Method for revealing result of game dice

Abstract

A method of revealing one or more game dice results. The method includes vertically driving a movable platform for each of the N independent game dice subsystems to vertically throw at least one game dice in the enclosed space for each corresponding game dice subsystem of the N game dice subsystems. When at least one game dice falls within the enclosed space, an upward count on each falling game dice is detected to indicate a game dice result for each corresponding game dice system. The method further includes receiving a selection of X game dice subsystems of the N game dice subsystems, visually indicating the selection of the X game dice subsystems, and raising a mechanical shutter for each of the X game dice subsystems to reveal a game dice result for each corresponding game dice subsystem of the X game dice subsystems.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 477,786, filed on December 29, 2022, and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 390,514, filed on December 20, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to gaming systems and, more particularly, to automated gaming systems for throwing gaming dice, such as double dice and Sic Bo. Background Art

[0004] Gaming systems, particularly automated and / or electronic gaming systems, are becoming increasingly common. Current gaming systems automate many functions, eliminating the need for a game official or human assistance to assist in playing various games. One example is craps. Current systems utilize a dice system that rolls actual dice in a controlled environment and reads the results, enabling games (such as craps) to be played without a game official. However, players desire more from automated dice systems than simply playing the same dice as in traditional tabletop games. Players desire more exciting features from automated dice systems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Illustrative examples of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, methods, systems, and various apparatuses.

[0006] A method for revealing one or more game dice outcomes is disclosed. The method includes vertically driving a movable platform for each of N independent game dice systems to vertically throw at least one game dice into an enclosed space for each corresponding game dice system in the N game dice systems. When the at least one game dice falls into the enclosed space, an upward dot number on each fallen game dice is detected to indicate the game dice outcome of each corresponding game dice system. The method also includes receiving a selection of X game dice systems from the N game dice systems, visually indicating the selection of the X game dice systems, and raising a mechanical shield for each of the X game dice systems to reveal the game dice outcome of each corresponding game dice system in the X game dice systems.

[0007] Other features of the systems and methods are described below. The features, functions, and advantages can be achieved independently in various examples or combined in other examples, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0009] Figure 1A An example diagram of a gaming dice system or generator for one or more gaming machines is shown.

[0010] Figure 1B An example diagram of a gaming dice system or generator for one or more gaming machines is shown.

[0011] Figure 1C An example diagram of a gaming dice system or generator for one or more gaming machines is shown.

[0012] Figure 1D An example diagram of a gaming dice system or generator for one or more gaming machines is shown.

[0013] Figure 2A An example diagram of a gaming dice system or generator for one or more gaming machines is shown.

[0014] Figure 2B An example diagram of a gaming dice system or generator for one or more gaming machines is shown.

[0015] Figure 2C An example diagram of a gaming dice system or generator for one or more gaming machines is shown.

[0016] Figure 2D An example diagram of a gaming dice system or generator for one or more gaming machines is shown.

[0017] Figure 3 An example of a table assembly is shown that can be used with a voice coil motor to move a platform configured to hold gaming dice.

[0018] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a gaming dice system with a fully closed shutter system is shown.

[0019] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a gaming dice system with an open shutter system is shown.

[0020] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of a gaming dice system showing the belt and belt drive system for the shutter system.

[0021] Figure 7A An exemplary gaming machine capable of implementing a gaming dice system is shown.

[0022] Figure 7B An exemplary gaming machine capable of implementing a gaming dice system is shown.

[0023] Figure 8 An exemplary process for selecting at least one from any number of gaming dice systems for a gaming system or gaming table is shown.

[0024] Figure 9 An exemplary graphical user interface that can be used in conjunction with a gaming dice system is shown.

[0025] Figure 10 An exemplary computing environment is shown in which the described systems and processes can be implemented. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Figure 1A 、 1B , 1C, and 1D illustrate an exemplary gaming dice system 100, which includes a gaming dice drum 102 coupled to a platform 106, which is movable in a vertical direction via a drive mechanism 104. The gaming dice drum 102 can be made of a transparent or partially transparent material, such as glass, plastic, or the like. The gaming dice drum 102 can enclose a space above the platform 106, for example, to accommodate one or more gaming dice 108. In some cases, the drum 102 can be removable from the platform 106, for example, to add or remove gaming dice, perform maintenance, etc. The drum 102 can be reinforced with one or more vertical members and can include a top cover 118. The top cover 118 can include lighting, with wiring for the lighting extending upward through support structures for the drum 102 and top cover 118. In some cases, the drum 102 and / or top cover 118 can be secured to the platform 106, for example, to prevent tampering with the gaming dice 108 during gameplay using the gaming dice system 100.

[0027] The drive device or mechanism 104 may include a motor, such as a voice coil motor 120, which can drive the platform 106 to move up and down (e.g., in the vertical direction) independently of the cylinder 102. In some aspects, the drive device 104 may include other types of motors. In some cases, the drive mechanism 104 may be configured to move the platform 106 upward and may rely on gravity to move the platform 106 downward. However, in most embodiments, the drive device 104 may be configured to move the platform 106 up and down to control the force applied to the platform 106, thereby enabling precise control of the throwing of the game dice 108. This can enable the game dice system 100 to ensure that each game dice roll or throw is random and has nothing to do with the starting position of the game dice, thereby complying with one or more game license regulations.

