Controlling modes in wagering game systems

Abstract

A mode control device in a wagering game network is described herein. The mode control device can be used to control operational modes on a machine within the wagering game network. The mode control device can interface with the machine and gather criteria affecting which of the operational modes can be activated on the machine. Additionally, the mode control device can select, based on the criteria, allowable modes from the operational modes. Furthermore, the mode control device can notify the machine about the allowable modes. In addition, mode control device can select, activate, limit, enhance, or in any other way control the modes on the machine. In some embodiments, the mode control device can also control the modes on other devices associated with the machine in the wagering game network.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 947,401 filed Jun. 30, 2007.LIMITED COPYRIGHT WAIVER[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. Copyright 2008, WMS Gaming, Inc.FIELD[0003]Embodiments of the inventive subject matter relate generally to wagering game systems, and more particularly to devices that control operational modes of wagering game systems and networks.BACKGROUND[0004]Wagering game 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 depends on the likelihood (or perceived ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The patent describes a method and apparatus for controlling a mobile wagering game machine. The method involves interfacing with the machine and gathering criteria that affect which of the machine's operational modes can be activated. The criteria can include information about the machine's capabilities, environment, location, direction of motion, time of day, operator, financial account balance, playing statistics, age, and devices connected to the machine. The apparatus includes a mode control device that interface with the machine and create mode control information to activate the machine's allowable modes. The technical effects of this patent include improved control over the machine's operational modes and improved user experience."

Problems solved by technology

Mobile machines that provide numerous useful modes can be hard for players to use.

By the same token, mode control may become more complex, and thus more mode control rules may apply.

In some embodiments, that a mode may be allowable generally, but limited in some aspects, depending on the change in criteria.

In some embodiments, a selected mode may not be allowable because the criteria changed from movement of the mobile machine 902, loss of network connectivity, change in user status, maintenance issues, time of day, etc.

Furthermore, based on the analysis, some allowable modes, though allowable, can be limited or restricted in the degree to which a mode can be activated.

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