US20080015027A1 - Centralized game board system and method for enhanced network-enabled features in a gaming environment - Google Patents

Abstract

A centralized gaming system and associated method are provided. Included is a plurality of gaming clients each including a display and at least one input device. Further included is a centralized repository of computer processing units. Each of the computer processing units is connected to at least one of the game clients for executing a gaming application for play by a user utilizing the gaming client.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION(S)
• The present application is a Continuation of non-provisional application Ser. No. 11/373,851 filed Mar. 10, 2006, which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. non-provisional application Ser. No. 11/342,333 filed Jan. 26, 2006, which claims priority from a provisional application filed Jan. 31, 2005 under Ser. No. 60/648,929 and provisional application Ser. Nos. 60/660,870, 60/660,869, 60/660,871, 60/660,872, 60/660,868, and 60/660,896, all of which were filed on Mar. 10, 2005; and which is also a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. non-provisional application Ser. No. 11/356,714 filed Feb. 16, 2006, which claims priority from a provisional application filed Feb. 18, 2005 under Ser. No. 60/654,647, which are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.
BACKGROUND AND FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates to gaming, and more particularly to gaming machines.
SUMMARY
• A centralized gaming system and associated method are provided. Included is a plurality of gaming clients each including a display and at least one input device. Further included is a centralized repository of computer processing units. Each of the computer processing units is connected to at least one of the game clients for executing a gaming application for play by a user utilizing the gaming client.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a data collection unit (DCU) and fully digital network-enabled system interface board (SIB) in a casino network communication system employing a single twisted pair cabling (category 5 or the like) constructed in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a DCU and analog network-enabled SIB in a casino network communication system employing a single twisted pair cabling (category 5 or the like) constructed in accordance with another embodiment.
• FIG. 3 is an example of a frequency response forcategory 5 twisted pair cabling, along with a frequency allocation partition for the DCU and network-enabled SIBs depicted inFIGS. 1 and 2, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 4 illustrates a back-end server connected to multiple DCUs, where the DCUs have multiple network lines connected to non-adjacent network-enabled SIB clusters.
• FIG. 5 illustrates shared characteristics of a DCU and network-enabled SIB interface, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 6 further illustrates a virtual link, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 7 illustrates a gaming machine that may be utilized for providing user communication, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 8 shows a method for allowing communication between a gaming machine user and at least one other party, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 9 illustrates gaming machine that may be utilized for providing user communication, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 10 shows a method for allowing communication between a gaming machine user and at least one other party, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 11 illustrates a gaming machine network configured in a tapped configuration, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 12 illustrates a gaming machine network configured in a daisy-chain configuration, in accordance with another embodiment.
• FIG. 13 illustrates a gaming machine, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 14 illustrates a gaming machine that may be utilized, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 15 shows a method for reconciling received biometric information, and smart device information and/or personal identifier information, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 16 illustrates a gaming machine, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 17 is a cross-section of line8-8 shown inFIG. 16, showing an exemplary gaming machine candle, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 18 illustrates a centralized game board architect, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 19 illustrates one exemplary game board, in accordance with another embodiment.
• FIG. 20 illustrates a gaming machine, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 21 illustrates a gaming machine, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along line3-3 ofFIG. 21, showing the player buttons and associated lights, in accordance with one embodiment.
• FIG. 23 is a graph showing the continuous variation in light intensity over time with respect to a light of each player button, in accordance with another embodiment.
• FIG. 24 is a graph showing the continuous variation of light color over time with respect to a light of each player button, in accordance with yet another embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• An exemplary high-speed transport medium will be described in the context ofFIGS. 1-6, as one illustrative (but not limiting) example of a network. It should be noted, of course, that any desired network may be employed which is capable of any desired functionality.
• Still yet, in the figures subsequentFIG. 6, additional details will be described regarding an exemplary gaming machine, the features of which may or may not be used in the context of any other embodiment. Further, additional illustrative functional information will be set forth.
• Optional High-Speed Network Environment
• With reference toFIG. 1 of the illustrated embodiment, a casino environment back-end computer (BEC)10 is connected to a data collection unit (DCU)11 via en external high-speed communication link12 (e.g., Gigabit Ethernet, SONET, etc.). Further, the DCU11 is, in turn, connected to at least one system interface board (SIB)14 via a similar, or same, high-speed transport medium13.
• It is to be understood that the transport medium13 for any of the aforementioned connections [e.g. BEC/DCU, DCU/SIB, etc.] can be any of a number of different types (e.g. T-1 line, coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, wireless, and so on) and can support protocols and services such as Ethernet, Internet Protocol, asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), among any others desired.
• In the context of the present description, the DCU11 may include a server, personal computer, workstation, and/or any other type of computing device. Further, theDCU11 may be provided with one or more external transport medium connectors (e.g. acategory 5 twisted pair, power line interface, fiber optic link, coaxial cable, wireless, among any others desired). In accordance with one of many embodiments disclosed herein, a number of network-enabled devices may share one (or more) of the transport medium connectors. Network-enabling electronics may further be either built into or attached to theSIB14. This connection may provide access to the network via the DCU11.
• The DCU11 and the network-enabledSIBs14 operate in accordance with one embodiment to allow multiple multimedia devices (e.g. cameras, microphones, etc.), electronic gaming machines (EGMs), entertainment devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and/or any other network-enabled devices, etc., to, once initialized, communicate independently with respect to each other over the transport medium13. Of course, eachSIB14 may or may not be built into the associated network-enabled device. In use, the DCU11 and the network-enablingSIBs14 of the present embodiment may be advantageous because they are simple, reliable, scalable, and inexpensive.
• The DCU11 may be configured to be a stand-alone unit, but may also be interfaced to theBEC10 and/or other computer(s). The DCU11 may also perform various functions, such as the following: (1) establishing communication with connected network-enabled devices via theSIBs14; (2) assigning each newly connected network-enabled device a unique address (including a channel); and/or (3) processing and arbitrating data traffic. The DCU11 may further be in continuous communication with the network-enabled devices via theSIBs14.
• Similarly, the network-enabled devices are in continuous communication with the DCU11 via theSIBs14. Signaling between theDCU11 and the network-enabled devices may occur in frequency bands conforming to a frequency response of the transport medium13. The transport medium frequency spectrum may further be allocated to different information data types (e.g. voice, video, data, etc.).
• For example,FIG. 3 shows a frequency spectra example of the aforementioned, exemplary communication platforms. The DCU11 may transmit messages to the network-enabled devices via theSIBs14 on individual frequency channels, as indicated atitem30, shown in FIG3. TheDCU11 assigns an operational, or frequency, channel on the transport medium13 to each network-enabled device as indicated atitem30. TheDCU11 and the network-enabled devices may be further configured to coexist with other media, such as base-band video, etc.
• Network-enabling electronics may include small, inexpensive modules which may be built into eachSIB14, and/or any network-enabled device (camera, etc.) to provide an interface with the transport medium13. Such network interface may use common and inexpensive connectors (e.g. RJ-45 phone style jack forcategory 5 cabling, a fiber optic connector for optical networking, an antenna for wireless, etc.), or any other desired connectors, for that matter.
• Each fullydigital SIB14 may be configured with amicrocontroller15, converters16 [i.e. coder/decoder (CODEC)/analog-to-digital converter (ADC)/digital-to-analog converter (DAC)/universal asynchronous receiver/transceiver (UART), etc. for multimedia], a driver/receiver unit17, a frequency synthesizer and modulator-demodulator unit18 and/or associated support circuitry for timing19, power control, and so on.
• In use, the network-enabledSIB14 may perform the following optional functions (among others, if desired): (1) monitoring network-enabled device (e.g. EGM, etc.) activity (e.g. polling EGMs, accepting EGM output, etc.); (2) performing requests from the DCU11 (e.g. getting EGM meter readings, etc.); and/or (3) performing digital-to-analog and/or analog-to-digital conversions (DAC/ADC) as required for digital data/voice transmission, if configured as inFIG. 1.
• Data may modulate a carrier, which is transmitted to theDCU11. In a similar fashion, theDCU11 may modulate a corresponding carrier with data that is sent to one of theSIBs14. In one embodiment, the carrier may be used as the local oscillator in the driver/receiver unit17.
• Network-enabled device (e.g. EGM, etc.) data transmissions to and from the associated network-enabledSIB14 may be asynchronous using a UART. An associated data rate may be limited only by the baud rate of such network-enabled device. The network-enabledSIB14, in turn, may be connected directly to the transport medium13 via a transport medium connector. Likewise, theDCU11 inFIG. 1 may be connected directly to the transport medium13 via a transport medium connector.
• As shown inFIG. 1, theDCU11 may include a driver/receiver unit20, a multiple-frequency generator unit21 having a modulator/demodulator for each of the network-enabled devices and associatedSIBs14, and amulti-channel UART22, which may be provided using a field programmable gate array (FPGA).
• As stated previously, theDCU11 and network-enabledSIBS14 communicate over frequency channels within the frequency response range of the transport medium13 (e.g. 0-100 Mhz forcategory 5 cabling). These frequency channels may be useful for the embodiment inFIG. 1. Modulation techniques such as frequency shift keying (FSK), quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), pulse amplitude modulation (PAM), etc. may be used to maximize a bits/Hertz ratio, thereby maximizing the number of network-enabled devices and associatedSIBs14 that can be supported on a single link.
