Electric Or Magnetic Patents (Class 273/138.2)
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Patent number: 8074991Abstract: Let Me Roll Sic Bo is a dice game blended Sic Bo with traditional craps game. It is using three regular dice (cubes). Each die has six sides and different number of spots on it (from one to six). Each player will take a turn to shoot the dice follow the clockwise. Players can wager on nine main designed betting areas to win different odds.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2004Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Inventors: Hui Chuan Chen, Gen Kang Chen
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Patent number: 8075408Abstract: In a first aspect there is provided a modular visual output component for a gaming machine, including a housing, at least one visual output device, an input connector electrically coupled to the visual output device, and an output connector electrically coupled to the input connector. The input and output connectors being arranged relative to the housing and shaped such that the output connector can be connected to an input connector of a further modular visual output component having the same configuration with the modular visual output components abutting one another, whereby two or more modular visual output components can be joined to one another and supplied from a common power source.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2008Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty.Inventor: John Shi Feng Hwang
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Patent number: 8070610Abstract: A “drop-in” style bar top gaming machine that includes a support frame having at least two opposed support walls, and a top panel assembly supporting a display device. The top panel assembly is further configured to cooperate with the support frame for movement between a closed position and an open position, enabling access to the support frame. An illumination assembly is provided for interior illumination of the gaming machine.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2011Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: IGTInventors: Kay Vetter, Randy Hedrick, John Leagh Beadell
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Patent number: 8066564Abstract: A gaming system which displays a plurality of reels. Each reel is associated with a display area which displays a symbol. A wager is allocated to each one of the display areas. An award is determined based, at least in part, on such allocation.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2008Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: IGTInventor: Dov Liam Randall
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Patent number: 8062118Abstract: A slot machine of the present invention comprises: a symbol display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of symbols; and a controller, the controller programmed to execute the processing of: (A) executing a game in which the plurality of symbols are variably displayed and then stop-displayed to the symbol display device after game media are BET in number equal to or less than a previously set maximum number of BETs, and game media are paid out in number according to the stop-displayed symbols or a combination thereof; (B) shifting a mode from a non-insurance mode to an insurance mode on condition that a predetermined number of game media is inserted; (C) counting the number of games played after shifting to the insurance mode, in the insurance mode; (D) paying out a predetermined number of game media when the number of games counted in the processing (C) reaches a specific number; and (E) clearing the number of games counted in the processing (C), when a game is played in which game media are paiType: GrantFiled: April 13, 2007Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Assignee: Universal Entertainment CorporationInventor: Kazuo Okada
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Patent number: 8057294Abstract: A gaming system for playing a wagering game and a community-event includes a plurality of gaming machines configured to participate in a community-event game. A controller is configured to determine eligibility of each of the plurality of gaming machines to play a community-event. At least one of the plurality of gaming machines is configured to determine a randomly selected community-event outcome for a community-event and to transmit a signal related to the community-event outcome to an eligible gaming machine.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2006Date of Patent: November 15, 2011Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.Inventors: Larry J. Pacey, Joel R. Jaffe, Shridhar P. Joshi, Allon G. Englman, Peter R. Anderson
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Patent number: 8052148Abstract: A game system including a progressive bonus apparatus connected to a plurality of individual game units. In an exemplary embodiment, the progressive bonus apparatus receives score contributions from each game unit to increase a progressive score. When players achieve a predetermined result on a game unit, they receive an award based on the progressive score. Each game unit connected to the progressive bonus apparatus may take the form of a game with a rotating wheel.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 2008Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.Inventors: Bryan M Kelly, Norman B Petermeier, Matthew F Kelly, J. Richard Oltmann
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Patent number: 8033912Abstract: The present invention relates to gaming systems and methods where enablement for play of a bonus game is linked to play of a primary game. A player may qualify for the bonus game by preselected criteria associated with play of the primary game. The qualified players may participate in the bonus game and compete against one another in one or more rounds to achieve a final winning outcome based on the individual player's skill, strategy, or knowledge. The player who achieves the final winning outcome at the end of a plurality of rounds of the bonus game is awarded a bonus pool funded by a portion of wagers accumulated during play of the primary game.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2008Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: IGTInventor: Lee E. Cannon
