US20070243924A1 - Lighted three dimensional display - Google Patents

Abstract

A game apparatus is adapted to allow a player to play a game and to determine a game outcome. At least one character is mounted in association with the game apparatus. Lights are mounted in association with the character. A controller is in communication with the game apparatus and the lights. The controller is adapted to determine the game outcome and to control the lights such that in combination at least one character and one of the lights display the game outcome.

Description

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
• This application is a continuation application of and claims priority of pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/531,255, filed Sep. 12, 2006 which claims priority of and incorporates by reference U.S. provisional application No. 60/716,757, filed Sep. 12, 2005, all of which is incorporated in reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates to gaming devices. More specifically, the gaming device includes a lighted three dimensional display that can display a game outcome.
BACKGROUND
• Gaming Devices
• Gaming devices are well known in the art and a large variety of gaming devices have been developed. In general, gaming devices allow users or players to play a game. In many casino-type gaming devices, the outcome of the game depends, at least in part, on a randomly generated event. For example, a gaming device may use a random number generator to generate a random or pseudo-random number. The random number may then be compared to a predefined table to determine the outcome of the event. If the random number falls within a certain range of numbers on the table, the player may win a predefined prize. The table may also contain display information that allows the gaming device to generate a display that corresponds to the outcome of the game. The gaming device may present the outcome of the game on a large variety of display devices, such as mechanical spinning reels or video screens.
• Bonus Games
• Some gaming devices award bonuses in addition to prizes that are awarded in the primary game. A bonus can be defined as an additional prize that is awarded to the player when a predefined event occurs. An example of a bonus game can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,848,932 issued to Adams. One of the gaming devices described in this document comprises three spinning reels and a spinning wheel bonus display. When predetermined indicia are displayed on the spinning reels of the primary game, the wheel can be activated to indicate a bonus prize. The bonus prize is awarded in addition to any prizes awarded in the primary game.
• Generally, bonus prizes are offered in such games in order to increase the excitement and enjoyment experienced by players. This attracts more players to the game and encourages players to play longer. When gaming devices attract more players and the players play longer, they tend to be more commercially successful relative to other gaming devices.
• Display Devices
• In addition, highly visible display devices are utilized on gaming devices in order to attract players. Once players are attracted to the gaming device, they tend to play longer because the display device enhances the stimulation and excitement experienced by players. It is, therefore, desirable for gaming devices to incorporate highly visible display devices.
• The applicants believe that display devices tend to be more successful if they are a derivation of a well-known game or theme. They are more successful because players tend to be drawn to games that they instantly recognize. Many players are reluctant to try completely new games because they must spend time to learn the new game. It is, therefore, desirable to provide display devices that are based on well-known games or themes.
• The applicants also believe that display devices tend to be more successful if they utilize physical objects rather than simulations. Although video devices and electronic signs can be used for display devices, players are more attracted to display devices that utilize physical objects. Physical objects can be even more effective display devices if they are moveable and they are used in combination with lights and sounds. It is important to minimize the amount of occupied space because a smaller gaming device generally corresponds to an overall lower cost.
SUMMARY OF AN EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTIONAdvantages of One or More Embodiments of the Present Invention
• The various embodiments of the present invention may, but do not necessarily, achieve one or more of the following advantages:
• the ability to provide game players with a more exciting and desirable gaming experience;
• the ability to attract more patrons to play a game;
• provide a gaming device that utilizes a visually appealing and highly visible display,
• provide a gaming device that utilizes a three dimensional lighted object to convey a game outcome;
• provide a gaming device that uses a three dimensional lighted indicator to convey a game outcome;
• provide a gaming device that uses a back lighted indicator to convey a game outcome;
• provide a method of playing a game; and
• provide a bracket for an indicator for a gaming device.
