Edge Indication Patents (Class 273/143R)
  • Patent number: 6165070
    Abstract: The video game slot machine program has an output based upon operator skill and imitates a gaming slot machine. The computer program game displays at least a three grid and preferably a nine grid matrix on a monitor. The program displays video representations of peripheral segments of rotating cylinders in each grid of the matrix. A plurality of iconic images (in the preferred embodiment three sets of 27 images) are maintained in a predetermined and fixed sequence and are displayed on the "spinning" peripheral cylindrical segments. The program displays this predetermined sequence of iconic images in a grid such that no more than one complete icon and no more than a fraction part of two icons are displayed at any particular time. In another words, 100% of the icon A is displayed simultaneously with no more than about 98% of icon B. In another instance, 100% of icon A is displayed, 50% of icon B is displayed and 45% of icon C is displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: BVC Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald J. Nolte, Todd C. Schnagel
  • Patent number: 6164645
    Abstract: A gaming device having a plurality of mechanical reels placed adjacent to a thin profile video display. The thin profile video display allows access to storage rearward thereof. The close relationship of the video display and reels allows a player to view both video display and the reels within one's field of vision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Casino Data Systems
    Inventor: Steven A. Weiss
  • Patent number: 6161805
    Abstract: An ergonomic hand rest assembly for attachment to a gaming machine that includes a housing having a pair of upright, oppositely facing panels. A pair of support arms are mounted to the panels, and support bar is arranged to extend between the support arms spaced apart from the housing. A frame is mounted to the support bar, and a pad is mounted on the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: John C. Wells
  • Patent number: 6159097
    Abstract: A gaming machine includes a basic game and a bonus game. The basic game is controlled by a processor in response to a wager amount and includes a plurality of different start-bonus outcomes. The bonus game is activated by the start-bonus outcomes which cause the processor to shift operation from the basic game to the bonus game. The bonus game is capable of providing a plurality of bonus payouts. In accordance with one feature of the gaming machine, a probability of winning certain ones of the bonus payouts varies in response to the different start-bonus outcomes that activate the bonus game. In accordance with another feature of the gaming machine, the bonus game includes a video-type display controlled by the processor and displaying a plurality of player-selectable elements, at least one of which represents a winning bonus game outcome. The player-selectable elements are successively selected by a player until the winning element is selected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.
    Inventor: Damon E. Gura
  • Patent number: 6159096
    Abstract: A method of configuring a reel-slot gaming device to randomly generate game outcome is disclosed. The method includes the steps of selecting a set of game symbols, assigning a probability of occurrence to each symbol, selecting a plurality of outcome templates, each template comprising X variables, selecting a probability of occurrence for each outcome template, assigning a subset of symbols from the set of game symbols to each template for defining the variables, defining payouts for selected outcomes, and configuring a reel-slot gaming device having X reels, which randomly selects a template, randomlu selects a symbol for each position in the template from the subset of game symbols assigned to the selected template, randomly fills at least a portion of the positions in the template and displays the outcome. A gaming device configured to randomly generate game outcomes is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: Shuffle Master, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark L. Yoseloff
  • Patent number: 6155925
    Abstract: A gaming machine for playing a basic game and bonus game is set forth. The basic game is generated by a processor in response to a wager amount selected in multiples, called credits, of a minimum wager up to a maximum wager. The basic game includes a basic game pay schedule and at least one start-bonus outcome. The bonus game is entered upon the occurrence of a start-bonus outcome in the basic game. The bonus game has a bonus game payout percentage that is variable with the wager amount such that the bonus game payout percentage changes in response to variations in the wager amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.
