Abstract: A production process standardization system of a semiconductor device for standardizing design rules among companies and smoothening requests for semiconductor production and distribution and re-use of design assets among companies wherein standardized design rules of a semiconductor are commonly managed by a common database management server and wherein a plurality of companies acquire the standardized design rules via the Internet and design the semiconductor device according to the commonly managed design rules, a method of the same, and a storage medium storing that method.

Abstract: An interactive wagering system is provided in which users may download electronic racing forms to electronic books. The content of the racing form may be directed toward horse racing. The racing form may be interactive. When a user selects an item from a racing form displayed on the electronic book, the user may be presented with additional information or interactive screens that provide racing-related services such as interactive wagering opportunities. The electronic book may be provided with updated racing data. The user may adjust delivery settings for the racing data. News flashes and other real-time reports may be provided to the electronic book. Such reports may be based on the user's preferences and the user's monitored interests. The electronic racing form may include racing data, racing articles, and advertisements.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for providing a user with the ability to submit a wager to a fixed-odds book or a pari-mutuel pool using an interactive wagering application. A conditional wagering option is provided. When the user selects a conditional wagering option, the interactive wagering application may automatically submit the wager to an alternative wager option (e.g., a fixed-odds book or a pari-mutuel pool) if the wager is rejected by the user's selected wager option. The interactive wagering application may notify the user of the status of the submitted wager.

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 race condition extraction unit extracts the past race results, which are the object of statistics, based on the race conditions of a target race. A factor extraction unit extracts effective factors, which are factors related to arrival order by sorting the extracted race results in arrival order. A factor conformation judgment unit judges whether each competitor participating in the target race conforms to each extracted effective factor and attaches a score to each competitor based on the judgment result. A race prediction unit predicts the race result of the target race based on both an analysis result obtained by the conventional method and the score attached by the factor conformation judgment unit. In this way, the statistics of past race results can be used in race prediction.

Abstract: A multimedia wagering system consists of a race providing system for facilitating wagering on race events, and a plurality of multimedia wagering terminals in communication with the race providing system for wagering on the race events. The race provider includes means for selecting race events for wagering. The wagering terminal includes a multimedia display for displaying the selected race events, a user interface for placing a wager on the selected race event, payout means for providing a payout on the selected race events, and data processing means in communication with the multimedia display, the user interface and the payout means for facilitating wagering on the selected race events.

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 life estimation device which numerically measures the damage to a machine such as an engine accurately to estimate, the life of the machine accurately without requiring skill. A load map (B) of the two-dimensional distribution of the operation parameters of an engine is made. In accordance with the weighted integration time &agr;i·ki at each level (Bi) of the load map (B), the actual damage &dgr;=&Sgr;&agr;i·ki to the engine for a certain lapse of time &tgr; is calculated. By operating the engine beforehand, a correspondence relation L2 between the magnitude of the damage &dgr; and the life H is predetermined. The life H1 corresponding to the calculated actual damage &dgr;1 is determined in accordance with the predetermined correspondence relation L2 and the H1 is outputted as the estimated life of the engine.

Abstract: A system and method for permitting a wagerer to remotely place a wager is disclosed. The wagerer remotely contacts a ticket writer or computerized system. The ticket writer or computerized system generates a random number and sends the random number to the wagerer via a local pager. The wagerer remotely contacts the ticket writer or computerized system, and instructs the ticket writer or computerized system of the wagerer's desired wager and the random number.

Abstract: A golf game management system for maintaining golf course, player, and golf ball location information includes a central computer having a first CPU and a mobile interface unit having a second CPU. A course database is connected to the first CPU and includes golf course records. A player database is also connected to the first CPU and includes a plurality of individual player records. The central computer and mobile interface unit each include a transmitter and receiver for exchanging database information, the mobile unit having a memory for storing requested records and a display for displaying them. The mobile unit includes a GPS receiver for determining its current geographic location and means for correlating that location with a digital map of a selected golf course. The system includes a golf ball having a receiver and sound generator that is energized upon receiving a signal from the mobile interface unit.

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 gaming system is provided which permits the hold value to be determined independently of the distribution of winning outcomes, e.g., to avoid or prevent volatility in the hold value. Preferably each time a wager is placed, a hold value (such as a predetermined and/or fixed percentage) is retained and the remainder is allocated to one or more prize pools. If a pool is too large or too small, or if a pool's rate of growth is too large or too small, the central computer sends a message to all terminals which contribute to the pool, causing the terminals to modify operations so as to bring the pool size or rate of growth to within desired target ranges. Preferably, the current prize amounts corresponding to various potential winning game outcomes are displayed when a game is won, the displayed amount corresponding to the type of win paid. Preferably, a portion of wages is retained as a background amount to at least partially replenish a paid-out prize.

