Abstract: A bowling system and method for bowlers bowling at different locations in which scores are automatically generated for the bowlers bowling at each of the locations; the scores are communicated among the locations; and the scores are displayed at each location.

Abstract: A plurality of programs (a plurality of games) are provided, which are classified so as to each belong to one of a plurality of channels (a plurality of game groups). When a player plays one of the programs, predetermined points in accordance with the playing result are added to channel points for the channel to which the program belongs. Stipulated points are prescribed for each program. When the channel points for the channel to which a program belongs has become equal to or greater than the stipulated points for the program, the program is newly added to the TV program table (game selection screen). As a result, new games are allowed to appear on the game selection screen with various timings and in various orders.

Abstract: An image processor for achieving an effective image processing when realizing a play simulating a reality such as a fighting game. A data processor comprises a display 3a, a control panel 4a, a speaker 11a and a speaker 11a and a game processing board 10a. Fighters C1 and C2 are displayed on the display 3a. When the joy sticks 41am and 41ah of the control panel 4a are operated, the operating data is input to the game processing board 10a. The game processing board 10a performs an image processing of the fighters C1 and C2 based on the operating signal, forms video signals based on the image processed result and displays them on the display 3a as the fighters C1 and C2. The game processing board 10a realizes a polygon forming means so that the head of the fighter C2 is constituted of a minimum number of polygons, and increases the number of polygons of the head when the part of a display member composed of a minimum number of polygons is transformed and displayed.

Abstract: A plurality of horse racing game machines (1a, 1b, . . . 1n) and a control unit (2) for controlling game execution states of the horse racing game machines (1a, 1b, . . . 1n) are connected via a communication line (L). The control unit (2) provides the horse racing game machines for performing the race with part or the entirety of game-related data required for executing the game. The race is simultaneously held at the horse racing game machines (1a, 1b, . . . 1n). Execution states of the race and betting odds generated at all the horse racing game machines (1a, 1b, . . . 1n) are collected by the control unit (2). At the same time, the collected race execution states and integrated betting odds are presented in real time to the players surrounding all the horse racing game machines (1a, 1b, . . . 1n) using synthesized speech.

Abstract: A game system is provided with a converting means including a voice input member, such as a microphone, for allowing the game player or his/her friend to input voices and for converting the inputted voices into electrical signal data, a sound data storage for storing the electrical signal data obtained by the conversion together with predetermined sound-relating data corresponding to contents of instructions, a sound generator for generating voices from the corresponding electrical signal data when a game player makes a motion in response to the content of instruction, and a device for evaluating a game result based on the content of instruction. Accordingly, a sound output type game system which can provide more interesting and enjoyable games can be realized.

Abstract: A system and method for computerized competition useful for rewarding a player. The system and method may be utilized in arcade games, personal computer games, dedicated video games, networked games, and simulators. The method may include selecting a target reward level or threshold such as by selecting a score from a list of past scores, and dynamically adjusting the reward level according to the ability of the players of the system. The method may further include adjusting the playback of a previous competition sequence according to the adjusted reward level. In one embodiment, a previous vehicle race sequence is stored and played back as a ghost or phantom vehicle simultaneously with a present vehicle of a player.

Abstract: Provides a game processing apparatus capable of getting players more excited about playing games. For that reason, the game processing apparatus of the present invention processes games on the basis of players' operating signals, and is equipped with processing circuits (10), which process the above-mentioned games on the basis of operating signals supplied from input devices (2b) operated by the players, and which generate the image data for these games. When an operating signal equivalent to a player's victory declaration is input from an input device (2b), the processing circuits (10) process subsequent operating signals input by the player as invalid signals until a prescribed condition is achieved.

Abstract: A method and system for computing scores and determining a winner between a plurality of users playing a plurality of different games on an interactive gaming network. Players are sequentially assigned to a player group as they initially log on to the gaming network. Each player selects and plays a game to produce a present raw score value which is converted into a present ranked percentage score value by calculating the percentage of past raw score values for the selected game that are below the present raw score value. A handicap value is added to the present raw score value to determine a normalized game score that can be compared to the normalized game scores of other users playing the same or different games in any combination. An average of a minimum number of game scores are used to compare players within the same player group.