    Inventors: John J. Giobbi, Joel R. Jaffe
  • Patent number: 6149521
    Abstract: A video poker gaming machine is described where a base amount for a poker hand is multiplied by the value of a multiplier card. In one embodiment, the poker hand is four-of-a-kind and the multiplier card is the kicker card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Sigma Game, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Sanduski
  • Patent number: 6142875
    Abstract: A gaming machine has a symbol display arrangement that displays a variation action of a variable plurality of symbols that are necessary for playing a game. A predictive display arrangement performs a predictive display that informs the player of the likelihood of the appearance of a specific symbol display state when the variation action is stopped. A determination whether or not the symbol variation action is to be stopped with the appearance thereon of the specific symbol display state is made by a controller that also determines which predictive display mode from among a plurality of predetermined predictive display modes is to be displayed. In one embodiment, the controller controls the predictive display arrangement so that the probability of the appearance of a specific symbol display state is changeable in conjunction with the change in the game with the passage of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Aruze Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuyoshi Kodachi, Humio Nakano
  • Patent number: 6142874
    Abstract: A gaming machine has a symbol display arrangement that displays a variation action of a variable plurality of symbols that are necessary for playing a game. A predictive display arrangement performs a predictive display that informs the player of the likelihood of the appearance of a specific symbol display state when the variation action is stopped. A determination whether or not the symbol variation action is to be stopped with the appearance thereon of the specific symbol display state is made by a controller that also determines which predictive display mode from among a plurality of predetermined predictive display modes is to be displayed. In one embodiment, the controller controls the predictive display arrangement so that the probability of the appearance of a specific symbol display state is changeable in conjunction with the change in the game with the passage of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Aruze Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuyoshi Kodachi, Humio Nakano
  • Patent number: 6142873
    Abstract: A gaming device and method which provides a player with an opportunity of an enhanced output based on a display of a first predetermined value on a first display which subsequently activates a second display controllable to a certain extent by the player. The second display provides the player with an enhanced credit scheme and provides the player with a second option of continuing to attempt to enhance the credit payout or retiring before an event occurs which extinguishes the bonusing feature and the award.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Casino Data Systems
    Inventors: Steven A. Weiss, Robert M. Dickenson, Rex R. Carlson
  • Patent number: 6139431
    Abstract: A gaming machine that provides free long distance telephone calls, or audio entertainment, as a reward for the continued playing of the gaming machine. The player may continue the free long distance phone call, or continue receiving the audio entertainment, as long his play meets a predetermined level of usage criteria.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Walker Digital, LLC
    Inventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch, Thomas M. Sparico
  • Patent number: 6135884
    Abstract: A gaming machine includes main and secondary displays. The secondary display is disposed apart from the primary display and is used for presenting primary, secondary, or even tertiary information. The main display is controlled electronically by a gaming machine controller, which main display presents the results of a play on the gaming machine. In the case of a slot machine, the main display may be the glass display through which the spinning reels of a game play are viewed. In a video poker gaming machine, the main display is usually a cathode ray tube ("CRT") which displays a video game image to the player and other information directly associated with the game play. The secondary display may be provided at various locations on the gaming machine such as in a top glass portion of the gaming machine or a belly glass portion of the gaming machine, which belly glass portion is located below a main display portion of the gaming machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: International Game Technology
    Inventors: Joseph R. Hedrick, Robert A. Luciano, Jr., Jean Pierre Legras, Chauncey W. Griswold, Don C. Stephan
  • Patent number: 6129632
    Abstract: A method of playing a wagering game which is based upon a long-duration, multi-step game is disclosed. The method utilizes an underlying game which allows the player to perform predefined chargeable actions while the player is playing the underlying game. The player is charged for each chargeable action the player performs. The player is awarded a prize if a predefined prize event or condition occurs during the game. The method of the present invention may be applied to solitaire, poker, blackjack, slot machines, and many other kinds of games.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventor: Robert A. Luciano
  • Patent number: 6126541
    Abstract: The invention relates to a gaming machine with at least one display area (2) for a number of game symbols (3) which, after the player has initiated the game by pressing the start button (4), are selected under the control of a computing unit (5) from a multitude of predetermined symbols and presented at positions in the display area (2) for the player to view. The invention calls for a gaming machine (1) to have, preferably in the display area (2) at least one chance-display zone (7,7') in which the computing unit (5), optionally on actuation of a request unit (14), e.g., a request button, by the player, displays and/or increased and/or best-possible win chances, and/or instructions for determining them, which are available for the next game or which, on removal of one or more of the game symbols or game-symbol combinations presented for the next game, apply or could possibly be achieved in the next game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Novomatic AG