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Patent number: 8025563Abstract: With regard to a slot machine, in a case that a predetermined amount of credits has been inserted, the game mode is switched from a non-insurance mode to an insurance mode according to the player's input operation via a touch panel. The number of games is counted in the insurance mode. When the counted number of games has reached a predetermined number, a predetermined amount of credits is paid out. In the insurance mode, determination of whether or not the game stage is to be switched to the bonus game stage is made based upon a value determined at random. When the game stage has been switched to the bonus game stage, the counted number of games is reset.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2007Date of Patent: September 27, 2011Assignee: Universal Entertainment CorporationInventor: Kazuo Okada
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Patent number: 8021225Abstract: When a predetermined amount of credits has been inserted into a slot machine, the game mode is switched from a non-insurance mode to an insurance mode according to the player's input operation via a touch panel. In the insurance mode, the number of games is counted. When the counted game number has reached a predetermined number, a predetermined amount of credits is paid out. In a case where the amount of credits paid out according to the rearranged symbols is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the counted number of games is reset. On the other hand, the predetermined amount is changed based on the change in the maximum bet amount according to the input operation via a setting change switch, which allows the set value of the maximum bet amount to be changed.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: Universal Entertainment CorporationInventor: Kazuo Okada
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Patent number: 8016679Abstract: Two-way communications between casino games and diverse master controllers using a universal game module there between allows routing event messages with standard protocols. The universal game module with a computer processor, circuitry, connection ports, interfaces and protocols allows the communications by evaluating, prioritizing, polling and routing communications. A jackpot group of differing games is possible because the win cycles of the various games can be equalized. The volatility of the games in the group is increased by randomly segregating a percentage of the machines to be eligible to win the progressive jackpot for a limited time period. A life changing jackpot is thus payable for a variety of games in a casino on a relatively frequent basis.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2006Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: IGTInventors: Rolland Steil, Clyde Ruckle, John Lord
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Patent number: 8016656Abstract: An apparatus and method for enhancing participation in gaming activities that involve replacement items, replacement cards, or other draw-type activity. A player is allowed to hold cards (or other items) of a starting hand/payline. Multiple sets of potential replacement cards are provided, from which the player can select the desired set of replacement cards. The selected set of replacement cards is used to complete the player's hand. Multiple hands may be played concurrently.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2004Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: King Show Games, Inc.Inventors: Bradley Berman, Erica Quist
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Patent number: 8016289Abstract: A gaming device and method for controlling operating the gaming device is disclosed. The gaming device initiates a paid play, and determines an outcome of the play. The outcome is visually displayed using at least two graphical displays. The graphical displays comprise a first and second visual continuum, without discrete reel stops. The outcome is represented by the relative positions of the first and second visual continuums. The outcome may also be based on the relative position of the first and second continuums to a payline. A payout corresponding to the outcome is determined by the device, and is awarded to the player.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2010Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: IGTInventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch
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Publication number: 20110210509Abstract: It is an object to prevent the occurrence of a situation that a drawing rolling object never enters into a drawing pocket. The mechanical drawing machine which, by rolling a drawing rolling object on a rolling surface, performs a drawing depending on which of a plurality of drawing pockets opened on the rolling surface the drawing rolling object enters into, includes a rolling surface moving unit for moving the rolling surface, and a speed control unit which changes a moving speed the rolling surface while a drawing rolling object is rolling on the rolling surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2009Publication date: September 1, 2011Applicant: c/o Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masato Okuaki
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Patent number: 8002624Abstract: A gaming machine, specifically a slot machine, having a viewing region through which one or more internal reels are visible. The internal reels having a flexible display, mounted on the outer circumferential region of the reel, capable of displaying an infinite number of different indicia to a player of the machine. By allowing an infinite number of indicia to be displayed, the gaming machine may be programmed with a variety of gaming options and payouts.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2001Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: IGTInventors: Craig Paulsen, Chan Griswold, Joseph R. Hedrick, Richard Wilder, Harold Mattice
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Patent number: 7993191Abstract: A gaming system having a five card draw poker game is provided. The gaming system causes an initial five card hand to be dealt to the player and also causes a first draw card to be revealed to the player. The player has the option to keep or discard the first draw card. After the player has decided whether or not to keep the first draw card, the gaming system enables the player to replace cards in the initial player hand. If the player selected to discard the first draw card, this card will not be used as a replacement or draw card to form the final player hand. In certain implementations, the player first selects cards to replace in the initial player hand. In these implementations, if the player elects to keep the first draw card, the gaming system will cause the display of a second card and the player has the option of keeping or discarding the second draw card.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2008Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: IGTInventors: Anthony M. Evans, Mark C. Nicely, John F. Daley, Bryan D. Wolf, Scott A. Caputo