• These and other advantages may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification, claims, and abstract.
Brief Description of One Embodiment of the Present Invention
• In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a game apparatus. The game apparatus is adapted to allow a player to play a game and to determine a game outcome. At least one character is mounted in association with the game apparatus. Lights are mounted in association with the character. A controller is in communication with the game apparatus and the lights. The controller is adapted to determine the game outcome and to control the lights such that in combination at least one character and one of the lights display the game outcome.
• In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a method of playing a game. The method includes allowing a player to play a game and determining a game outcome. A video presentation is displayed. The video presentation displays at least one indicia. An indicator is moved that points to the video presentation. The indicator is stopped and illuminated. In combination, the illuminated indicator and the video display indicate the game outcome.
• In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a gaming device. The gaming device includes a game apparatus. The game apparatus allows a player to play a game and determine a game outcome. An indicator is mounted in association with the game apparatus. The indicator includes a first plate and a second plate mounted with the first plate. Light emitting diodes are mounted to the first plate. An indicator positioning mechanism is mounted with the game apparatus and the indicator. The indicator positioning mechanism moves the indicator. A controller is in communication with the game apparatus and the indicator positioning mechanism. The controller determines the game outcome. The controller moves the indicator and turns the light emitting diodes on and off such that the indicator indicates the game outcome.
• The above description sets forth, rather broadly, a summary of one embodiment of the present invention so that the detailed description that follows may be better understood and contributions of the present invention to the art may be better appreciated. Some of the embodiments of the present invention may not include all of the features or characteristics listed in the above summary. There are, of course, additional features of the invention that will be described below and will form the subject matter of claims. In this respect, before explaining at least one preferred embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of the construction and to the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or as illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is substantially a front view of a gaming device of the present invention.
• FIG. 2 is substantially an enlarged perspective view of a bonus gaming device of the present invention
• FIG. 3 is substantially a left side perspective view ofFIG. 2.
• FIG. 4 is substantially a front view ofFIG. 2.
• FIG. 5 is substantially an enlarged view ofFIG. 4 showing a first game display.
• FIG. 6 is substantially an enlarged view ofFIG. 4 showing a second game display.
• FIG. 7 is substantially an exploded perspective view ofFIG. 2.
• FIG. 8 is substantially an enlarged exploded perspective view of a positioning mechanism and indicator.
• FIG. 9 is substantially a top cross-sectional view ofFIG. 2.
• FIG. 10 is substantially a front view ofFIG. 2 with the panel removed.
• FIG. 11 is substantially an enlarged perspective view of an indicator and bracket.
• FIG. 12 is substantially a schematic diagram showing components of the gaming device ofFIG. 1.
• FIG. 13 is substantially a flowchart of a method of playing a game using the gaming device ofFIG. 1 according to the present invention.
• FIG. 14 is substantially a front view of an alternative embodiment of a gaming device of the present invention that utilizes and edge-lit display.
• FIG. 15 is substantially an exploded perspective view of the edge-lit display ofFIG. 14.
• FIG. 16 is substantially a schematic diagram showing components of the gaming device ofFIG. 14.
• FIG. 17 is substantially a flowchart of a method of playing a game using the gaming device ofFIG. 14 according to the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
• In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this application. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made with out departing from the scope of the present invention.
• In the Detailed Description below, the applicants utilize various spatially orienting terms, such as “upper,” “lower,” “horizontal,” and “vertical.” It is to be understood that these terms are used for ease of description of the preferred embodiments with respect to the drawings but are not necessarily in themselves limiting or requiring of an orientation as thereby described in the following Detailed Description.
• Game Apparatus
