Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090270743 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING AUTHENTICATED BIOFEEDBACK INFORMATION TO A MOBILE DEVICE AND FOR USING SUCH INFORMATION - The present invention provides systems, methods and apparatus for a wearable band adapted to be worn by a user. The wearable band may include one or more biometric sensors such as a pulse monitor adapted to monitor a pulse of the user, and a transmitter adapted to wirelessly transmit pulse information from the pulse monitor to a mobile device such as a cellular telephone or PDA. The wearable band does not include a display for the biometric information. Numerous additional embodiments are disclosed. | 10-29-2009 |
20090312093 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AUTHENTICATING DATA RELATING TO USAGE OF A GAMING DEVICE - Methods and apparatus for managing and authenticating usage of features of gaming devices is presented. The methods include tracking and/or accumulating usage data relating to gaming device features, determining an authentication code based on the usage data, outputting the authentication code to an operator for transmission to an interested party, and verifying the authentication code. The present invention allows regulatory agencies and manufacturers of gaming devices to reliably verify the usage of individual features of gaming devices without having to rely upon a casino to report the usage data. | 12-17-2009 |
20100023463 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GENERATING AND MARKETING SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION - The invention includes a process for providing incentives to sources to participate in interviews. Transcripts of interviews conducted according to a protocol are created that are saleable via, for example, the Internet. The protocol includes inserting tags into the recording to identify characteristics of the content of the recording. Further, the invention provides a method for redacting the recording using the inserted tags to generate a saleable version of the recording. The tags are used to exclude certain inappropriate content and to generate meta-data regarding the recording for marketing the recording. In some embodiments, interview participants may be compensated based upon sales of the recordings. Some embodiments of the invention include a recording device, a controller, and a user device. The recording device may be used to record an interview session between an interviewer and an interviewee. The recording device may communicate with the controller to convey the raw transcript of the interview session. The controller may include redacting software for modifying the interview transcript, and a voice recognition module for assisting in the redaction process. The voice recognition module may also assist in the creation of meta-tags describing the modified recording of the interview. The controller may further comprise a server for hosting Web pages. A user device in communication with the controller via the Internet may allow a user to peruse Web pages displaying the meta-tags and links that allow purchase of copies of associated interesting portions of the redacted interview transcripts as hosted by the controller. | 01-28-2010 |
20100033303 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING BIOFEEDBACK INFORMATION TO A CELLULAR TELEPHONE AND FOR USING SUCH INFORMATION - The present invention provides systems, methods and apparatus for a wearable band adapted to be worn by a user. The wearable band may include one or more biometric sensors such as a pulse monitor adapted to monitor a pulse of the user, and a transmitter adapted to wirelessly transmit pulse information from the pulse monitor to a mobile device such as a cellular telephone or PDA. The wearable band does not include a display for the biometric information. Numerous additional embodiments are disclosed. | 02-11-2010 |
20100130298 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MEASURING AND/OR ANALYZING SWING INFORMATION - In a first aspect, a system for monitoring a swing is provided that includes a wireless device adapted to couple to a swinging object and to provide information indicative of a characteristic of the swinging object. The wireless device is a cellular telephone or personal digital assistant (PDA). Numerous other aspects are provided. | 05-27-2010 |
20100227664 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PLANNING AND CUSTOMIZING A GAMING EXPERIENCE - The invention includes a system and method for planning and customizing a gaming vacation. Initially, a central controller receives preference and configuration data from a user at a user terminal. A preparation code is then determined and associated with the configuration data. The configuration data and the associated preparation code are transmitted from the central controller to a casino server. The central controller provides feedback regarding the user's requests. The feedback may include, for example, marketing offers for the user and/or configuring a gaming device according to the configuration data associated with a preparation code received from a user at the gaming device. | 09-09-2010 |
20100227683 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PLANNING AND CUSTOMIZING A GAMING EXPERIENCE - The invention includes a system and method for planning and customizing a gaming vacation. Initially, a central controller receives preference and configuration data from a user at a user terminal. A preparation code is then determined and associated with the configuration data. The configuration data and the associated preparation code are transmitted from the central controller to a casino server. The central controller provides feedback regarding the user's requests. The feedback may include, for example, marketing offers for the user and/or configuring a gaming device according to the configuration data associated with a preparation code received from a user at the gaming device. | 09-09-2010 |