    Inventor: Anton Fuchs
  • Patent number: 6126165
    Abstract: A hit expectation sound is emitted from a speaker in accordance with the kind of prize line on which a predetermined, prizewinning combination of symbols is expected to be arranged. The emitted hit expectation sound is transmitted to a player via sound transmitting holes provided in a lower portion of the machine. Based on the hit expectation sound being heard, the player can recognize on which of a plurality of prize lines the predetermined combination of symbols is expected to be arranged. The player can enjoy his favorite hit expectation sound by causing part of the predetermined combination of symbols to be stopped on the prize line that is associated with his favorite hit expectation sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Aruze Corporation
    Inventor: Yoshikazu Sakamoto
  • Patent number: 6120378
    Abstract: A player makes a wager for each pay line on a slot machine that the player wishes to play. On a first pay line of the slot machine, a first row of symbols is displayed to the player. The player selects none, one or more of the symbols from the first pay line as symbols to be held. The symbols that are held are duplicated from the first pay line into all of the other pay lines on which the player has wagered. Replacement symbols for the non-selected symbols are then randomly displayed on the first pay line for the symbols that were discarded. Additional symbols are also randomly displayed into all of the other pay lines wagered on by the player so that each pay line has the required number of symbols. The ranking of each pay line is determined by comparing the results of the displayed symbols to a pay table. The player is then paid for any winning pay lines based on the pay table and the amount of the player's wager.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Ernest W. Moody
    Inventors: Ernest W. Moody, Michael Matanky
  • Patent number: 6120376
    Abstract: A wagering game for play by a player includes a set of game participants, an identification number assigned to each of the game participants, and a game number. The player places a wager relating to the game number, and a ranking order of the game participants is determined, such as by a race to a finishing point. The sum of the identification numbers of a subset of the game participants may be calculated. The number of lengths by which a first ordered game participant beats another ordered game participant to the finishing point may also be calculated. Whether the player's wager is a winning wager is determined by comparing the sum or the number of lengths to the game number. The wagering game may be implemented as an electronic game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Horse Sense Corporation
    Inventor: Eric Cherry
  • Patent number: 6117009
    Abstract: A method of configuring a video output gaming device to randomly generate game outcomes is disclosed. The method includes the steps of selecting a set of game symbols, assigning a probability of occurrence to each symbol, selecting a plurality of outcome templates, each template comprising X variables, selecting a probability of occurrence for each outcome template, assigning a subset of symbols from the set of game symbols to each template for filling the positions, defining payouts for selected outcomes, and configuring a video output gaming device, which randomly selects a template, randomly selects a symbol for each variable in the template from the subset of game symbols assigned to the selected template, randomly fills at least a portion of the positions in the template and displays the outcome on a video output display. A video output gaming device programmed to randomly select a template, randomly select symbols to define the variables and randomly display the selected symbols is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Shuffle Master, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark L. Yoseloff
  • Patent number: 6116597
    Abstract: A personal convenience unit for use with a gaming machine provides various compartments and amenities that enhance the comfort and convenience of the gaming machine for a patron, thereby enabling and encouraging longer periods of play and greater customer loyalty. The personal convenience unit includes a base unit with at least one interior compartment that is separate from the interior portions of the gaming machine and which is lockable by the patron for securing personal items of the patron. The base unit may have a portion upon which the gaming machine rests, and a portion that extends on the side of the gaming machine. The personal convenience unit includes a personal amenity cabinet, preferably on the side of the gaming machine, which includes an open and recessed compartment to provide convenient access to and concealment of other personal items such as coin cups and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Harrah's Operating Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce C. Rowe, Mark F. Bohlman
  • Patent number: 6113098
    Abstract: Gaming devices dispense tickets which are supplemental to the gaming award. The gaming devices provide gaming awards, typically in a form selected from the group consisting of coins, currency, credits or redeemable tickets in response to a randomly determined event, and also provide supplemental tickets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Anchor Gaming
    Inventor: William R. Adams
  • Patent number: 6113492