Abstract: A procedure receives a game result from a game console. A rating is determined for the game result. If the rating for the game result meets a predetermined criteria, the recorded game associated with the game result is received from the game console. The recorded game is attached to the rating of the game result such that other players can access the recorded game through an online gaming service.

Abstract: An information analysis apparatus for golfer's play includes a system program memory unit for storing a system program, an input data storage unit, an input unit for inputting information on play, a main processing unit having a microprocessor for processing data and the system program, a display unit for displaying data, and a communication unit for allowing exchange of data with an external device. The input unit preferably includes a key input, a touch screen, a card input, a sensor, an audio signal input, and a video signal input. Play information including information on shots, etc. is analyzed and provided with simple key input without need to write such information into a score card, etc. A golfer's skill is improved and costs are reduced since additional expensive equipment is not required. Play information is analyzed and provided to the golfer on the spot due to portability.

Abstract: A system and method provides an interactive puzzle to a user and scores the attempted solutions to the puzzle. Portions of a representation of a puzzle object are successively provided to a user over time and a user is allowed to attempt to solve the puzzle by guessing the puzzle object. If the attempt succeeds, a score is provided that is higher the faster the solution is reached. If the attempt fails, the user may make other attempts until a short time after the entire puzzle has been provided, at which time a minimum score is assigned. Another puzzle is provided after a different puzzle is scored. Points for a user are cumulated and may be redeemed for cash, discounts or other prizes, either upon request or automatically on or near a predetermined date.

Abstract: Network-based methods and systems are disclosed for configuring and building systems and providing systems integration for the test, automation and measurement environment. The methods include internet or intranet-based applications that configure and quote a system or system integration project in response to selection of system features, system components and/or system configurations by a network user. The methods may be implemented as part of a build-to-order internet application.

Abstract: An automated data storage library accesses data storage media from storage shelves in response to commands from external host(s). The library receives a code update image while continuing to operate. The library is operated to an off-line status at external interface(s) that permit communication with the host(s). Then, and after the image is stored in nonvolatile memory, the processor(s) are reset, thereby activating the code update image, the processor(s) subsequently coming up from the reset to an operational state. Then, the library goes to an on-line status at the external interface(s).

Abstract: A method for playing an interactive computer processed golf tournament in real time via the Internet. The method includes the steps of registering users via the Internet and storing the user name, address, age, telephone, credit card data and club number on a library file. The method includes scheduling named tournaments, registering users via the Internet as contestants in one of the named tournaments including, assigning the user a position within a flight of a first round of the named tournament, and storing the assigned position on the library file. Participating contestant logins are accepted via the Internet prior to each named tournament. Participating contestants are provided with a scorecard display for the assigned flight including a tournament name, a countdown clock, one or more contestant scores, a cursor, and a message area.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of calculating a payout for a machine based game, comprising choosing a time period over which a measurement will occur, measuring a playing characteristic of a player during the time period, calculating a rate of play based on the measuring step, and adjusting a payout of a gaming machine based on the calculating step. The method allows a degree of skill to be used in a purely or partially chance-based game, making such games more attractive to potential players. Games which may be susceptible to this invention include any games that are all or partially based on chance or luck, such as slot machines, roulette, wheel of fortune, keno, etc. Games of skill may also benefit from the present invention.

Abstract: A scoring method and system for determining points in a game. Goal-based points are determined as a function of a player achieving a goal set by the player that is not predefined by the game and are used to determine the player's status in the game, such as whether the player advances to a next level. Subjective style points are awarded if the player performs feats of style that are not necessary tasks of the game, depend upon the type of game, and may include sliding, spinning, jumping, blocking an opponent, passing an opponent, and avoiding obstacles. Objective skill points may be combined with subjective style points and goal-based points. Alternatively, one of these three types of points may be modified as a function of one or both of the other two types of points.