20100227684 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PLANNING AND CUSTOMIZING A GAMING EXPERIENCE - The invention includes a system and method for planning and customizing a gaming vacation. Initially, a central controller receives preference and configuration data from a user at a user terminal. A preparation code is then determined and associated with the configuration data. The configuration data and the associated preparation code are transmitted from the central controller to a casino server. The central controller provides feedback regarding the user's requests. The feedback may include, for example, marketing offers for the user and/or configuring a gaming device according to the configuration data associated with a preparation code received from a user at the gaming device. | 09-09-2010 |
20100228606 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PLANNING AND CUSTOMIZING A GAMING EXPERIENCE - The invention includes a system and method for planning and customizing a gaming vacation. Initially, a central controller receives preference and configuration data from a user at a user terminal. A preparation code is then determined and associated with the configuration data. The configuration data and the associated preparation code are transmitted from the central controller to a casino server. The central controller provides feedback regarding the user's requests. The feedback may include, for example, marketing offers for the user and/or configuring a gaming device according to the configuration data associated with a preparation code received from a user at the gaming device. | 09-09-2010 |
20100267444 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING A LEVEL OF REWARD - In accordance with one or more embodiments, a method comprises associating, with a casino patron, a benefit of a first value. The benefit of the first value is determined based on a first algorithm and based on the patron's activity during a first portion of a period of time. The method further comprises associating, with the patron, a benefit of a second value. The benefit of the second value is determined based on a second algorithm and based on the patron's activity during a second portion of the period of time, the second portion occurring after the first portion. Associating the benefit of the second value is only performed if the associating the benefit of the first value is first performed. | 10-21-2010 |
20110065504 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PORTABLE EXERGAMING - In a first aspect, a system for playing a video game is provided that includes (1) one or more sensors adapted to monitor one or more biometric parameters of a user and communicate the one or more monitored biometric parameters (MBPs); (2) a computing device adapted to communicate with the one or more sensors and to receive the one or more communicated MBPs; and (3) a video game having an avatar adapted to move an object on an incline, the video game adapted to execute on the computing device. The video game is adapted to control the avatar to perform an action in the video game based in part on the received one or more communicated MBPs. Numerous other aspects are provided. | 03-17-2011 |
20110306405 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING GAME SESSION INFORMATION - According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a contract is established for a session comprising two or more plays of at least one gaming device. Information about the game play session, such as outcomes generated at the at least one gaming device, is communicated to a player device. The information is presented to a player via the player device. | 12-15-2011 |
20120028698 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR EMPLOYING FLAT RATE PLAY - Systems and methods are provided allowing a player to play a gaming device and receive a predetermined number of outcomes in exchange for a payment. The gaming device generates at least the predetermined number of outcomes, and adjusts a balance of the player device based on the outcomes. The player can continue playing regardless of whether the balance is less than zero. | 02-02-2012 |
20120046111 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LINKED PLAY GAMING WITH COMBINED OUTCOMES AND SHARED INDICIA - The invention includes a system and method for providing linked play via gaming and other devices wherein players may share and combine outcomes or parts thereof. In some embodiments, a casino server registers a group for linked play and a group objective and format are established. The linked play commences according to the group format on the gaming devices while the casino server, or another device, concurrently facilitates interaction between the group members operating the gaming devices. During the interaction, players may combine outcomes in an attempt to win group prizes. The linked play is terminated according to the group format and a determination is made by the casino server whether the group objective has been achieved. Prizes are awarded via the gaming devices if the group objective was achieved. | 02-23-2012 |
20120064963 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SETTING GAME PARAMETERS - The present invention allows gaming devices to set or modify game parameters through the use of random events such as spinning slot machine reels or random number generators. In some embodiments, game parameters may be established with various initial values, and then, by spinning the gaming devices' reels, for example, random reel values lining up on the payline may be used as new game parameter values. Parameter values may be used to control or initialize almost any aspect of the gaming device play experience, ranging from the types of symbols seen on the reels, to the appearance or behavior of game characters, to the rate at which “complementary” points are awarded. | 03-15-2012 |
