Abstract: Card shufflers usable in forming and dispensing randomized playing card hands for use in playing card games include a card input mechanism for inputting cards into the card shuffler, a card storage device for receiving cards from the card input mechanism and temporarily storing cards within the card shuffler, and a card output mechanism for outputting shuffled cards from the card shuffler. The card storage device may include a wheel configured to rotate within the card shuffler. The rotatable wheel may have a plurality of card storage compartments therein, each of which may be sized and configured to hold two or more cards therein. Related methods involve the use of such card shufflers in playing card games.

Abstract: Disclosed are an apparatus, a system, and method for automatically launching roulette balls into a ball track of a roulette wheel.

Abstract: A word game and method of playing the word game comprising providing a main word or phrase (“Theme Word”), and a group of existing words (“Puzzle Words”), wherein each letter from the Theme Word is used once to form a different word (“Solved Word”) when added to a Puzzle Word. In one example form of the game, multiple letters from the Theme Word may be added to a single Puzzle Word to form a single Solved Word. The letters from the Theme Word may be added anywhere to the Puzzle Word in order to form a new Solved Word. In one example form, the order of the letters in Puzzle Word may not be changed. In another example form of the game, the letter from the Theme Word may not be added to the end of the Puzzle Word. The game will be considered solved when all of the letters of the Theme Word have been successfully combined once with a Puzzle Word such that each letter has been used with a Puzzle Word to form a Solved Word.

Abstract: A computing system of an electronic puzzle includes a memory, an electronically controlled lock, and a plurality of sensors to generate sensor data. The computing system controls the electronically controlled lock to regulate access to an inner chamber of the electronic puzzle and monitors the sensor data generated by the plurality of sensors. The computing system generates an input password based on the monitored sensor data, compares the input password to a puzzle password stored in the memory, and unlocks the electronically controlled lock to permit access to the inner chamber in response to a determination that the input password matches the puzzle password.

Abstract: A method of playing a domino game with multiple wagering instruments to enhance the excitement of the game and interaction between the players. The game is played as a typical domino game. The game integrates wagering throughout the game. The wagering includes an initial ante created by all of the players. The initial ante is collected at the termination of the game by a winning player. The wagering also includes at least one side ante between at least two players. The side ante is collected by either the winning player, or if not having won the game, the highest scoring player participating in the side ante. The game penalizes players who cannot play a tile because the tile does not have indicia that matches previously played tiles. The penalty ante is paid by the player who cannot play a tile, to an opposing player who played the last tile.

Abstract: A ball-launching system mounts to a top rim of a roulette wheel and positions a ball launcher configured to launch a roulette ball into the roulette wheel. The ball-launching system includes an outer jaw and an inner jaw, which clamp to the top rim. At least a part of a ball launcher extends into a concave bowl of the roulette wheel and facilitates launching the roulette ball directly into a ball track underneath the top rim within the concave bowl.

Abstract: A vehicle simulation such as for example a driving game can be provided by displaying an image of a steering wheel on a touch sensitive screen. Touch inputs are used to control the rotational orientation of displayed steering wheel. The rotational orientation of the displayed steering wheel is used to apply course correction effects to a simulated vehicle. Selective application of driver assist and different scaling of touch inputs may be provided.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a shooting game control method, which is executed by a computer incorporated in a device including a display and a touch panel, includes accepting a touch operation on the touch panel; displaying a first frame indicative of a shooting effective range on the display in accordance with a position of the touch operation; accepting an instruction for an attack on an attack target in a state in which the first frame is displayed; determining whether the attack target in a game image displayed on the display is within the first frame or not, at a time point when the instruction for the attack has been accepted; and controlling the attack on the attack target in the game image in accordance with a result of the determining.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, systems, and storage media for creating, discovering, and/or resolving spells using a wand are provided. In embodiments, a computing device or a wand may detect one or more gestures and sensors in the wand may generate sensor data representative of the one or more gestures. The one or more gestures may be movements performed using the wand. The sensor data representative of the one or more gestures may be converted into a spell sequence. The wand may transmit the spell sequence to a computing device, and receive, from the computing device, a spell output based on the spell sequence, a wand position, and a quest. The quest may indicate an order in which one or more second devices are to be activated and one or more spells to activate each of the one or more second devices. Other embodiments may be described and/or claimed.