[0028] The drive unit 104 may be fixed relative to the platform 106 so that the platform 106 can move vertically independently of the drive unit 104 (e.g., so that the drive unit 104 can remain stationary) to protect the operation of the drive unit 104. The platform 106 may be fixed relative to the platform 106 to enable the platform 106 to move vertically independently of the drive unit 104 (e.g., so that the drive unit 104 can remain stationary) to protect the operation of the drive unit 104. Figure 3 106 is movable at least in the vertical direction, and the intermediate plate 302 is coupled to the drive device 104. In the example shown, the platform 106 can also be coupled to two vertical shafts 110, 112. The shafts 110, 112 can move within sleeves or guides 114, 116 via one or more bearing or bushing assemblies (e.g., bearings 128, 130). The sleeves or outer cylinders 114, 116 can be fixed to, for example, a base structural plate or platform 132, which remains stationary as the platform 106 moves up and down. Figure 3 An example of a platform 106 coupled to shafts 110, 112 is shown. Shafts 110, 112 can each have one or more magnets 126 attached thereto, which can be permanent magnets. Sleeves 114, 116 can each include one or more magnets that function as magnetic motion limiters 122, 124. Magnetic motion limiters 122, 124 can be permanent magnets. Magnetic motion limiters 122, 124 can be attached to an upper portion 130 and a lower portion 128 of each sleeve 114, 116. Magnetic motion limiters 122, 124 can magnetically limit vertical motion of shafts 110, 112. For example, magnets 126 on each shaft 110, 112 can be positioned to have opposite polarity to magnetic motion limiters 122, 124.

[0029] In some aspects, the two shafts 110, 112 and the upper and lower portions 128, 130 of the sleeves 114, 116 can form a guide system. In some cases, the shafts 110, 112 can be coated with an oil-free lubricant (e.g., Teflon), eliminating the need for oil and helping to reduce wear and maintenance on the shafts 110, 112 and sleeves 114, 116. Magnets 122, 124, and 126 can cooperate to limit the mechanical movement of the shafts 110, 112. In some cases, a magnet 126 can be attached to one or more of the shafts 110, 112. Magnetic motion limiters 122, 124 can be placed at the top and bottom of the sleeves 114, 116 to limit the maximum vertical movement of the magnet 126. The magnet 126 can be located between the limiters of the portions 128, 130. The portions 128, 130 can also include an oil-free lubrication system. In another example, the shafts 110 and / or 112 can include two magnets 126 spaced a distance apart from each other along the shafts 110, 112. The magnetic motion limiters 122, 124 and portions 128, 130 can be positioned between the magnets 126 such that the upper limiter 124 can limit downward motion of the shafts 110, 112, while the lower limiter 122 can limit upward motion of the shafts 110, 112. The positions of the motion limiters 122, 124 and magnets 126 can determine the minimum and maximum vertical positions of the shafts 110, 112 and the platform 106. It should be understood that the above configuration of the magnetic brake system is merely an example, and other types of brake systems that similarly utilize magnets are also contemplated herein.

[0030] Magnets (122, 124, 126) can replace previous systems, such as systems using mechanical springs. By replacing the mechanical spring system with a magnetic brake, the reliability of the system can be improved. In some aspects, a game cycle counter can be set in the system 100 to monitor the usage of the various components of the system 100 and provide maintenance information of the components. The maintenance information can include the service life and replacement information of the game dice 108, the cylinder 102 and other components (such as the vibration area of ​​the platform 106, etc.). In some aspects, the counter can provide a warning or indication that one or more components need to be replaced. By using a magnetic brake, the maintenance interval of the brake system can be greatly extended.

[0031] In one example, the use of magnetic brakes (122, 124, 126) can reduce the weight of the platform 106, for example, to 1.8 pounds (0.8 kilograms). Due to the reduced weight, the magnetic brake system can also reduce the power required to move the platform in the vertical direction. The reduced weight can also reduce the impact of the vibrating platform on surrounding systems (such as brackets and other mechanical structures).

[0032] In some cases, the use of magnetic brakes and / or drive devices 104 can increase the height at which the gaming dice are thrown and reduce the time required to throw the gaming dice 108 and determine which gaming dice 108 is facing up, thereby determining the score associated with the throw in a shorter time than previous systems.

[0033] The magnets 126 and magnetic motion limiters 122, 124 of each shaft or member can limit the vertical movement of the platform 106 without using springs or other similar systems in previous designs. Due to the use of magnetic limiters, the described system can be more durable, have a longer lifespan, require less maintenance, require fewer parts replacements, etc. In some cases, the fixed portion of the system 100 can include a drive device 104, which can include a portion of the voice coil motor 120, a plate or platform 132 to which the sleeves 114, 116 and the voice coil motor 120 are mounted, and one or more supports 134, 136 connecting the plate 132 to an upper plate or platform 138. An RFID detection device or board (e.g., including a microcontroller) 140 can be placed, attached, or mounted on the upper plate or platform 138. The RFID detection device 140 can detect one or more gaming dice 108, each of which can include multiple RFID tags or chips. Each chip can correspond to a face of each gaming dice 108, which displays the value of the gaming dice 108. In some examples, an RFID tag or chip for a given number (e.g., "2") may be located opposite the face displaying "2." Thus, when the gaming die is placed on the platform 106 with the "2" facing up and visible to the player, the RFID detection device 140 may detect the nearest RFID tag, which corresponds to the number "2."

