30th week of 2012 patent applcation highlights part 45 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20120190391 | PHYSICAL LAYER SIGNALING TO USER EQUIPMENT IN A WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A method of wireless communication includes receiving physical layer signaling from a serving eNodeB in a wireless network. Interference estimation, interference cancellation and/or spatial equalization of user equipment is controlled in accordance with the received signaling. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190392 | MOBILE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, BASE STATION, NETWORK DEVICE, AND CONTROL METHOD AND PROGRAM THEREOF - In order to reduce interference to a macro user equipment by easily selecting a home cell serving as the source of interference to the macro user equipment and adjusting a transmission power or the like, a plurality of base stations ( | 2012-07-26 |
20120190393 | RADIO BASE STATION, MOBILE STATION, AND MEASUREMENT METHOD - A radio base station eNB according to the present invention includes: a PRS transmission unit | 2012-07-26 |
20120190394 | CONTROL INFORMATION TRANSMISSION AND RECEIVING METHOD FOR GROUP COMMUNICATION IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - The present invention relates to a method for transmitting and receiving control information for group communications in a wireless communication system. According to one aspect of the present invention, a control information transmission method for group communication in a wireless communication system comprises the steps of, a base station: receiving a group communication request from one or more terminals; determining a plurality of terminals which will perform the group communication; allocating resources which are to be used for performing the group communication; and transmitting information on the plurality of terminals and resource allocation information on the resources which are to be used, to the one or more terminals among the plurality of terminals. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190395 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONFIGURING DOWNLINK SCHEDULING INFORMATION - A method and apparatus for configuring downlink scheduling information are used to control times of blind detection in multi-carrier system. The method includes that: a downlink carrier set and an uplink carrier set are allocated to a terminal which sends a service request; according to the bandwidth information of each carrier of the system, obtained terminal type information, currently received channel quality information fed back from the terminal, transmission modes which are allocated to each member carrier in the downlink carrier set and the uplink carrier set and determined carrier scheduling modes of the terminal, at least one member carrier in the downlink carrier set is selected as a member carrier of Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) activation carrier set; the times of PDCCH blind detection can not exceed the each sub frame maximum blind detection times supported by the terminal in the terminal type information, wherein the PDCCH blind detection is used for uplink and downlink scheduling, and the PDCCH activation carrier set is used to be provided for the terminal to perform the PDCCH blind detection. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190396 | RADIO BASE STATION AND ANTENNA WEIGHT SETTING METHOD - A radio base station which includes an antenna and adjusts directivity of a radio wave to be transmitted and received by antenna weight of the antenna, the radio base station includes a receiver which receives a first reference signal from a first mobile terminal and a second reference signal from a second mobile terminal and a processer which produces antenna weight which is based on the first and the second reference signals, to the antenna for sending a common data to the first and the second mobile terminals. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190397 | METHOD FOR TRANSMITTING SIGNAL IN MACHINE TO MACHINE COMMUNICATION - A method of relaying a base station that operates as a relay link in order for a first base station to communicate with a second base station that is connected to backhaul includes: forming, by the first base station, a relay station with the second base station; and starting, by the first base station, a relay mode. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190398 | Usage of antenna for power adjustment - A method is disclosed including, using a measurement antenna in a wireless device, determining whether a user is proximate the wireless device at least by transmitting a signal using the measurement antenna; in response to a determination the user is not proximate the wireless device, transmitting the signal using a main antenna at a normal transmit power; and in response to a determination the user is proximate the wireless device, transmitting the signal using the main antenna at a limited transmit power. Another method includes in response to a determination a user is not proximate a wireless device, transmitting a signal using a first set of main antennas; and in response to a determination the user is proximate the wireless device, transmitting the signal using the second set of main antennas. Apparatus and program products are also disclosed. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190399 | RADIO BASE STATION, MOBILE STATION, AND MOBILE COMMUNICATION METHOD - A radio base station BTS of the present invention is configured to perform three-step cell search to detect a plurality of paths # | 2012-07-26 |
20120190400 | STALE FEEDBACK USING A SECONDARY BASE STATION - A system and method in which two base stations—a Primary Base Station (PBS) and a Secondary Base Station (SBS)—are used to accomplish a Virtual 2-antenna Receiver (V2RX) scheme. The PBS may perform the initial transmissions of symbols, but, instead of the PBS, the SBS may handle the subsequent reception of terminal-specific Channel State Information (CSI) and the broadcast of an additional signal. The SBS can be much simpler in design than the PBS, and can be located physically closer to the terminals, requiring less power for the feedback signals (from the terminals) and also for SBS's own broadcast of the additional signal to terminals. The reception and usage of stale CSI using a secondary base station can be important for dense networks with a large number of simple terminals. Because of the rules governing abstracts, this abstract should not be used to construe claims. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190401 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PERFORMING A HANDOFF IN A WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A system for maintaining wireless communication with a plurality of base stations in a communication network is disclosed. A portable terminal having a communication unit is configured to measure signal strength of a transmission signal for neighboring base stations in a frequency band being used by the communication unit, and create a first handoff candidate list in which one or more handoff candidates in a same frequency band are recorded. A handoff using the first handoff candidate list is performed by the portable terminal. Thereafter, the portable terminal measures signal strength of one or more base stations included in a second handoff candidate list. The result of the signal strength measurements are reported to the currently communicating base station, and a handoff is performed based on a response to the report at the portable terminal. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190402 | DUAL MODE MOBILE TERMINAL IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND CONTROLLING METHOD THEREOF - A dual mode mobile terminal in a wireless communication system is disclosed. The present invention includes a first communication module configuring to transceive a signal with an LTE (long term evolution) network, a second communication module configuring to transceive a signal with a CDMA (code divisional multiple access) eHRPD (enhanced high-rate packet data) network, and a processor configured to process the signal corresponding to the first communication module and the signal corresponding to the second communication module, the processor, when the first communication module is activated, controlling a signal transmission event to the CDMA eHRPD network to be performed only if an RRC (radio resource control) connection to the LTE network is disconnected. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190403 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SYNCHRONIZING MEDIA CAPTURE IN A WIRELESS DEVICE - An apparatus and a method in a wireless device provide for coordinating data capture in two or more wireless devices. A control link is establishing a between the wireless device and a second wireless device. Thereafter, a media capture start command sent to the second wireless device. In response to sending the media capture start command media data is captured in the wireless device. Captured media data is received from the second wireless device. Finally, the media data and the captured media data from the second wireless device are combined. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190404 | Methods and Systems for Content Processing - Cell phones and other portable devices are equipped with a variety of technologies by which existing functionality can be improved, and new functionality can be provided. Some relate to visual search capabilities, and determining appropriate actions responsive to different image inputs. Others relate to processing of image data. Still others concern metadata generation, processing, and representation. Yet others relate to coping with fixed focus limitations of cell phone cameras, e.g., in reading digital watermark data. Still others concern user interface improvements. A great number of other features and arrangements are also detailed. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190405 | System and Method for Capturing Augmented Reality Electronic Signatures - A system and method for more accurately and easily recording signatures electronically/digitally. The preferred signing experience is generating a “wet” signature by putting a pen to paper as a pen and paper are ubiquitous and portable as well as familiar to most people. The present invention preserves this experience while combining it with a digital rendering of a document using conventional mobile communication devices having a camera feature in order to record a wet signature of a user and store a digital representation of the document that includes the recorded wet signature in the signature block of the document. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190406 | DOCKING STATION, PORTABLE DEVICE CAPABLE OF MULTIMEDIA DATA PLAYBACK MANAGEMENT, AND METHODS THEREOF - Docking stations, portable devices, and methods thereof are provided. The docking station includes an expansion port, a controller, and a transceiver. The expansion port is configured to be attached to a portable device. The controller is coupled to the expansion port and configured to determine whether the portable device is attached to the expansion port, and copy a multimedia data from the portable device to a media storage device upon the attachment. The transceiver is coupled to the controller and configured to receive a command signal from the portable device, wherein the controller is configured to control playback of the copied multimedia data in response to the command signal. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190407 | PORTABLE ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT AND CHARACTER INFORMATION CONVERSION SYSTEM - Provided is portable electronic equipment capable of mutually converting character information and simplified character information. The portable electronic equipment is equipped with a display unit ( | 2012-07-26 |
20120190408 | INTELLIGENT GRAPHICS INTERFACE IN A HANDHELD WIRELESS DEVICE - Various embodiments of the invention may allow applications and information to be clustered together in ways that simplify and automate various tasks. Other embodiments may present a graphical user interface to the user that allows the user to choose from a matrix of information categories and applications that can help provide that information. Still other embodiments may provide different user interface methods based on status awareness. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190409 | Ramped-Key Keyboard for a Handheld Mobile Communication Device - Wireless handheld mobile communication device and keyboard therefore having a keyfield including a plurality of depressible keys arranged in rows that are distributed about a vertical centerline (Vc) of the keyboard. Each depressible key has a top engagement surface with an upper inboard portion that is raised relative a lower outboard portion thereof. The top engagement surface of each depressible key is ramped from the lower outboard portion toward the upper inboard portion. Each top engagement surface is generally crest shaped, with the apex of the crest running generally diagonally across the respective key with a remaining surface falling away from the crest toward the upper outboard portion and the lower inboard portion of the key. The top engagement surface of each of the depressible keys terminates at an upper edge thereof in an elevated ridge down from which the balance of the respective top engagement surface slopes. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190410 | LCD Backlight Duration Proportional To Amount Of Information On The LCD Display Screen - This relates to a method for controlling illumination of a display screen on a mobile device. A light source is turned on to illuminate the display screen. An amount of information displayed on the display screen is identified. An amount of time to keep the light source turned on is determined based at least in part on the identified amount of information. The light source is kept turned on at a first intensity level for the amount of time and then turned to a second intensity level. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190411 | Wireless Communications Chip with Multi-Port Distributed Antenna - Methods and systems for power combining in a multi-port distributed antenna are disclosed and may include power combining signals from power amplifiers (PAs) on a chip. The PAs may be coupled to a single distributed antenna via antenna ports. A phase of each of the signals may be matched at the antenna ports via phase-matching circuitry. A characteristic impedance may be configured at the ports based on a location of the ports. The PAs may be impedance matched to the antenna ports via impedance matching elements. A power level of the power-combined signals may be monitored via a power detector coupled to the distributed antenna. The power detector may include an envelope detector, such as a diode. The antenna may be integrated on the chip or may be located external to the chip. The signals may include RF signals and the antenna may include a microstrip antenna. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190412 | CELLULAR PHONE CHARGER WITH DATA BACK-UP CAPABILITIES - A mobile phone charger is provided with wireless communication capabilities. The mobile phone charger may include a first interface to couple to a mobile phone, a charging circuit adapted to provide power to the mobile phone via the first interface, and/or a data backup circuit adapted to read data from the mobile phone and/or write data to the mobile phone via the first interface. Additionally, the mobile phone charger may include a data storage circuit adapted to store the data read from and/or written to the mobile phone. The first interface may charge the mobile phone while concurrently backing up data from the mobile phone. The mobile phone charger may include a communication interface adapted to facilitate wireless communications between the mobile phone charger and one or more other devices. The data stored by the data storage circuit may be accessible from a remote device via the communication interface. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190413 | Cell phone belt pack - The invention provides a belt featuring an integrated storage case for use with cellular telephones, comprising the belt itself, a lightweight and comfortable waist belt manufactured primarily of stretchy elastic material. Incorporated into the design of the Cell Phone Belt Pack is the actual cell phone holder. Reinforced, this holder is manufactured of molded and shatterproof plastic or rubber material, or can be manufactured of the same material as the belt itself and is securely attached to the surface of the belt in an easily accessed location, such as on the hip. The holder is generally rectangular in shape and sized appropriately to accommodate the various makes and models of cellular telephones available on the market. The top of this holder is a flap like covering, held closed by means of self affixing magnetic fasteners which secure the cell phone within. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190414 | Corn-Shelling Machine Fitted with Blower Means and Relative Corn-Shelling Method - A corn-shelling machine has a front head and a rear auger to collect and channel the cobs after shelling. The front head has at least one sheller roller fitted with blades to pull a stalk of a corn on the plant downwards. Sheller plates are positioned above the sheller roller, on the side opposite the ground. The sheller plates have an upper wall, opposite the ground and suitable to receive the cobs upon threshing and to retain them during the shelling phase. A blower generates a flow of air to channel the kernels of corn, removed from the cobs during shelling, towards the rear auger. The air flow is directed from the front head of the machine towards the rear auger. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190415 | Plurality of methods for playing pool - A method and apparatus for playing pool on a pool table is disclosed. A plurality of target raised pockets is located on the pool table and pool balls are hit into an indentation on the raised pocket. For example, a plurality of pool balls is arranged in a starting position on the playing surface of the pool table. Players alternate turns wherein each player attempts to hit balls from a set of pool balls assigned to that player onto the target raised pockets on the pool table using a pool cue. The game ends when the player has hit all of his assigned balls onto an indentation on a top level of the target raised pocket. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190416 | MULTIPLAYER SOCIAL EXERCISE GAME METHOD AND SYSTEM WITH VARIOUS TYPES OF EXERCISES OR EQUIPMENTS - An exercise game system of the present invention includes a plurality of game clients and a game server. The game clients transmit over a network, exercise intensity information in which exercise intensities of the players performing various types of exercises are measured. The game server drives an exercise game by receiving exercise intensity information of the respective players from the game clients over the network, and by determining a motion of a game object to be displayed on a game screen based on exercise intensity information that is balanced according to a predetermined balancing rule about at least one element of exercise intensity, a change rate, and a duration time according to different types of exercises. In this instance, the game screen is represented to be capable of recognizing the motion of the game object that is affected by adjusting the intensity of exercise performed by the players. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190417 | Crane Controller Method and PCB - A controller provides a GUI for accessing a PCB. The controller is used to retrieve information from the controller PCB and to also program other information into it as well as perform diagnostics of the game and machine. The owner of the crane machine can place an object in the crane's claw and then enter a setup mode using the PCB. The game will then proceed to, based on an algorithm, make its own adjustments to properly set the strength of the crane's claw to have the game play properly. The controller is equipped with a wireless access point to allow the owner to remotely access and control all of the same functions as from the controller. An owner is able to program the value of the prize in the game along with the desired amount of money to be collected, to maintain a profitable win ratio. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190418 | GAMING METHOD AND A GAMING SYSTEM - The invention provides a method of gaming and a game controller and gaming system for implementing the method. The method includes selecting at least one symbol to form at least one player hand comprised of a plurality of symbols, selecting at least one symbol to form a jackpot hand comprised of a plurality of symbols, and making a jackpot award to the player if the player hand corresponds to the jackpot hand. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190419 | PLAYER COMPING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method is used in combination with a processor and symbol-reading or symbol-providing technology to provide incentives to casino players during playing time of the casino players at games in which quality of strategy of play or quality of wagering strategy is determined. This can be accomplished by:
| 2012-07-26 |
20120190420 | ELECTRONIC PAPER GAME SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS FOR UPDATING GAME INTERFACE, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCT THEREOF - Electronic paper (E-paper) game systems are provided. The E-paper game system at least includes a chessboard and a plurality of chessmen. The chessboard at least includes a first E-paper display unit for displaying a graphical data of a first chessboard for a first game interface. Each of the chessmen includes a second E-paper display unit for displaying a graphical data of a first chessman which corresponds to the graphical data of the first chessboard. The chessboard and the chessmen respectively update the graphical data of the first chessboard displayed by the first E-paper display unit and the graphical data of the first chessman displayed by the second E-paper display unit to a graphical data of a second chessboard corresponding to a second game interface and a graphical data of a second chessman which corresponds to the graphical data of the second chessboard. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190421 | NETWORKED GAMING SYSTEM INCLUDING A LIVE FLOOR VIEW MODULE - A networked gaming system includes one or more gaming machines connected to a network, a network-connected user station having a user interface and a display. The networked gaming system further includes a host computer system having an environment module enabled to capture, analyze, and present both historical data stored in at least one data storage device and real-time gaming data from the gaming machines in accordance with one or more requests from the user station. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190422 | METHOD, APPARATUS, AND PROGRAM PRODUCT FOR PRESENTING RESULTS IN A BINGO-TYPE GAME - A result represented by a matched bingo card representation is displayed to a player in a bingo-type game through a result representation provided at a suitable player station. Each result representation includes a graphical representation unrelated to the bingo-type game. That is, although the game results are simply bingo game results defined by predetermined patterns of matches between the various card designations and the designation set produced or called for a particular bingo-type game, the game results are displayed to the players with a graphical display including a graphic that is not merely a graphical representation or reproduction of a bingo card. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190423 | PLAYER COMPING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method is used in combination with a processor and symbol-reading or symbol-providing technology to provide incentives to casino players during playing time of the casino players at games in which quality of strategy of play or quality of wagering strategy is determined. This can be accomplished by:
| 2012-07-26 |
20120190424 | GAMING MACHINE, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PLAYING A FEATURE GAME - A gaming machine, system and method includes a housing having a user interface, display means, preferably a lower display and an upper display, and a controller preferably mounted in the housing and in communication with the display means. The controller enables standard game play mode until the occurrence of a predetermined event, such as the appearance of preferably three scatter symbols. Upon occurrence of the predetermined event, the controller enables feature game play mode where display means presents a plurality of feature game symbols, and a symbol selection pointer, and optionally presents a landscape including at least some of the feature game symbols. At least one of the feature game symbols is a switchable symbol having a first state and a second state, and at least one is a switching symbol that changes the state of the switchable symbol. The controller causes the symbol selection pointer to randomly select one of the feature game symbols. There are two ways to change the state of the switchable symbol. Selecting the switchable symbol changes its state. Selecting the switching symbol causes the switchable symbol to also change its state. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190425 | GAMING SYSTEM AND A METHOD OF GAMING - A gaming system is disclosed that comprises a plurality of spinnable reels, each reel comprising a plurality of selectable symbols corresponding to respective reel stopping positions, and a symbol selector arranged to select a stopping position for each reel and thereby select at least one symbol from each reel. A reel controller is arranged to control spinning and stopping of the reels according to the selected reel stopping positions, and a player input device is arranged to facilitate reception of a reel stopping instruction from a player. The reel controller is arranged to stop a rightmost spinning reel in response to reception of the reel stopping instruction. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190426 | GAMING DEVICE HAVING VARIABLE SPEED OF PLAY - This concept is directed to gaming devices configured to vary the speed of game play, as well as method of operating gaming devices to vary the speed of play. In some examples of the this concept, a gaming device may be configured to include a game initiating button that when pressed by a player triggers a game processor to ascertain and display a first game outcome, determine if the first game outcome is a winning outcome, and automatically ascertain and display a second game outcome if the first game outcome is not a winning outcome. If the first game outcome is a winning outcome the gaming device may pause to allow the player to appreciate the win before retriggering the processor to ascertain and display subsequent gaming event outcomes, or the gaming device may wait to receive further player input. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190427 | GAMING MACHINE EXECUTING EFFECTS USING SYMBOLS AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - A gaming machine of the present invention performs an effect of rotating an image displayed in each display block having a second specific symbol rearranged therein in a direction so as to turn a display screen of a display over to the other side after scroll-displaying a specific character image to the display in a direction from one side of a symbol display region toward the opposite side, and also changing the second specific symbol rearranged in the each display block into a first specific symbol, when the first specific symbol and the second specific symbol have been rearranged in the symbol display region and also when it has been determined to display the specific character image; and offers an award in accordance with the number of first specific symbols arranged in the symbol display region as a result thereof. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190428 | GAMING SYSTEM, GAMING DEVICE, AND GAMING METHOD FOR TRANSFERRING SYMBOLS BETWEEN LINKED REELS IN MULTIPLE REEL SETS - A gaming device including at least a first reel in a first reel set linked to at least a first reel in a second reel set and at least a second reel in the first reel set not linked to any reel in any second reel set. In a play of the game, symbols are independently generated for each reel set. After an award evaluation, the gaming device removes zero, one, or more symbols from the reels in the reel sets. If any empty symbol positions are formed on the first reel in the second reel set, the gaming device transfers one or more symbols from the first reel of the first reel set to the linked first reel of the second reel set to occupy the empty symbol positions. The gaming device generates symbols to fill the empty symbol positions and provides any awards for any winning symbol combinations. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190429 | GAMING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE - A gaming system and method involving a fixed bonus code and dynamic game code wherein one or more players playing multiple designated electronic gaming machines attempt to match a dynamic game code to the bonus code to win a fixed jackpot or progressive jackpot. The game code symbols adjust randomly (i.e., change) responsive to each play of a corresponding electronic gaming machine. Once a game code symbol matches a corresponding bonus code symbol, the game code symbol locks up such that the matching game code symbol cannot adjust again until the jackpot is won based on each game code symbol matching a corresponding bonus code symbol. Different electronic gaming machines may be re-assigned to drive different game code symbols as needed. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190430 | Ball Distributing Mechanism For Games - This request for Patent of Invention refers to a mechanism to distribute balls, each one with individual identification, to replace playing cards, aiming at performing card game in an automated way, such as blackjack (also known in Brazil as “21”) or Poker, or any other game, so as to simulate the presence of a croupier in these games in a gambling house, such as a casino. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190431 | System And Method For Odds-Based Sports Wagering - The present invention can provide a system and method for sports wagering and entertainment. In one exemplary embodiment, the present invention can include a method for odds-based sports wagering, the method comprising: receiving, from a bettor, a selection of players; providing, to the bettor, points and odds associated with the selection of players; receiving, from the bettor, an at least one bet type and an at least one bet amount based on the points and odds associated with the selection of players; and returning, to the bettor, a result for the at least one bet type and the at least one bet amount. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190432 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DATA VALUATION - A computer-implemented valuation method is provided for a data field of a data object. The method includes receiving a proposed wager from a first user with a predicted future value of the data field at an evaluation condition; receiving a counter-wager from a second user against the predicted future value; monitoring the evaluation condition; and upon satisfaction of the evaluation condition, determining a current value of the data field, comparing the current value to the predicted future value, and declaring a winning party between the first user and the second user based on the comparison. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190433 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING MONETARY AND REWARD TRANSACTIONS AND ACCOUNTING IN A GAMING ENVIRONMENT - Financial and player tracking/reward transactions are facilitated by a system including at least one server and a plurality of gaming machines. The server has a memory containing data files corresponding to players that contain information such as credits or monies in an account belonging to the player. The data files also contain player tracking information, such as points awarded to a player based upon their game play. Players are issued media in the form of player cards having identification information thereon that may be used to access the player's account or files. A player and a casino may manage the player's accounts, such as by placing criteria upon the account, including the use of associated credits. A player may play a game using credits associated with their account, manage their accounts, including viewing financial and game play or reward information and transfer funds into and out of an account. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190434 | GAMING SYSTEM AND METHOD HAVING BONUS EVENT AND BONUS EVENT AWARD IN ACCORDANCE WITH A CURRENT WAGER AND ONE OR MORE ACCUMULATED BONUS EVENT POINTS - In one embodiment, the gaming system and method disclosed herein maintains a plurality of different bonus event average expected payouts which are ranked. In one embodiment, if a bonus event triggering condition occurs, the gaming system determines one of the plurality of different bonus event average expected payouts to utilize for the triggered bonus event. In one such embodiment, the determined bonus event average expected payout is based on a player's current wager and a quantity of accumulated bonus event points or units. In this embodiment, the gaming system enables players to accumulate bonus event points based on one or more aspects of a player's previous gaming experiences during a designated period of time. The gaming system then displays a bonus event to the player and determines a bonus event award, wherein the determined bonus event award is in accordance with the determined bonus event average expected payout. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190435 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR AUCTIONING AN ITEM VIA A GAMING DEVICE - Methods and apparatus for auctioning an item via a gaming device are disclosed. The methods and apparatus enable a gaming device player (e.g., a slot machine player) to select one or more auction items the player is interested in bidding on. As the player plays the gaming device, a portion of each bet and/or a portion of each win is allocated to an accumulating bid on the selected auction item(s). In one embodiment, other players, connected via a network, also bid on the auction item(s) in a similar fashion. At the end of an auction, the highest bidder is awarded with the auction item. In one embodiment, the auction item is a physical auction item physically displayed at the gaming device. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190436 | DISPLAY CHANGE AND/OR STATE SAVE IN GAME AND/OR GAME SERIES - Embodiments related to conducting a wagering game according to the rules of a base game includes defining a finite set of game indicia. In some embodiments the player plays multiple sequential game hand by placing a wager, receiving game indicia from the finite set cumulatively excluding any game indicia previously dealt, playing the game hand to completion, collecting the game indicia from the player and excluding the dealt game indicia from further play, and displaying at least the excluded game indicia or any winning combinations precluded by the excluded game indicia. In some embodiments the game hands continue in sequence until a restoration event, which may include a manually triggered restoration or an automatic restoration event, that restores the excluded game indicia. Other embodiments are also described. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190437 | CONTROLLING AND CONFIGURING RESPONSIBLE GAMING DATA - A wagering game system and its operations are described herein. In embodiments, the operations can include presenting wagering game content during a wagering game session via a wagering game machine, where the wagering game session is for a first player account. The operations can further include detecting an amount of money spent on gambling via the first player account during a time period. The operations can further include determining that a second player account, associated with the first player account, is configured to authorize presentation of an indication of the amount of money spent on gambling during the time period. The operations can further include presenting the indication of the amount of money spent during the time period in response to the determining that the second player account is configured to authorize presentation of the indication of the amount of money spent on gambling. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190438 | Gaming Machine and Method Having Bonus Feature Highlighting - A gaming machine and method for displaying and highlighting a scatter symbol among a matrix of symbols. The display includes a first layer for displaying a background and a second layer overlying the first layer. In one embodiment the layers are virtual layers, in another embodiment the layers are discrete physical layers. The second layer displays the matrix of symbols including any scatter symbol included in the matrix of symbols. The second layer enables a gaming machine player to simultaneously view the background, or at least portions of the background. According to one aspect of the invention, the second layer is at least partially transmissive to permit simultaneous viewing of the background and the matrix of symbols. The background is changeable to highlight at least one of the symbols of the matrix of symbols. Preferably, the background highlights the scatter symbol by adding depth, color, light and imagery, such as a still, changing, or moving image. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190439 | MULTIPLE SIMULTANEOUS PROGRAMS ON A DISPLAY - A system and method is presented for enabling the viewing of multiple, different programs simultaneously on a single television display. The system can use alternate frame sequencing to alternate the programs frame-by-frame. A first pair of shutter glasses received a synchronization signal from the television and controls both the left and right glass in tandem to view the first program, while a second pair operates similarly, but uses the same synchronization signal to view the second program. Alternatively, the system can use polarization, in which a first program is polarized in a first orientation while a second program is polarized in a second orientation. Polarized glasses with matching orientations allow the user to watch only a single program. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190440 | COLOR DISPLAY CONVERTER FOR PINBALL MACHINES - A later generation display device may be connected to the video output port of an older electronic device which utilized an earlier generation display such as a dot matrix display. The early generation display is replaced with the later generation display. The display device includes software which receives graphic data through the video output port and identifies which frame is currently being streamed. The display device matches the frame being streamed to a stored graphic frame having a higher resolution and/or color. The matched frame is delivered to the later generation device so that the user can experience a higher quality visual effect by retrofitting the older electronic device with the later generation display. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190441 | Gaming Platform - A gaming platform is provided. The gaming platform includes a game media and an operating system (OS) media. The game media and the as media are separated. The as media in the platform contains all executable programs and data that drive the core gaming features. This includes but is not limited to hardware control, communications to peripherals, communications to external systems, accounting, money control, etc. The game media contains all executable game code, paytable data, graphics, sounds and other game specific information to run the particular game application or program. The game program communicates with the as programs to perform core gaming features as required. Changes to either the game media or the as media do not affect the other. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190442 | GAME SYSTEM, GAME DEVICE, STORAGE MEDIUM STORING A GAME PROGRAM, AND GAME PROCESS METHOD - A game system includes a game device and a terminal device. The game device obtains operation data representing an operation on the terminal device. Moreover, the game device generates a first game image and second game images based on a game process based on the operation data. The first game image is output to, and displayed on, a television separate from the terminal device. The second game image is wirelessly transmitted to, and displayed on, the terminal device. The game device calculates an attitude of the terminal device based on data output from an inertia sensor of the terminal device, and switches between second game images in accordance with the attitude of the terminal device. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190443 | AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT OF DISCONNECTED CHARACTER IN NETWORK GAME - A player performs a player character registration operation to register a player character for enabling copying of the player character, and sets the player's own video game apparatus off-line. Another player who manipulates an on-line video game apparatus can generate a copy NPC from the player character of the off-line registered video game apparatus by performing a player character copying operation. A server apparatus decides the movement of the copy NPC based on an action log storing actions of the original player character of the copy. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190444 | AUTOMATIC MOVEMENT OF PLAYER CHARACTER IN NETWORK GAME - A player participating in a network game moves a player character of the player by manipulating a video game apparatus of the player. As the player performs an autopilot operation, the video game apparatus moves the player character as an autopilot PC. A server apparatus manages the game which progresses according to the movement of each character, and transmits progress information of the game to the video game apparatus of each player participating in the network game. The movement of the autopilot PC is decided based on an action log recording the action of the player character responding to the manipulation of the player. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190445 | Information Processing Apparatus - At least application programs and display files used to generate display images associated with the applications are recorded in a cartridge-type game recording medium. A storage is a built-in type recording medium. When the game recording medium is loaded in a drive, an installer processing unit acquires the display files from the game recording medium and installs the acquired display files in the storage. A board image generating unit generates a board image using the display file installed. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190446 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING A GAME OR STORY DEVELOPMENT PLATFORM - A system for developing stories for an interactive multiplayer game or story includes a developer interface that receives submissions including a plurality of stories where each story includes at least one event that defines a story line for each story. The system includes a database that stores the plurality of submissions and a processor, in communication with the developer interface and the database, that receives a first story to determine whether the first story satisfies acceptance rules. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190447 | METHOD OF IMAGE PROCESSING AND COMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM - A computer, functioning as separate units, places at least first, second and viewed objects within a virtual space; displays the objects in a screen by performing a coordinate conversion based on a viewpoint and a viewed point set within the virtual space; moves the first object within the virtual space based on an operation by a player; controls movement of the viewpoint and the viewed point within the virtual space based on an operation by the player; generates an event based on relationship between the first and the second objects which move within the virtual space; determines a center point of the event based on coordinates of the first and the second objects; and sets a target point set on the viewed object as the viewed point, and sets the viewpoint on a half line starting from the viewed point to be passing the center point of the event. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190448 | DIRECTIONAL INPUT FOR A VIDEO GAME - A method for providing directional input to a video game is provided. The method initiates with capturing an image of a first object and a second object, the first object and the second object being defined at a fixed distance from each other. A three-dimensional location of the first object is determined based on analysis of the captured image, and a two-dimensional location of the second object is determined based on analysis of the captured image. An input direction for a video game is determined based on the three-dimensional location of the first object and the two-dimensional location of the second object. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190449 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING PLAYER CHARACTERS IN AN INTERACTIVE MULTIPLAYER STORY - A system that enables player character interactions in an interactive multiplayer game or story including a user interface that enables a user to control a player character in the interactive multiplayer game or story and a processor, in communication with the user interface, that i) tracks the actions of the player character within the interactive multiplayer game or story, and ii) transfers control of the player character from the user to the processor during an interaction event with a second player character in response to an interaction condition. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190450 | GAME APPARATUS AND RECORDING MEDIUM RECORDING GAME PROGRAM - As an example, a value obtained by adding the magnitudes of a plurality of angular velocities around respective axes indicated by angular velocity data obtained from an input device including gyroscopic sensors, is used to calculate a rotation parameter indicating a rotation amount. A predetermined object which is rotated, depending on the rotation amount corresponding to the rotation parameter, is displayed on a display device. As another example, when it is determined, based on the angular velocity data, that the attitude of the input device is stable, a stability flag which indicates that the attitude of the input device has been at least once stable is set and updated to ON. When there is an input device whose stability flag is OFF, the aforementioned determination is performed and a screen including a result of the determination is displayed on a display device. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190451 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE MOVEMENT OF A GAME CHARACTER - The present invention relates to a device and method for controlling the movement of a games character, which enable character movement of a type in which a character in the game jumps down and falls freely from an elevated height following an action by the games player, or progresses forwards in the direction of movement if another action is performed. The present invention has the advantageous effect that the appeal of a game is maximized as the movement time and the movement distance differ depending on the terrain and updrafts in the game even though the degree of freedom for actions is small. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190452 | MULTI-PLATFORM GAMING SYSTEM USING RFID-TAGGED TOYS - A multi-platform gaming system for amusing or entertaining one or more game participants playing a game on a gaming platform is described. The multi-platform gaming system can include collectible toys depicting or representing one or more game characters or objects relevant to a game adapted to be played on the gaming platform. The collectible toys can have associated therewith an RFID tag including a corresponding unique tag identification number. The RFID tag can include an antenna, integrated circuitry for wirelessly transmitting and receiving information to and from an associated RFID tag reader, and non-volatile programmable memory for storing game-relevant information describing skills, abilities or attributes associated with one of said game characters or objects. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190453 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ONLINE-OFFLINE INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE - A game system is provided that is configured for providing a dynamic online and offline interactive experience. The game system includes two portions; an interactive apparatus and an interactive application. The interactive apparatus may be, but is not limited to, toys such as robots, dolls, vehicles, play sets, and board games. The game system is configured such that a user's interactions with one of the interactive apparatus and the interactive application may affect the continuation of the user's interactive experience with the other. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190454 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR BUILDING, CUSTOMIZING, MANAGING, AND PARTICIPATING IN AN ONLINE VIRTUAL WORLD OF BARS AND CLUBS CONNECTED TO SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES - A social networking game is themed around the customization of a virtual world of bars and clubs that allows players to interact with each other. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190455 | Interactive Entertainment Using a Mobile Device with Object Tagging and/or Hyperlinking - Systems and methods for an interactive game using a multi-functional hand-held personal mobile device, such as a smart phone or entertainment device use the smart phone or other mobile device to find and/or activate various effects and items in the real world, then connect those items and effects together to provide a purpose to finding the effects/items consistent with the game theme. Embodiments include themes related to a treasure hunt with items that may or may not respond to the player detecting or finding them. In other embodiments, the mobile device may trigger and activate multiple layers of videos, phone calls, internet access, texts, voiceovers, puzzles and numerous other actions and results tied into a complex gaming adventure. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190456 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING AN INTERACTIVE MULTIPLAYER STORY - An interactive multiplayer game includes multiple user interfaces that enable multiple players to interact with the interactive multiplayer game. The game also includes a processor, in communication with the first user interface, that is arranged to i) provide a virtual world, ii) enable the multiple players to create multiple player characters in the virtual world, iii) provide an interactive story where the interactive story includes multiple events that define a story line of the interactive story and where the interactive story includes multiple character roles to be acted out during the interactive story, iv) assigns character roles to each of the multiple events, v) identifies player characters who are available to assume the character roles of an event, vi) assigns a player character to each of the character roles of the event, and vii) initiates the event once the player characters are assigned to the character roles for the event. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190457 | GAME SYSTEM AND GAME APPARATUS - A communication play is performed between a master machine and a slave machine. The slave machine can obtain an item according to the result of the communication play and the item is deposited to the master machine. After the communication play ends, if a cartridge is mounted to the slave machine and the master machine and the slave machine perform communication, the item that has been deposited to the master machine is delivered to the slave machine. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190458 | Computational Delivery System For Avatar and Background Game Content - Data defining an avatar is received over a network. A sprite sheet comprising a plurality of sprites is created, using the data defining the avatar. Each sprite includes a partial rendering of the respective avatar and at least one run-time parameter including a sprite attribute. A plurality of requests are received, over the network, for the avatar from a plurality of user applications. The data defining the avatar and the sprite sheet are transmitted, over the network, to each of the requesting user applications, enabling each respective user application to display the sprites in the sprite sheet and to set the run-time parameter associated with each of the sprites in the sprite sheet such that each respective sprite is thereby customized to the application. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190459 | GAME APPARATUS, GAME INTERRUPTION PROGRAM, STORAGE MEDIUM STORED WITH GAME INTERRUPTION PROGRAM - A game execution unit | 2012-07-26 |
20120190460 | Vibrating Gaming Vest - A video game console accessory providing a vest with sensory feedback rumblers at various positions on a vest. The game console may now provide sensory feedback to the game player by coordinating what occurs visually in the game with a physical sensation experienced by the game player. The rumblers are positioned against the gamer's torso to provide dynamic sensations to increase realism experienced during game play. Each rumbler is independently controlled. An optional feature is the availability of various skins to alter the appearance of the device and to match a particular theme of the game played. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190461 | FLYWHEEL - The invention relates to an apparatus and method for constructing a magnetic gear coupling for transmitting torque from a flywheel inside a vacuum chamber to a driveshaft outside the vacuum chamber, the coupling employing a pair of permanent magnet arrays having magnetic flux coupling elements arranged in the vacuum chamber wall therebetween so as to effectively couple magnetic flux between the arrays. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190462 | TORSION VIBRATION DAMPER AND DAMPING DEVICE AND TORQUE TRANSMISSION DEVICE - A torsion vibration damper for a drive train of a motor vehicle, in particular a drive train of a hybrid vehicle, comprising: a spring support and a force transmission flange configured rotatable relative to the spring support, wherein at least one compression spring is provided between the spring support and the force transmission flange for transferring a mechanical torque, wherein a housing of the spring support is configured so that in a radial direction of the torsion vibration damper, at least one longitudinal end of the compression spring is supported at/in the spring support housing and/or a clearance remains between windings of a center section of the compression spring and a wall of the spring support. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190463 | Amusement Ride with Tonneau Movement - A roundabout for performing acrobatic figures such as barrel roll comprises a main arm rotatable around a central axis A and having a longitudinal axis C, a second arm rotatable about an axis of rotation B perpendicular to the longitudinal axis C of the main arm, and a vehicle fixed on the second arm at a distance from the axis of rotation B of the second arm and having a longitudinal axis z directed radially towards the axis of rotation B. The vehicle is fixed to the second arm so that its position with respect to the second arm does not change during the operation of the roundabout. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190464 | METHOD FOR LAYING A PLAYABLE SURFACE, FOR INSTANCE A PLAYING FIELD, AND SURFACE THUS FORMED - The invention relates to a method for laying a playable surface such as playing field, comprising the steps of forming a hard substrate, arranging on the hard substrate a layer of resilient and/or damping material, and arranging a top layer on the resilient and/or damping layer, wherein during or after arranging of the hard substrate and/or the reliant and/or damping layer air chambers are formed therein. The behavior of the playing field becomes more natural due to these air chambers, and excessive resilience and energy restitution are avoided. The air chambers can be formed for instance by creating recesses in the relevant layer from the top, or by removing material from the layer at different location after arranging thereof, for instance by melting or biological decomposition of inclusions. The invention also relates to playing field obtain by application of this method. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190465 | WATER SLIDE - A slide feature is adapted to carry one or more riders and/or ride vehicles sliding thereon. The slide feature includes a sliding surface having an entry end and an exit end. The sliding surface comprising a wall defined by a portion of a side of a funnel shape, tilted sideways, the wall comprising a top and a bottom. The bottom of the wall comprising a lowermost surface of the sliding surface and is horizontal or descending from the entry end to the exit end. The top of the wall curves upward from the lowermost surface past an angle of 90 degrees to the horizontal. A radius of curvature of the sliding surface tapers from the entry end to the exit end. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190466 | Method and apparatus for playing pool - A method and apparatus for playing pool on a pool table is disclosed. A raised stand is located on the pool table and pool balls are hit into an indentation on the raised stand. For example, a plurality of pool balls is arranged in a starting position on the playing surface of the pool table. The plurality of pool balls is comprised of an object ball and a plurality of different sets of pool balls. Players alternate turns wherein each player attempts to hit balls from a set of pool balls assigned to that player into pockets in the pool table using a pool cue and a cue ball. The game ends when the object ball is hit into an indentation on a top level of the raised stand once a player has hit all of their assigned balls into the pockets | 2012-07-26 |
