Abstract: A game is provided, including a free spin bonus game with selectable modifier feature, known in a preferred embodiment as a bank heist bonus game. Before each free spin, the player picks a vault to receive a modifier element that applies to the free spin. The modifier element may be a credit prize, increment bonus multiplier, award additional spins, or turn a random reel wild (may be maintained wild for all remaining free spins or a designated number of free spins), for example. Additional spins can also be retriggered on the reels up to a maximum of 20 free spins (get all the vaults). To begin the free spin bonus game, the game may prompt the player for some type of biometric input and either read or appear to read biometric data as part of the game theme.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and program products are taught which provide a slot machine game that increases the size of the symbol array as a mystery feature. As the player spins the reels, the number of positions available on each reel grows randomly to allow more paylines. Other embodiments may include free spin bonuses, as well as bonus features that further increase the number of positions on each reel, and adjust the probability of reel expansions based on the current array size.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment relates to a method in a gaming system for playing a game. The method includes causing an output device to communicate a frame of play, the frame of play including symbols. Each symbol has a position within the frame of play. The method further includes establishing a first result of the game based on the position of the symbols and causing the output device to communicate an altered frame of play. Additionally, the method includes altering the position of at least one of the symbols within the frame of play to generate the altered frame of play. The method also includes establishing a second result of the game based on the altered frame of play.

Abstract: A gaming system, apparatus, and method are disclosed providing game players an exciting chance to win any of multiple progressive prizes within a free spin bonus round by accumulating different prize segment symbols which are displayed in a meter zone for each possible progressive prize. Various ways are described to add free spins to the bonus round, making it more exciting by giving the player increased chance to fill all the segments associated with a particular progressive prize, thereby winning the prize.

Abstract: A device for providing electronic funds transfer-in and transfer-out transactions in a casino gaming system includes a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, a wagering transaction application stored in the memory and executed on the processor, and an electronic receiver communicatively coupled to the wagering transaction application. The wagering transaction application is configured to, through the electronic receiver, access a identifier from an electronic device, determine whether the identifier accurately represents the account, conduct a wagering transaction on the available funds for wagering, and update the available funds for wagering in the account. The electronic device is configured to represent an account of available funds for wagering. The identifier is based on at least the account and the electronic device.

Abstract: A gaming system compatible with patron-controlled portable electronic devices, such as smart phones or tablet computers, is described. The gaming system can include electronic gaming machines that are compatible to receive both virtual ticket vouchers and printed ticket vouchers that are redeemable for credits on the electronic gaming machines. Information associated with a virtual ticket voucher can be stored on a patron-controlled portable electronic device and then can be wireless transmitted to the electronic gaming machines. The electronic gaming machines can be configured to issue virtual ticket vouchers and printed ticket vouchers that can be redeemed for cash or additional game play on another electronic gaming machine. In one embodiment, the electronic gaming machine can be configured to issue a virtual ticket voucher to a patron-controlled portable electronic device.

Abstract: A gaming system compatible with patron-controlled portable electronic devices, such as smart phones or tablet computers, is described. The gaming system can include electronic gaming machines that are compatible to receive both virtual ticket vouchers and printed ticket vouchers that are redeemable for credits on the electronic gaming machines. Information associated with a virtual ticket voucher can be stored on a patron-controlled portable electronic device and then can be wireless transmitted to the electronic gaming machines. The electronic gaming machines can be configured to issue virtual ticket vouchers and printed ticket vouchers that can be redeemed for cash or additional game play on another electronic gaming machine. In one embodiment, the electronic gaming machine can be configured to issue a virtual ticket voucher to a patron-controlled portable electronic device.

Abstract: The gaming system may enable a player to wager an amount of bitcoins on one or more plays of one or more primary or base games. If a player wagers an amount of bitcoins on a play of a game, the gaming system may determine and display an outcome for the play of the game. The gaming system then may determine if any award may be associated with the determined outcome. If an award having a value greater than zero is associated with the determined outcome, the gaming system may provide the determined award to the player, such as an amount of bitcoins.

