Abstract: A topper for an entertainment machine (1) is provided. The topper includes a display comprising a screen (9) arranged such that an image projected onto one side of the screen may be viewed from the opposite side of the screen. The invention enables a display of a gaming machine or associated topper to be provided by a back projected image. This enables the display content to be changed without having to physically change the screen or any associated artwork. Screens on to which images can be back projected are much less costly than electronic displays and can easily be provided in any desired shape. A further topper for an entertainment machine is also provided, the topper including a display comprising a screen (9) onto which an image can be projected, and a projector (11) arranged to project an image onto the screen.

Abstract: A push button assembly comprises a button (1) with an actuating structure (5) movably mounted within a housing (2) for operation of a switch (20). The housing (2) provides a frame (18) comprising side wall structures (16), with a flange structure (15) mounted at a top open end thereof, The axial length of the housing (2) is shorter than the horizontal length of the side wall structures (16), resulting in a short push button assembly. The button (1) is illuminable via a lamp (25) which is provided on a carrier strip (22), the switch (20) being mounted on a body (19), both of which can be removably mounted substantially within the confines of the housing (2), with respective connection terminals (23, 21) projecting outward thereof, the assembly therefore occupying minimal space behind a panel when mounted on such a panel of an amusement or gaming machine where space may be restricted.

Abstract: A gaming machine includes a base, a variable display supported by the base, a navigation device, and at least one switch. The variable display variably and/or graphically presents a game to a user, and the variable display variably and/or graphically presents game related options to the user. The navigation device, such as a trackball, is supported by the base, and the navigation device permits the user to navigate through the game related options so that the user can designate at least one of the game related options. The switch is supported by the base, and the switch is operable by the user to activate the designated game related option.

Abstract: A reel control assembly for a plurality of like reel mechanisms for a gaming machine, comprises a support structure having a plurality of electronic connection ports. Each of the connection ports is provided to receive a connection means provided on a reel mechanism for an electronic connection therebetween. The connection ports are electronically linked to a master controller circuit board, which provides an electronic linkage to a gaming machine. The connection ports may be provided in side-by-side relationship in a housing. Guidance means in the form of location structures on the support structure for cooperation with location structures on a reel mechanism may be provided to facilitate accurate mounting of a reel mechanism and electrical connection with the appropriate connection port. The circuit board may provide control signals to some or all components of a reel mechanism including stepper motors, LCD/OLED screens, lamp/LED arrays and optic feedback devices.

Abstract: A player control assembly (1) can be used with a game machine (7) and comprises a control panel (11) of said machine which has player-operable switches and function indicators for said switches. The assembly (1) further comprises a projector (4) which is arranged to project the function indicators onto the control panel (11) and therefore onto the switches. The switches may be virtual (12-15) or mechanical or both types may be provided. Where mechanical switches are provided the function indicators, which may comprise text/graphics/animations, may be projected relative to these switches. Where virtual switches (12-15) are projected onto said control panel (11) with said function indicators, as part of an image, the assembly (1) may comprise a sensor (5) to identify player interaction with the projected switches (12-15).

Abstract: A projection apparatus (7) is for use with a gaming system to provide a game with an outcome. The apparatus (7) projects an image of the game onto a projection surface which may be a table or specific sheet or panel. The image may include player-input means which enable a player to interact with the image in addition to graphics, animation and text representing the game. The apparatus (7) preferably comprises an integrated unit with a control unit (8) and a projector (9). The control unit (8) may be connected to a gaming device (1) in the system for two-way communication therewith.

Abstract: A push button assembly comprises a button (1) with an actuating structure (5) movably mounted within a housing (2) for operation of a switch (20). The housing (2) provides a frame (18) comprising side wall structures (16), with a flange structure (15) mounted at a top open end thereof, The axial length of the housing (2) is shorter than the horizontal length of the side wall structures (16), resulting in a short push button assembly. The button (1) is illuminable via a lamp (25) which is provided on a carrier strip (22), the switch (20) being mounted on a body (19), both of which can be removably mounted substantially within the confines of the housing (2), with respective connection terminals (23, 21) projecting outward thereof, the assembly therefore occupying minimal space behind a panel when mounted on such a panel of an amusement or gaming machine where space may be restricted.

Abstract: A push button assembly has a light transmitting button (1) which is movable against a spring (3) within a housing. A switch (16) and lamp (15) are provided in an integrated unit (4) and mounted at an open bottom end of the housing. The housing (2) has a peripheral flange (10) at an upper open end from which a peripheral skirt part (18) projects downwardly, the skirt part (18) defining a boundary. The lamp provides the first illumination means to illuminate the button (1). A second illumination means is provided to illuminate the boundary defined by said skirt (18) to create a ‘halo’ around the button. This second illumination means is provided by an arrangement of LEDs (19a) on a circuit board (19) which are independently controllable from each other and from said lamp (15) to provide a greater variety of lighting arrangements and therefore possible button status indicators.