Abstract: An electronic fishing information recording and storage device is disclosed. The device attaches to a traditional fishing rod and reel assembly and automatically records the number of casts executed with the subject rod and reel. For each fish caught, the device is capable of recording relevant information about the type of fish and weather conditions at the time of catch. Means are provided for transfer of fishing information to a traditional personal computer. The device provides a method for tournament fishing wherein the allotted time for each contestant to fish can be replaced by the number of casts allotted.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for controlling a novel video game in which dancing is used as a factor in the behavior of a character, a machine for the video game, and a medium in which a program for the video game is recorded, and makes it possible to dance characters 611 and 612 displayed using 3-D polygons in time with music, to evaluate their dance skills based mainly on whether dance actions are in time with the music, and to proceed with a story by winning matches with a computer or to match with other players.

Abstract: A golf scoring average determining method and system provides a means for golfers to evaluate their current scoring ability with respect to a particular golf course as well as evaluating their average performance against other players and their own progress. Statistical data is collected from player scores and other factors and course adjustments are determined from a statistical analysis of multiple games played by multiple players at a given course. Player scores and other factors are normalized by statistically-derived average course factors such as course yardage and average approach length. Putting performance is also evaluated on a statistical basis to yield a putting average and individual putting grades. The method may be embodied in a server program providing access via an Internet website or may be embodied in dedicated terminals located at golf courses or golf shops.

Abstract: A method of operating slot machines permits a machine to be identified as available for team play. Upon being identified for team play, the machine is grouped with other slot machines and subject to bonus conditions dependent on the team play. Bonus conditions typically including selected bonus outcomes and a bonus time period, during which bonus time period all outcomes of the grouped machines are monitored to determine the total bonus outcomes. If the total bonus outcomes of the team meet the bonus conditions within the bonus time period, then a bonus payout is awarded to all of the players. Players are thus encouraged to participate in a social, team environment with others of the team to win the group bonus. The invention is applicable to all slot machines, including video poker machines wherein the bonus outcomes include selected video poker hand ranks, and reeled slot machines wherein the bonus outcomes include selected reel outcomes.

Abstract: An electronic scorekeeping device is disclosed which allows a user to electronically document data relating to events of a sports game. This data is transferred in real-time in a system according to the invention via a communications means to a central database. The central database may be coupled to a server computer which presents a web site whereby public users may access statistical information relating to a given sports game while the game is still in progress, as well as at and following the conclusion of the game. The web site may present archives of previously played games, and access thereto may be restricted by the use of a username and/or password. The data transfer to the database may be a live feed, or automatic transfers may be scheduled at predetermined time intervals. The device itself is customizable such that the data being gathered can be tailored to suit the specific sport being played.

Abstract: A system for providing incentives to promoters for recommending games to players of games is provided. The system comprises one or more game machines located at one or more game sites. Each of the game machines are adapted to receive input from a player of a game indicative of an identity of a promoter of a game. The system further comprises a database adapted to store information indicative of the identity of a promoter.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a gaming device such as a slot machine calculates a speed of game play, and in turn determines a pay schedule based on the speed of game play. The pay schedule for higher speeds of game play typically provides a higher payout percentage, which attracts players and provides an incentive to play faster and for longer periods of time. The greater speed of play and time period of playing may actually increase revenues derived from the gaming device, even though the payout percentage is higher. Speed of game play may be calculated by measuring the number of games played in a predetermined time period, or the time elapsed between games. The gaming device may select a payout table from a plurality of payout tables based on this speed. Alternatively, the gaming device may determine a multiplier based on the speed of game play, and adjust a base payout table in accordance with the multiplier.

Abstract: A contest decided by the outcome of an event includes a participant selecting a subset of predetermined size from a finite pool of event competitors. Optionally, the participant places a wager to participate. Optionally, the participant's selections are ranked. At a predetermined point in the event, an index is calculated for each participant based on the aggregate performance of the participant's selected subset. Each index is calculated by summing a statistic generated during the event for each of the participant's selections. Participants are ordered by index and, optionally, a predetermined number of participants are awarded prizes. Tied indexes are resolved by comparing the statistics of competitors in the tied subsets. Optionally, the comparison is in the order in which the participants ranked the selections. Optionally, the reward is derived by pooling wagers.