[0034] In some cases, the drive mechanism 104 may include a voice coil motor 120. The voice coil 120 may include a first cylindrical portion 142 and a second cylindrical portion 144. The portion 144 may be at least partially mounted within the interior of the cylindrical portion 142. The portion 144 may be substantially hollow and may house a winding 146, for example, made of copper. The portion 142 may include a permanent magnet 148. The drive mechanism 104 may also include a power supply 150 electrically connected to the voice coil motor 120 for driving the voice coil motor 120. When current is applied to the voice coil motor 120 via the power supply 150, a magnetic field is generated. This magnetic field causes the voice coil motor 120 to react to the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet 148 affixed to the portion 142, thereby moving the portion 144 of the motor 120. For example, a drive current passing through the winding 146 in one direction may drive the portion 144 in one direction, while a drive current passing through the winding 146 in the opposite direction may drive the portion 144 in the opposite direction. In this way, the movement of portion 144 can be highly controlled for micro-positioning. In some cases, power supply 150 can include a voice coil driver module and / or a voice coil driver for regulating control of voice coil motor 120, as well as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) module for backup power and burst power.

[0035] Because the moving parts of the voice coil motor 120 (i.e., the portion 142 and its coil 146) do not contact the stationary parts (i.e., the portion 144 and its magnet 148), the voice coil 120 is not subject to mechanical wear and tear, and does not require sensitive mechanical components (e.g., wheels, belts, bearings, motors) required to produce rapid dynamic motion. Another reason for selecting the voice coil motor 120 is that it can be placed in a variety of different locations within the gaming dice system 100 to achieve vertical movement of the platform 106 with minimal modification to other components. The voice coil motor 120 can also be configured to provide arbitrary motion frequencies (e.g., up to 100 Hz), amplitudes, and offsets, making it fully adaptable to different system 100 designs. In some cases, the voice coil motor 120 can vibrate the platform 106, for example, over a wide frequency range, to cause gaming dice to fall and to face one side of each gaming dice upward, to simulate the rolling of gaming dice in a player's hand, and for other reasons. In some cases, the voice coil motor 120 , in combination with other components of the system 100 , can throw the gaming dice 108 up to 14 inches or 35 centimeters above the platform 106 to simulate a player throwing the gaming dice 108 .

[0036] It should be understood that other drive devices 104 are also contemplated herein, such that the described techniques can be implemented in a similar manner on these other drive devices 104 (eg, other motor types in different physical configurations).

[0037] In some aspects, a fan 152 or other cooling mechanism can be provided near the drive device 104, for example, to ensure safer and longer operation of the drive device 104. In some cases, a flexible retaining device 154 (e.g., a hollow chain) can be used to retain the wiring to the RFID detection device 140 so that the wiring can bend each time the platform 106 moves without placing excessive stress on the wiring.

[0038] In some aspects, the system 100 may include, for example, a displacement sensor 156 attached to the plate 132. The platform 106 may be connected to a device or structure 158 that can move near the displacement sensor 156, such as to be able to measure the displacement of the platform 106 relative to the drive 104 (or other fixed parts of the system 100). During operation of the game dice system 100, the theoretical displacement of the platform 106 may be randomly selected by a random number generator associated with the power system 150 (the random number generator is incorporated into the drive system of the power system, or is input into the drive system from another external computer component). The theoretical displacement may be referred to as the desired throwing stroke or throwing action of the game dice. As further described below, the throwing stroke or throwing action may involve a plurality of controlled motions of the platform 106 to achieve the desired throwing of the game dice. The displacement sensors 156, 158 can measure the actual displacement of the platform 106, which can be compared to the theoretical displacement, as described more fully below, in a closed-loop feedback system to continuously monitor and adjust the accuracy of the gaming dice system 100 over time.

[0039] Figure 2A 、 2B , 2C and 2D show Figure 1A 、 1B , 1C and 1D are perspective views of portions of system 100. Figure 2A A front view 200a of the drive device 104 is shown. Figure 2B A top view 200b of the drive device 104 and the platform 106 is shown. Figure 2C A side view 200c of the drive device 104 is shown. Figure 2D A cross-sectional side view 200d of the drive device 104 is shown.

[0040] Figure 3An example of a platform assembly 300 is shown that can be vibrated and / or moved in a vertical direction by the drive device 104. As shown, the platform assembly 300 can include the platform 106 and an intermediate plate 302, which is coupled to the platform 106 via a plurality of support structures 304, 306, 308, and 310. The shafts 110 and 112 can extend from the intermediate plate 302 away from the platform 106. A structure 158 used in conjunction with a displacement sensor 156 (not shown) for measuring displacement of the platform assembly 300 relative to the drive device 104 can extend from the intermediate plate 302 away from the platform 106.

[0041] In one example, the portion 144 of the voice coil motor 120 can be attached to a surface of the middle plate 320 (e.g., a surface facing away from the platform 106). When activated, the voice coil motor 120 can move the platform assembly 300 and / or the vibration platform assembly 300 in a vertical direction via the shafts 110, 112 guided by the sleeves 114, 116. The magnetic motion limiters 122, 124 and the magnets 126 attached to the shafts can limit the vertical movement of the shafts 110, 112, thereby limiting the vertical movement of the platform assembly 300.

[0042] In some examples, the RFID detection board support structure 140 can have one or more holes or openings corresponding to the support structures 304-310. This allows the platform assembly 300 to move vertically relative to the RFID detection board 140, so that the RFID detection board 140 does not move with the platform 106. Because the RFID detection board 140 only needs to read the RFID tag of the gaming dice after the gaming dice land on the bottom of the platform 106, the fact that the RFID detection board 140 does not move with the platform 106 does not negatively impact the operation of the RFID detection board 140.

[0043] In some aspects, the power system 150 can also control the precise movement of the drive assembly 104 / voice coil motor 120 to change the motion characteristics of the platform 106 , implement different throwing characteristics of the gaming dice 108 , and perform other functions.