Abstract: The invention is a method of defining the outcome of a plurality of games involving a plurality of participants by a single value. Seed values are assigned to all of the participants. The outcome of each individual event is defined by the seed value assigned to the participant who wins the event. The outcome of all of the events is defined by the sum of the individual seed values of the winning participants of all of the individual events. In one embodiment, the possible single values representing all possible permutations of outcomes are generated. Bettors are permitted to place bets upon particular values. Winners of the betting event are determined by comparing values selected by betters to the actual single value resulting from the outcomes of the games. In one embodiment, the method is applied to a tournament of participants, the tournament having at least one first round including a plurality of games and at lease one second round including a plurality of games.

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: A user is prompted to select at least one search parameter for a search of contest data for a plurality of contest events and user wager data, the user wager data identifying a plurality of wagers placed by the user on contest events from the plurality of contest events. At least one search parameter selected by the user is received, and wagers placed by the user that satisfy the at least one search parameter selected by the user are identified. A return on the wagers placed by the user that satisfy the at least one search parameter selected by the user is calculated, and wagering return data corresponding to the return are displayed to the user.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for sending and receiving subscriber video game computer data over a broadcast medium for use with video game players and which includes microprocessor controlled transmitter and receiver systems. The receiver system retrieves, demodulates, screens and selects computer data according to subscriber input. A receiver microprocessor signals a video game player to choose from a selection of games placed into a memory. The receiver microprocessor regains control of the memory and regulates flow of selected computer data to the memory. After checking for authorized use, the receiver microprocessor allows control of memory containing video game code to transfer to the video game player. The transmitter system stores, codes, and transmits the computer data over a public broadcast system.

Abstract: The selling price calculation apparatus is equipped with the request receiving unit, the sales information acquisition unit, the discount rate calculation unit, the selling price calculation unit and the discount DB. The request receiving unit receives from the purchaser information concerning the ballot tickets the purchaser wants to purchase. The sales information acquisition unit acquires from the discount DB information concerning the ballot tickets that the purchaser wants to purchase. The sales information includes the accumulated number of purchasers and the predicted number of purchasers from the time of starting the sales of the ballot tickets to the present moment. The discount rate calculation unit calculates the accuracy of statistical odds based upon the accumulated number of purchasers and the predicted number of purchasers, and calculates the discount rate based upon the accuracy of statistical odds.

Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for determining projected effects of proposed wagers on parimutuel pools in interactive wagering systems. In order to assist a user in making a wager, the projected effects of a user's proposed wager on associated parimutuel pools are provided to the user. The projected effects that are provided include projected odds associated with the proposed wager, which are calculated based on both the user's proposed wager and associated parimutuel pool information.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for providing golf score tabulating services to a plurality of golfers. Databases of golfers and/or groups are maintained, and may be accessible over a network from multiple locations. These databases contain historically based information on golfers and groups of golfers who have participated in events together, facilitating efficient set-up of new events. Events can be setup and scores tabulated to include one or more side matches between specific golfers or teams from within a group. Reports are created by tabulating hole-by-hole scores input by or for each golfer. The reports can be created for groups and/or individual golfers with detail on the results of side matches and the overall event. A report can also be generated that is customized for each golfer, showing that golfer's score as compared to every other golfer in an event group or participating in a particular side match.

Abstract: Information-compressed image data is generated or inputted in an office unit 3. Control data and image data is transferred to specified consoles 1a-1m according to reproduction timing or reproduction procedure for the image data. Each console expands the information-compressed image data and displays an image of the data on overhead CRTs 4a, 5a, . . . 4m, 5m.

Abstract: A method provides on-site or remote viewers with real-time computer generated graphics simulating the racing venue and contestants by incorporating past and current data to forecast the ranking of racing contests. The method comprises the steps of drawing existing contestants by means of computer graphics and arranging the contestants along the start line of the existing racing venue; inputting said existing past data and existing current data just before starting of a race into all of the contestants; allowing the contestants to race on a display based on the respective data; and forecasting in advance actual race ranking from the states of said contestants and race results.