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Patent number: 7985131Abstract: A slot machine of the present invention comprises: a symbol display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of symbols; an image display device; and a controller, the controller programmed to execute the processing of: (A) executing a game in which the plurality of symbols are variably displayed and then stop-displayed to the symbol display device after game media are BET in number equal to or less than a previously set maximum number of BETs, and game media are paid out in number according to the stop-displayed symbols or a combination thereof; (B) shifting a mode from a non-insurance mode to an insurance mode on condition that a predetermined number of game media is inserted; (C) counting the number of games played after shifting to the insurance mode, in the insurance mode; (D) paying out a predetermined number of game media when the number of games counted in the processing (C) reaches a specific number; and (E) displaying an image showing that the current gaming state is the insurance mode, inType: GrantFiled: April 13, 2007Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: Universal Entertainment CorporationInventor: Kazuo Okada
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Patent number: 7980942Abstract: A method and apparatus for playing a variation of keno in which the game player pays to play through any number of methods, reveals whether the player has a winning number of matches by playing a solitaire game, and then receives the appropriate winnings if any. The solitaire game may be played, for example, over the Internet or other network using a computer system. The computer system may be, for instance, a cell phone, a personal computer, a set-top box, kiosk, or other computing system.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2008Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Game Logic, Inc.Inventor: Steven N. Kane
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Patent number: 7980933Abstract: The invention provides an electronic video game apparatus which includes a display for displaying a video depiction of a first card game on the display. Each card in the first card game has a card suit, a card value and a card color. At least one of these cards has an additional symbol which depicts at least one outcome of an independent game of chance (e.g. roulette, craps, slot machine, etc.), and a wagering mechanism enabling a wager to be placed on an outcome which is dependent on at least the additional symbol.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2006Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Vegas Amusement, Inc.Inventor: Julian J. Kennedy
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Patent number: 7976372Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 7, 2008Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: IGTInventors: 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
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Patent number: 7972208Abstract: A slot machine of the present invention comprises: a symbol display device capable of variably displaying a plurality of symbols; an image display device; and a controller, the controller programmed to conduct the processing of: (A) executing a game in which the plurality of symbols are variably displayed and then stop-displayed to the symbol display device after game media are BET in number equal to or less than a previously set maximum number of BETs, and game media are paid out in number according to the plurality of symbols stop-displayed or a combination thereof; (B) shifting a mode from a non-insurance mode to an insurance mode on condition that a predetermined number of game media is inserted; (C) counting the number of games played after shifting to the insurance mode, in the insurance mode; (D) paying out a predetermined number of game media when the number of games counted in the processing (C) reaches a specific number; (E) shifting the mode from the insurance mode to the non-insurance mode, when tType: GrantFiled: April 13, 2007Date of Patent: July 5, 2011Assignee: Universal Entertainment CorporationInventor: Kazuo Okada
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Patent number: 7967292Abstract: A variety of games and methods for enhancing game play are provided. In one aspect, a secondary or ancillary game is played in parallel with a first game, such as a lottery ball draw. Yet another game involves the selection of items which a player or participant believes had been selected by an audience as not being the most popular. In yet another aspect, an interstitial progressive sequencing of programming is provided, such as where a series of short segments are presented at differing times throughout an evening of prime time programming. Audience participation may be enhanced by permitting Internet access to the game system, and to permit remote users to play along as if they were in studio participants or part of the studio audience.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2009Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Assignee: Milestone Entertainment LLCInventors: Randall Mark Katz, Gary Dawson, Andrew Felsher
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Patent number: 7959152Abstract: In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a gaming device including a game apparatus adapted to allow a player to play a game. The gaming device may include a prize holder adapted to releasably hold a prize object in a controllable manner. The gaming device may also include a controller in communication with the game apparatus and adapted to cause the prize object holder to release the prize object. A display mechanism may be in communication with the controller and may be adapted to display the prize object to the player. The display mechanism may comprise at least one prize object receiver.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2007Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: Atlantic City Coin & Slot Service Company, Inc.Inventors: Jerald C. Seelig, Lawrence M. Henshaw