[0044] In some aspects, the power system / drive control 150 can also measure the temperature of the drive device 104 / voice coil motor 120 during operation through feedback from the drive device / voice coil motor 120 and / or one or more temperature sensors. The power system 150 can monitor the temperature of the drive device 104 / voice coil motor 120 to ensure that it does not overheat (which may damage the drive device 104 and other components of the gaming dice system 100). When an overheating condition is detected, the power system 150 can temporarily stop supplying power to the drive device 104 / voice coil motor 120 to prevent any damage to the drive device 104 / voice coil motor 120. In some aspects, the power system 150 can resume supplying power to the drive device 104 / voice coil motor 120 upon expiration of a configurable time period, upon detecting that the temperature of the drive device 104 / voice coil motor 120 is within a safe operating range, etc.

[0045] More detailed information regarding the power system 150, RFID detection, and gaming dice roll control of the automated gaming dice system may be found in commonly owned US Patent No. 10,537,788, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0046] In an embodiment, a shutter mechanism may be added to a gaming dice system, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, as a way to create more expectations about the results of the game system, rather than just the results themselves. The occluder mechanism can be composed of Figure 6 The telescopic cylinder is driven by a belt drive motor as shown more fully in FIG. Figure 4 As shown, the shield 400 of the shield mechanism is completely closed or lowered, so that the game dice in the game dice system cannot be seen. Figure 5 As shown, the shield 400 is raised so that the gaming dice 108 are fully visible. Figure 6As shown, the telescopic cylinder of the shield 400 can be connected to the bottom portion of the shield 400 by a belt 600, which is located on either side of the shield 400 but inside the game dice drum 102. The belt can be driven by a belt drive motor system 602 located at the top portion of the game dice drum 102 but below the top cover 118. Although belt drive motors and belts have been discussed herein, the belt can be any type of flexible support that can be attached to the bottom portion of the shield and raise the bottom portion and / or other middle portions, and the drive motor can be any type of motor configured to raise and lower the flexible support. The diameter of the bottom portion of the shield 400 can be greater than the diameter of the middle portion of the shield 400, and the diameter of the middle portion can be greater than the diameter of the top portion of the shield so that when the bottom portion is raised, it covers the middle portion. A limiter (not shown) between the middle portion and the bottom portion will ensure that when the bottom portion is further raised toward the top portion, the middle portion will rise along with the bottom portion. Although three parts are shown, two parts or any number of additional parts are also possible.

[0047] The automated shield mechanism ensures that when the game dice 108 needs to be hidden, the shield 400 is fully closed, making the game dice 108 invisible to the player, but it can be partially or fully visible at other times. For example, it may be desirable to allow players to continue placing bets while the game dice are rolling because this speeds up the game, but this also increases the possibility of cheating. By making the game dice invisible during the rolling process, players can continue placing bets without any risk of cheating, once the game dice have landed, and can also continue placing bets after the game dice have landed until the shield is raised to reveal the result. As an additional layer of security, one or more optical sensors 604 can be installed in the platform or base 106 to ensure that the shield 400 has reached its lowest possible point and is therefore fully closed. Measuring whether the shield is fully closed helps prevent anyone from manually attempting to open the shield. Mechanical shield systems have advantages over game dice systems with game dice barrels, which include film materials or additive materials that, when an electric current or other operation is applied to these materials, make the transparent barrel opaque. Under certain circumstances, such as exposure to light of a specific spectrum or high temperatures, the gaming dice can be seen through the opaque material. The mechanical shutter system cannot be tampered with in this way, ensuring that the gaming dice remain invisible when they are needed, regardless of the shutter's environment.

[0048] In addition to being fully open (i.e., raised) and closed (i.e., lowered), the shield 400 can also be positioned in multiple positions between open and closed, which provides players with some additional exciting gaming options. For example, the shield can be fully open, allowing full visibility when the game dice begin to shake. Alternatively, the shield can be partially closed, allowing the game dice to be visible but not completely visible, or positioned in any position between fully open and fully closed as the game dice move. This allows players to see and confirm that the game dice are rolling, even while still placing bets, but they cannot cheat and guess the outcome because the shield will close before the shaking process is complete.

[0049] In another embodiment, the shutter system can be used to provide additional modes of action associated with the gaming dice system. Figure 7A FIG. 1 shows a universal cabinet 700 having a display and a game dice system 100 with user controls. The universal cabinet 700 can be configured similarly to a slot machine, where a player can select to initiate a dice game and control when one or more game dice in the game dice system are thrown. In some aspects, due to the need for precise control of the game dice system, a random number generator can select one or more parameters for throwing the game dice before the player initiates the game dice throw. After receiving the selection to initiate the game dice throw, the game dice system can throw the game dice according to the parameters specified by the random number generator. In some cases, the game dice system can vibrate the game dice or may throw the game dice without affecting the final throw to simulate the player actually controlling the initiation of the game dice throw, even though the player does not actually control the game dice throw.

[0050] The addition of the shield system can allow the player to further control the game without changing any aspect of the randomness of the result. For example, in the first embodiment (i.e., mode 1), once the game dice are thrown and the shield 400 is still closed, the player can gently touch the bash button 702 on the universal cabinet 700 to slowly open the shield 400 until it reaches the height of the game dice, so that the side of the game dice is visible but the top of the game dice is invisible, thereby not fully revealing the result. An optical sensor 604 or other sensors can be used to verify the correct position, which can be predetermined by the belt drive motor 602. After this, if the player removes his hand from the bash button 702, the shield 400 can be fully closed again, i.e., teasing the result. If the player presses the bash button 702, the shield 400 can be fully opened and reveal the result.