Abstract: A modular gaming apparatus allows for board games such as chess to be played on one or more levels. A base structure include a drawer and a fixed game board, with one or more playing units being provided for stacking atop the base structure. Each playing unit includes a game board, legs, and a track mechanism that allows the game board to slide out for easier player access. A virtual game piece generating unit is also provided, the virtual game piece generating unit allowing for non-physical representations of game pieces to be created. A computing system allows for pairing of electronic devices and processing by means of a processing module and a communications module. The electronic components control the virtual game piece generating unit and also allow for remote play.

Abstract: A user can interface with a computer system to interact with a computer program using an input device. The device includes one or more tracking devices and an input mode control. The one or more tracking devices are configured to communicate information relating to a position, orientation, or motion of one or more controllers to the computer system. The input mode control is configured to communicate an input mode signal to the computer system during interaction with the computer program. The input mode signal is configured to cause the computer program to interpret the information relating to the position, orientation or motion of the one or more controllers according to a particular input mode of a plurality of different input modes.

Abstract: The invention provides an improved controller (10) for a games console. The invention is a games controller (10) that is intended to be held by a user in both hands. Additionally, the controller of the invention (10) may comprise a plurality of controls located on the front and top of the controller. The controller of the present invention (10) is advantageous as it additionally comprises at least one additional control (11A, 11B) located on the rear of the controller (10) in a position to be operated by the middle fingers of a user (12). The additional control (11A, 11B) may be a paddle lever and may replicate the function of either one of two of the controls located on the front or top of the controller (10).

Abstract: A method includes running a computer simulation that is controlled at least in part by a handheld controller, displaying images generated by the computer simulation on a display, and projecting at least one image generated by the computer simulation from an image projector coupled to the handheld controller. A system includes a display, a handheld controller, an image projector coupled to the handheld controller, and a processor based apparatus. Another system includes a display, a handheld controller, an image projector that is housed in a unit configured to be releasably docked to the handheld controller, and a processor based apparatus. Storage mediums storing one or more computer programs are also provided.

Abstract: [Object] To provide a sensation induction device, a sensation induction system, and a sensation induction method capable of improving a sense of realism by interlocking a sound output and a vibration output. [Solution] A sensation induction device includes a plurality of actuators and a plurality of speakers. The sensation induction device includes a plurality of sets of mutually associated actuator and speaker in which at least one actuator among the plurality of actuators and at least one speaker among the plurality of speakers are mutually associated. An output from the actuator and an output from the speaker are controlled to be interlocked for each set of mutually associated actuator and speaker.

Abstract: A device includes a housing, a processor that is coupled to the housing, the processor is configured to process a software program stored in a memory. A touch screen is coupled to the housing and configured to display graphical objects, wherein a sensor signal associated with a user's interaction with the touch screen is provided to the processor. A first actuator is coupled to the touch screen and positioned within the housing. The first actuator is configured to output a first haptic effect to the touch screen upon receiving a first activating signal from the processor. A second actuator is coupled to the housing and configured to output a second haptic effect to the housing upon receiving a second activating signal from the processor. The first activating signal is associated with a foreground event and the second activating signal is associated with a background event occurring in the software program.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for enabling users playing online games to create coaching videos of gameplay, and post such coaching videos to a cloud gaming system. In one example, coaching videos include a video clip of the gameplay and a video of the user, guiding and/or explaining how the game was played. A user playing the same game may desire coaching, and the cloud gaming system can identify previously posted coaching videos that correspond to the point in time or action in which the user requesting coaching is currently playing. The cloud system can access a database of coaching options, which are then presented to a user. The coaching options may be videos of gameplay and videos of the user providing coaching. The user can then view the coaching videos, rate them if desired, and then resume with his or her gameplay.