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Patent number: 7955171Abstract: An electronic gaming device, such as a slot machine, is provided which initiates a game without input from a player. After initiating the game, the device may present one or more active game elements, such as rotating slot reels, to the player. The device determines an outcome of the game corresponding to a final position of the active game elements. The device further provides an interval to the player to make payment before the final outcome of the game is displayed. Payouts to the player are based on the final outcome and whether the player has made payment. Payouts may be increased based on a measurement of the player's participation rate in a series of games and the frequency of the games played, as measured by the device.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2005Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: IGTInventors: James A. Jorasch, Jay S. Walker, Magdalena Mik, Jason C. Krantz
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Patent number: 7950661Abstract: A method for automating a card game includes wirelessly interrogating each of a plurality of playing cards using radio frequency transmissions. For at least some of the playing cards, determining a rank of the playing card is based on the wireless interrogation using a mapping stored on a computer-readable medium that uniquely identifies playing cards based on a random distribution of conductive material carried by each of the playing cards.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2009Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.Inventors: Richard Soltys, Richard Huizinga
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Patent number: 7942731Abstract: In some embodiments, methods and apparatus allow for a plurality of options to be displayed to a player for playing at least one round of a game in accordance with at least one advantage and/or disadvantage. The player may accept an option. For example, a player may accept an option to play at least one future round of play in accordance with a rule that is different from a rule used in a current round of play.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2005Date of Patent: May 17, 2011Assignee: IGTInventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch, Peter Kim, Geoffrey M. Gelman, Peter J. Vogel, Michael D. Downs
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Patent number: 7942417Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention relate to gaming machines having mechanical reels. The machine is adapted so that the reels to some extent protrude from the front face of the machine to enhance the user's awareness that the reels are genuine and, optionally, the reels may have side walls having matching indicia to the symbols on the periphery of the reels. The reels may also be observed from front and rear sides of the machine or alternatively, rotated about an upright axis to enable a player to observe front and rear outcomes from one point.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2008Date of Patent: May 17, 2011Assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty LimitedInventor: Robert John Smith
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Patent number: 7934723Abstract: A pusher game machine 1 includes: a medal feeder 9 which feeds a medal on an upper game board 20; and an upper pushing member 22 which is arranged on the upper game board 20, and performs reciprocating movement, wherein a medal feedable region 61 by the medal feeder 9 is set on the deep side of the upper pushing member, viewing from the medal feeding side by the medal feeding means.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2006Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Assignee: Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd.Inventors: Ryu Sasaki, Atsushi Inoue, Motoki Imanishi, Etsushi Torii
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Patent number: 7934989Abstract: A gaming machine having features for increasing player appeal is set forth. The machine generally includes a processor, a display, and a memory device. The processor randomly selects one of a plurality of outcomes of the gaming machine in response to a wager. The display displays visual elements to be viewed by the player. The memory device is coupled to the processor and stores at least two data sets for producing at least two different types of visual and/or audio elements in the basic game or bonus game, or at least two different types of bonus game formats. The processor selects one of the two data sets in response to the occurrence of a predetermined time, a number of wager inputs by players of the gaming machine, or after determining a favorite play content based on the number of wager inputs by players.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2010Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.Inventors: Shridhar P. Joshi, David K. Locke, Marc A. Raneses
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Patent number: 7927206Abstract: A gaming device having a bonus scheme wherein a combination of bonus symbols trigger a bonus game and any one of the bonus symbols in the bonus game provides a player with an award. The award may be an extension of the bonus game by providing the player with additional spins or games. Also, the award may modify the combination and type of bonus symbols needed to enter the bonus game. Furthermore, the award may modify the award values in the bonus game. Therefore, a combination bonus symbols trigger the bonus game and also triggers the gaming device to provide bonus awards in the bonus game. The re-triggering symbol award bonus scheme changes the probability of winning for the player and therefore creates a higher level of excitement and enjoyment of the game.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2008Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: IGTInventors: Anthony J. Baerlocher, Ryan W. Cuddy