• FIG. 1 thus depicts components in theDCU11, and network-enabled devices interfaced via associatedSIBs14. As shown, the configuration inFIG. 1 provides for bi-directional communication between theDCU11 and each network-enabled device via the correspondingSIB14, in a digital format.
• FIG. 2, on the other hand, depicts another embodiment of theDCU11 andSIB14 which allows bi-directional communication in an analog format. With reference toFIG. 2, the network-enabled device and associatedSIB14′ are configured for analog transmissions (e.g. frequency modulation), as opposed to digital transmissions generated by the network-enabling device depicted inFIG. 1.FIG. 2 depicts the network-enabledSIB14′ to include a micro-controller15′, and a frequency synthesizer modulator/demodulator18′ that uses analog data (e.g. voice, video, etc.) to modulate a carrier. The modulated carrier may be demodulated and converted as necessary into digital data at and by theDCU11′.
• A combination of digital and analog transmissions may be implemented in network-enabling electronics as needed to enhance performance and/or decrease cost. Such resultant system would, in such embodiment, result in a merger of some component blocks mentioned herein above.
• As stated previously, theDCU11 may be provided with a plurality of data/communication media. For example, casino devices such as slot machines, EGMs, security cameras, hand-held PDA-type devices, etc., and any other controllable and/or information device may be connected to the transport medium13 within a casino, allowing information exchange between such devices.
• FIG. 4 illustrates a back-end server10 connected tomultiple DCUs11, where theDCUs11 have multiple network lines connected to non-adjacent network-enabledSIB14 clusters. With continuing reference toFIG. 4, theBEC10 is shown configured to interface with one or more DCU(s)11. The DCU(s) may manage both narrowband and/or broadband communications with various network-enabled devices viaSIBs14 connected to the transport medium13.
• An application example of a broadband requirement would involve having theBEC10 provided with a broadband communication link (e.g. a coaxial cable, DSL, and/or fiber optic cable) to receive information destined for a network-enabled device on a casino floor via satellite. TheBEC10 may be configured to communicate withdifferent DCUs11 through different transmission media [such as a hybrid fiber optic coaxial cable, radio frequency (RF) link, among others], and may use different signal protocols.
• With continued reference toFIG. 4, eachDCU11 may support multiple transport medium lines for (non-adjacent)SIB14 clusters. In this way,multiple DCUs11 do not have to be used, unless such a situation is desired.
• Thus, data may be multiplexed onto a single set of wires or similar medium, and may be potentially available for all devices connected to the medium.
• Using logic in or near the network-enabled devices and/or associatedSIB14, each device may decide whether it is the appropriate destination for incoming information. In a distributed embodiment, the transmission medium13 may be partitioned into a set of virtual links and, optionally, virtual command channels. The virtual command channels may carry switching protocols and be narrowband, as indicated inFIG. 5.FIG. 6 further illustrates a virtual link, in accordance with one embodiment.
• For device-device or BEC-device communication, a switching protocol may mark each connect request with various information such as the: (1) initiating device; (2) recipient identifier requirements; (3) progress information (e.g. request answered); and/or (5) any synchronization and/or arbitration information.
• An exemplary data routing sequence using the distributed processing method of the present embodiment will now be set forth. First, theBEC10 receives a request to play a table game from a legitimate Internet gambler. The request is routed to theDCU11, and a copy of the relevant information about the connection attaches a player identifier.
• Each network-enabled device and associatedSIB14 connected to the transport medium13 then examines the packet (being broadcast over a virtual command channel) using the enclosed connect information, to determine if it is an appropriate destination. If so, the device constructs a synchronization packet from the incoming player identifier and a unique device identifier, and transmits such synchronization packet on the virtual data channel. TheDCU11 receives the transmitted device identifier and sends a device connect packet back to theBEC10. This device connect packet may include the virtual link address where the connection may be made. When the device and associatedSIB14 is ready to connect, the device/SIB14 acknowledges by re-transmitting a synchronization packet. The device/SIB14 then may connect to the virtual link.
• In subsequent figures, additional details will be described regarding an exemplary gaming machine, the features of which may or may not be used in the context of the present embodiment. Further, additional illustrative functional information will be set forth. It is again strongly noted that the following information is set forth for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting in any manner.
• Additional Exemplary Options
• FIG. 7 illustrates agaming machine700 that may be utilized for providing user communication, in accordance with one embodiment. While not shown, thegaming machine700 may be coupled to othersimilar gaming machines700 via a network (not shown), for reasons that will soon become apparent.
• In one embodiment, such network may, optionally, take the form of the transport medium13 ofFIG. 1 or2, wherein thegaming machine700 includes an electronic gaming machine (EGM) that interfaces such transport medium13. Of course, however, thegaming machines700 may be interconnected via any desired network capable of allowing user communication.
• As shown, thegaming machine700 includes a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine700. Thegaming machine700 includes anexterior housing732 and a front face including a primary gaming machinemain display716, and abelly glass730.
• While thegaming machine700 is shown to include a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine700, it should be noted that thegaming machine700 may take the form of absolutely any game of chance. Thus, the present reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment is set forth for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. To this end, any (or none) of the following features of the reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment may be incorporated into the gaming machine, and still fall within the scope of the claims.
• As shown, the primary gaming machinemain display716 includeswindows714 each of which displays a single reel assembly of theslot gaming machine700.Horizontal pay lines718 span the windows and allow for a single winning combination. Themain display716 may, in one embodiment, include a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, etc., with a touch screen layer positioned over the display which may be used to allow user input in lieu of and/or in addition to mechanical manual control.
• Player buttons710,712, and724 are further provided between thebelly glass730 andmain display716 and allow the player to control operation of thegaming machine700 in combination with/instead of the associated touch screen. In addition, alever704 may be included on one side of theexterior housing732 to allow a player alternative control of thegaming machine700. Acoin acceptor706 and abill acceptor708 are provided near the play buttons as shown. Further, acoin tray726 is provided near the bottom ofslot gaming machine700 to collect coin pay outs from winning plays.
• Strictly as an option, asecondary gaming machine728 may be positioned on a top portion of thegaming machine700. Suchsecondary gaming machine728 may include any of the desired features set forth earlier during the description of themain display716.
• For reasons that will soon become apparent, thegaming machine700 may be equipped with amicrophone742 and one ormore cameras740 positioned at a height on thegaming machine700, such that at least a face of a user is directed thereinto, during use of thegaming machine700. Still yet,speakers702 are provided.
• In use, themicrophone742,camera740,speakers702, andmain display716 may be used by a user of thegaming machine700 to communicate with at least one other party. Such other party may include, but is not limited to another user(s), a concierge, a bartender, a cocktail waitress, and/or any other party with whom two-way communication is desired.
• While not shown, an alphanumeric keypad may also be provided for facilitating communication. Of course, such alphanumeric keypad may include a mechanical alphanumeric keypad, and/or a virtual alphanumeric keypad displayed via themain display716.
• Optionally, aseparate display744 may be positioned on thegaming machine700 for dedicated use during such two-way communication. Of course, both themain display716 and theseparate display744 may be used in combination (i.e. for two-way communication with multiple parties, etc.), as appropriate. This may be particularly beneficial when thegaming machine700 is not in play.
• As an additional option, video conferencing, real-time or near real-time game-related or non-game related gaming machine user interaction, as well as various other features beyond (and/or in addition to) mere security monitoring functions may be carried out utilizing thegaming machine700. Of course, non-real-time two-way communication may further be provided.
• In order to control the aforementioned two-way communication, acommunication control interface746 may be utilized. As an option, suchcommunication control interface746 may simply be displayed on the main display716 (or theseparate display744, if desired). In use, thecommunication control interface746 may be used for allowing a user to initiate the two-way communication, control with whom the two-way communication is initiated, as well as terminate two-way communication. For example, a plurality of buttons may be depicted on thecommunication control interface746, each corresponding to a concierge, a bartender, another user, a cocktail waitress, etc. for initiating communication therewith.
• As an option, the two-way communication may or may not be carried out during play of a game on thegaming machine700. For example, the game being played on thegaming machine700 may be continued during the two-way communication. In one embodiment, this may be accomplished by ensuring that theseparate display716 or only a portion of themain display716 is utilized for the two-way communication. Of course, only audible two-way communication may be allowed, as an option. To this end, service may be requested during play and/or two-way communication among gaming machine users may be allowed to enhance a multiple-user experience (e.g. allowing users to monitor each other's score, play, etc. and comment thereon in real-time, etc.). Still yet, in the alternative, the game may be paused, or at least a portion (e.g. audible portions, visual portions, etc.) be suppressed to accommodate the two-way communication.
• In one optional embodiment, to facilitate two-way communication with other gaming machine users, thegaming machine700 may be equipped with a gaming card reader/processor750. In such embodiment, a plurality of the gaming machine users are each provided withgaming cards752.Such gaming cards752 may include a player identifier and an account tracking identifier for tracking a monetary account associated with the player.
• It should be noted that, in the context of the present description, any substitute mechanism [i.e. biometric identifier and associated database, jewelry-mounted radio-frequency identifier (RFID), personal identifier number (PIN), etc.] may be used as a substitute for thegaming card752 and associated gaming card reader/processor750.
• As an option, for reasons that will soon be come apparent, thegaming card750 may include a plurality of additional player identifiers associated with the player identifier. One sample data structure that may be situated on eachgaming card750 is set forth in Table 1.