• Referring toFIG. 1, one embodiment disclosed herein comprises a gaming device, generally indicated byreference number10.Gaming device10 comprises aprimary game apparatus20 and abonus game apparatus30.Bonus game30 may comprise adisplay device31.Game apparatus20 may be any of a large number of devices that are adapted to allow players to play a game. For example,game apparatus20 may utilize reel displays, such as spinning reels22-24 or a video display (not shown), to display outcomes of the game. Means may also be provided for accepting wagers, such as acoin slot21 orcard reader25, and for awarding prizes, such as acoin dispenser27. Ahandle26 and at least onebutton28 are provided for activatinggame apparatus20 to begin a game.Additional buttons28 can be provided for allowing a game player to make additional selections. Acredit meter111 can display the number of credits won or remaining. In at least one preferred embodiment,game apparatus20 may be an S Plus model gaming device manufactured by International Game Technology in Reno, Nev.
• Game apparatus20 may be controlled by an electronic controller182 (seeFIG. 12) that utilizes a random number generator. The random number generator produces a random or pseudo random number for each game. The outcome of the game may be determined by comparing the random number to a table of outcomes stored in a memory and accessed bycontroller182. A number of different tables of outcomes may be used and different tables may be used for different games. The tables can be designed so that different prizes have different probabilities of being awarded. Such design techniques are well known in gaming. Examples of such designs are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,448,419, issued to Telnaes, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,456,465, issued to Durham.Controller182 causes spinning reels22-24 of the video display to show the outcome of the game that corresponds to the outcome of the random number generator. It is recognized thatgame apparatus20 may operate in many other ways and still achieve the objects of the present invention.
• Game apparatus20 may also be capable of producing a bonus-activating event. This event may be many different types of events. For example, a bonus-activating event may comprise displaying a particular symbol, such as a “bonus” symbol, or combination of symbols, such as three “7” symbols, on reels22-24. If the game being played is poker based, the bonus-activating event may be occurrence of a certain hand, such as a royal flush. Furthermore, a bonus-activating event may occur when a player accumulates a number of symbols or game outcomes over a number of separate game plays. For example, a bonus-activating event may occur when the player receives three “bonus” symbols during a period of time. The bonus-activating event may be based on an external event. For example, a bonus-activating event may occur when a group of players obtain a certain result.
• Bonus Game Apparatus
• Bonus game apparatus30 can include ahousing32 andpanel33 that is mounted abovegame apparatus20. Avideo display34 is mounted inhousing32.Video display34 can be a liquid crystal display.Video display34 can display a wide variety of video presentations and game outcomes. For example, inFIG. 1,video display34 is shown displayingprize positions36 shown as building windows.Various indicia37 can be shown in the windows in order to indicate a game outcome.Indicia37 can be any type of indicia.Indicia37 may represent various things, including prize amounts, multipliers, a description or representation of merchandise or services, progressive prizes, or jackpot prizes. Any prizes that are awarded can be displayed onmeter29.
• Referring toFIGS. 2-6, various views ofbonus game apparatus30 are shown.Video display34 is supported by asupport38.Support38 would be mounted todisplay shelf39 which is mounted tohousing32. A bezel and cover40 are mounted in front ofvideo display34. At least onebutton47 can be provided for activatingbonus game apparatus30 to begin a game.Cover40 would be made of a transparent material such as acrylic such that a game player may viewvideo display34 throughcover40. A printedcircuit board42 can be mounted todisplay shelf39. Another motor/driver printedcircuit board43 is also mounted to displayshelf39. Acontroller176 can be mounted to printedcircuit board42.Controller176 controls the operation ofbonus gaming apparatus30.Controller176 is in communication withvideo display34 through a cable (not shown).
• Afire ladder35 can be displayed onvideo display34. The fire ladder can appear in one position or can be made to move. Anindicator50 is mounted betweenvideo display34 andcover40.Indicator50 can have an outline or be shaped to define a character. The number ofindicators50 may vary, and the direction of their movement may vary, and may include horizontal, zigzag, and/or diagonal movements. The shape or appearance ofindicator50 may be designed in various forms and preferably according to a theme of a game. In the example shown inFIGS. 1-6, the theme of the game is a building that is on fire. Accordingly,indicator50 is in the form of a fireman that appears to climb a ladder. The present invention is not limited to any particular type of indicator or pointer, or any particular representation of an indicator or pointer.
• Indicator50 is connected with anindicator positioning mechanism70.Indicator positioning mechanism70 can move and control the position ofindicator50 in front ofvideo display34.Indicator50 can start out in an initial hidden position incavity41 where it is hidden behind panel33 (FIG. 2).