    Abstract: A gaming device of the type wherein a play generates one of multiple possible outcomes having reverse payout information. The gaming device comprises a memory device containing a first set of data correlating possible outcomes to a first set of payouts and a second set of data correlating possible outcomes to a second set of payouts second set of data correlates a majority of outcomes to positive payouts and the first set of data correlates a majority of outcomes to other than positive payouts. The gaming device also includes a payout selector indicating which of the first set of data and the second set of data the gaming device is to access. In an alternate embodiment, the gaming device includes a memory having only the second set of data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Walker Digital, LLC
    Inventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch, Thomas M. Sparico
  • Patent number: 6105962
    Abstract: Gaming apparatus has rotatable disks turning about a common axis of rotation and having annular bands of indicia of different diameters on faces of the disks which extend toward the axis of rotation. A player's winnings are determined by alignment of particular indicia along one or more radii of the disks after a period of rotation. In one form of the invention, the disks are supported, driven and held in a centered relationship with the axis of rotation by gear sets situated at angular intervals around the periphery of the disks which engage gear teeth at the rims of the disks. In another form, the disks are axially spaced apart flat plates of progressively greater diameter extending from drive shafting at the axis of rotation. In another form, the disks are at least partially formed of transparent material enabling viewing of indicia on disks which are behind other disks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Sierra Design Group
    Inventors: Alex J. Malavazos, Gregory A. Malavazos, Constantine Malavazos
  • Patent number: 6102396
    Abstract: A rotating wheel assembly includes a base that is releasably attached to a frame of a slot machine. The rotating wheel assembly further includes a rotating wheel consisting of an outer ring and an inner ring that are releasably engaged together to allow adjustment in the width. Each of the inner ring and the outer ring includes a retaining groove for holding a figure card. A lamp device is mounted inside the rotating wheel and secured to a cylinder, which, in turn, is releasably engaged with a circular member on the base to allow a change in the angular position. A shielding plate is releasably attached to a rim of the inner ring to allow adjustment of position of the shielding plate in response to wrong discrimination as a result of long-term use of the rotating wheel assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Jeff Liu
  • Patent number: 6102394
    Abstract: A gaming device comprises a cabinet with a hinged door, a gaming unit housed within the cabinet for playing a game, and a button panel system. The button panel system includes a printed circuit board mounted to the door and disposed inside the cabinet; a plurality of switches removably mounted to the printed circuit board; a button panel detachably mounted to the door in proximity to the printed circuit board and exposed to a player; a plurality of buttons mounted to the button panel in a preselected arrangement; and a plurality of actuators coupled to the respective buttons and disposed to actuate a group of the plurality of switches in response to pressing the respective buttons, the group of the plurality of switches cooperating with the game played by the gaming unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: WMS Gaming, Inc.
    Inventors: Norman R. Wurz, James M. Rasmussen
  • Patent number: 6095921
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Walker Digital, LLC
    Inventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch
  • Patent number: 6089978
    Abstract: Gaming devices comprising a standard gaming unit, e.g., three reels, and a discernible additional payout indicator, e.g., a rotatable wheel. A preferred bonus payout indicator is clearly visible by the player and is actuatable when the reels of the slot machine stop on certain predetermined indicia. A preferred embodiment further comprises a payout multiplier which displays a plurality of values by which a payout may be multiplied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Anchor Gaming
    Inventor: William R. Adams
  • Patent number: 6089977
    Abstract: A slot machine 40, of the type having a video display screen which displays a plurality of rotatable reels 42 carrying symbols 43, is arranged to pay a prize on the occurrence of a predetermined symbol or combination of symbols. The game includes a special feature which is invoked when a special triggering combination of symbols occurs. Once the special feature is triggered a wild symbol moves around the screen progressively replacing each symbol in the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Nicholas Luke Bennett
  • Patent number: 6089976
    Abstract: A gaming apparatus and method including a primary game and a player interactive bonus game actuated by a qualifying outcome of the primary game and including a bonus award display showing a multiplicity of images displayed on a video monitor from which a player selects until achieving a pair of matched bonus awards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Casino Data Systems
    Inventors: Richard Jay Schneider, Rex Carlson
  • Patent number: 6086066
    Abstract: Disposed in front of the lastly stopping center reel 12B of three reels 12A, 12B, and 12C is a cover member 16 which is movable between the position of a display apparatus 108a and a shelter position thereabove and is formed with a picture Fo. When the reel 12B is stopped with its picture Fo placed at the display window 108a, in the case where each of the other two reels 12A and 12C is stopped with the picture Fo placed at the display window 108a (in the case of a jackpot), the cover member 16 is moved from the shelter position to the position of the display window 108a and minutely vibrates at the position of the display window 108a before being stopped, whereby the picture Fo' formed in the cover member 16 appears in an unusual mode. Accordingly, the player's impression when winning a jackpot in a game machine equipped with thus configured reel apparatus can be fully enhanced, thus allowing enjoyability thereof to improve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Aruze Corporation