[0051] In the second embodiment (i.e., Mode 2), once the game dice are rolled and the shield 400 is still closed, the player can gently touch the thump button 702 on the universal cabinet 700, causing the shield 400 to slowly open until it reaches the height of the game dice, so that the sides of the game dice are visible but the tops of the game dice are not, thereby partially revealing the result. Thereafter, if the player removes their hand from the thump button 702, the shield 400 can remain in the same position, neither fully closed nor fully open. If the player presses the thump button 702, the shield 400 can fully open and reveal the result.

[0052] In the third embodiment (i.e., Mode 3), once the game dice are rolled and the shield 400 is still closed, the player can lightly touch the thump button 702 on the universal cabinet 700 to slowly open the shield 400 until it reaches the height of the game dice, so that the sides of the game dice are visible but the top is not, thereby not fully revealing the result. However, once the shield 400 reaches this position, the shield can automatically open completely. If the player wants to see the result immediately or is tired of the slow opening of the shield 400, the player can press the thump button 702 to fully open the shield 400 and reveal the result.

[0053] Figure 7B A gaming table 750 is shown with three independent gaming dice systems 100. Although Figure 7BNot shown in the figure, but game table 750 can have one or more player stations or consoles around it. Player station can be similar to general cabinet 700, and each station includes its own display, thump button, game coin validator, card reader / printer etc., but difference is that they can not include some identical equipment, such as game dice random number generator. In the game that uses game table 750 to carry out, the player can select two of the three game dice generators to play dice games, such as Sic Bo, after the shields of all three game dice systems are closed and the game dice are rolled. When the game dice are rolled, the player can bet on the result. Once rolling is completed, the player can select two of the three game dice systems or generators to raise the shields to reveal the game dice that are rolled. Allow the player to select which two of the three game dice systems to reveal the randomness that will not change the result, because all three game dice generators are all random operations, and the player just selects which two to reveal. In an embodiment, the player can also select option, for example, hit the thump button, to start the process of stopping the game dice rolling or shaking. The force with which the player hits the thump button can determine the height of the final jump of the game dice upon hitting it. This allows the player to determine when the final jump will occur. However, the player does not actually determine the outcome of the game dice system 100 by hitting the thump button, as there is a timeout during which the game dice continue to shake, ensuring randomization of the game dice and preventing any player interference with the outcome. If the player does not select the option to hit the thump button, the height of the final jump can be determined randomly. In another example, the player can choose to throw the game dice, which is still randomly generated and is completely independent of the player's actions. In one embodiment, bets can be placed for a period of time before the game dice are thrown, and betting stops before the game dice are thrown. In one embodiment, bets are not placed until the shutter 400 is fully closed, at which point all three game dice can be thrown while betting continues. Once the game dice settle after being thrown, the player designated as the thrower can select which two shutters to open to reveal the outcome of the game dice throw.

[0054] Figure 8 An exemplary process 800 is shown for selecting at least one of any number of gaming dice systems for a gaming system or gaming table. The process 800 can be used, for example, in one or more gaming tables or cabinets using more than one gaming dice system, such as Figure 7BThe game shown, double dice game, Sic Bo, Yahtzee brand game or other games using multiple game dice. Process 800 can be performed by one or more controllers of a gaming table or console. In one example, after n gaming dice systems are rolled with the shield fully closed, the player can select one or more gaming dice systems to open the shield and reveal the results through one or more user interface selection options, the one or more user interface selection options being presented either as a graphical user interface on a display device associated with the gaming machine or gaming table, or through an interface and one or more physical selection items (e.g., display buttons or physical buttons, such as Figure 7A 702) in the swipe key. Figure 9 An exemplary user interface for selecting one or more game dice systems to reveal is shown. By providing the user with the option to select which game dice system to reveal, a more engaging and interactive user experience can be provided. Furthermore, by providing the option to select one or more game dice systems from a plurality of game dice systems, the user may believe that he or she has more control over how the dice game is played, when in fact, no more control is actually given because the roll is randomly determined by the computer before the shield is raised.

[0055] Flow 800 can start from operation 802, wherein when shielding piece is fully closed, can throw the game dice in n game dice selection system.Next, in operation 804, can present selection option to the user that is designated as thrower, these options can comprise button or zone in graphical user interface, for example, provided by the display device associated with their player station or console, or can comprise one or more physical buttons, as shown in figure thump button 702.During selection option, user / player can select to reveal each of x game dice systems.In operation 806, game system can receive the game dice system selection for current game.In some aspects, game table can provide 2,3,4,5 or other number of n independent game dice systems or generator.Game system can be constructed to allow player / user to select any number x game dice system from n game dice systems.In operation 808, after receiving one or more selections of player (or by computer at random), game system can visually indicate which x game dice systems have been selected. In some aspects, operation 806 may include turning on one or more lights, LEDs, or other lighting sources near the selected game dice system, such as an illuminated top cover 118 or other lighting below the game dice system. In some aspects of process 800, the unselected game dice system may also be visually indicated to contrast with the selected game dice system. In some aspects, this may include turning off all lights or lighting sources near the unselected game dice system. In some systems, a mechanical, electromechanical, or magnetic lift may be used to lower the unselected game dice system into the gaming enclosure, completely out of sight, and then re-raise the game dice system after the game is over.