Abstract: A client computer, server computer, network ranking system, network ranking method, task processing method and recording medium is provided allowing even experienced players to keep a feeling of tension and allowing even beginners to have chances to be ranked high. It is possible to set to only one the number of times the play result of a computer game issued as a task from the server computer 14 to each client computer 10, etc. can be registered for one day. This allows even experienced players to experience a feeling of tension that no retry is possible. On the other hand, this also allows beginners to maintain their interest in the computer game because their play results, however low they may be, also have chances to be ranked high.

Abstract: A method of conducting a fantasy sports game is provided which includes increasing the points available for winning picks in later rounds and allowing participants to trade teams. The points awarded for picking the winning team may also be based on the Round of the tournament and the “seed” of the winning team. The number of trades available to participants may be decreased in later rounds, or discontinued in the final round. The game is also applicable to Internet based fantasy sports competitions.

Abstract: A method of synchronously operating a plurality of injection molding devices which associate in producing a composite molding product, comprising the step of: simultaneously initiating a predetermined action in the plurality of injection molding devices, on the basis of an initiation timing of the predetermined action in one of the plurality of injection molding devices whose initiation timing of the predetermined action is latest in the plurality of injection molding devices. An apparatus for suitably executing the present method is also disclosed wherein each injection molding device includes: a control device having a signal output port for transmitting an initiation standby signal of a predetermined action thereof and an signal input port for receiving the initiation standby signal of the predetermined action of the other injection molding devices, and actuators for driving an injection device and/or a mold clamping device thereof so as to execute the predetermined action.

Abstract: A system for and method of determining a formulation for an animal feed having a customized nucleic acid material content. The system can include an animal profile, an animal nutrient requirement profile, an evaluation criteria, and/or ingredient nutrient content profiles. The information contained in the profiles and criteria can be used to calculate a formulation having a desirable nucleic acid material content. The optimized nucleic acid material content can be used to maximize satisfaction of an evaluation criteria.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel form of entertainment in which participants compete in a “tug of war” against opponents who are remotely located, stored in electronic form in memory, or are virtual opponents graphically generated in real-time by a computer. One embodiment implements “tug of war” in a manner compatible with international standards for Tug competitions. The invention consists of a rope attached to a motor to supply a counterforce to the pulling team. A tensiometer is attached to the rope to determine the force being applied to the rope by the pulling team. In one embodiment, there is a corresponding assembly being used by an opposing team and in data communication with the first assembly. The motor applies a counterforce to the rope being pulled by one team based on the force being applied by the other team to their own rope. In this manner, the system works as if the teams were each pulling on the same rope.

Abstract: The present invention provides a server device for net games, which can sufficiently give users a sense of accomplishment as a winner and higher excitement without greatly diminishing the advantages of net games. A server system 1 designates league members from a plurality of members who register to a normal pennant using a client computer 2, sequentially creates normal leagues consisting of the designated league members, and decides the game schedule of each created normal league.

Abstract: A scoring method and system for determining points in a game. Goal-based points are determined as a function of a player achieving a goal set by the player that is not predefined by the game and are used to determine the player's status in the game, such as whether the player advances to a next level. Subjective style points are awarded if the player performs feats of style that are not necessary tasks of the game, depend upon the type of game, and may include sliding, spinning, jumping, blocking an opponent, passing an opponent, and avoiding obstacles. Objective skill points may be combined with subjective style points and goal-based points. Alternatively, one of these three types of points may be modified as a function of one or both of the other two types of points.

Abstract: A computer golf program for tabulating and converting golf performance data into various quantitative golf performance. The program is particularly designed for golf matches between high school or college teams. Both individual and team golf scores and other golf performance data is provided. In team play, the team totals are calculated from the four lowest scores out of 5 players. The program is adapted to dual matches, three-way matches, and tournaments of over 3 teams in competition.