Abstract: A non-transitory storage medium encoded with a computer readable game program executed by a computer incorporating a near field radio communication function causes the computer to perform acts including reading, by establishing near field radio communication with an information storage medium, first data stored in that information storage medium, registering the read first data, reading, by establishing near field radio communication with an information storage medium after registration of the first data, second data stored in that information storage medium, and progressing game processing when the second data matches with the first data.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a method comprises causing, to be displayed to a user through a web page of a social network provider that provides a social network, contest data that indicates an online contest; receiving, at a particular entity, input that indicates an intention by the user to participate in the online contest; sending, from the particular entity, request data that indicates a request, by the particular entity, for one or more permissions that allows the particular entity to access information from the social network provider about the user; after sending the request data, receiving, at the particular entity, acceptance data that indicates that the user accepts the request; in response to receiving the acceptance data, causing the user to be entered in the online contest; wherein the method is performed by one or more computing devices.

Abstract: A forward direction line is set on a course, in a virtual game world, on which a player object is allowed to move. An advancing direction at a current position of the player object is determined based on the forward direction line. The advancing direction is determined as a direction in which the player object advances so as to control a movement of a player character in accordance with an acceleration instruction, and a leftward-rightward movement instruction from a player. Consequently, it is possible to assist the player in controlling a direction in which an object operated by the player moves.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for generating demonstration gameplay streaming via a cloud gaming system. The method includes executing a game from a library of games managed by the cloud gaming system. The executing causing the game to launch and progress to a gaming session where modules of the game are pre-loaded and waiting for interactive input of the game. The method includes advancing, by the cloud gaming system, in the game from a level to a later level in the game. Then pausing the game on the cloud gaming system and generating a post that is indicative of the game and the later level. The post being displayed on a website, and wherein the executing of the game, the advancing and the pausing being processed by the cloud gaming system without user input. In some embodiments, other users can advance the gameplay, and other users can resume play from where they left off, without needed to re-load the game.

Abstract: A method enables a user to use an augmented reality system and a mobile device to display augmented reality by overlaying a virtual 3D object over a physical 3D object. In one implementation, the method includes: enabling a user to capture a live camera image of a physical 3D object via camera on the mobile device; determining if there are image tags on the physical 3D object in the live camera image; using the one or more image tags to access information used by the augmented reality system; and overlaying the virtual 3D object onto a live camera image of the physical 3D object on a display of the mobile device to produce augmented reality effects, wherein the virtual 3D object delivers content a user that assists in performing maintenance on the physical 3D object.

Abstract: A computer game mode module provides a navigable image on a display, the navigable image comprising a set of location icons each representing a location associated with a game mode object of multiple game mode objects of different types selectable at the location icon. A first game mode generates a first marker when a first game objective is attained. A second game mode generates a successful task signal which causes an electronic assistance message to be provide. A third game mode receives remote user input game data generated at other user devices.

Abstract: A computer system a plurality of user devices, each in communication with the server via a communication network. Each user device user plays a game and uploads game data. The user devices receive event data from the server and display an indicator of an event based on the event data at a navigable image rendered on the display. The event is associated with a location icon rendered on the display at the user device. The event data defines a game mode object accessible by a user at the location icon, the game mode object, when accessed providing a game mode which provides an interaction with other users at the user devices.

Abstract: The application is designed to support scoring of non time-based, time-based and race-based games, whether conventional or nonconventional. Examples of non time-based games include tennis, volleyball, badminton, sepak takraw, throw ball, table football, gilli danda and pittu garam. Examples of time-based games include soccer, hockey, ice hockey, kho-kho and kabadi. Race-based games, which involves ranking teams or participants, would include activities such as running, swimming, rowing, singing and dancing.

Abstract: According to one exemplary embodiment, a method for personalizing a game executed by an electronic device is provided. The method may include collecting a plurality of user data. The method may also include determining at least one input/output option. The method may then include selecting a game template from a plurality of available game templates based on the collected plurality of user data and the determined at least one input/output option. The method may further include configuring the electronic game based on the selected game template, the collected plurality of user data, and the determined plurality of input/output options. The method may also include executing, by the electronic device, the configured electronic game.

Abstract: Measuring a skill set of a user as the user plays a game on a gaming device to gauge a skill level of the user across a set of defined metrics. Predictive analytics are used to anticipate upcoming challenges a user will face; based on the upcoming challenges for the user, games are recommended to increase the skill levels of the user to address and overcome the upcoming challenges.

Abstract: A computer implemented game is provided where each of first and second game computer code provide user selectable game objects on a display. The configuration of game objects presented to a user by the first and second game computer code is different. A first marker is generated when a game objective is attained in the first game computer code, and a second marker is generated when a second game objective is attained in the second game computer code.