[0056] In some aspects of process 800, if the player declines to select x game dice or the selection time is too long, operation 804 may be automatically and randomly performed after a configurable time period. Once the x game dice systems to be revealed have been selected or automatically determined, in operation 810, the shields of the x selected game dice systems are raised or opened to reveal the results. In embodiments, the player may also be allowed to raise the shields of the x selected game dice systems according to one or more operating modes. Three such exemplary operating modes are described herein: Mode 1, Mode 2, and Mode 3.

[0057] Figure 9 An exemplary graphical user interface that may be used in conjunction with the gaming dice system 100 and / or gaming machine is shown. Figure 9 Shown Figure 7B904, indicating that the player has been selected as the thrower and instructing the player to press a "throw" button (display 902) or a thump button (display 904) to cause the three game dice systems to be thrown. Before or when the button is pressed, the shield of the game dice system will close and the throwing will begin. Once the game dice system has been thrown, the player / user will be invited to select or choose the game dice system to be revealed (display 906).

[0058] In another example, the game can have 2, 4, 5 or n game dice systems, rather than 3 game dice systems, and the player can select x game dice systems. By touching the screen or using other types of control devices (such as physics, optics or sensor-based devices on the game station, such as thump buttons), select x circles corresponding to the game dice systems on the display screen, causing the selected circles and corresponding game dice systems to be highlighted, as described above. If the player does not do this before the timeout, then the selection can be made randomly automatically. If the player has made a selection, but has not opened the shield before the timeout, then the selected game dice system will be revealed. If the player has selected one or more game dice systems before the timeout, but is less than the game dice systems of the required number, then a new timeout can be set, and the process can be restarted for the remaining game dice systems. Once the game dice system is selected, the player can then obtain the option of revealing according to the operating mode (such as mode 1, mode 2 and mode 3) on the display screen, as described in the above-mentioned timeout.

[0059] In another embodiment, the gaming dice system can be operated remotely from a physical location associated with the gaming dice system where a player places bets. A player, via an internet-connected computer in communication with the gaming dice system, can access a betting interface configured to enable the player to place one or more bets by placing bet amounts at various locations within a graphical user interface associated with the gaming dice system. After rolling the gaming dice, the player can operate one or more buttons of the graphical user interface according to any of the methods described herein to raise one or more shields of the gaming dice system.

[0060] In some aspects, the gaming dice system 100 and / or one or more of the above-described processes may be implemented using one or more computing devices or environments, as described below. Figure 10An exemplary general-purpose computing environment is shown, which may, for example, embody one or more aspects of a local gaming dice system controller associated with a single (or three) instances of a gaming dice system and / or a centralized gaming dice system that can communicate with the gaming dice system 100 via one or more wired or wireless communication networks. The computing system environment 1002 is merely one example of a suitable computing environment and is not intended to limit the scope of use or functionality of the presently disclosed subject matter. The computing environment 1002 should also not be interpreted as having any dependency or requirement on any component or combination of components shown in the exemplary operating environment 1002. In some embodiments, the various illustrated computing elements may include circuitry configured to implement particular aspects of the present disclosure. For example, the term "circuitry," as used in this disclosure, may include specialized hardware components configured to perform functions via firmware or switches. In other exemplary embodiments, the term "circuitry" may include a general-purpose processing unit, memory, etc., configured by software instructions embodying logic operable to perform functions. In exemplary embodiments where the circuitry comprises a combination of hardware and software, an implementer may write source code embodying the logic, and the source code may be compiled into machine-readable code that can be processed by the general-purpose processing unit. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the state of the art has advanced to the point where there's little distinction between hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Therefore, the choice of hardware or software to implement a particular function is a design choice left to the implementer. More specifically, those skilled in the art will appreciate that software procedures can be converted into equivalent hardware structures, and hardware structures themselves can be converted into equivalent software procedures. Therefore, the choice between hardware and software implementation is a design choice, determined by the implementer.

[0061] The computer 1002 may include any of a mobile device or smartphone, tablet, laptop, desktop computer, or a collection of network devices, cloud computing resources, etc., and typically includes various computer-readable media. Computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by the computer 1002, including volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. The system memory 1022 includes computer-readable storage media in the form of volatile and / or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM) 1023 and random access memory (RAM) 1060. The basic input / output system 1024 (BIOS) is typically stored in ROM 1023 and contains basic routines that help transfer information between elements within the computer 1002, such as during startup. RAM 1060 typically contains data and / or program modules that are immediately accessible to and / or currently being operated on by the processing unit 1059. By way of example and not limitation, Figure 10 Operating system 1025 , application programs 1026 , other program modules 1027 (including gaming dice system control application 1065 ), and program data 1028 are shown.

[0062] The computer 1002 may also include other removable / non-removable, volatile / non-volatile computer storage media. For example only, Figure 10 A hard disk drive 1038 is shown that reads from or writes to a non-removable, non-volatile magnetic medium, a magnetic disk drive 1039 that reads from or writes to a removable, non-volatile magnetic disk 1054, and an optical disk drive 1004 that reads from or writes to a removable, non-volatile optical disk 1053 (e.g., a CD ROM or other optical media). Other removable / non-removable, volatile / non-volatile computer storage media that can be used in the exemplary operating environment include, but are not limited to, magnetic tape cassettes, flash memory cards, digital versatile disks, digital video tapes, solid-state RAM, solid-state ROM, and the like. The hard disk drive 1038 is typically connected to the system bus 1021 via a non-removable memory interface (e.g., interface 1034), and the magnetic disk drive 1039 and optical disk drive 1004 are typically connected to the system bus 1021 via a removable memory interface (e.g., interface 1035 or 1036).