Abstract: The gaming system may enable a player to wager an amount of bitcoins on one or more plays of one or more primary or base games. If a player wagers an amount of bitcoins on a play of a game, the gaming system may determine and display an outcome for the play of the game. The gaming system then may determine if any award may be associated with the determined outcome. If an award having a value greater than zero is associated with the determined outcome, the gaming system may provide the determined award to the player, such as an amount of bitcoins.

Abstract: A gaming machine has display means and a game control means. A game is played in which one or more random events are displayed on the display means and, if a predefined winning event occurs, the machine awards a prize. On the occurrence of a predefined event, the player is offered a choice of two or more different prize sets, each containing a plurality of prize outcomes. The prize is drawn from the prize set or sets selected. The sets of prizes may be presented on segments of wheels that can spin before stopping randomly on a segment which defines the prize outcome. Alternatively the sets of prizes are presented on the faces of dice which are arranged to spin before stopping with the front face of the die defining the prize won.

Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling access to wireless gaming devices and networks are provided. For example, access is controlled through one or more levels of security checks, such as a hard security check instead of or in addition to a soft security check. In a hard security check, the user employs an apparatus such as a card or other physical token that can be used to access the wireless gaming device. Such an apparatus may communicate information that identifies the user to the device or may simply be used to produce a signal without which the device is locked to users. The apparatus may further emit a time varying signal to enhance security.

Abstract: A method includes, for a given play of a wagering game, displaying a visual depiction which varies over a range of visual states. The visual depiction is displayed through a display system of the gaming machine and each visual state is correlated to a respective outcome distribution from a set of different outcome distributions. The method may then include receiving a player input through a player input system of the gaming machine. This player input selects one of the visual states of the visual depiction, so that the outcome distribution correlated to that selected visual state may be applied to randomly identify an outcome for a play of a game at the gaming machine. The method then includes awarding any prize correlated to the identified outcome.

Abstract: A system and method for playing component games in a gaming environment, where a component game is a game in which a physical prize, the prize to be won, is rendered in a graphical format and further divided into components (clearly recognizable parts of the graphical image). Individual component prizes are designed to be won by a player during individual game plays, that is, upon the occurrence of specific winning events while playing a chance or fixed-pool game. To win the component game prize, each of the components must be won and the combination redeemed. The component prizes are not intended to be separately redeemable game credits. In particular, the player may play for regular game credits or may choose to play for component prizes or portions thereof, not both. Component games create a highly enticing situation where players can be rewarded for long term play over a variety of machines.

Abstract: A gaming system providing a tiered reward bonus promotion. A player's activity level is quantified to a value that adjusts over time. The value at the completion of a bonus period is compared to a plurality of tier values stored in memory at the central authority. Each tier value has an associated bonus award that is awarded to the player if the player reaches that tier at the completion of the bonus period. The award is indicated in the player's account and may be redeemed at a player kiosk.

Abstract: Provided is a variable jackpot meter feature for progressive games (either single or multiple tiered), which may be embodied in a game, a method of conducting or providing the game, or a system or program product. The meter coordinates graphics to the increasing value of the progressive jackpots. At its reset value, the progressive meter may be displayed in its least exciting graphical state indicating low “heat.” As the progressive meter value grows, the associated graphics would increase to indicate the amount has grown. By the time the progressive meter's value has reached or exceeded the progressive's expected value, the graphics may be in their most excited/active/hottest state. This state reinforces to the player that the progressive is a high value and it is a good time to try to win the prize.

Abstract: A gaming system which includes a plurality of progressive awards in an MLP configuration. In a triggered bonus event, a player begins at the lowest progressive award level of the MLP and attempts to reach a higher progressive award level based on their decisions in the bonus event. If as a result of their play in the bonus event, a player is provided a progressive award other than the lowest level progressive award, one or more of the remaining lower level progressive awards (i.e., a progressive award associated with a lower level of the MLP than the provided progressive award) are shifted to account for the provided progressive award. The lowest level progressive award (which is temporality left vacant by the shifting of the remaining progressive awards) is reset to a set value, thus providing that the progressive award hierarchy is preserved regardless of which progressive award is provided to the player.