  TABLE 1
  		Associated Player
  Player Identifier	Account Information	Identifiers
  Player ID1	Player Balance	Player ID2
  	Player Credit	Player ID3
  	Player Local Residence	Player ID4

• This data structure may be established upon obtaining the card when the user first enters and/or re-enters a casino. For example, the user may arrive with a group (e.g. family, a party of friends, part of an organization attending a seminar, etc.), and may manually associate the other players of the group with his/her player identifier, as set forth in Table 1. Of course, this may be done automatically based on reservations, predetermined lists, etc. As a further option, a player may have multiple groups associated therewith. In such case, the user may have multiple lists of player identifiers each associated with a different group.
• To this end, in the present embodiment, a user may insert the associatedgaming card752 into the gaming card reader/processor750 of thecorresponding gaming machine700, during play, for allowing the user to communicate with players associated therewith by way of any one or more of the communication devices associated with thegaming machine700.
• More information associated with one exemplary embodiment of such specific two-way communication will be set forth inFIG. 8.
• FIG. 8 shows amethod800 for allowing communication between a gaming machine user and at least one other party, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, themethod800 may be implemented in the context of the architecture and environment of the previous figures. Of course, however, themethod800 may be carried out in any desired environment.
• Initially, inoperation802, at least one first user of a gaming machine is identified. As an option, this may be accomplished by reading a data structure (e.g. Table 1 hereinabove, etc.) from a gaming card associated with the first user positioned and playing at a first gaming machine. As a further option,such operation802 may include identifying a player identifier associated with the first user. Of course, any other available identifying technique may be used to accomplish this operation.
• Next, inoperation804, at least one other party is identified. Such other party may include, but is not limited to another gaming machine user (who may be identified similar to operation802), a concierge, a bartender, a cocktail waitress, and/or any other party who desires to communicate with the at least one user.
• To this end, communication may be provided between the at least one user and the at least one other party. Seeoperation806. Thus, communication is facilitated between a plurality of gaming machine users. Further, paging may be performed in a more personal manner by avoiding use of a public address system by paging a user directly at an associated gaming machine.
• Of course, the communication ofoperation806 may be initiated and controlled in any desired manner. For example, prior tooperation806, it may be determined whether the at least one user is authorized to communicate with the at least one other party. Further, such determination may be provided in any desired manner [i.e. reading a data structure (e.g. Table 1 hereinabove, etc.)]. Thus, the communication may be provided based on the foregoing determination.
• Further, communication may even be provided between more than two parties simultaneously. For instance, split-screens, etc. may be used to allow multiple users to simultaneously communicate from remote locations in the casino environment.
• Still yet, a “presence” of all other users associated therewith may be displayed by the gaming machine during play. To this end, each of the users may select with who communication is desired, from a set of available users.
• Even still, in combination with and/or instead of operation806 (in the context of an example where the at least one other party is a second gaming machine user), the first gaming machine may be located for the second gaming machine user. of course, the present embodiment may have numerous applications.
• Just by way of example, a map of all gaming machines (and an associated area of the casino or gaming environment) may be stored. Upon locating the gaming machine being used by the first user, a map may be presented (to the second user at the second gaming machine, for example), in order to thereby locate the first user. Since the location of the second user is also known, walking directions may also be provided. Thus, users may thus more easily locate each other (as well as communicate with each other), during use of the present embodiment.
• More illustrative information will now be set forth regarding various optional architectures and features with which the foregoing technique may or may not be implemented with the present embodiment, per the desires of the user. It should be strongly noted that the following information is set forth for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. Any of the following features (and previous, for that matter) may be optionally incorporated with or without the exclusion of other features described during the description of the present embodiment.
• Additional Exemplary Options
• FIG. 9 illustrates agaming machine9700 that may be utilized for providing user communication, in accordance with one embodiment. While not shown, thegaming machine9700 may be coupled to othersimilar gaming machines9700 via a network (not shown), for reasons that will soon become apparent.
• In one embodiment, such network may, optionally, take the form of the transport medium13 ofFIG. 1 or2, wherein thegaming machine9700 includes an electronic gaming machine (EGM) that interfaces such transport medium13. Of course, however, thegaming machines9700 may be interconnected via any desired network capable of allowing user communication.
• As shown, thegaming machine9700 includes a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine9700. Thegaming machine9700 includes anexterior housing9732 and a front face including a primary gaming machinemain display9716, and abelly glass9730.
• While thegaming machine9700 is shown to include a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine9700, it should be noted that thegaming machine9700 may take the form of absolutely any game of chance. Thus, the present reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment is set forth for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. To this end, any (or none) of the following features of the reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment may be incorporated into the gaming machine, and still fall within the scope of the claims.
• As shown, the primary gaming machinemain display9716 includeswindows9714 each of which displays a single reel assembly of theslot gaming machine9700.Horizontal pay lines9718 span the windows and allow for a single winning combination. Themain display9716 may, in one embodiment, include a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, etc., with a touch screen layer positioned over the display which may be used to allow user input in lieu of and/or in addition to mechanical manual control.
• Player buttons9710,9712, and9724 are further provided between thebelly glass9730 andmain display9716 and allow the player to control operation of thegaming machine9700 in combination with/instead of the associated touch screen. In addition, alever9704 may be included on one side of theexterior housing9732 to allow a player alternative control of thegaming machine9700. Acoin acceptor9706 and abill acceptor9708 are provided near the play buttons as shown. Further, acoin tray9726 is provided near the bottom ofslot gaming machine9700 to collect coin pay outs from winning plays.
• Strictly as an option, asecondary gaming machine9728 may be positioned on a top portion of thegaming machine9700. Suchsecondary gaming machine9728 may include any of the desired features set forth earlier during the description of themain display9716.
• For reasons that will soon become apparent, thegaming machine9700 may be equipped with amicrophone9742 and one ormore cameras9740 positioned at a height on thegaming machine9700, such that at least a face of a user is directed thereinto, during use of thegaming machine9700. Still yet,speakers9702 are provided.
• In use, themicrophone9742,camera9740,speakers9702, andmain display9716 may be used by a user of thegaming machine9700 to communicate with at least one other party. As mentioned previously, such other party may include, but it not limited to another user(s), a concierge, a bartender, a cocktail waitress, and/or any other party with whom two-way communication is desired.
• While not shown, an alphanumeric keypad may also be provided for facilitating communication. Of course, such alphanumeric keypad may include a mechanical alphanumeric keypad, and/or a virtual alphanumeric keypad displayed via themain display9716.
• Optionally, aseparate display9744 may be positioned on thegaming machine9700 for dedicated use during such two-way communication. Of course, both themain display9716 and theseparate display9744 may be used in combination (i.e. for two-way communication with multiple parties, etc.), as appropriate. This may be particularly beneficial when thegaming machine9700 is not in play.
• As an additional option, video conferencing, real-time or near real-time game-related or non-game related gaming machine user interaction, as well as various other features beyond (and/or in addition to) mere security monitoring functions may be carried out utilizing thegaming machine9700. Of course, non-real-time two-way communication may further be provided.
• In order to control the aforementioned two-way communication, acommunication control interface9746 may be utilized. As an option, suchcommunication control interface9746 may simply be displayed on the main display9716 (or theseparate display9744, if desired). In use, thecommunication control interface9746 may be used for allowing a user to initiate the two-way communication, control with whom the two-way communication is initiated, as well as terminate two-way communication. For example, a plurality of buttons may be depicted on thecommunication control interface9746, each corresponding to a concierge, a bartender, another user, a cocktail waitress, etc. for initiating communication therewith.
• As an option, the two-way communication may or may not be carried out during play of a game on thegaming machine9700. for example, the game being played on thegaming machine9700 may be continued during the two-way communication. In one embodiment, this may be accomplished by ensuring that theseparate display9716 or only a portion of themain display9716 is utilized for the two-way communication. Of course, only audible two-way communication may be allowed, as an option. To this end, service may be requested during play and/or two-way communication among gaming machine users may be allowed to enhance a multiple-user experience (e.g. allowing users to monitor each other's score play, etc. and comment thereon in real-time, etc.). Still yet, in the alternative, the game may be paused, or at least a portion (e.g. audible portions, visual portions, etc.) be suppressed to accommodate the two-way communication.
• In one optional embodiment, to facilitate two-way communication with other gaming machine users, thegaming machine9700 may be equipped with a gaming card reader/processor9750. In such embodiment, a plurality of the gaming machine users are each provided withgaming cards9752.Such gaming cards9752 may include a player identifier and an account tracking identifier for tracking a monetary account associated with the player.
• It should be noted that, in the context of the present description, any substitute mechanism [i.e. biometric identifier and associated database, jewelry-mounted radio-frequency identifier (RFID), personal identifier number (PIN), etc.] may be used as a substitute for thegaming card9752 and associated gaming card reader/processor9750.
• As an option, for reasons that will soon be come apparent, thegaming card9750 may include a plurality of additional player identifiers associated with the player identifier. One sample data structure that may be situated on eachgaming card9750 is set forth in Table 2.