Abstract: Disclosed is a decision making system to assist users/coach in managing a sports team playing a virtual game/real game. The virtual game represents a real sports game received from a media feed. The decision making system includes a user database, a sports database, a decision model module, and a processing unit. The user database stores information about users. The sports database stores information related to each sport, including each game move for each sport, rules and regulations associated with each sport, and updated real-time statistics of each team and each player playing the sport. The decision model module coupled with the sports database, which determines possible game moves from the current on-field state of the real game, further the decision model module calculates a score based on the probability of winning the sports game after each possible game move using statistical information of teams and players, and rules and regulations.

Abstract: One or more embodiments provide a virtual environment that enables users to have their own personalized avatars (including the use of representations of users' own faces). In this virtual environment, users can play a virtual sports game where the drafting of the players for the particular virtual sport being played is conducted by a virtual game such as poker, blackjack and other games. A dealer in a virtual environment can deal out “cards” that show the names of the sports players, their teams and up-to-date statistics for each athlete in the particular virtual sport being played to the personalized avatars of players sitting around a virtual casino table.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for generating scenarios during a virtual game played by a user. The virtual game represents a real sports game received from a media feed. The system includes a user database for storing information about users; a sports database for storing information related to each sport, each game move for each sport; a scenario database for storing multiple scenarios related to the real sports game; a scenario model module coupled with the sports database and the scenario database, the scenario model module determines the best scenario for the current state of the real sports game; a decision model module calculates a score based upon the response on the scenario by the user using statistical information of teams and players, and rules and regulations; and a processor processes a data stream of the real sports game received from the media feed.

Abstract: Systems and methods for synchronizing game play of a video game include detecting selection of a video game for game play at a game server. In response, an instance of the video game is executed at the game server. The execution causes the game play to be provided to a game client for rendering on a main portion of a display screen of the game client. A pre-recorded video associated with the video game is provided for rendering in a second portion of the display screen while the game play is being rendered on the main portion of the display screen. The pre-recorded video rendering in the second portion is dynamically synchronized with the game play of the video game rendering in the main portion so that a game scene rendering in the pre-recorded video matches to a game scene of the game play rendering in the main portion of the display screen.

Abstract: Systems and methods for sharing game play of a video game includes detecting selection of a video game for game play at a game cloud system. The video game is associated with a pre-recorded video of a game play session of a player and metadata related to game play of the video game. In response, the video game is executed at the game server. The execution causes the game play of the video game to be provided for rendering on a main portion of a display screen of a game client and the pre-recorded video associated with the video game provided for rendering in a second portion of the display screen while the game play is being rendered on the main portion of the display screen. The rendering of the pre-recorded video adjusted so that a game scene of the pre-recorded video matches to a game scene of the game play rendering in the main portion of the display screen.

Abstract: An articulating toy figure having a body and one or more body segments coupled to the body. The one or more body segments are each independently and translationally movable between a first position proximal to the body and a second position distal to the body. One or more detents are provided to secure the position of the one or more body segments in one of the first and second positions. The one or more body segments are each movable between the first and second position by applying a force on the one or more body segments that overcomes the biasing force of the one or more detents. The one or more body segments may be selected from the group consisting of a head, an arm, a leg, and a tail.

Abstract: A toy vehicle track set is disclosed herein. The track set includes at least one track section and a support that can hold the track section in a particular orientation or position relative to a support surface. In one embodiment, the support includes a base, a support member that is coupleable to the base, and a coupler that is connected to the support member. The track section can be engaged with the coupler which is movably mounted to the support member.

Abstract: A device includes a signaling means and a motion sensor, and logic for activating or controlling the signaling means in response to a sensed motion according to an embedded logic. The device may be used as a toy, and may be shaped like a play ball or as a handheld unit. It may be powered from a battery, either chargeable from an AC power source directly or contactless by using induction or by converting electrical energy from harvested kinetic energy. The embedded logic may activate or control the signaling means, predictably or randomly, in response to sensed acceleration magnitude or direction, such as sensing the crossing of a preset threshold or sensing the peak value. The visual means may be a numeric display for displaying a value associated with the count of the number of times the threshold has been exceeded or the peak magnitude of the acceleration sensed.