Abstract: An electronic fishing information recording and storage device is disclosed. The device attaches to a traditional fishing rod and reel assembly and automatically records the number of casts executed with the subject rod and reel. For each fish caught, the device is capable of recording relevant information about the type of fish and weather conditions at the time of catch. Means are provided for transfer of fishing information to a traditional personal computer. The device provides a method for tournament fishing wherein the allotted time for each contestant to fish can be replaced by the number of casts allotted.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a game system equipped with a single referee machine, and a single parent machine and a single flag machine provided in each team. The referee machine collects needed information from all the parent machines and also transmits necessary game information to the parent machine of each team. Also, the parent machine generates information to command movement of a player of the self-team by employing both information acquired from the flag machine of the self-team and the information transmitted from the referee machine and then transmits the generated information to the player, and also transmits the information acquired from the flag machine of the self-team, to the referee machine. The flag machine specifies spot coordinate information from the movement of the player and also transmits the spot coordinate information to the parent machine of the self-team.

Abstract: A game apparatus is disclosed that retains a player's game score, regardless of whether the player is a skilled player or a beginner. The game apparatus performs ranking under circumstances that are fair to both skilled players and beginners. The game apparatus is premised on a fact that a most recent game score of a most recent player is always retained and, because the game apparatus is constituted so as to be fair to beginners and skilled players alike, in storing the most recent score a temporally oldest game score, having a ranking outside of a prestige ranking, is replaced by the most recent score. A ranking display in connection with the game apparatus is not biased toward the skilled player and can be enjoyed even by a beginner.

Abstract: The present invention includes a golf scoring system for at least one golf competition, wherein at least one participant plays at a first geographic location with a set of results and at least one participant plays at a second geographic location with another set of results. This system includes determining at least one normalizing factor for each of the geographic locations relative to each other; compiling results from each of the participants; applying the normalizing factor to each of the results; and determining a final score for each of the participants. The normalizing factor can be stored in a data source; wherein the results are compiled also stored in the data source. The final score for each of the participants may also be stored in the data source and users can access the data source to view the final score for each of the participants. Moreover, participants can communicate with each other using email or chat rooms.

Abstract: A computer-assisted system, method and medium for enabling a user to select at least one of a plurality of predefined process steps to create a tailored sequence of process steps that can be used to assess the risk of and/or determine the suitability of a target system to comply with at least one predefined standard, regulation and/or requirement.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a method and system for providing sports betting information, in real time, utilizing a standard Internet connection on a computer to display the odds from a plurality of sports books. The system provides its users with a line seeker alert, a major line move alert, a bet tracker, and a fully customizable display. A method of gaining real time sports betting information without the use of a web browser, through the use of a separate program written in the C++ programming language is disclosed.

Abstract: A scoring method and system for determining points in a game. Goal-based points are determined as a function of a player achieving a goal set by the player that is not predefined by the game and are used to determine the player's status in the game, such as whether the player advances to a next level. Subjective style points are awarded if the player performs feats of style that are not necessary tasks of the game, depend upon the type of game, and may include sliding, spinning, jumping, blocking an opponent, passing an opponent, and avoiding obstacles. Objective skill points may be combined with subjective style points and goal-based points. Alternatively, one of these three types of points may be modified as a function of one or both of the other two types of points.

Abstract: A bowling center system includes first and second pinsetters each associated with a respective corresponding one of first and second bowling lanes. A communication device communicates data to bowlers and a lane pair control system is configured to control the pinsetters, to receive pin data from said pinsetters during current bowling, to generate current scoring data based on the received pin data, and to supply signals corresponding to the generated current scoring data to the communication device, whereby the current scoring data is communicated to the bowlers. The lane pair control system is further configured to access stored game data corresponding to previous bowling and to supply signals corresponding to the accessed stored game data to the communication device, whereby the accessed stored game data is communicated to the bowlers.

Abstract: A method and system for implementing custom made, multi-player computer games in a local area network, especially for corporate tradeshows, exhibits, presentations, museums, classrooms, etc., whereby enabling the game play, progress and players names and scores to be dynamically shown on a large video display device such a monitor cube wall or plasma displays. Player lead tracking information (name, address, etc.) is stored into a computer database prior to game play. Digital cameras are used by each player computer for capturing players' picture as an icon. Card scanners are used to automatically read contact and lead information directly into the game.