Abstract: A gaming system compatible with patron-controlled portable electronic devices, such as smart phones or tablet computers, is described. The gaming system can include electronic gaming machines that are compatible to receive both virtual ticket vouchers and printed ticket vouchers that are redeemable for credits on the electronic gaming machines. Information associated with a virtual ticket voucher can be stored on a patron-controlled portable electronic device and then can be wireless transmitted to the electronic gaming machines. The electronic gaming machines can be configured to issue virtual ticket vouchers and printed ticket vouchers that can be redeemed for cash or additional game play on another electronic gaming machine. In one embodiment, the electronic gaming machine can be configured to issue a virtual ticket voucher to a patron-controlled portable electronic device.

Abstract: Verifying eligibility of players attempting to participate in gaming events is disclosed. Communication objects having RFID tags and closed circuits are worn by players within a verification system. A casino desk, hotel concierge, or other entity can administer the system. These RFID tags are adapted to communicate with associated tracking units attached to gaming machines and other devices via radio waves. Each communication object is adapted to alter its communication pattern responsive to any break of its closed circuit. Communication objects may be bracelets, wristwatches or collars, such that object removal results in the closed circuit breaking, thereby disabling or de-authenticating the device. A communication object may emit a signal which can be tied to one of two or more accounts. One of the two accounts may be charged for a player transaction depending on the transaction nature. A server having a verification program and database may also be used.

Abstract: Strength training exercise is facilitated by a video gaming system (VGS). VGS communicates information about the exercise resistance force with an exercise device. Strength training machine coupled with the VGS and acts as a game controller. The machine provides resistance by an electrical motor. Resistance can be adjusted using data send from the VGS. Further, the resistance can pulsate during an exercise motion, providing internal muscle massage. The video gaming system interacts with exercise professional using Internet. Exercise professional monitors exercise progress, setup exercise parameters.

Abstract: A system is configured to present representations of game environments to users within views of lobby environments that facilitate intuitive and engaging browsing of the game environments by the users. The representations of the game environments may include environment information related to game session being held in the game environments. The representations may present the environment information in an intuitive and/or engaging manner. The game environments and/or the representations thereof may be organized into environments sets. Within the views of the lobby environments, the users may browse the game environments according to environment set.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment provides a game system. The game system includes an operation apparatus and an information processing unit. The information processing unit includes a viewpoint mode switching unit for setting a first viewpoint mode for displaying on the display portion a display image picked up based on a position and a direction of image pick-up of a first virtual camera in a virtual space on a game when position data of the operation apparatus obtained by the sensor portion is in a first range and setting a second viewpoint mode for displaying on the display portion a display image picked up based on a position and a direction of image pick-up of a second virtual camera when the position data is in a second range, and a game processing unit for performing game processing in accordance with the operation input accepted by the operation portion.

Abstract: The present invention provides a game device that has a touch panel, a processor, and a RAM. The processor, from among detected position data output from touch panel, stores in RAM, as the position of the start point, the position indicated by detected position data output by the start of a continuous touch operation. Also, given that the position indicated by detected position data output immediately before the end of the continuous touch operation is determined as the position of the end point, processor identifies, from among plural input instructions each being associated with plural direction ranges extending radially from a common basal point on the contact face of touch panel, an input instruction that is associated with a direction range having a direction from the start point to the end point therewithin, from among plural direction ranges having the start point as a basal point.

Abstract: A game apparatus that includes a CPU and in which a plurality of players participate and play a game on a display screen displayed on a common display device. A display area is divided by the number of participating players, and the divided areas are allotted to each player. In addition, an evaluating value is set according to a superiority or inferiority situation of a play content of each player, a size of the divided areas are changed based on the evaluating value, and the display screen in correspondence with a change of the divided areas is generated and displayed. Furthermore, when there is a player who reaches game-over, the display area is re-divided by the number of remaining players.

Abstract: This document describes techniques enabling an autobiographical interface. These techniques permit a user to build an interface that represents how the user wishes to be perceived, such as with icons, information, and media selected by the user to represent himself or herself. The techniques permit users to quickly and easily build and alter the autobiographical interface, including to adding new representations or removing out-of-date or undesired representations.