• Indicator positioning mechanism70 includes aframe72. Arail73 andactuator motor74 are mounted to frame72. A threadedrod76 is mounted to rail73.Block77 has threads that mate withrod76 such that asrod76 is rotated, block77 moves up and down.Gear78 is mounted tomotor74 andgear79 is mounted to one end of threadedrod76.Motor74 would be in communication with motor driver printedcircuit board43 which is in communication withcontroller176.Motor74 can causerod76 to rotate andindicator50 to move.
• Referring now toFIG. 11 an enlarged view ofindicator50 is shown.Bracket82 has ends82A and82B and anaperture83.End82A is attached to block77 andend82B is attached to a transparentacrylic arm84.Indicator50 is mounted toarm84.Bracket82 movably supportsindicator50.Bracket82 is thin enough to fit into a gap betweenvideo display34 andcover40.Bracket82 can be made from sheet metal or plastic. Agroove85 can be provided in the bracket to hide wires or cables.
• Optical sensors80 (FIG. 8) can be mounted to frame72 in order to sense the position ofindicator82.Sensors80 are in communication with controller176 (FIG. 7).Sensors80 can be any type of optical sensor such as a proximity sensor.Sensors80 in conjunction withaperture83 can determine the location ofindicator50 and provide a signal tocontroller176.
• Indicator50 can comprise four layers or plates.Indicator50 has a printed circuit board plate90, afirst plate92,second plate94 and third plate96. The layers can be light transmitting, partially transparent or opaque. Severallight emitting diodes98 can be mounted to printed circuit board plate90.Light emitting diodes98 would in communication withcontroller176 through a cable127 andconnector128. Printed circuit board plate90,first plate92 andsecond plate94 can be cut or formed into the shape of a character or figure.Light emitting diodes98 can be arranged around the edge of printed circuit board90 and as such illuminateindicator50 in a back lit or edge lit manner such that light rays appear to emanate from behindindicator50.
• Third plate96 is formed in the shape of afire hose126. Severallight emitting diodes97 can be mounted to printed circuit board plate90 underfire hose126.Light emitting diodes97 would in communication withcontroller176 through cable127.Light emitting diodes97 can illuminatefire hose126 and give fire hose126 a translucent glowing effect. LED's97 can also be turned on and off in order to give fire hose126 a pulsating effect.
• Printed circuit board plate90,first plate92,second plate94 and third plate96 may be laminated together with an adhesive. A light transmitting adhesive may be used.
• Printed circuit board90,first plate92,second plate94 and third plate96 together form adisplay100.First plate92,second plate94 and third plate96 may have one or more graphic elements presented or printed thereon.First plate92,second plate94 and third plate96 may be formed from Vivak PETG sheet.First plate92,second plate94 and third plate96 may be partially transparent.
• Plate92 can form the outline of the character and can be placed close to or in contact with the printed circuit board90. Holes (not shown) can be provided in one ormore plates92,94 or96 to allow a game player to see other objects or symbols behind the plates.
• If desired, additional printed circuit board plates with light emitting diodes could be added toindicator50.
• Bonus game apparatus30 can be operated in a variety of methods in order to indicate a game outcome. For example,controller176 can detect the occurrence of a bonus activating event ingame apparatus20 and activatebonus game apparatus30.Controller176 can present a video presentation onvideo display34 and moveindicator50 upwardly and downwardly in front ofvideo display34 usingpositioning mechanism70.Controller176 can present a video presentation onvideo display34 and moveindicator50 usingpositioning mechanism70.Indicator50 can start in an initial position where it is hidden behindpanel33.Controller176 can turn onlight emitting diodes97 and98. In combination,video display34,indicator50 andlight emitting diodes97 and98 can indicate at least one ofindicia37 as a game outcome.
• With reference toFIG. 12, anelectronic controller182 may control gaming device10 (FIG. 1).Controller182 produces a random or pseudo random number for each game. The outcome of the game may be determined by comparing the random number to a table of outcomes stored in a memory and accessed bycontroller182.Gaming device10 may also be capable, viacontroller182 of producing a bonus-activating event.Bonus game controller176 may detect when a bonus activating event occurs ingaming device20.Controller182 may determine the outcome of each game, and when a bonus-activating outcome occurs,gaming device controller182 may transmit a signal tobonus game controller176. Alternatively,bonus game controller176 may periodically interrogategaming device controller182.Bonus game controller176 andgaming device controller182 may be a single controller or separate controllers. In at least one embodiment,gaming device controller182 is the GAM 2000 controller, available from Eagle Engineering of Pottstown, Pa.
• The bonus prize may be determined by a random number generator (not shown) and a virtual pay table, such as the pay table described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,823,874 to Adams, which is hereby incorporated by reference. A simple pay table may also appear as follows:

  	TABLE 1
  	Random Number	Amount Paid

  	0.00 to 0.50	$10.00
  	0.51 to 0.75	$50.00
  	0.76 to 0.95	X2
  	0.96 to 1.00	$10,000.00

• For example, if the random number generator produced0.45 as the game outcome, thecontroller176 may cause the combination ofvideo display34,indicator50 andlight emitting diodes97 and98 to point to anindicia37 representing ten dollars. Alternatively, if the random number generator produced a value of 0.85, the controller may causevideo display34,indicator50 andlight emitting diodes98 to stop and point to anindicia37 representing a multiplier of2. The controller may then causebonus meter29 to display “10×2=20,” (assuming a base prize of ten dollars) and $20.00 would be awarded to the player.
• Aftercontroller176 determines the bonus prizes to be awarded,controller176 causes the a video presentation to be shown onvideo display34 and movesindicator50 upwardly and downwardly in front ofvideo display34 usingpositioning mechanism70.Controller176 is in communication withvideo display34 andactuator motor74.Controller176 is also in communication withsensors80 that can sense the position ofindicator50.Controller176 can further be in communication with light emitting diodes (LED's)97 and98 mounted toindicator50 and cause LED's97 and98 to turn on or off or to flash.
• As was shown inFIG. 1, the video presentation can be a burning building with windows that can display prize indicia.Indicator50 can be a fireman moving up and down on a ladder.Controller176 can moveindicator50 usingpositioning mechanism70.Indicator50 can start in an initial position where it is hidden behindpanel33.Controller176 can turn onlight emitting diodes97 and98.Controller176 can present an integrated video presentation usingvideo display34 andindicator70.
• With further reference toFIGS. 5 and 6, an example of such an integrated video presentation is shown. As shown inFIG. 5,controller176 causesvideo display34 to show a burning building with a matrix of prize positions36 arranged in rows A, B and C and columns X, Y and Z.Fire ladder35 can be displayed onvideo display34.Smoke138 can appear to be coming out of one of the windows.Indicator50 shown as a fireman can be moved up and downfire ladder50
• FIG. 6 shows thatindicator50 has moved into alignment withrow B. Controller176 now causes the LED's97 and98 to be illuminated and the video presentation to showwater spray139 being emitted from a nozzle125 offire hose126. The video display can show thewater spray139 entering the widow of row B and column Y so as to indicate the indicia “10” as a prize amount.Video display34,indicator50 andlight emitting diodes97 and98 in combination can indicate at least oneindicia37 as a game outcome.
• The bonus selection process may be repeated for a predetermined number of times to accumulate several bonus prizes that are added to form the award to the game player. For example, the bonus game could be repeated three times to accumulate an award. The present invention is not limited to the example pay table shown. Furthermore, different kinds of bonus prizes may be awarded, such as progressive prizes, jackpot prizes, merchandise, services, prize multipliers, and additional games. Other effects may also be presented, such as pre-recorded sound fromspeaker166.
• Speaker166 may be configured to announce a prize a player has won, play music during a prize winning event, announce features of the game offered bygaming apparatus10, or play music to attract and entertain patrons. Additionally, a variety of graphics and lights, preferably designed according to a particular theme can be displayed.
• If the awarded bonus prize is money, the amount of the bonus prize may be displayed onbonus meter29 and then added to the player'scredit meter111. The bonus prize may be dispensed to the player via a voucher or other cashless device, may be dispensed to coin receptacle27 (FIG. 1), or an attendant may be summoned to award the prize to the player.
• Method of Operation
• One method ofoperation700 of an embodiment of the present invention, such asgaming device10 is illustrated inFIG. 13. A game player places a wager on a base or primary gaming device instep702. Atstep704, the game player plays the base game. Atdecision step706,method700 checks to see if the results of game play instep704 is an outcome qualifying the player to play a bonus game or a bonus activating event. If not,method700 proceeds to step708 and awards the player any prizes awarded according the base game determined instep704, and returns to step702.
• If it is determined instep706 that the base game outcome ofstep704 qualifies the player for a bonus game,method700 proceeds to step712. Atstep712,video display34 is activated. Lights and sounds may also be activated to make the event more exciting to the player and those around the player, as well as to call attention to the device.
• Method700 then proceeds to step714 where a video presentation is shown onvideo display714. The video presentation can be any suitable video presentation. Atstep716,indicator50 is activated and moved up and down in front ofvideo display34. LED's97 and98 may also be turned on and off.Method700 then proceeds to stopindicator50 atstep718. The LED's97 and98 are illuminated atstep720 such that the video presentation and the indicator point to an indicia onvideo display34. Atstep726 any prizes are award.Method700 then returns to step702.
• In other embodiments of the invention, the player may be allowed to control the movement ofindicator50 using an input device (not shown).
• Of course many variations of this method can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the indicator could first be moved and then the video presentation shown. Alternatively, the indicator could be illuminated before the indicator is moved.
• Alternative Embodiment
• Turning now toFIGS. 14 and 15 an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown.Bonus game apparatus130 can include a housing132 that would be mounted above game apparatus20 (FIG. 1). Apanel134 is mounted in housing132.Panel134 can be an opaque panel, a lit panel or a video display that can display a video presentation.