  TABLE 2
  		Associated Player
  Player Identifier	Account Information	Identifiers
  Player ID1	Player Balance	Player ID2
  	Player Credit	Player ID3
  	Player Local Residence	Player ID4

• This data structure may be established upon obtaining the card when the user first enters and/or re-enters a casino. For example, the user may arrive with a group (e.g. family, a party of friends, part of an organization attending a seminar, etc.), and may manually associate the other players of the group with his/her player identifier, as set forth in Table 2. Of course, this may be done automatically based on reservations, predetermined lists, etc. As a further option, a player may have multiple groups associated therewith. In such case, the user may have multiple lists of player identifiers each associated with a different group.
• To this end, in the present embodiment, a user may insert the associatedgaming card9752 into the gaming card reader/processor9750 of thecorresponding gaming machine9700, during play, for allowing the user to communicate with players associated therewith by way of any one or more of the communication devices associated with thegaming machine9700.
• More information associated with one exemplary embodiment of such specific two-way communication will be set forth inFIG. 10.
• FIG. 10 shows a method10800 for allowing communication between a gaming machine user and at least one other party, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, the method10800 may be implemented in the context of the architecture and environment of the previous figures. Of course, however, the method10800 may be carried out in any desired environment.
• Initially, in operation10802, at least one first user of a gaming machine is identified. As an option, this may be accomplished by reading a data structure (e.g. Table 2 hereinabove, etc.) from a gaming card associated with the first user positioned and playing at a first gaming machine. As a further option, such operation10802 may include identifying a player identifier associated with the first user. Of course, any other available identifying technique may be used to accomplish this operation.
• Next, inoperation10804, at least one other party is identified. Such other party may include, but is not limited to another gaming machine user (who may be identified similar to operation10802), a concierge, a bartender, a cocktail waitress, and/or any other party who desires to communicate with the at least one user.
• To this end, communication may be provided between the at least one user and the at least one other party. See operation10806. Thus, communication is facilitated between a plurality of gaming machine users. Further, paging may be performed in a more personal manner by avoiding use of a public address system by paging a user directly at an associated gaming machine.
• Of course, the communication of operation10806 may be initiated and controlled in any desired manner. For example, prior to operation10806, it may be determined whether the at least one user is authorized to communicate with the at least one other party. Further, such determination may be provided in any desired manner [i.e. reading a data structure (e.g. Table 2 hereinabove, etc.)]. Thus, the communication may be provided based on the foregoing determination.
• Further, communication may even be provided between more than two parties simultaneously. For instance, split-screens, etc. may be used to allow multiple users to simultaneously communicate from remote locations in the casino environment.
• Still yet, a “presence” of all other users associated therewith may be displayed by the gaming machine during play. To this end, each of the users may select with whom communication is desired, from a set of available users.
• Even still, in combination with and/or instead of operation10806 (in the context of an example where the at least one other party is a second gaming machine user), the first gaming machine may be located for the second gaming machine user. Of course, the present embodiment may have numerous applications.
• Just by way of example, a map of all gaming machines (and an associated area of the casino or gaming environment) may be stored. Upon locating the gaming machine being used by the first user, a map may be presented (to the second user at the second gaming machine, for example), in order to thereby locate the first user. Since the location of the second user is also known, walking directions may also be provided. Thus, users may thus more easily locate each other (as well as communicate with each other), during use of the present embodiment.
• More illustrative information will now be set forth regarding various optional architectures and features with which the foregoing technique may or may not be implemented with the present embodiment, per the desires of the user. It should be strongly noted that the following information is set forth for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. Any of the following features (and previous, for that matter) may be optionally incorporated with or without the exclusion of other features described during the description of the present embodiment.
• Additional Exemplary Options
• FIG. 11 illustrates agaming machine network11700 configured in a tapped configuration. As shown, thegaming machine network11700 includes a plurality ofgaming machines11702 that are each coupled to aline11704.Such line11704 may optionally be configured in a single-ended, or a closed-loop configuration (see dashed lines), either of which communicate data to and from a back-end computer (e.g.BEC10 fromFIGS. 1 and 2, for example, etc.) via any desired interface. Coupling eachgaming machine11702 to theline11704 is abidirectional interface11706.
• In one embodiment,such line11704 may, optionally, take the form of the transport medium13 ofFIG. 1 et al. that supports proprietary physical and protocol information exchanges as well as multiple physical and data protocols (Ethernet, DSL, etc.). Of course, however, thegaming machines11702 may be interconnected via any desiredline11704 capable of providing a tapped configuration.
• FIG. 12 illustrates agaming machine network12800 configured in a daisy-chain configuration. As shown, thegaming machine network12800 includes a plurality ofgaming machines12802 that are each coupled to at least oneline12804.
• In one embodiment, thegaming machines12802 are serially coupled via a pair ofbidirectional lines12804 which communicate data to and from a back-end computer (e.g.BEC10 fromFIGS. 1 and 2, for example, etc.) via any desired interface. As an option, the wires associated with thebidirectional lines12804 may be contained in the same bundle.
• Again, in one embodiment, thebidirectional lines12804 may, optionally, take the form of the transport medium13 ofFIG. 1 et al. that supports proprietary physical and protocol information exchanges as well as multiple physical and data protocols (Ethernet, DSL, etc.). Of course, however, thegaming machines12802 may be interconnected via any desiredline12804 capable of providing a daisy-chain configuration.
• FIG. 13 illustrates agaming machine13900, in accordance with one embodiment. It should be noted that thepresent gaming machine13900 may or may not be used in the context of the previous figures. Most importantly, it should be understood that thepresent gaming machine13900 is set forth for illustrative purposes only, and should not be construed as limiting in any manner.
• As shown, thegaming machine13900 includes a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine13900. Thegaming machine13900 includes anexterior housing13932 and a front face including a primary gaming machinemain display13916, and abelly glass13930.
• While thegaming machine13900 is shown to include a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine13900, it should be noted that thegaming machine13900 may take the form of absolutely any game of chance. Thus, the present reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment is set forth for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. To this end, any (or none) of the following features of the reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment may be incorporated into the gaming machine, and still fall within the scope of the claims.
• As shown, the primary gaming machinemain display13916 includeswindows13914 each of which displays a single reel assembly of theslot gaming machine13900.Horizontal pay lines13918 span the windows and allow for a single winning combination. Themain display13916 includes a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, etc., with a touch screen layer positioned over the display which may be used to allow user input in lieu of mechanical manual control.
• Player buttons13910,13912, and13924 are further provided between thebelly glass13930 andmain display13916 and allow the player to control operation of thegaming machine13900 in combination with the associated touch screen. In addition, alever13904 may be included on one side of theexterior housing13932 to allow a player alternative control of thegaming machine13900. Acoin acceptor13906 and abill acceptor13908 are provided near the play buttons as shown. Further, acoin tray13926 is provided near the bottom ofslot gaming machine13900 to collect coin pay outs from winning plays.
• Strictly as an option, asecondary gaming machine13928 may be positioned on a top portion of thegaming machine13900. Suchsecondary gaming machine13928 may include any of the desired features set forth earlier during the description of themain display13916. Further, other optional features such asspeakers13902 may be included, as desired.
• More illustrative information will now be set forth regarding various optional architectures and features with which the foregoing technique may or may not be implemented with the present embodiment, per the desires of the user. It should be strongly noted that the following information is set forth for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. Any of the following features (and previous, for that matter) may be optionally incorporated with or without the exclusion of other features described during the description of the present embodiment.
• Additional Exemplary Options
• FIG. 14 illustrates agaming machine14700 that may be utilized for reconciling biometric information, and smart device and/or personal identifier information, in accordance with one embodiment. While not shown, thegaming machine14700 may optionally be coupled to othersimilar gaming machines14700 via a network (not shown).
• In one embodiment, such network may, optionally, take the form of the transport medium13 ofFIG. 1 or2, wherein thegaming machine14700 includes an electronic gaming machine that interfaces such transport medium13. Of course, however, thegaming machines14700 may be interconnected via any desired network capable of allowing network communication.
• As shown, thegaming machine14700 includes a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine14700. Thegaming machine14700 includes anexterior housing14732 and a front face including a primary gaming machinemain display14716, and abelly glass14730.
• While thegaming machine14700 is shown to include a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine14700, it should be noted that thegaming machine14700 may take the form of absolutely any game of chance. Thus, the present reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment is set forth for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. For example, a gaming-relate cash machine, a gaming-related registration machine, a table-game, etc. may incorporate any desired features of the present description for reconciling biometric information, and smart device and/or personal identifier information. To this end, any (or none) of the following features of the reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment may be incorporated into the gaming machine, and still fall within the scope of the claims.
• As shown, the primary gaming machinemain display14716 includeswindows14714 each of which displays a single reel assembly of theslot gaming machine14700.Horizontal pay lines14718 span the windows and allow for a single winning combination. Themain display14716 may, in one embodiment, include a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, etc., with a touch screen layer positioned over the display which may be used to allow user input in lieu of and/or in addition to mechanical manual control.