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Patent number: 7922589Abstract: Electronic game tables with multifunction legs are described. In one implementation, an electronic multiplayer game table includes a tabletop with player stations for an electronic betting game. Multifunction legs physically support the periphery of the tabletop, while electronic components for playing the betting game are mounted in the multifunction legs. For example, a multifunction leg may contain multiple currency detectors and coinless slot machine-style ticket printers/readers, so that each player at the game table has an exclusive currency detector and an exclusive ticket printer in close proximity. The multifunction legs may also include magnetic or smart card readers for transferring player, banking, and monetary information. In a variation, central control components of the electronic game table are also mounted in the legs. The multifunction legs can eliminate the need for a central support pedestal.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2008Date of Patent: April 12, 2011Assignee: DigiDeal CorporationInventors: Tyler V. Kuhn, David A. Krise, Eric D. Miesch
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Patent number: 7918459Abstract: A thrower used in a game machine includes a joystick having a stick and an induction switch spaced below the stick, a thrower holder holding an electromagnetic valve that is controllable by the induction switch to throw an object away from the thrower holder, a tilting bar pivotally coupled between the joystick and the thrower holder and movable by the joystick to bias the thrower holder in Y-axis direction, a swinging bar pivotally coupled between the joystick and a connection frame that is pivotally coupled between the swinging bar and the thrower holder for enabling the swinging bar to bias the thrower holder in X-axis direction according to the control of the joystick.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2009Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: Saint-Fun International Ltd.Inventor: Tsan-Li Chiu
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Patent number: 7918455Abstract: The chip, in the general shape of a disk, of the type with a body obtained by multiple injection molding of plastics material, includes a core 14 obtained by a first plastics material injection molding operation having a central portion 24 defining the central portion of the body of said chip and a peripheral portion 31 defining, by means of radial projections 18, at least a portion of the edge of the body of the chip. The core 14 incorporates an insert 26 including a contactless electronic microchip identification device 27 that during the first injection molding operation is buried in the central portion 24 and retained at its periphery by projections or fingers attached to the injection-molding mold and defining apertures 36 in the core. The chip body includes a covering layer around the peripheral portion 31 of the core 14 obtained by a second plastics material injection molding operation to produce, with the core, the whole of the edge and the peripheral annular portion of the body of the chip.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2005Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: Gaming Partners InternationalInventors: Pierre Chapet, Gérard Charlier
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Patent number: 7914375Abstract: The present invention is directed generally to a method and apparatus for operating a gaming device having a flat rate play session costing a flat rate price. The flat rate play session spans multiple plays on the gaming device over a pre-established duration. The gaming device identifies price parameters and determines the flat rate price of playing the gaming device based on those price parameters. In one embodiment, identifying price parameters includes receiving player selected price parameters. In another embodiment, price parameters further incorporate operator selected price parameters. Should the player decide to pay the flat rate price, the player simply deposits the necessary funds into the gaming device or makes a credit account available for the gaming device to debit. Once the player initiates play, the gaming device tracks the duration remaining in the flat rate play session and stops the play when the given period has elapsed.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2006Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: IGTInventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch, Geoffrey M. Gelman, Magdalena M. Fincham, Steven M. Santisi, Norman C. Gilman, Thomas M. Sparico
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Patent number: 7914003Abstract: Gaming devices and methods of playing games wherein an indication of the cards which have already been discarded or dealt is displayed for a player to view prior to making a decision. One embodiment is directed to a gaming device comprising a video display which is designed for the play of Blackjack. Other embodiments are directed to table versions of the present invention wherein physical playing cards are actually dealt to one or more players. At the conclusion of each hand, an indication of the cards dealt is displayed for viewing by all of the players.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2008Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Inventor: Randy Miller
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Patent number: 7901283Abstract: A bonus game for a slot machine operable in a basic mode and a bonus mode. The bonus game is entered upon the occurrence of a special start-bonus game outcome in the basic mode. In the bonus game, a player selects, one at a time, from an array of windows each associated with a bonus game outcome. Credits are awarded based upon which ones of the windows are selected. The bonus game ends upon selection of a window associated with an end-bonus outcome but otherwise continues, allowing the player to make further selections and accumulate further credits until encountering an end-bonus outcome. In one embodiment, a bonus game resource obtained in the basic game may be exercised in the bonus game to affect the bonus game outcome. In one embodiment, for example, where the occurrence of an end-bonus outcome would otherwise end the bonus game, a player having a bonus game resource may exercise the bonus game resource upon encountering an end-bonus outcome to continue playing the bonus game.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2007Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.Inventors: Alfred Thomas, Benjamin T. Gomez, Robert J. Wilson, Jr., Roger A. Delott