Abstract: A gaming system compatible with patron-controlled portable electronic devices, such as smart phones or tablet computers, is described. The gaming system can include electronic gaming machines that are compatible to receive both virtual ticket vouchers and printed ticket vouchers that are redeemable for credits on the electronic gaming machines. Information associated with a virtual ticket voucher can be stored on a patron-controlled portable electronic device and then can be wireless transmitted to the electronic gaming machines. The electronic gaming machines can be configured to issue virtual ticket vouchers and printed ticket vouchers that can be redeemed for cash or additional game play on another electronic gaming machine. In one embodiment, the electronic gaming machine can be configured to issue a virtual ticket voucher to a patron-controlled portable electronic device.

Abstract: A game device includes an input position acquiring unit and a first game control unit. The input position acquiring unit acquires a position of an entry provided by a player to a touch panel, which can concurrently detect entries at multiple points. The first game control unit displays objects and a sequence in which the objects should be erased on a screen image, and, in case that a position of an entry acquired is at a position corresponding to a position where an object to be erased next is displayed, erases the object from the screen image. The first game control unit includes: a single tap input control unit that, when an input on one object is acknowledged, erases the object; and a multiple-graphic-symbol-tap input control unit that, when inputs on multiple objects are acknowledged concurrently, erases those objects.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and system for interfacing with multiple gaming devices are disclosed. A universal controller includes a communication channel designed to selectively establish one or more bidirectional communication links between the controller and the gaming devices. A data collection unit communicatively coupled to the communication channel is designed to collect data related to a gaming experience of the first gaming device and a gaming experience of the second gaming device. The data collection unit is also designed to transfer to the second gaming device the gaming experience of the first gaming device to affect the gaming experience of the second gaming device. A storage unit communicatively coupled to the data collection unit is designed to store the collected data. Further, an input assembly that includes multiple input elements is included. Each input element is designed to be selectively mapped to one or more functions of the gaming devices.

Abstract: A gaming controller arranged to conduct a game having an overall return to player (RTP) and including a base game and a feature game. The gaming controller is arranged to conduct a base game and a feature game and includes an RTP controller arranged to operate in response to a player RTP instruction to configure a relative contribution of the base game and the feature game to the overall RTP.

Abstract: A game controller for a tablet computing device is disclosed. The controller includes a control console. A groove on a top portion of the control console configured and arranged to capture an edge of a tablet computing device in an upright orientation. A number of controls are included on the control console for transmitting game control inputs to the tablet computing device.

Abstract: A widget manager configured for managing at least one widget process, the widget manager comprising a processing module, a widget interface and a service interface operatively coupled to each other, wherein said at least one widget process is configured to run as a part of a client process, said client process configured to communicate with a game platform and/or parts therein via a client communication channel; wherein the widget interface is configured to enable communication between said at least one widget process and a game process which is configured to run as a part of said client process independently from the widget process; and wherein the service interface is configured to enable communication between said at least one widget process and the game platform and/or parts therein.

Abstract: A server device that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a memory and a processor. The processor can identify first and second players present at first and second physical locations, to identify first and second boundary and topographical information of the first and second physical locations, to map the first and second boundary and topographical information of the first and second physical locations to a virtual gaming space, to capture first and second position and orientation information for the first and second players, to map the first and second position and orientation information to the virtual gaming space, to generate first and second virtual players corresponding to the first and second players, and to transmit to first goggles information representative of the second virtual player for display superimposed onto a transparent viewing apparatus for viewing of the virtual gaming space. Additional embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: A multi-site tournament gaming system and method are disclosed wherein multiple casino operators are engaged to initiate a series of player qualifying events and to hold a multi-session tournament of the qualified players to determine the site winners; and, a final tournament is operated wherein the site winners are provided prizes and compete to be named the ultimate champion.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for a performance test of an online game server that may easily perform controlling of a virtual user and producing and editing of a scenario, and may monitor a test progress state. A method for a performance test of an online game server according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes: constructing a test database including virtual user information, unit action information, and map information by capturing a communication packet between a game server and a client; creating a test map that reflects an actual game environment using the map information; producing a scenario by setting a movement path of virtual users and unit actions to be performed at a predetermined point on the test map; establishing the entire test schedule using the test database and the scenario; and monitoring a test progress state.