• An edge litdisplay140 is mounted in housing132 in front ofpanel134. Edge litdisplay140 can comprise several characters or figures, symbols, indicia or the like142,144,146,148 and150. InFIG. 12, characters142-150 have an outline or are shaped to represent several people camping. Edge litdisplay140 can display anindicia160 in at least one of the character positions in order to display a game outcome. For example,character150 is shown displaying an indicia of25 credits. A bezel and cover135 are mounted in front ofpanel134 anddisplay140. Cover135 would be made of a transparent material such as acrylic such that a game player may viewdisplay140 throughcover135. Acontroller176 can be mounted inhousing130.Controller176 controls the operation ofbonus gaming apparatus130.Controller176 is in communication withdisplay140 through acable162.
• Edge litdisplay140 can comprise several layers.Display140 may comprise alight panel170 and adisplay object180 that is placed in front of the light panel layer.Object layer180 may directly abutlight panel170.Light panel170 hassurfaces170 A and170B.Surface170B may have a laser etched surface to scatter and defuse light. The laser etched surface may be covered with a film, such as a reflective film, to reflect the light towards the front of the panel. Thedisplay object layer180 is preferably placed close to or in contact with thelight panel layer170.Display object layer180 hassurfaces180 A and180 B. Thedisplay object layer180 may be formed in any shape, such as a character or object consistent with the theme of the game.Display object layer180 may be a dimensional cutout that has a contour or profile that resembles or enhances a character, symbol or indicia. For example, if a number three is displayed,display object layer180 may have a profile in the shape of a number three. In addition,display object layer180 may have additional three dimensional texture. For example, if a tree is displayed,surface180 A may have a bumpy surface similar to a texture of tree bark. The texture may be provided by a number of different methods, such as by machining, grinding or molding. In another embodiment,display object layer180 may comprise relatively large three dimensional objects with significant depth relative to the height of the layer. This allows objects with significant relief or contours to be displayed.Display object layer180 can be partially or fully transparent. Graphic elements may also be presented ondisplay object layer180. Graphical elements may represent different characters, symbols, or indicia. Thedisplay object layer180 is made from a material that is at least partially transparent or translucent that allows light from thelight panel layer170 to pass through thedisplay object layer180.Light panel170 may also have a profile that conforms to symbols that are displayed on it.
• Aspacer185 can be placed betweenlight panel layer170 anddisplay object layer180.Spacer185 hassurfaces185A and185B. Printed indicia orholes187 can be provided in the light panel layer, the display object layer or spacer to allow a player to see other objects, symbols or to form indicia behind any of the layers.Light panel layer170 can include severallight sources172, such as cold cathode fluorescent tubes or light emitting diodes.Light source172 can includelight sources172A,172B,172C,172D and172E. Alight source172F may be placed at an edge oflight panel layer170. This configuration allows light to be transmitted across the volume oflight panel170.Light sources172 can be in communication withcontroller176 throughcable162.Light panel layer170 is commercially available from Hunatech Global Marketing Pty Ltd of Australia. Graphic elements may also be presented onlight panel layer170.
• One of the advantages oflight panel170 is that is may emit light substantially uniformly across170A. This allows objects placed in frontlight panel170 to be illuminated substantially uniformly. In addition,light panel170 requires less current and produces less heat than other light sources.
• Light panel layer170,display object layer180 andspacer185 can be mounted together using fasteners or can be laminated together with an adhesive.
• Bonus game apparatus130 can be operated in a variety of methods in order to indicate a game outcome. For example,controller176 can detect the occurrence of a bonus activating event ingame apparatus20 and activatebonus game apparatus130.Controller176 can selectively tumlight source172 on an off in order to indicate at least one of the characters142-150 as indicating a game outcome.Light source172 can also indicate one or more indicia160.Light source172 can illuminate characters142-150 through light reflected from the edge of characters142-150. Alternatively or in addition,light source172 can display one ormore indicia160 formed by holes in eitherlight panel layer170,display object layer180 orspacer185.
• With reference toFIG. 16, anelectronic controller182 may controlbonus gaming device130 and gaming device20 (FIG. 1).Controller182 produces a random or pseudo random number for each game. The outcome of the game may be determined by comparing the random number to a table of outcomes stored in a memory and accessed bycontroller182.Gaming device20 may also be capable, viacontroller182 of producing a bonus-activating event.Bonus game controller176 may detect when a bonus activating event occurs ingaming device20.Controller182 may determine the outcome of each game, and when a bonus-activating outcome occurs,gaming device controller182 may transmit a signal tobonus game controller176. Alternatively,bonus game controller176 may periodically interrogategaming device controller182.Bonus game controller176 andgaming device controller182 may be a single controller or separate controllers. In at least one embodiment,gaming device controller182 is the GAM 2000 controller, available from Eagle Engineering of Pottstown, Pa.
• The bonus prize may be determined by a random number generator (not shown) and a virtual pay table, such as the pay table described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,823,874 to Adams, which is hereby incorporated by reference. A simple pay table may also appear as follows:

  	TABLE 1
  	Random Number	Amount Paid

  	0.00 to 0.50	$10.00
  	0.51 to 0.75	$50.00
  	0.76 to 0.95	X2
  	0.96 to 1.00	$10,000.00

• For example, if the random number generator produced 0.45 as the game outcome, thecontroller176 may cause the combination one of characters142-150 andlights172 to indicate anindicia160 representing 10 dollars. Alternatively, if the random number generator produced a value of 0.85, the controller may cause one of characters142-150 andlights172 to indicate anindicia160 representing a multiplier of 2. The controller may then cause bonus meter29 (FIG. 1) to display “10 ×2=20,” (assuming a base prize of ten dollars) and $20.00 would be awarded to the player.
• Aftercontroller176 determines the bonus prizes to be awarded,controller176 causes one ormore lights172 to be illuminated to highlight one of characters142-150 and to indicate at least oneindicia160 as the game outcome.
• The bonus selection process may be repeated for a predetermined number of times to accumulate several bonus prizes that are added to form the award to the game player. For example, the bonus game could be repeated three times to accumulate an award. The present invention is not limited to the example pay table shown. Furthermore, different kinds of bonus prizes may be awarded, such as progressive prizes, jackpot prizes, merchandise, services, prize multipliers, and additional games. Other effects may also be presented, such as pre-recorded sound fromspeaker166.
• Speaker166 may be configured to announce a prize a player has won, play music during a prize winning event, announce features of the game offered bygaming apparatus130, or play music to attract and entertain patrons. Additionally, a variety of graphics and lights, preferably designed according to a particular theme can be displayed.
• If the awarded bonus prize is money, the amount of the bonus prize may be displayed on bonus meter29 (FIG. 1) and then added to the player's credit meter111 (FIG. 1). The bonus prize may be dispensed to the player via a voucher or other cashless device, may be dispensed to coin receptacle27 (FIG. 1), or an attendant may be summoned to award the prize to the player.
• Method of Operation
• One method ofoperation800 of an embodiment of the present invention, such asgaming device130 is illustrated inFIG. 17. A game player places a wager on a base or primary gaming device in step802. Atstep804, the game player plays the base game. Atdecision step806,method800 checks to see if the results of game play instep804 is an outcome qualifying the player to play a bonus game or a bonus activating event. If not,method800 proceeds to step808 and awards the player any prizes awarded according the base game determined instep804, and returns to step802.
• If it is determined instep806 that the base game outcome ofstep804 qualifies the player for a bonus game,method800 proceeds to step812. Atstep812, at least one of the edge lit characters142-150 is illuminated.
• Lights and sounds may also be activated to make the event more exciting to the player and those around the player, as well as to call attention to the device.
• Method800 then proceeds to step814 where anindicia160 is illuminated on at least one of the edge lit characters. Atstep816 any prizes are award.Method800 then returns to step802.
• Many variations of this method can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, all of the indicias could first be illuminated and then one of the edge lit characters could be illuminated to indicate an outcome of the game.
Conclusion
• Accordingly, the present invention provides a lighted three dimensional gaming device display.
• Although the description above contains many specifications, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of presently preferred embodiments of this invention. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents rather than by the examples given.