20120190467 | Pool Cue and Method of Manufacturing Thereof - A pool cue includes a hollow shaft arrangement having a first end and a second end. The shaft arrangement is formed with a bore extending throughout an entire length of the shaft arrangement between the first and second ends. A carrier for mounting the shaft arrangement thereon includes a central section disposed to be received in the bore. The central section has a first end disposed to be engaged against a first end of the shaft arrangement, and a second end provided with a threaded area disposed to extend beyond the second end of the shaft arrangement. The threaded area is connected to other pool cue structure, such as a joint collar or a shaft section, or both, disposed at the second end of the shaft arrangement. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190468 | SYSTEM FOR IMPROVED FLAG STICK STABILITY AND REDUCED GOLF CUP AND/OR FLAG STICK FERRULE WEAR - The invention described herein relates to golf cups and flag sticks. More particularly, the subject matter described herein relates to a system for improved golf flag stick stability and reduced golf cup and/or flag stick ferrule wear. The invention provides a ferrule, golf cup and methods to improve golf flag stick stability and reduce golf cup and/or flag stick ferrule wear. As such, the subject matter described herein relates to providing more consistent golf ball entry due to the stabilization of the flag stick. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190469 | MEASUREMENT APPARATUS AND MEASUREMENT METHOD - A measurement apparatus includes a first Doppler sensor which outputs a first transmission signal and receives a first Doppler signal, that is the first transmission signal returned after being reflected by an impacting object, a timing detection unit that detects an impact timing which is a moment when an impacted object is impacted by the impacting object, an impacting object speed computing unit that computes a speed of the impacting object based on the first Doppler signals obtained from the detected impact timing to a timing before a predetermined period, and an imaging unit that images the impacted object immediately after the impact so as to be used for computing a motion state of the impacted object, based on the computed speed of the impacting object. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190470 | GOLF SWING TRAINING AID - A golf swing training aid is configured to be worn by a player during practice swings or while playing the game of golf. The golf swing training aid includes a forearm plate strapped to the forearm, a thumb plate is strapped to the thumb, and a pivot that connects the thumb plate to the forearm plate. When donned, the pivot is positioned on the radial area of the wrist so that the hand is substantially restricted to extension and flexion movement relative to the forearm throughout the swing. The golf swing training aid automatically positions the player's hands in the correct position and provides muscle memory that instills proper positioning and movement of the arms and hands even when removed for actual game play. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190471 | Fox sharpshooter putter grip - The Fox Sharpshooter Putter grip is a putter grip which contains three unique and innovative features. These features are the subject of this patent application. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190472 | COMPACT GOLF SWING ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS - A compact golf swing assistance system comprising a segmented rod having a first rod section, and second rod section, a third rod section, and a fourth rod section. The assembled segmented rod may be placed on a ground surface adjacent a golf tee, pointing the direction as an indicator means for a golfer to hit a golf ball for reaching the hole in the fewest number of strokes. A first male end of a second rod section inserts into a second female end of a first rod section, a first male end of a third rod section inserts into a second female end of a second rod section, and a first male end of a fourth rod section inserts into a second female end of a third rod section. The sections are joined interiorly by a shock cord and may be collapsed for storage. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190473 | VARIABLE STIFFNESS SPORTS EQUIPMENT - Many sports rely upon the use by the sportsperson of one or more pieces of sports equipment such as bats, rackets, clubs, boards etc. Typically these items of sports equipment employ a shaft having predetermined geometry and properties established by the materials used to manufacture the equipment. However, the sportsperson typically uses these over a wide range of conditions rather than a narrow range that provides constraints on the design of conventional sports equipment. According to embodiments of the invention sports equipment are implemented with multiple elements within the shaft such that the stiffness of the item varies with induced flexure arising from use. As such under one range of motion the item exhibits stiffness characterized by a first Young's modulus and under a second range of motion the item exhibits stiffness characterized by a second Young's modulus. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190474 | GOLF CLUB, SHAFT INSERTION DEPTH CHANGING METHOD AND SHAFT REPLACING METHOD - A golf club includes: a shaft; a head mounted on a leading end of the shaft; and a substantially cylindrical shaft case fixed to the leading end of the shaft, wherein: the shaft case is inserted into a hosel of the head; the shaft case is fixed to the head by a bolt inserted from a sole side of the head; and a spacer is interposed between an upper end of the hosel and a flange portion formed in an upper portion of the shaft case or is removed therefrom to change an insertion depth of the shaft case into the hosel. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190475 | Golf Club Vibration Dampening Device - A vibration dampening device that can be attached to the shaft and hosel of a golf club to absorb vibrations. The uniquely designed dampening device is positioned to immediately absorb vibrations of a golf club after the club head makes impact with a golf ball. The absorption of impact vibrations helps reduce injury that may be caused by stress from continual exposure to impact vibration. The vibration dampening device allows users to perform golf swing with less vibration during impact. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190476 | Golf Club Head with Grooves and Method of Manufacture - Embodiments of golf clubs with grooves and methods of manufacturing thereof are described herein. In some embodiments, a golf club head includes: a body having a strike face with one or more channels; and at least one insert located within at least one of the one or more channels. The at least one of the one or more channels includes a single groove. The at least one insert forms at least a portion of the single groove. A radius of an exterior edge of the single groove is partially formed by the at least one insert and is also partially formed by the strike face. A first part of the at least one insert is formed by a first material, and a second part of the at least one insert is formed by a second material different from the first material. Other embodiments and related methods are disclosed herein. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190477 | GOLF CLUB HEAD AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A golf club head has a clubface for striking a ball, wherein face grooves are formed by pressing a die; a metallic skin is forming on the clubface including the interior surfaces of the face grooves so that the surface roughness Ral of the interior surfaces of the face grooves becomes not more than 0.20 micrometers; the interior surface of the face grooves is masked with a masking agent; the clubface is provided with a surface roughness of more than 0.20 micrometers by blasting abrasive; and then the masking agent is removed from the face grooves. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190478 | COLORIZED DAMPING INDICATORS FOR CUSTOMIZED GOLF CLUB HEADS - The present invention is directed to a golf club having a playing characteristic that is communicated to a player based upon a vibration damping material that is colorized and visible from outside of the club head, thereby communicating to a golfer information about the playing characteristics of the club. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190479 | GOLF CLUB HEAD WITH COMPOSITE WEIGHT PORT - A golf club head having a face component, a crown, and a composite sole or a composite body patch with one or more weight ports for receiving one or more weight inserts is disclosed herein. At least part of each of the weight ports is integrally formed in the composite sole or composite body patch, and each of the weight ports include a weight receiving region for receiving a weight and a screw receiving region for receiving a screw that secures the weight in the weight port. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190480 | GOLF AID YARDAGE ESTIMATOR - A golf aid display includes a display defining a length axis and a perpendicular width axis. A target or green is displayed adjacent one end of the display. An elongated fairway extends from a position adjacent the green to an opposite end and along the length axis of the display. A plurality of distance indicators increase in increments from the green along the length axis and width axis of the display. A plurality of distance arcs curve circumferentially a radial distance from the green corresponding to equal length and width distance indicators. The arcs intersect the corresponding length axis perpendicularly. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190481 | ATHLETIC TRAINING DEVICE - A training device to limit or restrict a portion of a person's field of vision to improve a skill or the ability to perform a task. The training device assists in the training, practicing or learning various skills related to a certain activity, such as sports. The device includes a restrictor component and a control component. The control component is configured to be positioned in the mouth of a person such that the restrictor component extends outward to limit the field of vision. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190482 | Sport Projectile Return Device - A sports training device to practice shooting, kicking, throwing, launching or hitting a sports projectile such as a baseball, golf ball or ice hockey puck; comprising of a tether attached to the projectile, and an electromechanical drive mechanism to act on the tether to return the projectile. In the case of baseball hitting practice, a batter would hit a ball attached to the tether; the ball would travel the length of the tether. The other end of the tether would be secured to the device body. The batter would activate the device to return the ball. The drive mechanism consists of a drive roller attached to a motor, and an idler roller attached to a lever. After the tether is let out the user depresses the lever, pinching the tether between the rollers and activating the motor simultaneously, thus hauling the tether. The tether coils upon itself when it returns. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190483 | Basketball Shooting Training Article - The disclosure relates to basketball shooting training articles. The article includes a sleeve having an elongate cylindrical body with an opening at a proximal end and an opening at a distal end for passage of a player's arm therethrough. The sleeve includes release indicia located adjacent the proximal end of the article so that when the article is worn the release indicia is located between the player's elbow and shoulder, preferably at the player's bicep, and more preferably at the upper portion of the player's bicep. The sleeve may also include alignment indicia for aligning the player's arm and basketball with a target. A method for training proper basketball shooting technique and a method of constructing a basketball shooting training device are also provided. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190484 | Pivoting training device for a baseball batter - The invention is a training device for baseball batters and, more generally, is a training device for any athletic motion that utilizes a foot pivoting movement. The invention has a mat, pivot device and toe hold. The mat is approximately the size of baseball batters box. For baseball training, the mat is placed in the batters box such that the pivot device is facing the rear. The baseball player places his rear foot on the pivot device and his front foot in one of the toe holds. The baseball player trains by maintaining rear foot contact on the pivot, and pivoting his rear foot during the swing. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190485 | Impact-Indicating Athletic Court Target Device - The portable athletic court target device includes, as a single unitary article, a flat, thin base mat having integrated multiple protrusions (preferably hemispherical) on its upper surface and having a generally non-slip lower surface. The inexpensive, weather-resistant, and easily-movable athletic court target device is preferably brightly colored to visually define the desired target location. The athletic court target device advantageously provides convenient, automatic feedback when the ball impacts the target location, as the protrusions cause the ball to rebound in an erratic, unexpected path. The athletic court target device is useful as a training aid in tennis and other sports. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190486 | Athletic training implement and method - An athletic training implement is provided. The implement has a light emitting device, such as a laser, affixed thereto such that a beam of narrow light is emitted from the training implement that is indicative of the path of movement of the implement. In a training method, a chart is provided having a pattern thereon. As such, the user can be trained in the use of the athletic implement by repetitively causing the beam of light to follow the pattern on the chart so that a smooth, consistent movement of the athletic training implement can be learned by the user. The pattern on the chart may have a plurality of lines which may be straight or curved and can be horizontal vertical, or diagonal depending on the movement desired to be taught the user. While particularly adapted for training for the use of a lacrosse stick, other athletic implements may be used. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190487 | SPORTS RACQUET FOR IMPACTING A BALL AND FACILITATING THE OPENING OF A CAP ON A BOTTLE - A sports racquet for impacting a game ball and for facilitating the opening of a cap on a bottle. The sports racquet includes a head portion and a handle portion. The handle portion has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end is coupled to the head portion. The proximal end defines a recess, and includes a projection spaced apart from a fulcrum. The recess is sized to removably receive a portion of the cap. The projection is configured to catch a portion of an underside of the cap and the fulcrum is configured to bear against the top of the cap as one or both of the handle portion and the bottle serve as a lever for prying the cap off of the bottle. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190488 | POWER TOOL WITH A TENSIONING DEVICE FOR A BELT - A power tool and a belt pulley of a belt drive for a power tool is provided with a tool driven by a motor by way of a belt drive, whereby the belt drive has a belt pulley rotating about a drive axle on the drive side and a belt pulley rotating about a tool axle on the tool side, and whereby a belt can be tensioned over the belt pulleys. At least one of the belt pulleys can be moved into an eccentric position in relation to its holding axle, with an assembly element being provided, with which the belt pulley can be returned into the concentric position in relation to the axle. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190489 | DRIVE TRANSMISSION MECHANISM AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS INCLUDING SAME - A drive transmission mechanism including a shaft including a reduced diameter portion at an outboard end, an engaging portion inboard of the reduced diameter portion, and an installation portion inboard of the engaging portion and having the same diameter as the engaging portion, a first bearing having an inner ring onto which the reduced diameter portion is fitted, a connecting member provided to the shaft and including a main body into which the installation portion is fitted and a fitting portion provided to the main body on a side in which the engaging portion is provided to accommodate the engaging portion, and a second bearing engaging the shaft to support the shaft at an inboard end of the shaft opposite the first bearing with the connecting member interposed between the first and second bearings. | 2012-07-26 |
20120190490 | POWER TRANSMISSION BELT AND METHOD OF PRODUCING THE SAME - A power transmission belt low in cost and preventing work precision from being lowered and life expectancy of a metal press working mold from being decreased and a method of producing such a power transmission belt are provided. The power transmission belt includes endless band-like rings, and a plurality of elements bonded into an annular shape by the endless band-like rings. Each of the elements has both side end surface portions pressed between pulleys in the belt width direction, a rocking edge portion serving as a fulcrum when rocked in the state that the elements are partly wound around the pulleys, and a concave-convex portion engageable in concave-convex engagement with the concave-convex portions of a pair of neighboring elements. Each of the elements is formed with a curved inclination surface between the rocking edge portion and the concave-convex portion to have an inclination angle reduced toward the concave-convex portion. | 2012-07-26 |