Abstract: A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may operate, for example, according to a method for receiving a request to coordinate execution of a gaming application between a communication device and at least one device remotely located from the communication device, selecting a game rendering server from a plurality of game rendering servers according to a determination of at least one characteristic of the communication device, and instructing the game rendering server to transmit a stream associated with the gaming application responsive to determining that the communication device is unable to execute in whole or in part the gaming application from local computing resources of the communication device. The method can further include coordinating an exchange of first control information and second control information between the communication device and the at least one device. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: A flexible diaphragm coupling is disclosed which includes a radially inner hub portion, a radially outer rim portion, and a flexible diaphragm portion extending between the radially outer rim portion and the radially inner hub portion. The flexible diaphragm portion includes a radially inner diaphragm section having a maximum axial thickness adjacent the radially inner hub portion and a radially outwardly tapering axial thickness extending to a point of minimum axial thickness of the diaphragm portion, and a radially outer diaphragm section having a maximum axial thickness adjacent the radially outer rim portion and a radially inwardly tapering axial thickness extending to the point of minimum axial thickness of the diaphragm portion. By design, the point of minimum axial thickness of the diaphragm portion is closer to the radially outer rim portion than to the radially inner hub portion.

Abstract: A rotating shaft structure with rotational and positioning functions includes an assembly of a rotating shaft and a bridge connector. The bridge connector includes a pivotal portion formed as a type of geometry section to define a space or slotted chamber to pivot the rotating shaft. The bridge connector is defined with a flange portion connected to the pivotal portion and including a bolt hole. A fastener is assembled to the bolt hole of the flange portion of the bridge connector to allow the rotating shaft of being rotated or stopped to be positioned in the space or slotted chamber defined by the pivotal portion of the bridge connector. Conditions such as inferior rotation and positioning effects of the conventional structure applied to the high-torque rotating shaft device can be improved.

Abstract: An instrument for assembling a bone anchoring device includes a shank with a shaft section to be anchored in a bone and a engagement end, a head being separate from the shank and having a through bore, and a receiving part having a first end, a second end and a longitudinal bore extending from the first to the second end, the head being positionable within the bore at the second end. The instrument includes a holding portion arranged to hold a pin, which has a rod section with a length and a diameter suited to fit and extend at least through the bore of the head, and which has a free end portion extending from the rod section such as to project from the bore of the head when the pin is inserted, and configured to engage with the engagement end of the shank.

Abstract: An entertainment ride that includes a plurality of vessels. In one embodiment, the vessels may be shaped as spherical vessels and may be attached to robotic armatures that move the vessels such that the movement resembles a flowering bloom.

Abstract: A combination structure for a labyrinth includes plural labyrinth units, which are combined into various labyrinths, respectively composed of four frame rods, a reinforcing support bar and plural fixing members. The four frame rods have their ends butt jointed to form into a square, each frame rod is formed with two connecting ends respectively cut with a recess and provided with an insert hole and each having its wall bored with plural insert holes. The reinforcing support bar is obliquely set inside the four frame rods and formed with two connecting ends respectively bored with an insert hole and having two sides respectively cut with a lengthwise recess. The fixing members are inserted in the insert holes of the connecting ends of the four frame rods and of the reinforcing support bar for securing the four frame rods and the reinforcing support bar together to form a labyrinth unit.

Abstract: A branded entertainment complex combines cutting edge entertainment, brands, and technologies to stretch the “now” into the “next” to a create a journey for patrons never seen before. Brands may be merged into the world of entertainment such that patrons may consume the brand and also be a part of it. In certain embodiments, the shape of the one or more buildings is based on the one or more brands associated with the complex. In certain embodiments, the one or more buildings are cylindrical in shape and branded as soda cans.

Abstract: The present invention is a sport swinging, hitting and throwing assistance device that includes a cumber bun base belt that is wrapped around and secured to an athlete's waist and chest area while the athlete is swinging, hitting or throwing a piece of sports equipment, an arm loop that is attached to the cumber bun base belt by an expandable guide arm and receives the athlete's middle arm area that is inserted through the arm loop and a buckle. The device can also be a vest style base device that is wrapped around and secured to an athlete's torso or a panty style base device that is wrapped around and secured to an athlete's torso while the athlete is swinging, hitting, or throwing a golf club or other piece of sports equipment.