• Player buttons14710,14712, and14724 are further provided between thebelly glass14730 andmain display14716 and allow the player to control operation of thegaming machine14700 in combination with the associated touch screen. In addition, alever14704 may be included on one side of theexterior housing14732 to allow a player alternative control of thegaming machine14700. Acoin acceptor14706 and abill acceptor14708 are provided near the play buttons as shown. Further, acoin tray14726 is provided near the bottom ofslot gaming machine14700 to collect coin pay outs from winning plays.
• Strictly as an option, asecondary gaming machine14728 may be positioned on a top portion of thegaming machine14700. Suchsecondary gaming machine14728 may include any of the desired features set forth earlier during the description of themain display14716.
• As yet another option, thegaming machine14700 may be equipped with amicrophone14742 and acamera14740 positioned at a height on thegaming machine14700, such that at least a face of a user is directed thereinto, during use of thegaming machine14700. Still yet,speakers14702 may be provided. In use, themicrophone14742,camera14740,speakers14702, andmain display14716 may be used by a user of thegaming machine14700 to communicate with at least one other party.
• For example, such other party may include, but is not limited to another user(s), a concierge, a bartender, a cocktail waitress, and/or any other party with whom two-way communication is desired. As an additional option, video conferencing, real-time or near real-time game-related or non-game related gaming machine user interaction, as well as various other features may be carried out utilizing thegaming machine14700.
• In order to control the aforementioned two-way communication, acommunication control interface14746 may be utilized. Suchcommunication control interface14746 may simply be displayed on themain display14716. In use, thecommunication control interface14746 may be used for allowing a user to initiate the two-way communication, control with whom the two-way communication is initiated, as well as terminate two-way communication. For example, a plurality of buttons may be depicted on thecommunication control interface14746, each corresponding to a concierge, a bartender, a cocktail waitress, etc. for initiating communication therewith.
• In another embodiment, thegaming machine14700 may be equipped with a smart device reader/processor14750. In such embodiment, a plurality of the gaming machine users are each provided with asmart device14752. Suchsmart device14752 may include a player identifier and an account tracking identifier for tracking an account associated with the player, where the account is capable of accounting for available funds as well as accumulated awards. As an option, thesmart device14752 may include a plurality of additional player identifiers associated with the player identifier, for facilitating the aforementioned communication between associated gaming machine users.
• For reasons that will soon become apparent, in one embodiment, thesmart device14752 may further include smart device information in the form of a biometric identifier associated with the appropriate owner of thesmart device14752. Such biometric identifier may include any information relating to any biological aspect (e.g. fingerprint, retina, iris, DNA, etc.) associated with the gaming machine user.
• It should be further noted that, in the context of the present description, any mechanism (i.e. smart card, jewelry-mounted radio-frequency identifier, etc.) may be used as thesmart device14752.
• In yet another embodiment, the smart device reader/processor14750 may be excluded in favor of and/or supplemented with a personal identification number (PIN) input device/processor. To this end, a physical smart device may not be required, and a user need only memorize an identifier capable of being input by any desired input device (e.g. keypad, keyboard, etc.).
• Further provided is abiometric identifier module14760 positioned at an appropriate location on thegaming machine14700, for receiving biometric information from the user. As an option, thebiometric identifier module14760 may be positioned at eye-level for receiving retina and/or iris information, at waist-level for receiving fingerprint information, etc.
• To this end, in the present embodiment, a user may insert the associatedsmart device14752 into the smart device reader/processor14750 of thecorresponding gaming machine14700 for receiving smart device information and the appropriate biometric identifier. Further, the user may engage thebiometric identifier module14760 so that the biometric information of the user may be received.
• In use, such received biometric information and smart device information (e.g. biometric identifier, etc.) are then reconciled, so that the user may be conditionally allowed to use the gaming machine, based on the reconciliation. Such reconciliation may involve any desired processing that determines whether the biometric information and smart device information identify the same gaming machine user or group of users.
• In one embodiment, such processing may be carried out utilizing a processor (not shown) located at thegaming machine14700, which is, in turn, coupled to thebiometric identifier module14760 and the smart device reader/processor14750. It should be noted that any of the foregoing components may be located at thegaming machine14700 and/or at a server [in a network environment (e.g. see environment ofFIGS. 1-2, etc.)]. Of course, the aforementioned components and/or information may be distributed in any desired manner.
• More exemplary details associated with one optional embodiment of the aforementioned reconciliation will now be set forth inFIG. 15.
• FIG. 15 shows amethod15800 for reconciling received biometric information, and smart device information and/or personal identifier information, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, themethod15800 may be implemented in the context of the architecture and environment of the previous figures. Of course, however, themethod15800 may be carried out in any desired environment.
• Initially, in operations15802-15804, biometric information, and smart device and/or personal identifier information are received from a gaming machine user.
• Again, in the context of the present description, such biometric information may include any information relating to any biological aspect (e.g. fingerprint, retina, iris, DNA, etc.) associated with the gaming machine user. Still yet, the smart device information may include any information that identifies the gaming machine user utilizing a device including, but not limited to a card, RFID device, jewelry, ornament, pin and/or any other device capable of storing the identifying information. As an option, such identifying information may include a biometric identifier. Of course, the personal identifier information (e.g. PIN number, etc.) may be received, which is associated with the biometric identifier.
• Next, in decision15805, such received biometric information, and smart device and/or personal identifier information are then reconciled. This may be accomplished in any desired manner. For example, the biometric identifier of the smart device or associated with the personal identifier information may simply be compared with the biometric information.
• While one technique of carrying out decision15805 is set forth above, it should be noted that any processing may be used that determines whether the biometric information, and smart device and/or personal identifier information identify the same gaming machine user or group of users. For example, the smart device information may simply include a player identifier that is used to look-up a biometric identifier in a local and/or remote database, which is then, in turn, compared to the biometric information received from the user.
• Next, inoperation15806, use of the gaming machine (and/or any gaming-related transaction, for the matter) is then conditionally allowed based on the reconciliation. To this end, a more secure technique is provided for authenticating gaming machine users. Thus, a true cashless gaming environment may be established.
• Numerous ancillary applications may be used in combination with the present embodiment. For example, since a location of a user may be verified upon a user entering their smart device information and/or personal identifier information, communication between associated users may be established via a speaker, display, camera, microphone, etc. Further, paging may be performed in a more personal manner by avoiding use of a public address system by paging a user directly at an associated gaming machine.
• An example of use in the context of themethod15800 ofFIG. 15 will now be set forth. It should be noted that such example is set forth for illustrative purposes only, and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. During registration at a gaming establishment or the like, biometric information may be collected and stored on a smart device in the form of the aforementioned biometric identifier, along with any other information of interest or need (e.g. user name, account information, etc.). This biometric information may also be secured on a server computer. Encryption may optionally be used to further secure the biometric information.
• In use, a user may contribute money to their account for use during play of one or more gaming machines. This amount may be stored and tracked utilizing a server computer of an establishment. In order to play a gaming machine and/or initiating a gaming-related transaction, the user may insert or assert the smart device (e.g. at a game verification unit, etc.), and submit their biometric information.
• Such information is then compared for reconciliation purposes. A match may enable play, and the user may wager against their account tracked on the server computer. Whether or not the user is verified, some user information may be sent back to the server at the time of verification.
• To this end, a user does not have to wait for verification. Further, low-cost verification typically runs 1 error in 100,000 against a database. In the present embodiment, one needs only to verify against one card (i.e. one-to-one). Further, a lost smart device has no value, and credits may be held on a server computer.
• More illustrative information will now be set forth regarding various optional architectures and features with which the foregoing technique may or may not be implemented with the present embodiment, per the desires of the user. It should be strongly noted that the following information is set forth for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. Any of the following features (and previous, for that matter) may be optionally incorporated with or without the exclusion of other features described during the description of the present embodiment.
• Additional Exemplary Options
• FIG. 16 illustrates agaming machine16700, in accordance with one embodiment. It should be noted that thepresent gaming machine16700 may or may not be used in the context of the previous figures. Most importantly, it should be understood that thepresent gaming machine16700 is set forth for illustrative purposes only, and should not be construed as limiting in any manner.
• As shown, thegaming machine16700 includes a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine16700. Thegaming machine16700 includes anexterior housing16732 and a front face including a primary gaming machinemain display16716, and abelly glass16730.
• While thegaming machine16700 is shown to include a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine16700, it should be noted that thegaming machine16700 may take the form of absolutely any game of chance. Thus, the present reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment is set forth for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. To this end, any (or none) of the following features of the reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment may be incorporated into the gaming machine, and still fall within the scope of the claims.