[0063] discussed above and in Figure 10 The drives and their associated computer storage media shown in FIG. 1 provide storage of computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules and other data for the computer 1002. For example, in FIG. Figure 10 In the figure, hard disk drive 1038 is shown as storing operating system 1058, application programs 1057, other program modules 1056, and program data 1055. Note that these components can be the same as or different from operating system 1025, application programs 1026, other program modules 1027, and program data 1028. Operating system 1058, application programs 1057, other program modules 1056, and program data 1055 are given different numbers here to indicate that they are at least different copies. A user can enter commands and information into computer 1002 through input devices such as keyboard 1051 and pointing device 1052, commonly called a mouse, trackball, or touchpad. Other input devices (not shown) may include microphones, joysticks, game controllers, satellite dishes, scanners, retinal scanners, etc. These and other input devices are typically connected to processing unit 1059 through user input interface 1036 coupled to system bus 1021, but may also be connected through other interfaces and bus structures such as a parallel port, game port, or universal serial bus (USB). A monitor 1042 or other type of display device is also connected to the system bus 1021 via an interface, such as a video interface 1032. In addition to the monitor, computers may also include other peripheral output devices, such as speakers 1044 and printer 1043, which may be connected through an output peripheral interface 1033.

[0064] The computer 1002 can operate in a network environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers, such as the remote computer 1046. The remote computer 1046 can be a personal computer, server, router, network PC, peer device, or other common network node, and typically includes many or all of the elements described above with respect to the computer 1002, although Figure 10 Only the memory storage device 1047 is shown. Figure 10 The logical connections shown in the figure include a local area network (LAN) 1045 and a wide area network (WAN) 1049, but other networks may also be included. Such networking environments are common in offices, enterprise-wide computer networks, intranets, the Internet, and cloud computing resources.

[0065] When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer 1002 is connected to the LAN 1045 through a network interface or adapter 1037. When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer 1002 typically includes a modem 1005 or other means for establishing communications over the WAN 1049 (such as the Internet). The modem 1005 can be internal or external and can be connected to the system bus 1021 via the user input interface 1036 or other appropriate mechanism. In a network environment, program modules shown relative to the computer 1002, or portions thereof, may be stored in the remote memory storage device. By way of example and not limitation, Figure 10 Remote application programs 1048 are shown residing on memory device 1047. It will be appreciated that the network connections shown are exemplary and other means of establishing a communications link between the computers may be used.

[0066] In some aspects, other programs 1027 may include a gaming dice system control application 1065 that includes the functionality described above. In some cases, the gaming dice system control application 1065 may perform some or all of the operations of process 800. In some aspects, the computing device 1002 may also communicate with one or more gaming dice systems 100.

[0067] Each process, method, and algorithm described in the preceding sections can be embodied and fully or partially automated by a code module executed by one or more computers or computer processors. The code module can be stored on any type of non-transitory computer-readable medium or computer storage device, such as a hard drive, solid-state memory, or optical disk. The processes and algorithms can be implemented in part or in whole in dedicated circuitry. The results of the disclosed processes and process steps can be stored persistently or otherwise in any type of non-transitory computer storage, such as volatile or non-volatile storage. The various features and processes described above can be used independently of each other or combined in various ways. All possible combinations and subcombinations are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, certain method or process blocks may be omitted in some implementations. The methods and processes described herein are not limited to any particular order; the associated blocks or states may be performed in other suitable orders. For example, the described blocks or states may be performed in an order different from that specifically disclosed, or multiple blocks or states may be combined in a single block or state. The example blocks or states may be performed serially, in parallel, or in other ways. Blocks or states may be added to or deleted from the disclosed exemplary embodiments. The exemplary systems and components described herein may be configured differently than described. For example, elements may be added, deleted, or rearranged compared to the disclosed exemplary embodiments.

[0068] It will also be understood that various items are shown as being stored in memory or storage during use, and that these items or portions thereof can be transferred between memory and other storage devices for memory management and data integrity. Alternatively, in other embodiments, some or all software modules and / or systems can be executed in the memory of another device and communicate with the illustrated computing system via inter-computer communication. Furthermore, in some embodiments, some or all systems and / or modules can be implemented or provided in other ways, such as at least partially implemented or provided in firmware and / or hardware, including but not limited to one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), standard integrated circuits, controllers (e.g., by executing appropriate instructions, including microcontrollers and / or embedded controllers), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), etc. Some or all modules, systems, and data structures can also be stored (e.g., as software instructions or structured data) on a computer-readable medium, such as a hard disk, memory, network, or portable media article, for reading by an appropriate drive or appropriate connection. For the purposes of this specification and claims, the phrase "computer-readable storage medium" and its variations do not include waves, signals, and / or other transient and / or intangible communication media. Systems, modules, and data structures may also be transmitted as generated data signals (e.g., as part of a carrier wave or other analog or digital propagation signal) over various computer-readable transmission media, including wireless and wired / cable-based media, and may take various forms (e.g., as part of a single or multiplexed analog signal, or as multiple discrete digital packets or frames). In other embodiments, such computer program products may also take other forms. Thus, the present disclosure may be practiced with other computer system configurations.

[0069] In one embodiment, a method for revealing one or more game dice outcomes includes: vertically driving a movable platform for each of N independent game dice systems to vertically throw at least one game dice in an enclosed space for each corresponding game dice system in the N game dice systems; when the at least one game dice falls into the enclosed space, detecting an upward dot on each fallen game dice to indicate a game dice outcome for each corresponding game dice system; receiving a selection of X game dice systems from the N game dice systems; visually indicating the selection of the X game dice systems; and raising a mechanical shield for each of the X game dice systems to reveal the game dice outcome for each corresponding game dice system in the X game dice systems.