20120115604 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING A LEVEL OF REWARD - A gaming system and method which includes enabling a first player at a first gaming device to initiate at least one play of a first game, enabling a second player at a second gaming device to initiate at least one play of a second game, determining, based at least in part on at least one activity of the first player, a benefit, and providing the determined benefit to the second player. | 05-10-2012 |
20120122563 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING A LEVEL OF REWARD - A gaming system and method which includes enabling a player to initiate a play of a game, for the initiated play of the game: (i) randomly generating a game outcome, (ii) displaying to the player the randomly generated game outcome, (iii) determining any award associated with the displayed game outcome, and (iv) displaying to the player any determined award, enabling the player to invite a quantity of other players to each initiate a play of at least one game, the quantity of other players being greater than zero, and if the player invited the quantity of other players, providing the player a benefit, an amount of the benefit being based on the quantity of other players invited. | 05-17-2012 |
20120270646 | Display of Notifications to Members of a Gaming Group - Methods for providing notification during an online casino game is provided. One method includes detecting a first gameplay session of the online casino game, the first gameplay session associated with a first user. The method then detects a second gameplay session of the online casino game. The second gameplay session is associated with a second user, and at least part of the second gameplay session occurring simultaneously with the first gameplay session. The method then determines whether the first user and the second user are members of a common group. If so, then the method displays a message to the first user during the first gameplay session. The message to the first user identifying the second user. The methods provided herein provide for social interaction during online game play and social friend interactions that facilitate or advance game play in an online environment. | 10-25-2012 |
20130005445 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AUTHENTICATING DATA RELATING TO PARTICIPATION IN AN ELECTRONIC GAME - Methods and apparatus for managing and authenticating usage of features of gaming devices is presented. The methods include tracking and/or accumulating usage data relating to gaming device features, determining an authentication code based on the usage data, outputting the authentication code to an operator for transmission to an interested party, and verifying the authentication code. The present invention allows regulatory agencies and manufacturers of gaming devices to reliably verify the usage of individual features of gaming devices without having to rely upon a casino to report the usage data. | 01-03-2013 |
20130012293 | Group Play Invitation Method for Online Slots Game - Methods for initiating group play of an online slots game is provided. One method includes receiving, from a first gaming device associated with a first user, a request to initiate group play of the online slots game with a second user. The method also includes generating a message, the message identifying the first user and defining a response mechanism for joining the group play of the online slots game. The method then transmits the message to a second gaming device associated with the second user. The method provides for social interaction and social play between players, while playing the online game. | 01-10-2013 |
20130023323 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR APPLYING LOTTERY MULTIPLIERS - Some systems, processes, apparatus and articles of manufacture provide for selling lottery entries. In one example, a request is received to purchase a multiplier and a set of play indicia for a lottery game. | 01-24-2013 |
20130029761 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OUTPUTTING A MESSAGE AT A GAME MACHINE - The invention allows a casino, or other entity, via a game machine, to provide relevant information at appropriate times, and/or in response to appropriate events, to players using the game machine. A dynamic and flexible system adapted to interact with players on an individual basis by aiding in the management, determination, distribution, and delivery of promotional, inspirational, instructive, informational, communicative, incentive, and other types of messages, is provided. Various methods are provided to ensure that receiving messages at a game machine enhances a player's overall gaming experience by selectively outputting helpful and desirable messages to players while minimizing interference with the players' gaming and to avoid overwhelming players with unsolicited, unwanted, and/or irrelevant messages. | 01-31-2013 |
20130079120 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OUTPUTTING A MESSAGE AT A GAME MACHINE - The invention allows a casino, or other entity, via a game machine, to provide relevant information at appropriate times, and/or in response to appropriate events, to players using the game machine. A dynamic and flexible system adapted to interact with players on an individual basis by aiding in the management, determination, distribution, and delivery of promotional, inspirational, instructive, informational, communicative, incentive, and other types of messages, is provided. Various methods are provided to ensure that receiving messages at a game machine enhances a player's overall gaming experience by selectively outputting helpful and desirable messages to players while minimizing interference with the players' gaming and to avoid overwhelming players with unsolicited, unwanted, and/or irrelevant messages. | 03-28-2013 |