• As shown, the primary gaming machinemain display16716 includeswindows16714 each of which displays a single reel assembly of theslot gaming machine16700.Horizontal pay lines16718 span the windows and allow for a single winning combination. Themain display16716 may, in one embodiment, include a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, etc., with a touch screen layer positioned over the display which may be used to allow user input in lieu of manual control.
• Player buttons16710,16712, and16724 are further provided between thebelly glass16730 andmain display16716 and allow the player to control operation of thegaming machine16700 in combination with the associated touch screen. In addition, alever16704 may be included on one side of theexterior housing16732 to allow a player alternative control of thegaming machine16700. Acoin acceptor16706 and abill acceptor16708 are provided near the play buttons as shown. Further, acoin tray16726 is provided near the bottom ofslot gaming machine16700 to collect coin pay outs from winning plays.
• Strictly as an option, asecondary gaming machine16728 may be positioned on a top portion of thegaming machine16700. Suchsecondary gaming machine16728 may include any of the desired features set forth earlier during the description of themain display16716. Further, other optional features such asspeakers16702 may be included, as desired.
• With continuing reference toFIG. 16, agaming machine candle16770 is shown to be vertically mounted to an apex of thesecondary gaming machine16728 of thegaming machine16700. As mentioned previously, however, the candle may include anything mounted on or in the vicinity of a top portion of the gaming machine, where the candle is capable of displaying different indicators (e.g. lights, colors, combinations thereof, etc.) to indicate a mode of use in which the associated gaming machine is current operating. More information will be set forth hereinafter regarding one exemplarygaming machine candle16770 during reference toFIG. 17.
• While not shown, thegaming machine16700 may optionally be coupled to othersimilar gaming machines16700 via a network (not shown), for reasons that will soon become apparent. In one embodiment, such network may, optionally, take the form of the transport medium13 ofFIG. 1 or2, wherein thegaming machine16700 includes an electronic gaming machine that interfaces such transport medium13. Of course, however, thegaming machines16700 may be interconnected via any desired network capable of allowing network communication.
• In use, a status of a gaming machine may be identified. Such status may relate to an aspect of gaming such as a jurisdictional requirement, a cashless gaming mode, and/or an enhanced entertainment experience mode. Further, the status may be identified utilizing a local controller, etc. that may be adjusted manually and/or automatically in a local matter. In yet another embodiment, the status may be identified utilizing a server computer, etc. that may be used to adjust the status of the machine via the aforementioned network.
• To this end, such status of the gaming machine is indicated by the gaming machine candle. Further, in the network-enabled environment embodiment, the candles of a plurality of gaming machines may be controlled via the network by a remote administrator. Still yet, a status of the gaming machine candle may be monitored from afar. Just by way of example, a gaming machine candle failure may be communicated from the gaming machine to the server computer and/or a remote administrator, in order to initiate a prompt repair.
• Even still, in the network-enabled environment embodiment, sequential gaming machine candle firing (i.e. similar to a “wave” at football games, etc.) may be initiated by a server computer. Also, multi-player and/or multi-player-bonus play may be indicated by candle color, candle light chasing, and/or light popping.
• FIG. 17 is a cross-section of line8-8 shown inFIG. 16, showing an exemplarygaming machine candle16770, in accordance with one embodiment. As an option, thegaming machine candle16770 may be constructed with ahousing17800 having atop portion17802 and alower portion17804. Of course, while two portions are shown inFIG. 17, it should be noted that any number of portions (1-n) may be included. Just by way of example, additional portions of thegaming machine candle16770 may be used to indicate machine conditions.
• Further included is at least one light17806 mounted in each portion of thegaming machine candle16770. While an incandescent light may be utilized in various embodiments, it should be noted that a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) may be used to improve operability and life expectancy. In one embodiment, the LEDs may include multi-colored LEDs each capable of illuminating with a plurality of colors.
• For example, tri-color LEDs may be driven to display four denomination colors, and may also display any other colors that may be required. For instance, a color may be designated to indicate a machine is multi-denominational before play. Further, the LEDs may be programmed to “pop” (i.e. as opposed to blinking, etc.), as well as other lighting features (i.e. color fade, color change, etc.) to further enhance a machine attract mode, a bonus mode, etc.
• With continuing reference toFIG. 17, the at least one light17806 may, in turn, be coupled to a controller/driver17810 which may reside in thehousing17800 and/or elsewhere in thegaming machine16700. Further, in a network-enabled environment embodiment, the controller/driver17810 may be located at a central server and/or may be coupled thereto via a network, as shown.
• In use, the controller/driver17810 may be adapted to receiving control signals for controlling the at least one light17806 of each portion to indicate a current play denomination, a machine condition code, an attract mode, etc. Still yet, the controller/driver17810 may provide status information (i.e. failure information, etc.), in order to provide a local and/or remote indication of the same.
• Thus, cashless gaming environments (as well as traditional environments) are more effectively served with gaming machine candles that may be changed “on the fly”. It should be noted that, in a cashless gaming environment, change service would not necessarily be required, thus eliminating the need for a top change (white) portion of the candle. Of course, however, such top portion of the candle may still be used as a general purpose service call light, etc.
• More illustrative information will now be set forth regarding various optional architectures and features with which the foregoing technique may or may not be implemented with the present embodiment, per the desires of the user. It should be strongly noted that the following information is set forth for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. Any of the following features (and previous, for that matter) may be optionally incorporated with or without the exclusion of other features described during the description of the present embodiment.
• Additional Exemplary Options
• FIG. 18 illustrates a centralizedgame board architecture18700, in accordance with one embodiment. Such centralizedgame board architecture18700 may, in one embodiment, be implemented in the context of the network architecture of the previous features. Of course, however, the centralizedgame board architecture18700 may be implemented in any desired context.
• As shown, a plurality of gaming clients18702 (e.g. see EGMs inFIGS. 1-2, etc., for example) are provided. In the context of the present description, eachgaming client18702 includes at least a display and at least one input device. While, in one embodiment, eachgaming client18702 includes only a display and at least one input device (along with the necessary interface(s)), it should be noted that additional componentry may be included (even some processing and/or storage capabilities, etc.), as desired. As an option, thegaming clients18702 may be positioned on a casino floor, hotel room, arcade room, etc.
• Further included is acentralized repository18704 ofcomputer processing units18706. Each of thecomputer processing units18706 is connected to at least one of thegame clients18702 for executing a gaming application for play be a user utilizing thegaming client18702, via a network18703 (e.g. see transport medium13 inFIGS. 1-2, etc., for example). In one embodiment, each of thecomputer processing units18706 is dedicated to one of thegame clients18702, in a one-to-one exclusive relationship. As a further option, the network may include a daisy chain, a tapped configuration, star-type, and/or any other configuration and/or protocol (e.g. Ethernet, Internet, etc.) that is desired.
• In one embodiment, thecentralized repository18704 is located in a centralized location separate from thegaming clients18702. Further,centralized repository18704 may include arack18708 for stacking computer boards associated with thecomputer processing units18706 in an organized manner.Such rack18708 may further include interfaces for interfacing thecomputer processing units18706 with other components in communication therewith. Still yet, therack18708 may be situated in an impenetrable housing with a security door or the like, to prevent access to thecomputer processing units18706 and associated componentry.
• At yet another option, thecomputer processing units18706 may be further in communication with aserver computer18710 via thenetwork18703 and/or any other desired network, for the matter. In one embodiment, in the context of the architecture ofFIGS. 1-2, etc., theserver computer18710 may take the form of theDCU11 and/or back-end server10. Of course, however, any desiredserver computer18710 may be utilized, which communicates with thecomputer processing units18706, as desired.
• By positioning thecomputer processing units18706 associated with thegaming clients18702 in thecentralized repository18704, access thereto (and the information stored therein) is limited. Enhanced security is thereby provided.
• More illustrative information will now be set forth regarding various optional architectures and features with which the aforementionedcomputer processing units18706 and associated board, architecture, etc. may or may not be implemented, per the desires of the user. It should be strongly noted that the following information is set forth for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. Any of the following features may be optionally incorporated with or without the exclusion of other features described.
• FIG. 19 illustrates one exemplary central processing unit19800 and associated game board, in accordance with another embodiment. Such exemplary central processing unit19800 may, in one embodiment, be implemented in the context of the previouscomputer processing units18706 ofFIG. 18. Of course, however, the exemplary central processing unit19800 may be implemented in any desired context.
• As shown, the central processing unit19800 is mounted on agame board19801 and includes acontroller19802. Thecontroller19802 is further connected to a display19804 (and optionally a secondary display19806) mounted in a corresponding gaming client (e.g. seegaming client18702 inFIG. 18, etc., for example). This connection may be facilitated via at least one video-to-VGA module19807 that is also mounted on thegame board19801. In use, at least oneHDTV channel demodulator19809 interfaces the video-to-VGA module(s)19807,controller19802, and a network (e.g. see transport medium13 inFIGS. 1-2, etc., for example).
• With continuing reference toFIG. 19, a power amplifier19827 and AC/DC power supply19829 are further mounted in the associated gaming client. Such power amplifier19827 and AC/DC power supply19829 interface a left/right audio module19831 and power conversion/distribution module19833, as shown. The left/right audio module19831, in turn, interfaces at least one of theHDTV channel demodulators19809 for feeding audio to the corresponding gaming client.
• Further, thecontroller19802 may also be coupled to various additional input/output devices mounted in the corresponding gaming client including, but not limited to a hard meter19808, ahopper19810, a biometric sensor and/or smart card reader19812 (for player authentication), buttons and lamps19814, bill validator19816, candle19818, coin mechanism19820, progressive displayplayer tracking mechanism19822, auxiliary lighting device19824, anddoor controller19826. Thecontroller19802 may further interface such input/output devices to a server computer via a channeledinformation modulator19828.