[0070] In this embodiment, wherein raising the mechanical shield includes rolling up two or more flexible supports, the flexible supports are connected to a lower portion of each mechanical shield at a first end and connected to a drive motor at a second end opposite the first end.

[0071] In this embodiment, the two or more flexible supports are belts. In this embodiment, the visual indication includes indicating X selection options via a graphical user interface.

[0072] In the embodiment where the user interface includes Y buttons, the instructions include changing a display aspect of X selected buttons.

[0073] In this embodiment, the visual indication includes activating one or more lighting sources associated with the X gaming dice systems.

[0074] In this embodiment, a visual indication of which of the Z of the N gaming dice systems have not yet been selected is also included.

[0075] In this embodiment, wherein visually indicating which of the Z gaming dice systems of the N gaming dice systems have not been selected includes turning off one or more lighting sources associated with the Z gaming dice systems.

[0076] In this embodiment, wherein visually indicating which of the Z gaming dice systems of the N gaming dice systems have not been selected includes making the Z gaming dice systems invisible to a player of the gaming dice gaming system.

[0077] In this embodiment, wherein rendering the Z gaming dice systems invisible comprises completely removing the Z gaming dice systems from view.

[0078] In this embodiment, completely removing the Z gaming dice systems includes removing the Z gaming dice systems using a mechanical device under the platform so that the Z gaming dice systems are not visible.

[0079] In this embodiment, the mechanical device is one or more of a mechanical lift, an electromechanical lift, or a magnetic lift.

[0080] In this embodiment, wherein receiving selections of X gaming dice systems includes receiving selections of X gaming dice systems from a graphical user interface displayed via a display device.

[0081] In this embodiment, the user interface includes at least one physical selection button or switch.

[0082] In this embodiment, wherein receiving a selection of the X gaming dice systems includes receiving a selection from a processor associated with the N gaming dice systems if the player does not make a selection of the X gaming dice systems within a predetermined time period.

[0083] In this embodiment, the selection from the processor is randomly generated.

[0084] In this embodiment, where the gaming dice system is physically operated at a location separate from the player, the player accesses the gaming dice system remotely using a computer.

[0085] Conditional language used herein, such as "may," "might," "might," "for example," and the like, unless expressly stated otherwise or understood otherwise in the context, is generally intended to convey that some embodiments include certain features, elements, and / or steps while other embodiments do not. Thus, such conditional language is generally not intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any respect essential to one or more embodiments, or that one or more embodiments must include logic for deciding whether to include or perform such features, elements, and / or steps in any particular embodiment, with or without author input or prompting. The terms "include," "comprising," "having," and the like are synonymous and are used in an open-ended manner that does not exclude additional elements, features, actions, operations, and the like. Furthermore, the term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (and not its exclusive sense), so that when used to connect a series of elements, the term "or" means one, some, or all of the elements.

[0086] Although certain exemplary embodiments have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, nothing in the foregoing description is intended to suggest that any particular feature, characteristic, step, module, or block is necessary or indispensable. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form of the methods and systems described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. The appended claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of certain aspects of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for revealing the results of one or more game dice, the method comprising: vertically driving a movable platform for each of the N independent game dice systems to vertically throw at least one game dice in the enclosed space for each corresponding game dice system in the N game dice systems; When at least one game dice falls into the enclosed space, detecting an upward point on each fallen game dice to indicate a game dice result of each corresponding game dice system; receiving a selection of X game dice systems from among N game dice systems; Visually indicate the selection of X game dice systems; as well as A mechanical shutter is raised for each of the X gaming dice systems to reveal a gaming dice outcome for each corresponding gaming dice system of the X gaming dice systems.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein raising the mechanical shield comprises rolling up two or more flexible supports connected to a lower portion of each mechanical shield at a first end and connected to a drive motor at a second end opposite the first end.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the two or more flexible supports are belts. The method of claim 1 , wherein the visual indication comprises indicating the X selection items via a graphical user interface. The method of claim 4 , wherein the user interface includes Y buttons and the instructing includes changing a display aspect of X selected buttons.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the visual indication comprises activating one or more lighting sources associated with the X gaming dice systems.

7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising visually indicating which of the Z of the N gaming dice systems have not been selected.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein visually indicating which of the Z of the N gaming dice systems have not been selected comprises turning off one or more lighting sources associated with the Z gaming dice systems.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein visually indicating which of the Z gaming dice systems of the N gaming dice systems have not been selected comprises making the Z gaming dice systems invisible to a player of the gaming dice gaming system.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein rendering the Z gaming dice systems invisible comprises completely removing the Z gaming dice systems from view.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein completely removing the Z gaming dice systems comprises removing the Z gaming dice systems using a mechanical device below the platform so that the Z gaming dice systems are not visible.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the mechanical device is one or more of a mechanical lift, an electromechanical lift, or a magnetic lift.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving selections of X gaming dice systems comprises receiving selections of X gaming dice systems from a graphical user interface displayed via a display device. The method of claim 13 , wherein the user interface comprises at least one physical selection button or switch.

15. The method of claim 1 , wherein receiving a selection of X gaming dice systems comprises receiving a selection from a processor associated with the N gaming dice systems if the player does not make a selection of the X gaming dice systems within a predetermined time period. The method of claim 15 , wherein the selection from the processor is randomly generated.

17. The method of claim 1, wherein the gaming dice system is physically operated at a location separate from the player, and the player remotely accesses the gaming dice system using a computer.

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