Gaming machine with light altering features

Abstract

A gaming machine for conducting a wagering game includes a game display and at least one illumination device. The game display is for displaying the wagering game and the illumination device is for presenting artistic elements such as marquee lettering and candle lighting. One aspect of the illumination device is a formed material with at least one LED embedded within. The formed material contains light dispersion particles and is of a nature that allows the light from the embedded LEDs to emit from the surface in an effectively uniform manner. In a different embodiment, an illumination device, comprised of a colored light source, associated electronic components that are enclosed within the gaming machine's housing, and a transparent object, directs light from the light source through the structure of the transparent object positioned over the source, and displays the color and intended intensity of the light on an altered surface on the transparent object.

Description

PRIORITY [0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 of provisional application Ser. No. 60 / 572,615, filed May 19, 2004, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety as if fully set forth.COPYRIGHT [0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever. FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0003] The present invention relates generally to gaming machines and, more specifically, to a gaming machine with light altering features. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0004] Gaming machines, such as slot machines, video poker machines and the like, have been a cornerstone of the gaming industry for several years. Generally, the popularity of such machines w...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0011] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a lighting device is presented that disperses light across its viewable surface providing a look similar to neon. Comprised of LEDs embedded within a material that can be cast into any shape, the method and materials used in the lighting device introduce new design possibilities and reduce safety issues typically associated with glass materials used in many other lighting applications. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a lighting device is offered that encloses a colored light source and its associated electronic components within the gaming machine's housing, directs emitted light from the source through the structure of a transparent object positioned over the lighting source, and displays the color and intended intensity of the light source on an altered surface on the transparent object.

Problems solved by technology

This technique is limiting because the lighting sources used can fail, requiring occasional replacement and some embarrassment, as the machine is not then presented in its finest form.

The visual display, because of its flat or two-dimensional presentation, offers less design options and thus becomes common and less interesting.

But CCFL has limitations, as well.

The fragility of the glass and the higher voltage requirements result in safety concerns that require manufacturers that offer CCFL, especially in neon form, to use shields to prevent accidents.

Higher costs are another prohibitive factor when considering CCFL.

Fluorescent lighting is also limiting because of its required shape.

Restricted to tubes or round shapes, this option limits the development of interesting lighting design.

Fluorescent lighting is also as fragile as CCFL adding safety concerns to its design issues.

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