Abstract: Dynamic tournament gaming method and system, including the provision of a plurality of gaming terminals selectively interlinkable together with a host terminal so that current players of the terminals desiring to participate in group tournament play can be notified of the opportunity and provided with the choice to play or not. If a current player chooses to play, he so signifies, enters his entry fee into the terminal, and awaits start of the event. Upon start of the tournament by the host terminal, the player will play the tournament game over and over as fast as possible to accumulate as many points as possible during a particular pre-announced tournament period. The host terminal will continuously monitor the terminals of all play participants, dynamically record play status, and control termination of the game period. It will also conduct an accounting of the results, issue win results notification, and perhaps provide remote pay-out of game winnings.

Abstract: A data reception/playback apparatus comprises transmission request sending means for sending a transmission request to a transmission apparatus, reception means for receiving data transmitted from the transmission apparatus in response to the transmission request, playback start position selection means for selecting a playback start position from a playback start position table where at least one playback start position is stored, and playback means for playing the stream data.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for sending and receiving subscriber video game computer data over a broadcast medium for use with video game players and which includes microprocessor controlled transmitter and receiver systems. The receiver system retrieves, demodulates, screens and selects computer data according to subscriber input. A receiver microprocessor signals a video game player to choose from a selection of games placed into a memory. The receiver microprocessor regains control of the memory and regulates flow of selected computer data to the memory. After checking for authorized use, the receiver microprocessor allows control of memory containing video game code to transfer to the video game player. The transmitter system stores, codes, and transmits the computer data over a public broadcast system.

Abstract: A system and method which uses statistical analysis of college football games to predict an outcome is comprised of a unique combination of objective, quantitative factors. The system and method accounts for when in the college football season the contest takes place and uses varying sets of objective parameters based on the season game number. The system and method may be implemented on a variety of processing platforms which allows for rapid analysis of multiple contests.

Abstract: Systems and processes for interactive off-track wagering are provided. A user reviews racing information and places bets using an off-track terminal. The user interactively selects a desired racetrack and race. Odds, pools, and payoff amounts may be viewed for a variety of complex wager types. To place a wager, the user selects a wager type, wager amount, and the desired runners. Account information can be reviewed. If desired, the user can transfer funds from a bank account to an account used for wagering. Racing videos can be viewed while the user reviews odds and places bets. Video clips of past races can be ordered. Related advertisements can be presented using text or video clips. Merchandise may be ordered interactively. Information regarding system usage may be gathered.

Abstract: Systems and processes for interactive off-track wagering are provided. A user reviews racing information and places bets using an off-track terminal. The user interactively selects a desired racetrack and race. Odds, pools, and payoff amounts may be viewed for a variety of complex wager types. To place a wager, the user selects a wager type, wager amount, and the desired runners. Account information can be reviewed. If desired, the user can transfer funds from a bank account to an account used for wagering. Racing videos can be viewed while the user reviews odds and places bets. Video clips of past races can be ordered. Related advertisements can be presented using text or video clips. Merchandise may be ordered interactively. Information regarding system usage may be gathered.

Abstract: A system is provided for handicapping unranked players in a dart game match, wherein the match includes a plurality of successively played games. Upon initiation of a match, a default average is assigned to an unranked player. An initial handicap is calculated for the unranked player based on the difference between the default average and an actual average of a ranked opponent of the unranked player. The initial handicap is then used for the first game in the match. At the end of the first game, a first new handicap is calculated for the unranked player based at least upon the unranked player's actual average in the first game. The first new handicap is used for the second game in the match. The unranked player's handicap is repeatedly recalculated after completion of each game in the match based at least upon the unranked player's actual average in previous games of the match. The recalculated handicaps are used for the next game in the match.

Abstract: A method for conducting a championship playoff includes the steps of ranking participating teams after a regular season by adding the ranks of each team based upon at least two different polls, and assigning a final rank for each team based upon the summation of these polls. A championship tournament is then conducted with a plurality of rounds of events to reduce the initial number of teams to a single champion. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, one poll is a poll of sports writers, a second poll is a poll of coaches, and a third poll is an objective poll, with the first and second polls being weighted more heavily than the objective poll. Each round of events in the championship playoff would be played at different site locations. A secondary tournament would be conducted utilizing the highest ranked teams below those which are utilized in the championship tournament.

Abstract: Systems and processes for interactive off-track wagering are provided. A user reviews racing information and places bets using an off-track terminal. The user interactively selects a desired racetrack and race. Odds, pools, and payoff amounts may be viewed for a variety of complex wager types. To place a wager, the user selects a wager type, wager amount, and the desired runners. Account information can be reviewed. If desired, the user can transfer funds from a bank account to in account used for wagering. Racing videos can be viewed while the user reviews odds and places bets. Video clips of past races can be ordered. Related advertisements can be presented using text or video clips. Merchandise may be ordered interactively. Information regarding system usage may be gathered.