Claims (20)

1. A gaming device comprising:

(A) at least one game apparatus, the game apparatus being configured to allow a player to play a game;

(B) at least one indicator, the indicator comprising:

(a) a first plate;

(b) a second plate coupled to the first plate;

(c) at least a first light emitting diode coupled to the first plate;

(C) an indicator positioning mechanism coupled to the game apparatus and the indicator, the indicator positioning mechanism being configured to move the indicator; and

(D) a controller in communication with the game apparatus, the indicator positioning mechanism and the first light emitting diode, the controller being configured to determine a game outcome, cause the indicator positioning mechanism to move the indicator and selectively activate the first light emitting diode.

2. The gaming device ofclaim 1 wherein the plates have a shape formed in the shape of a character.

3. The gaming device ofclaim 1 wherein the first plate is a printed circuit board.

4. The gaming device ofclaim 1 wherein a partially transparent third plate is mounted adjacent the second plate.

5. The gaming device ofclaim 1 further comprising a video display in communication with the controller, the video display being configured to display a symbol, the indicator being positionable to indicate the symbol presented on the video display.

6. The gaming device according toclaim 1 further comprising a bracket coupled to the indicator positioning mechanism and the indicator, the bracket being configured to support the indicator.

7. The gaming device ofclaim 1 wherein the bracket is at least partially transparent.

8. The gaming device ofclaim 1 further comprising a video display in communication with the controller, the video display being configured to display a symbol, the indicator being positionable to indicate the symbol presented on the video display, wherein the bracket supports the indicator in front of a video display.

9. The gaming device ofclaim 1 wherein the bracket is mounted between the video display and a game cover.

10. The gaming device ofclaim 1 further comprising a second light emitting diode coupled to the first plate and in communication with the controller, wherein the controller is configured to selectively activate the second light emitting diode in coordination with the first light emitting diode.

11. A method of playing a game comprising:

(A) allowing a player to play a game and to determine a game outcome;

(B) displaying a video presentation, the video presentation being adapted to display at least one indicia;

(C) moving an indicator that points to the video presentation;

(D) stopping the indicator; and

(E) illuminating the indicator, wherein in combination the illuminated indicator and the video display indicate the game outcome.

12. The method ofclaim 11 further comprising illuminating the indicator along an outer edge.

13. The method ofclaim 11 wherein the indicator is in the shape of a symbol.

14. The method ofclaim 11 wherein the video presentation and the indicator movement are synchronized such that the video presentation and indicator provide the illusion of coordinated movement.

15. A gaming device comprising:

(A) game apparatus means for allowing a player to play a game and to determine a game outcome;

(B) display means for displaying at least one indicia;

(C) indicator means for pointing to the at least one indicia;

(D) light means for illuminating the indicator means;

(E) controller means for causing in combination, the display means, the indicator means and the light means to communicate game information.

16. The gaming device ofclaim 15 wherein the indicator means comprises:

(A) a first plate;

(B) a second plate mounted adjacent the first plate;

(C) a partially transparent third plate mounted adjacent the second plate.

17. The gaming device ofclaim 15 further comprising an indicator positioning means for moving the indicator means.

18. The gaming device according toclaim 15 further comprising bracket means for supporting the indicator means through a space between the displaying means and a housing.

19. The gaming device ofclaim 18 wherein the bracket has at least one transparent portion.

20. The gaming device ofclaim 18 wherein the bracket has at least one groove for hiding wires.

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