20130079134 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OUTPUTTING A MESSAGE AT A GAME MACHINE - The invention allows a casino, or other entity, via a game machine, to provide relevant information at appropriate times, and/or in response to appropriate events, to players using the game machine. A dynamic and flexible system adapted to interact with players on an individual basis by aiding in the management, determination, distribution, and delivery of promotional, inspirational, instructive, informational, communicative, incentive, and other types of messages, is provided. Various methods are provided to ensure that receiving messages at a game machine enhances a player's overall gaming experience by selectively outputting helpful and desirable messages to players while minimizing interference with the players' gaming and to avoid overwhelming players with unsolicited, unwanted, and/or irrelevant messages. | 03-28-2013 |
20130252731 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PORTABLE EXERGAMING - In a first aspect, a system for playing a video game is provided that includes (1) one or more sensors adapted to monitor one or more biometric parameters of a user and communicate the one or more monitored biometric parameters (MBPs); (2) a computing device adapted to communicate with the one or more sensors and to receive the one or more communicated MBPs; and (3) a video game having an avatar adapted to move an object on an incline, the video game adapted to execute on the computing device. The video game is adapted to control the avatar to perform an action in the video game based in part on the received one or more communicated MBPs. Numerous other aspects are provided. | 09-26-2013 |
20130310158 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PLANNING AND CUSTOMIZING A GAMING EXPERIENCE - The invention includes a system and method for planning and customizing a gaming vacation. Initially, a central controller receives preference and configuration data from a user at a user terminal. A preparation code is then determined and associated with the configuration data. The configuration data and the associated preparation code are transmitted from the central controller to a casino server. The central controller provides feedback regarding the user's requests. The feedback may include, for example, marketing offers for the user and/or configuring a gaming device according to the configuration data associated with a preparation code received from a user at the gaming device. | 11-21-2013 |
20140080587 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING A LEVEL OF REWARD - A gaming system and method which includes enabling a player to initiate a play of a game, for the initiated play of the game: (i) randomly generating a game outcome, (ii) displaying to the player the randomly generated game outcome, (iii) determining any award associated with the displayed game outcome, and (iv) displaying to the player any determined award, enabling the player to invite a quantity of other players to each initiate a play of at least one game, the quantity of other players being greater than zero, and if the player invited the quantity of other players, providing the player a benefit, an amount of the benefit being based on the quantity of other players invited. | 03-20-2014 |
20140309018 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AUTHENTICATING DATA RELATING TO PARTICIPATION IN AN ELECTRONIC GAME - Methods and apparatus for managing and authenticating usage of features of gaming devices are presented. In accordance with some embodiments, the methods and apparatus may facilitate an offer engine for providing one or more offers to a user of the gaming device, wherein an offer comprises an offer for a payment to be made to the user in exchange for an action by the user, wherein the one or more offers are distinct from indications of awards the user may qualify for during play of a game playable via the gaming device. In one embodiment the methods and apparatus may provide for determining whether to adjust the first feature based on the measure of performance. | 10-16-2014 |
20140342804 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OPTIMIZING THE RATE OF PLAY OF A GAMING DEVICE - The invention includes a system and method for determining and achieving an optimized rate of play of a gaming device for a given player. The system monitors play at a gaming device, determines whether adjustments to parameters that effect the potential maximum rate of play should be made, and makes the appropriate adjustments. Monitoring play includes measuring such things as force applied to input buttons and tracking unnecessary button presses at inappropriate times (i.e., while the reels are still spinning). Parameters that effect the potential maximum rate of play include reel resolution time, length of bonus displays, payout rate, and the like. | 11-20-2014 |
20150038204 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PORTABLE EXERGAMING - In a first aspect, a system for playing a video game is provided that includes (1) one or more sensors adapted to monitor one or more biometric parameters of a user and communicate the one or more monitored biometric parameters (MBPs); (2) a computing device adapted to communicate with the one or more sensors and to receive the one or more communicated MBPs; and (3) a video game having an avatar adapted to move an object on an incline, the video game adapted to execute on the computing device. The video game is adapted to control the avatar to perform an action in the video game based in part on the received one or more communicated MBPs. Numerous other aspects are provided. | 02-05-2015 |