Abstract: A housing for a sensor includes the sensor; vertical walls surrounding an aperture containing the sensor; a horizontal floor connected to a bottom of the vertical walls, the floor having the sensor located thereon; and a vertical shaft connected to the bottom of the floor and configured to connect the housing to a grip of a golf club. The shaft and at least the horizontal floor define a continuous air passage to vent air pressure from an inside of the golf club to an outside of the golf club.

Abstract: A golf swing training device (1) having a substantially circle or oval-shaped ring (2) that stands at an angle to the ground. A guide (5) is slidably attached to the ring. A golf club (8) may be attached to a bracket (34) that is rotatably attached to housing (9) located on the guide. As an individual swings the golf club around the ring, the housing slides to allow for radial displacement of the golf club. In addition, the bracket rotates within the housing to allow for wrist rotation. Motors (37, 38, 39, 40, 12, 16) and gears (15, 17), controlled by one or more microprocessors (22) control the movement of the various components of the golf swing training device, thereby controlling the position of the golf club as well as the position of the user's body as the guide travels around the ring.

Abstract: Embodiments of golf club heads with weight redistribution channels are described herein. Other examples and related embodiments are also disclosed herein.

Abstract: An approach is provided for coating a golf club head with a material. The approach involves securing a first golf club head component to a second golf club head component using an adhesive, resulting in a golf club head main body having an exterior surface. The approach further includes physical vapor depositing at least one layer on at least a portion of the exterior surface of the golf club head main body at a temperature less than a melting point of the adhesive.

Abstract: A golf ball 2 includes a spherical core 4, an inner mid layer 6 positioned outside the core 4, an outer mid layer 8 positioned outside the inner mid layer 6, a reinforcing layer 10 positioned outside the outer mid layer 8, and a cover 12 positioned outside the reinforcing layer 10. When distances (%) from a central point of the core 4 to nine points and JIS-C hardnesses at the nine points, which nine points are obtained by dividing a region from the central point of the core 4 to a surface of the core 4 at intervals of 12.5% of a radius of the core 4, are plotted in a graph, R2 of a linear approximation curve obtained by a least-square method is equal to or greater than 0.95.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for arranging dimples on a golf ball surface that significantly improves aerodynamic symmetry and minimizes parting line visibility by arranging the dimples in a pattern derived from at least one irregular domain generated from a regular or non-regular polyhedron. One or more irregular domains may have an initial dimple sub-pattern of nearest neighbor dimples wherein the dimple sub-pattern is packed in one or more irregular domains; and the unfilled regions of the irregular domains are packed with dimples and the irregular domains are tessellated around the golf ball surface.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for arranging dimples on a golf ball surface in which the dimples are arranged in a pattern derived from at least one irregular domain generated from a regular or non-regular polyhedron. The method includes choosing control points of a polyhedron, generating an irregular domain based on those control points, packing the irregular domain with dimples, and tessellating the irregular domain to cover the surface of the golf ball. The control points include the center of a polyhedral face, a vertex of the polyhedron, a midpoint or other point on an edge of the polyhedron and others. The method ensures that the symmetry of the underlying polyhedron is preserved while minimizing or eliminating great circles due to parting lines.

Abstract: A divot repair tool includes a blade member coupled to a handle disposed relative to the blade at an angle advantageous to ball mark repair. The blade member may be movable with respect to the handle between an open position and a closed position.

Abstract: An analysis method of the present invention includes the steps of: measuring a swing of a golf club to which a sensor capable of measuring accelerations in directions of three axes and angular velocities or angles about the three axes is attached; obtaining an index for classifying the swing based on a measuring result of the sensor; and classifying the swing based on the index. The index includes the following item (a) or (b): (a) a grip angular velocity at least at one time during a downswing; and (b) a grip velocity at least at one time during the downswing. Preferably, times of an address, a top, and an impact are determined in the analysis method.