Abstract: Disclosed are toy systems for creating and fixing an array of polygon shaped plastic beads together to form a design. The toy systems can include an upper tray, a lower tray, a plurality of beads, and a template. The plurality of beads can engage pins on the surface of the lower tray. Each of the beads can be configured to fuse or adhere to adjacent beads upon drying after the application of liquid to the plurality of beads engaged to the lower tray, forming a fixed array of beads. The upper tray can be configured to engage the pins of the lower tray between the lower tray and the plurality of beads. The upper tray can be used to remove a fixed or loose array of beads from the lower tray. The template can provide a design for the plurality of beads.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a stand-alone pop up assembly and method for making the same is provided comprising a plurality of wall panels connected with an internal base. A roof structure is provided and a roof interface component for attaching the roof to the structure. The assembly is moveable between a first position being substantially flat into a one dimensional structure and a second position enfolded into a three dimensional structure by manipulating the outer structure and the internal base. The roof interface component may swivel into place during the movement to the three dimensional structure, thereby positioning the roof structure over the upper portions of the first and second panel walls or, alternatively, a sliding feature is provided with a tab from the roof inserted into a slot at the top of one of the panel walls, thereby sliding the roof into position.

Abstract: A system and method for actuating controlled stimulation of a patient in a confined medical position helps sooth and entertain a patient receiving medical treatment while resting on a support member, like a dental chair. The system provides a support member, and integrates at least one air actuated animated member, such as a mobile or figurine, proximal to the support member, to enable animated motion by the animated member through pressurized air. Pressurized air causes the animated members to articulate in animated, colorful movements. Audio signals are also generated by the animated member in response to the pressurized air. The animated member can be a mobile or a cartoon character with joints, axes, and limbs that move when engaged by pressurized air. The patient or caregiver control distribution of the pressurized air by manipulating a foot valve and an arm valve to control the animated members.

Abstract: Defoamer compositions contain a) a two-stage hydrosilylation product of one or more M4HQ or M3HTphenyl starting materials with a hydrosilylatable composition containing ?-methylstyrene, and then with a linear or branched organopolysiloxane bearing at least two hydrosilylatable groups; b) a silicone resin; and c) silica. The defoamers are particularly useful in machine laundering and dishwashing compositions.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a liquid processing apparatus, including: a housing having an upper end opening and a sealed bottom; a cover covering the upper end opening of the housing; a sealing portion provided inside the housing, it being sealed between the sealing portion and an inner wall of the housing, and a sealed accommodation space being formed between the sealing portion and the bottom of the housing; a processing portion provided within the accommodation space and configured to process a liquid flowing into the accommodation space, an upper end of the processing portion having a guide portion; a liquid inflow portion and a liquid outflow portion provided at an upper part of the housing. According the embodiment of the present disclosure, the liquid inflow portion and the liquid outflow portion are provided at the upper part of the housing, which may facilitate installation of the liquid inflow portion and the liquid outflow portion.

Abstract: A filter for a fluid system is designed to capture and retain large debris. The filter includes a structure that captures the debris, and due to the design, configuration, or conformation of the structure, the structure makes it difficult for the captured debris to break loose and thereby prevents repeated impact of the debris with a filter surface. Different embodiments form regions of reduced turbulence such as an angled annular wall, angled wall, or baffles, or a contoured basket in an inlet region that captures large debris, and retains the debris in the structure of the filter.

Abstract: A filter element (10) has a filter bellows (12) arranged about the longitudinal axis (L) and having a first end disk (14) on a first end face (26), and a second end disk (16) on a second end face (28). A central element (20) is arranged rotatably about the longitudinal axis (L) relative to the filter bellows (12) in the interior (18) of the filter bellows (12). The central element (20) has one or multiple positioning elements (22, 24) which interact with counter positioning elements (116, 118) of an upper housing part (114) to fix the central element in the upper housing part (114) in a defined angular position. The central element (20) has at least one electrical connector element (32) on the element, electrically contacting at least one electrical connector element (120) on the housing.

Abstract: A combined hopper and shaker assembly which can be used at least in processing excavation or other remains. The assembly features a hopper that can be pivoted (through operation of a hoist/sling) to cause the contents of the hopper to be fed via gravity through an exit chute onto the shaker. The hopper includes splash guards or sidewalls on the portions thereof that are proximate the pivot axis and an internal shape along the exit chute so as to guide the contents of the hopper toward the exit chute.