Abstract: The game system 1 comprises a plurality of game devices 2a, 2b, . . . , a host computer 3 for implementing respective processing, and communication lines 4a, 4b, . . . , 5a, 5b, . . . to connect the game devices and the host information processing means. When there is a request for a game, the game device 2a is connected with the host computer 3 in order to provide such request to the host computer 3 and to receive opponent information from the host computer 3. Furthermore, the operation above is also implemented between the game device 2b and the host computer 3. After obtaining opponent information, the game devices 2a and 2b cut off the communication line 4a connected with the host computer 4, and a competition-type game is implemented between the game devices 2a and 2b by way of a communication line 5a.

Abstract: A bowling scoring console is disclosed having a housing and a video display monitor mounted in the housing. The console may have one or more of a video game processor, an Internet access device, and a television receiver mounted in the housing and coupled to the display monitor. Methods are also disclosed for using a video game device and an Internet access device in a bowler staging area of a bowling center.

Abstract: An electronic scorekeeping device is disclosed which allows a user to electronically document data relating to events of a sports game. This data is transferred in real-time in a system according to the invention via a communications means to a central database. The central database may be coupled to a server computer which presents a web site whereby public users may access statistical information relating to a given sports game while the game is still in progress, as well as at and following the conclusion of the game. The web site may present archives of previously played games, and access thereto may be restricted by the use of a username and/or password. The data transfer to the database may be a live feed, or automatic transfers may be scheduled at predetermined time intervals. The device itself is customizable such that the data being gathered can be tailored to suit the specific sport being played.

Abstract: [Object]

Abstract: A method and a system for a distributed electronic tournament system in which many remotely located players participate in a tournament through input/output devices connected to a central controller which manages the tournament. The method includes the steps of (a) uniquely identifying a player communicating with the central controller via an associated input/output device; (b) responding to payment of an entry fee by the player for allowing the player to participate in a tournament occurring within a fixed time window via an associated input/output device; (c) accessing a database to store in the database player information that is generated as the player participates in the tournament, such information being available for use in a subsequent tournament, which is administered by said controller and in which the player participates; and (d) awarding the player a prize for achieving a preestablished performance level in the tournament.

Abstract: A system for locating a golf ball on a golf course by a golfer using a golf cart. The system includes a signal generator, a microchip, and an amplifier. The signal generator is connected to a portable computer on the golf cart and generates a first signal. The microchip is disposed in the golf ball and receives the first signal and generates a second signal in response thereto that is received by a base computer which triangulates the location of the golf ball off the locations of fixed objects on the golf course and generates a third signal in response thereto that is received by the portable computer which displays the location of the golf ball relative to the location of the golf cart already displayed. The amplifier is operatively connected to the portable computer and receives and amplifies the second signal that is to be received by the base computer.

Abstract: A car racing game in which a player drives unrestrictedly on a racecourse until the start of a race. A race begins when a player passes an opposing car and is passed by the same car in return. The player loses points when trailing the leading car, based on the distance the player is behind, and also when colliding with walls or other cars. A player wins the race when the opposing car's points drop to zero.

Abstract: A computer scoring and communication system for use by golfers on a golf course is disclosed. The scoring and communication system includes a computer server having a communications interface and a computer memory, a plurality of remote computer consoles, each console mounted adjacent a tee box, each said console having a computer display screen and a data inputting device whereby the golfers can enter information into the console, each remote computer console operatively coupled to the communications interface of the server via a communications network. The computer server is adapted and configured to retrieve the information from each remote computer console and store said information in the memory. The computer server is further adapted and configured to send messages to the remote computer consoles, said remote computer consoles adapted to display the messages on their computer display screens.

Abstract: Double registration or improper registration of the data of participating teams is prevented in an online-participation game system. Provided is a data communication method for game systems in which game meets are carried out by sending transmission files including data of each team to a server from each of a plurality of game terminal devices, and by thus simulating a competition among the teams, the above-mentioned method comprising: a process wherein the game terminal devices generate transmission files including an identification code (login ID) and game data and send the files to the server; and a process wherein the server checks the identification code of the transmission files received and appends the transmission files received to a registration file for the game meet, in the case when the files do not comprise identification codes identical to those in the accepted transmission file group.