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Patent number: 7901284Abstract: The present invention provides a gaming console 40 having display means 41, and game control means 100 arranged to control images displayed on the display means 41. The game control means 100 are arranged to play a game wherein a plurality of symbols 43 are randomly selected and displayed on the display means 41 and, if a winning combination results, the console 40 pays a prize. The console 40 is characterized in that the displayed images include a first image component 31 which displays basic game features and a second image component 50 which displays image features which appear superimposed on the first image component 31. The second image component 50 is transparent, whereby the first image component 31 is visible through the second image component 50 under the control of the control means 100.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2009Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Aristocrat Leisure Industries Pty Ltd.Inventor: David Temperley
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Patent number: 7896345Abstract: A game apparatus is provided comprising a cabinet defining a playing area including a plurality of shelves mounted therein where each of the shelves has disposed thereon a plurality of game pieces. A receiving mechanism is attached to the cabinet for accepting a playing piece. A playing area with one or more holes that allow game pieces to fall through the playing area into a mechanism that collects the game pieces until the weight of the pieces is greater than the counter weight and allowing the rocker arm to rotate and dispense the game pieces into the receiving mechanism or reward the player a prize by another method.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2008Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Inventor: Clay Thomas Cacas
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Patent number: 7896746Abstract: A gaming device support stand is height adjustable, permitting the position of a gaming device positioned thereon to be adjusted. In one embodiment, the support stand comprises a support platform for supporting a gaming device, the support platform movable relative to a base member. A lifting mechanism is used to move the support platform. The lifting mechanism may comprise one or more guide members and one or more force generating mechanisms. A controller may receive player input regarding a desired position of the gaming device. The controller may activate the lift mechanism, thus effectuating movement of the support stand.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2007Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Inventor: Milo Borissov
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Patent number: 7892096Abstract: According to one aspect of the invention, a gaming machine for conducting a wagering game, comprising a physically configurable button panel and at least one mechanical button removably disposed in the button panel. The gaming machine also comprises an input panel disposed adjacent to the button to produce an output signal in response to a predetermined movement of the button and a controller for initiating a function in response to the output signal.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2006Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.Inventors: Gene Rigsby, James M. Rasmussen
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Patent number: 7887410Abstract: When a predetermined amount of credits have been inserted into a slot machine, the game mode is switched from the non-insurance mode to the insurance mode according to the player's input operation via a touch panel. In the insurance mode, determination is made whether or not the amount of bet credits matches the maximum bet amount. When determination has been made that the amount of bet credits matches the maximum bet amount, the number of games is counted after switching of the game mode to the insurance mode. When the counted number of games reaches a predetermined number, a predetermined amount of credits is paid out. Furthermore, in this case, only in a case where determination has been made that the amount of credits bet on the game matches the maximum bet amount, the difference between the counted number of games and the predetermined number is displayed.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2007Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Universal Entertainment CorporationInventor: Kazuo Okada
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Patent number: 7878893Abstract: One or more gaming machines include an incentive supply storage, along with at least one play incentive dispenser to deliver play incentives to a player at a gaming machine. Play of each gaming machine includes definition of at least one incentive qualifying event, resulting in dispensing a play incentive to a player. Optionally, some of the play incentives have substantially nominal value and some of the play incentives have non-nominal value. Incentive qualifying events may be random or based on outcomes generated during play of a gaming machine. Optionally, a play incentive may be dispensed along with issuance of a prize awarded through a game of chance. A prize award may be indicated by or on the play incentive, which may be awarded along with the play incentive. Optionally, the play incentives may be concealed in a packaging.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2007Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Inventor: Jason Mayeroff
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Patent number: 7874902Abstract: Various embodiments of methods and apparatus and systems for playing a simulated card game, such as Texas Hold'em Poker, are provided. One embodiment comprises a method for playing a simulated card game. One such method comprises the steps of: displaying a plurality of entries and at least one of a set of community game elements to a virtual game to a player, each entry including at least two game elements, each game element associated with a game value according to a game rule for the virtual game; receiving a wager from the player, the wager associated with at least one bet type; displaying the remaining of the set of community game elements to the player; and determining whether the wager wins based on the plurality of entries, the at least one bet type, and according to the game rule for the virtual game.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2006Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Scientific Games International. Inc.Inventor: Eric Pullman