• FIG. 20 illustrates agaming machine20900, in accordance with one embodiment. It should be noted that thepresent gaming machine20900 may or may not be used in the context of the previous figures (e.g. seegaming client18702 inFIG. 18, etc., for example). Most importantly, it should be understood that thepresent gaming machine20900 is set forth for illustrative purposes only, and should not be construed as limiting in any manner.
• As shown, thegaming machine20900 includes a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine20900. Thegaming machine20900 includes anexterior housing20932 and a front face including a primary gaming machinemain display20916, and abelly glass20930.
• While thegaming machine20900 is shown to include a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine20900, it should be noted that thegaming machine20900 may take the form of absolutely any game of chance. Thus, the present reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment is set forth for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. To this end, any (or none) of the following features of the reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment may be incorporated into the gaming machine, and still fall within the scope of the claims.
• As shown, the primary gaming machinemain display20916 includeswindows20914 each of which displays a single reel assembly of theslot gaming machine20900.Horizontal pay lines20918 span the windows and allow for a single winning combination. Themain display20916 may, in one embodiment, include a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, etc., with a touch screen layer positioned over the display which may be used to allow user input in lieu of manual control.
• Player buttons20910,20912, and20924 are further provided between thebelly glass20930 andmain display20916 and allow the player to control operation of thegaming machine20900 in combination with the associated touch screen. In addition, alever20904 may be included on one side of theexterior housing20932 to allow a player alternative control of thegaming machine20900. Acoin acceptor20906 and abill acceptor20908 are provided near the play buttons as shown. Further, acoin tray20926 is provided near the bottom ofslot gaming machine20900 to collect coin pay outs from winning plays.
• Strictly a san option, asecondary gaming machine20928 may be positioned on a top portion of thegaming machine20900. Suchsecondary gaming machine20928 may include any of the desired features set forth earlier during the description of themain display20916. Further, other optional features such asspeakers20902 may be included, as desired, along with the various input/output devices discussed hereinabove in the context ofFIG. 19.
• Thus, whereas prior art gaming device operation has gaming logic contained within a gaming client and any networking takes place over RS-xxx or Ethernet connections, the present system, in accordance with one embodiment, may have the game logic located remote from the associated gaming client, with game and user information (e.g. audio, video, data, etc.) exchanges taking place over a network.
• Enhanced security is thus provided along with convenient game changes, an inexpensive server for competitive and/or cooperative gaming, high scalability, easy service and support, wide and inexpensive bandwidth, etc. Further, built-in repeaters may be provided for long medium lengths, and redundant data traffic on opposing data flows.
• FIG. 21 illustrates agaming machine21200, in accordance with one embodiment. As show, thegaming machine21200 includes a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine21200. It includes anexterior housing21232 and a front face including a gaming machinemain display21216, and abelly glass21230.
• Thegaming machine21200 includes a conventional reel-typeslot gaming machine21200. It should be noted, however, that thegaming machine21200 may take the form of absolutely any game of chance. Thus, gaming machine, in the context of the present description, may refer to slot machines, automatic roulettes, blackjack, and/or any type of game of chance.
• Thus, the present reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment is set forth for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting in any manner. To this end, any (or none) of the features of the present reel-type slot gaming machine embodiment may be incorporated into the gaming machine, and still fall within the scope of the claims.
• As shown, the gaming machinemain display21216 includeswindows21214 each of which displays a single reel assembly of theslot gaming machine21200.Horizontal pay lines21218 span the windows and allow for a single winning combination. Themain display21216 includes a cathode ray tube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), etc., with an optional touch screen layer positioned over the display which may be used to allow user input in lieu of and/or in combination with mechanical control.
• For mechanical control,player buttons21210,21212, and21224 are provided between thebelly glass21230 andmain display21216 and allow the player to control operation of thegaming machine21200. In addition, alever21204 may be included on one side of theexterior housing21232 to allow a player alternative control of thegaming machine21200. Acoin acceptor21206 and abill acceptor21208 are further provided near the play buttons, as shown. Finally, acoin tray21226 is provided near the bottom ofslot gaming machine21200 to collect coin pay outs from winning plays. Other options may includespeakers21202, etc. to enhance play.
• FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along line3-3 ofFIG. 21, showing theplayer buttons21210,21212, and21224 and associated lights22306, in accordance with one embodiment. Again, thepresent buttons21210,21212, and21224 and associated lights22306 may be implemented in the context of thegaming machine21200 ofFIG. 21 or, in other embodiments, implemented in any desired context.
• As shown, theplayer buttons21210,21212, and21224 each include a light22306 capable of emitting light. In one embodiment, the light may include a light emitting diode (LED), LED-alternatives such an electroluminescent light, incandescent light, etc. and/or any other type of light capable of emitting light. It should further be noted that the lights22306 may take the form of single-colored, multiple-colored, and/or colorless lights22306. Still yet, theplayer buttons21210,21212, and21224 may each include multiple lights. Thus, the use of a single light associated with each player button, in the manner shown inFIG. 22, should not be construed as limiting in any way.
• With continuing reference toFIG. 22, theplayer buttons21210,21212, and21224 (and the associated lights22306) are shown to be coupled to a controller22304 (i.e. a computer, microprocessor, integrated circuit, circuit board, button board, analog or digital circuitry, and/or any desired type of logic or the like) for controlling the lights22306 such that at least one aspect of the lights22306 is modulated.
• In the context of the present description, the at least one aspect of the lights22306 that is modulated may include intensity, color, and/or any other aspect capable of being modulated. Further, such modulation, in the present description, may refer to any modulating, changing, altering, varying, adjusting, etc. of the at least one aspect.
• Optionally, the light intensity may be controlled by way of pulse-width modulation techniques, which are capable of controlling the brightness of LED's. Further, in another embodiment, analog to digital (A/D) converter technology may be utilized in the present context. Of course any technique may be used that is capable of controlling the intensity, brightness, color, or any other aspect of the light.
• To this end, more attractive and functionallysuperior player buttons21210,21212, and21224 (and associated lights22306) are provided. More information on optional features associated with the aforementioned lights22306 will now be set forth. Such additional details are set forth for illustrative purposes only, and should not be construed as limiting in any manner.
• FIG. 23 is a graph showing the continuous variation in light intensity over time with respect to a light (e.g. light22306 ofFIG. 22, etc.) of each player button (e.g. player button22210,22212,22224 ofFIG. 22, etc.), in accordance with another embodiment. The light associated with each player button is capable of varying inintensity23402 astime23404 progresses. As shown, the light intensity may change at a constant rate, such that the change in intensity is gradual. Of course, the light intensity may change at any rate, or may not even change at all.
• Further, theintensity23402 of the light is capable of changing by increasing to amaximum intensity23406 and then decreasing to aminimum intensity23408 in a continuous, cyclical (i.e. sinusoidal, etc.) manner. Still yet, the intensity of the light associated with each layer button may change individually or collectively with the other player buttons.
• For example, the intensity variations may be random and uncoordinated for each player button. In the alternative, such intensity variations may be synchronized so that the intensity of each player bottom top and bottom out at the same time. The intensity variations may even be a predetermined amount out-of-phase, in order to provide a “rippling” effect among the player buttons. Just by way of example, the intensities may be 60 degrees out-of-phase among three player buttons, in order to maximize this effect.
• These options allow for a continuous pattern of change in light intensity that is attractive to prospective players of the gaming machine. More information on optional techniques of color modulation will now be set forth. Such additional details may or may not be used in conjunction with the foregoing intensity modulation. Further, it should be noted the foregoing intensity-related features may be applied in the context of color. In a similar manner, the following color-related features may used to modulate intensity in the manner described.
• FIG. 24 is a graph showing the continuous variation of light color over time with respect to a light (e.g. light22306 ofFIG. 22, etc.) of each player button (e.g. player button22210,22212,22224 ofFIG. 22, etc.), in accordance with yet another embodiment. As shown, the light associated with each player button is capable of changing color as time progresses.
• In particular, in one embodiment, the light associated with each player button may change from red24504 to blue24506 to green24508 as time progresses, in a continuous manner. As shown inFIG. 24, each of three player buttons may show a different color (i.e. red, green, blue) at each instant in time. Further, the change from each color to the next may either be abrupt (i.e. instantly), or gradual (i.e. in a sinusoidal, etc.).
• Of course, it should be understood that any pattern of color change, or even no color change may be used with respect to each of the player buttons.
• As an option, the color and intensity variations may be either independently or dependently modulated. For example, any color changes (i.e. from one color to the next, etc.) may occur when the intensity of the associated button is at a lowest level.
• As yet another option, the foregoing color and/or intensity modulation may operate in first mode when the corresponding gaming machine is not in use. In such first mode, any of the foregoing modulations may occur in an automatic manner to attract play.
• The color and/or intensity modulation may also operate in a second mode, during play of the gaming machine by a user. In the second mode, the color and/or intensity modulation may vary as a function of player input and any win accomplished on the gaming machine, in order to maintain play. For example, upon depression of one of the player buttons, such button may peak in intensity and/or change color, and/or may even deviate from coordination with respect to the remaining player buttons. Further, there may be a special third more, whereby the lights modulate in a specific manner to indicate a win.
• Again, it should be strongly noted that the various features of all of the embodiments set forth herein may or may not be combined, per the desires of the user.
• While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of a preferred embodiment should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims (20)