    Inventors: Susumu Takeuchi, Yukihiro Yuasa
  • Patent number: 6077162
    Abstract: A cooperative group gaming apparatus and method therefore including a plurality of gaming machines including means for individual play, means for communal play and communal payout means influenced by any gaming machine participating in cooperative group play, said plurality of gaming machines operatively coupled to at least one controller which, inter alia, communicates with at least one display means for displaying the effects of cooperative group play to game players.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Casino Data Systems
    Inventor: Steven A. Weiss
  • Patent number: 6071192
    Abstract: A gaming machine display, apparatus and method in which a simulation of minting coins is provided on a video monitor of a gaming machine coupled to a processor which simulates a plurality of balls extending down a trackway, a simulated minting machine on the display oriented to receive the balls and simulated coins exiting the machine as a function of player performance. The player performance, should it reach a grand prize level causes the minting station to break via simulation and the appearance of a caricature announces that an attendant will come by for resetting the machine for hand payout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Casino Data Systems
    Inventor: Steven A. Weiss
  • Patent number: 6062980
    Abstract: A method of playing a multi-stage wagering game is disclosed in which two random outputs may be generated. The outputs may be generated simultaneously or consecutively, and the second may be dependent upon the first output. If the first output is a predefined first-stage winning output, a first-stage prize may be awarded. If the second output is a predefined second-stage prize winning output, a second-stage prize may be awarded. If both the first and second outputs are prize winning outputs, a third-stage prize may be awarded. If a combination or partial combination of both the first and second outputs is a prize winning output, another third-stage prize may be awarded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Inventor: Robert A. Luciano
  • Patent number: 6059289
    Abstract: A method is set forth for playing a bonus game in a secondary slot machine adjacent a primary slot machine. The primary slot machine issues a bonus qualifying signal to the secondary slot machine to start play of a bonus game when a bonus qualifying event occurs. The reels of the bonus game include value symbols, null symbols, and end game symbols which may be of two basic types: a lose game symbol and a stop game symbol. After the random spin, the values of any value symbols displayed on the payline of the secondary slot machine are accumulated into an accumulated winning value. The value symbols could include positive integer values, negative integer values, and multiples. The random spinning, determination of values of any value symbol and the accumulation of a winning value is repeatedly continued until an end of the bonus game occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Mikohn Gaming Corporation
    Inventor: Olaf Vancura
  • Patent number: 6056642
    Abstract: A slot machine 10 has three rotatable reels 12 carrying symbols 14 which are controlled by stepper motors and are arranged to pay prizes on the occurrence of a predetermined symbol or combination of symbols. A jackpot prize is paid on the occurrence of three 7s on the win line. The 7s are against a clear background and when three 7s appear on the display the display colour may change to three red 7s, three blue 7s, three white 7s or three 7s of mixed colour. If the three 7s all change to a red colour, the jackpot prize is paid, otherwise a lesser prize is paid. The colouring of the 7 occurs by backlighting the 7s in the reels by means of coloured light bulbs or similar means. The presence of the above feature on a gaming machine allows that gaming machine to pay a jackpot which is several times greater than would normally be paid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Aristocrat Leisure Ind. Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Nicholas Luke Bennett
  • Patent number: 6047966
    Abstract: A coin game machine enables a player to easily count the number of coins 23 that are paid out from a coin pay-out hole 10 of the coin game machine. Three rows of grooves 22a are formed on a receiving pan 22 of the coin game machine. The coins 23 that are paid out from the coin pay-out hole 10 are orderly lined up along each of the grooves 22a. Therefore, the player can see all the coins 23 and count the number of the coins 23 easily. In this case, by counting in advance the number of coins that can be stored in each row of the grooves 22a, the player can count the number of coins stored on the receiving pan 22 further easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Universal Sales Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takaaki Hishinuma, Susumu Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 6042115
    Abstract: A slot cabinet and base unit of this invention are provided for maximizing the number of gaming machines within a given floor space. The invention minimizes required floor space by reducing the size of the gaming machine and also enabling a player to sit closer to the gaming machine. The slot cabinet has a narrowed profile which reduced its effective width. The slot cabinet further includes a rear member which complements another slot cabinet placed back-to-back, thus reducing the overall width of two slot cabinets placed back-to-back. The arrangement of the elements of the gaming machine placed within the slot cabinet helps to reduce the overall size of the slot cabinet. The base unit of this invention enables a player to sit closer to a slot cabinet mounted thereon. The base unit may be configured for receiving back-to-back slot cabinets thereon, or may be configured for receiving a single wall slot cabinet. The base unit and slot cabinet may both be modified to achieve weight reduction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Vector Slot Machine Company, LLC
