player then selects a compartment by pressing an input device located on the housing. An attendant opens an external door, and inserts an electronic key into a receptacle associated with the selected compartment, and enters a required code into the key. The compartment then opens, and the player obtains the prize. The device may also include an inventory control system which preferably uses an RFID apparatus for monitoring the contents of each compartment, and for keeping records of an inventory of prizes.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 24, 2001
Date of Patent:
January 18, 2005
Assignee:
Sierra Design Group
Inventors:
Robert A. Luciano, Robert W. Crowder, Michael Souza
Abstract: An apparatus and method for playing a table game is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a base, a table-top, and a payline display proximate the table-top. The table-top is adjustable into first and second positions relative to the base. The table game is intended to be played when the table-top is in its first position.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 21, 2001
Date of Patent:
December 28, 2004
Assignee:
IGT
Inventors:
Anthony J. Baerlocher, Jean M. Brossard, Chauncey W. Griswold, Robert A. Luciano, Jr., Don C. Stephan