Abstract: A multi-layer liquid purification element includes a liquid permeable top layer and a liquid-impermeable base layer. The base layer has a suction port for drawing liquid through the liquid purifying element. At least the top layer and the base layer are interconnected by a connection. The base layer has a structured surface directed at least partially toward the top layer. A method for producing a liquid purification element, a device for extracting a liquid additive for exhaust-gas purification from a tank and a motor vehicle, are also provided.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for placement of a subterranean curtain below the face of the earth.

Abstract: A filter device for filtering fluids, such as fuels, including diesel fuel, comprising a filter housing (1), inside which a filter element (17) can be fastened in an exchangeable manner, which filter element has a filter medium that surrounds an inner filter cavity (25), a fluid inlet (21) leading to the unfiltered side (27) of the filter element (17), a fluid outlet (9) for the outflow of filtered fluid from the filtered side (25), and a tank return connection (13), is characterized in that an equalizing tube (49) is provided extending in the filter housing (1) up to a maximum filling level height provided for the filtration operation, which equalizing tube is connected at its bottom end to the tank return connection (13) and is open at its top end (51), and in that the tube (49) has, at a point located at a distance from the top and bottom end of the tube, an inner control part (60), in which a through-hole (61) is located, which forms a throttle point.

Abstract: A filter arrangement for threadably securing to a filter head includes a housing having a surrounding wall defining an interior volume, an open mouth providing access to the interior volume and an end opposite of the open mouth. The surrounding wall has an exterior and an interior. A filter media construction is operably held within the interior volume. A sleeve, distinct from the housing, is secured to the exterior of the surrounding wall adjacent to the housing mouth and extending partially along the surrounding wall. The sleeve has an exterior and an interior. The exterior of the sleeve defines mounting threads constructed and arranged to removably mount with the filter head, when the filter arrangement is secured to the filter head. The interior of the sleeve is against the exterior of the surrounding wall. A first seal member is oriented against the sleeve to create a seal with a filter head, when the filter arrangement is secured to the filter head.

Abstract: A filter arrangement for threadably securing to a filter head includes a housing having a surrounding wall defining an interior volume, an open mouth providing access to the interior volume and an end opposite of the open mouth. The surrounding wall has an exterior and an interior. A filter media construction is operably held within the interior volume. A sleeve, distinct from the housing, is secured to the exterior of the surrounding wall adjacent to the housing mouth and extending partially along the surrounding wall. The sleeve has an exterior and an interior. The exterior of the sleeve defines mounting threads constructed and arranged to removably mount with the filter head, when the filter arrangement is secured to the filter head. The interior of the sleeve is against the exterior of the surrounding wall. A first seal member is oriented against the sleeve to create a seal with a filter head, when the filter arrangement is secured to the filter head.

Abstract: In a rotary drum for thickening pulp, the rotary drum may include drainage channels for delivering filtrate from a pulp mat on the rotary drum to a filtrate chamber at an end of the rotary drum, and includes a flat face valve and plenum chamber assembly in the filtrate chamber. The flat face valve can be juxtaposed against drainage outlets of the drainage channels, wherein the flat face valve does not block the drainage outlets during a majority of the rotation of the rotary drum. An opening on the flat face valve may extend through the front surface and be aligned with the drainage outlets to provide a fluid passage through the flat face valve and to a plenum chamber behind the flat face valve such that air in the filtrate is collected in the upper portion of the plenum chamber and removed from the rotary drum.

Abstract: A compressed air purification apparatus includes a cover, an outer drum configured such that compressed air supplied through the inlet swirls downwards between the cover and the outer drum, a discharge pipe inserted into the insertion port to couple the outer drum to the cover, an inner drum configured such that the downwardly swirling compressed air flows upwards between the outer drum and the inner drum and again swirls downwards between the discharge pipe and the inner drum, a collector drum formed in an integrated manner with the inner drum, and a drain cover configured such that impurities separated from the compressed air are collected therein. The compressed air can separate water, oil and minute foreign substances from compressed air by rotating compressed air two times in a double cyclone.