    Inventor: Daniel E. Ward
  • Patent number: 6039648
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for an automated tournament gaming system (10) comprising a central server computer (20) operatively coupled to, inter alia, a plurality of gaming machine G.sub.1, G.sub.2 . . . G.sub.N for automatically harnessing any of the gaming machines for automatically inciting and running a tournament where a group of players are participating for a period after which prizes are awarded to the winning tournament play participants. In addition, the system (10) includes a host site computer (200) operatively coupled to a plurality of the central servers (20) at a variety of remote gaming sites C.sub.1, C.sub.2 . . . C.sub.N for providing a multi-site progressive automated tournament gaming system (210). The multi-site system (210) is integrated into the system (10) to increase the winnings, progressive amounts and the total buy-ins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Casino Data Systems
    Inventors: Robert Guinn, David Richards
  • Patent number: 6032955
    Abstract: A progressive wagering system in which all or a portion of the value of a progressive jackpot is displayed with prize objects. A bank is provided for storing, displaying, and dispensing the prize objects. A plurality of wagering devices are linked to the bank for allowing players to place wagers and participate in a progressive wagering game. A control device is provided for communicating with the wagering devices and controlling the coin bank. By conspicuously displaying at least a portion of the progressive jackpot, the progressive wagering system increases excitement and enjoyment experienced by players.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Sierra Design Group
    Inventors: Robert A. Luciano, Ian F. Burns
  • Patent number: 6033307
    Abstract: A method is set forth for playing a bonus game in a secondary slot machine adjacent a primary slot machine. The primary slot machine issues a bonus qualifying signal to the secondary slot machine to start play of a bonus game when a bonus qualifying event occurs. The reels of the bonus game include value symbols, null symbols, and end game symbols which may be of two basic types: a lose game symbol and a stop game symbol. After the random spin, the values of any value symbols displayed on the payline of the secondary slot machine are accumulated into an accumulated winning value. The value symbols could include positive integer values, negative integer values, and multiples. The random spinning, determination of values of any value symbol and the accumulation of a winning value is repeatedly continued until an end of the bonus game occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Mikohn Gaming Corporation
    Inventor: Olaf Vancura
  • Patent number: 6027115
    Abstract: Slot machines having reels in which the symbol regions contain electroluminescent elements are disclosed. The electroluminescent elements define one or more reel symbols such as cherries, bars, a number "7", etc. In some embodiments, multiple electroluminescent elements are provided in each symbol region. This allows a given symbol to be displayed in multiple formats, with each format representing a different item. For example, a "7" could be displayed with its outline illuminated, with interior cross hatching illuminated, with a combination of the cross hatching and outline illuminated, or with different colors. The permutations can be increased if the symbol regions contains inked images in addition to the light elements. In such cases, when all light elements are turned off, the inked symbol appears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: International Game Technology
    Inventors: Chauncey W. Griswold, Robert A. Luciano, Jr., Harold E. Mattice, Boone McReynolds, Richard D. Sadler
  • Patent number: 6024642
    Abstract: A game of chance and a gaming machine for playing the game are disclosed. The gaming machine preferably comprises a slot or video machine which has been modified to include a successive loss counter and a loss indicator, and to pay a jackpot amount if the results of a predetermined number of successive games played on the machine are losing results. In accordance with the method, a player activates the machine by placing a bet and then plays the game. If the result of the game is a predetermined losing combination, the loss indicator is illuminated. If the particular loss results cumulatively in a predetermined number of successive losing games played on the machine, the player is paid a winning jackpot amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Inventor: Bob Stupak
  • Patent number: 6017033
    Abstract: A method of playing a casino game rewards a player for how quickly he can "lose". At the outset, the player is provided with a tote. A timer begins, and the player uses the tote to place wagers in the game. The tote is increased when those wagers win and is decreased when they lose. When the tote is reduced to zero, the timer stops. The time it took the player to reduce the tote to zero is measured against a standard, and the player is rewarded based on that performance. The method is particularly well-suited for use in amusement devices, such as arcade games.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Inventor: Claude Keller
  • Patent number: 6015346
    Abstract: A slot machine providing a video display screen controlled to display indicia images arranged in a matrix. The video screen is of the touch sensitive variety, having an array of touch sensitive areas located on its display surface with one such area associated with each matrix element. The player selects pairs of indicia by touching the screen within the area of each of the displayed indicia to be selected, thereby causing the indicia to change to reveal the associated prize values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: Aristocat Leisure Industires Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Nicholas Luke Bennett
  • Patent number: 6004207