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Patent number: 7862419Abstract: A processor controlled gaming device that randomly generates and displays a pachinko-type game and outcome on a screen connected to the processor. The gaming device initially provides a preliminary game that yields the number of attempts or objects that the player has in the pachinko-type game. Next, the game displays the pachinko-type game screen having a player selectable starting area. The starting area is large enough so that when the player picks a certain position of the area, the object falls from the selected position, hits a plurality of pegs and lands in an award position. The selected start position affects which award position that object eventually falls in accordance with the probability distribution predicted by the laws of physics. The player's award, however, is not affected by which start position the player selects.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2007Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: IGTInventors: Anthony J. Baerlocher, Anna Sheila C. Parrucho, Cari L. Blomquist
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Patent number: 7850522Abstract: In accordance with some embodiments, a method provides for determining, based on a first random number, an outcome for a first game play conducted at a gaming device, thereby determining a first outcome and determining an amount to be output as a result of the first outcome, thereby determining a first payout. The first payout is based on a probability of obtaining the first outcome and the first wager. The method further provides for determining, based on a second random number, an outcome for a second game play conducted at the gaming device, thereby determining a second outcome and determining an amount to be output as a result of the second outcome, thereby determining a second payout. The second payout is based on the first payout. In one embodiment both the first and second game plays are initiated in response to receiving, from the player, an initiation signal and a wager.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2005Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: IGTInventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch, Jose A. Suarez, Robert C. Tedesco
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Patent number: 7841932Abstract: A method for playing a game of chance and system for facilitating the play of the game are disclosed. The method of playing the game of chance includes making a purchase transaction having an associated transaction price. The method of playing the game of chance further includes receiving a lottery number. The method of playing a lottery game further includes receiving a prize if a predetermined function of the lottery number and the transaction price satisfies a predetermined matching condition.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2002Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Inventors: Amir Sadri, Robert Ross Henderson, Richard Finnochio
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Patent number: 7833092Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for compensating for a player choice in a game of chance. A plurality of outcomes is defined. A sequence of positions corresponding to the plurality of outcomes is provided, including a reference position. A plurality of pointers is situated at positions in the sequence. Each pointer has an offset value with respect to the reference position along the sequence of positions. Responsive to selection of one of the pointers, the reference position is moved according to the offset value associated with the selected one pointer, so that the selected one pointer points at the reference position. A number is received. The received number determines one of the plurality of outcomes according to a predefined probability associated with the reference position. The determined one outcome is output at the reference position.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2004Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: IGTInventors: Bryan Wolf, David Oles
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Patent number: 7824258Abstract: Gaming devices may generate outcomes to be sold in printed form. Representations of the outcomes, corresponding payouts, and other information are printed on sheets of paper. Multiple printed outcomes are assembled into books, wrapped, and sold to consumers. Consumers may purchase the books and browse through the printed outcomes at their leisure. When finished with a book, a consumer may submit a portion of the book to the casino that sold the outcomes. The casino may then pay the player based on the payouts associated with the outcomes in the book.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2006Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: IGTInventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch, Stephen C. Tulley, Geoffrey M. Gelman
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Patent number: 7824259Abstract: In accordance with some embodiments, a plurality of outcomes are generated for a wagering game. The plurality of outcomes are stored on a tangible medium (e.g., a DVD) or otherwise stored. The plurality of outcomes are sold to a player, for viewing by the player at a location remote from a casino.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2006Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: IGTInventors: Jay S. Walker, Robert C. Tedesco, James A. Jorasch, Jose A. Suarez
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Patent number: 7806766Abstract: A gaming system and method of playing a gaming device by a user. The method includes inserting a voucher having a voucher value into the gaming device and accessing a database having voucher data associated with the voucher. The voucher value is verified. The user is queried for a credit value of a base wagering denomination. Calculations of full game credits and partial game credits are performed based upon the voucher value and the credit value. The full game credits, the partial game credits, and the voucher value are displayed on a game display. The method allows partial or all credits to be played at any time. The method provides for recording of game events to a database. The method also allows for the user to change the base wagering denomination during game play.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2003Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.Inventors: Robert A. Luciano, Warren R. White