1. A centralized gaming system, comprising:

a plurality of gaming clients each including a display and at least one input device; and

a centralized repository of computer processing units, each of the computer processing units connected to at least one of the gaming clients for executing a gaming application for play by a user utilizing the at least one of the gaming clients.

2. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 1, wherein the gaming clients include electronic gaming machines.

3. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 1, wherein the gaming clients include processing capabilities.

4. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 1, wherein the gaming clients include storage capabilities.

5. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 1, wherein each of the computer processing units is connected to at least one of the gaming clients via a network.

6. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 5, wherein the network utilizes a wireless transport medium.

7. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 5, wherein the network utilizes a fiber optic cable transport medium.

8. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 5, wherein the network includes a daisy chain configuration of the gaming clients.

9. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 5, wherein the network includes a tapped configuration of the gaming clients.

10. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 5, wherein the network includes a star-type network.

11. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 5, wherein the network utilizes an Internet protocol.

12. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 1, wherein each of the computer processing units is dedicated to only one of the gaming clients.

13. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 1, wherein the centralized repository is located separate from the gaming clients.

14. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 1, wherein the centralized repository includes a rack for stacking computer boards associated with the computer processing units.

15. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 14, wherein the rack includes a plurality of interfaces for interfacing the computer processing units.

16. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 14, wherein the rack is situated in an impenetrable housing with a security door for preventing access to the computer processing units.

17. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 1, wherein the computer processing units are in communication with a server computer via a network.

18. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 1, wherein the server computer includes a back-end server.

19. The centralized gaming system ofclaim 1, wherein the centralized repository limits access to the computer processing units.

20. A centralized gaming method, comprising:

connecting a gaming client to a computer processing unit in a central repository over a network; and

executing a gaming application for play by a user utilizing the computer processing unit and the gaming client.

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