    Abstract: A spinning reel slot machine which gives a multiplied payoff when certain conditions are fulfilled. Wins including a special symbol on the pay line are multiplied by an incremental multiplier when the machine is in a particular mode. A counter value is increased by one every time a second special symbol appears on the visible sections of the reels. Whenever the counter reaches a predetermined value, the counter is reset and the multiplier is increased. Whenever a multiplied payout occurs, the multiplier is reset to a minimum value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Wilson, Jr., Benjamin T. Gomez, Alfred Thomas
  • Patent number: 6003867
    Abstract: A reel-type slot machine includes a microprocessor driven game control circuit for randomly selecting a game result. Three reel assemblies each include a symbol-bearing display reel driven by a stepper motor for displaying game symbols corresponding to the game result. A series of signals representing potential game results is repetitively generated within the game control circuits. Upon user actuation of a spin switch one of the game results is randomly selected for application to a look-up table wherein the corresponding three game symbols to be displayed are identified. The number of repetitions of a potential game result in the series establishes a time window of availability for the result, and hence the probability of that game result being selected. After the three game symbols have been identified, the display reels are driven by their respective stepper motors to display the game symbols. Optional ramp-up and ramp-down circuits provide improved stopping accuracy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Unislot, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale F. Rodesch, Gregory L. Rodesch
  • Patent number: 5997400
    Abstract: The gaming system of the present invention includes one or more slot machines associated with a racing display wherein the racing element or elements are not necessarily racing against each other. Rather, the racing element moves each time predetermined combination appears on the slot machine. A player is rewarded if his or her racing element reaches a predetermined position. While a clock may be included with each racing element racing against the clock, the racing elements may move independently of a clock. The racing display may be built directly into the slot machine so that the slot player can easily see the progress of his racing element. Alteratively, a large racing display may be utilized that displays a plurality of racing elements thereby giving the appearance that the racing elements are racing against each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Atlantic City Coin & Slot Services Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Mac R. Seelig, Jerald Seelig, Michael Hiltebrand, Douglas Cramer
  • Patent number: 5997401
    Abstract: A method for operating a rotating reel type slot machine, or a video machine which depicts rotating reels, is described herein which allows a player to save in memory one or more symbols from one or more previous games and use those symbols in a current game to obtain a winning combination. The display glass of the slot machine contains an area for displaying the symbols which have been saved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Sigma Game, Inc.
    Inventor: Curtis J. Crawford
  • Patent number: 5989121
    Abstract: This invention aims to provide a game machine which can offer exciting and varied game aspect. In the game machine, certain symbol combinations (group [C] and [E]) are set as a prize mode only when they occur in B.B (big bonus) game. The combinations in group [C] are not regarded as a prize mode when they occur during the ordinary regular game. These combinations are new to the player because the player encounters them only when the game shifts to the big bonus game. This gives a fresh impact to the player and the player can enjoy a variety in the big bonus game, which does not occur in the ordinary regular game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Universal Sales Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshikazu Sakamoto
  • Patent number: 5988638
    Abstract: A reel-type slot machine includes a microprocessor driven game control circuit for randomly selecting a game result. Three reel assemblies each include a symbol-bearing display reel driven by a stepper motor for displaying game symbols corresponding to the game result. A random number generator within the game control circuit generates a random number within a predetermined range of random numbers for application to a look-up table wherein a game result consisting of three game symbols is identified. Each potential game result is associated with a subset of random numbers within the total range of random numbers. The size of the subset determines the probability of the game result occurring. An undesired game result may be avoided by providing no corresponding subset. After the game result symbols have been identified, the display reels are driven by the stepper motors to display the game symbols. Optional ramp-up and ramp-down circuits provide improved stepping accuracy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Unislot, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale F. Rodesch, Gregory L. Rodesch
  • Patent number: 5984782
    Abstract: A slot machine has a first reel group and a second reel group. The second reel group is constituted of auxiliary reels, on a peripheral surface of which re-rotation symbols are arranged. The auxiliary reels are respectively provided so as to correspond to each reel constituting the first reel group. After all the reels of the first reel group have stopped, any of the reels thereof is re-rotated and stopped if the corresponding auxiliary reel stops the re-rotation symbol at a predetermined position. Thus, a symbol combination displayed by the first reel group is changed in accordance with the auxiliary reel. It is preferable that the re-rotation symbol represents a rotational direction and a rotational amount of the re-rotated reel of the first reel group.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Eagle Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Haruo Inoue