Electronic computers and digital processing systems related to inter-program or inter-process communication concerning amusement devices and games.

Abstract

The objective is to develop a system and method for determining the weights of consensus odds among sportsbooks. [Solution] The system includes a function to calculate consensus odds based on the odds of each wager at each wagering venue, and each wager's odds at each wagering venue has a weight relative to the consensus odds that is proportional to the total amount wagered at each wagering venue among multiple wagering venues in the market.

Description

Technical Field

[0008] , ,

[0007]

[0001] Relates to electronic computers and digital processing systems.

Background Art

[0002] Relates to electronic computers and digital processing systems in which communication between programs or processes related to amusement devices and games is involved.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] Some embodiments may include interactions between sports books.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] Describe various other systems and methods.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0005] [Figure 1] A diagram showing an apparatus for playing a game according to some embodiments. [Figure 2] A diagram showing an example of a plurality of interacting wagering venues. [Figure 3] A diagram showing an exemplary method that can be performed in some embodiments. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an exemplary method that can be performed in some embodiments.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0006] Sections I through X below provide guidance for interpreting this application.

[0007] I. Terms The term "product" means any machine, manufactured article, and / or composition of matter, unless otherwise specified.

[0008] Unless otherwise specified, the term "process" in this specification and the original claims refers to a process, algorithm, method, etc.

[0009] Each process (whether called a method, an algorithm, or by any other name) inherently comprises one or more steps. Every reference to a “step” of a process has its own prior base in the mere mention of the word “process” or a similar word. Thus, any claim reference to a “step” of a process has a sufficient prior base.

[0010] Unless otherwise specified, terms such as "invention" refer to "one or more inventions disclosed in this application."

[0011] Unless otherwise specified, the words "an embodiment," "embodiment," "embodiments," "the embodiment," "the embodiments," "one or more embodiments," "some embodiments," "certain embodiments," "one embodiment," and "another embodiment" refer to "one or more embodiments (but not all) of the invention disclosed herein."

[0012] In this invention, the term "variation" refers to an embodiment of the invention unless otherwise specified.

[0013] The reference to "another embodiment" in the representation of an embodiment does not imply that the cited embodiment is mutually exclusive with other embodiments (for example, embodiments described prior to the cited embodiment) unless otherwise specified.

[0014] Unless otherwise specified, "including," "comprising," and their variations indicate "inclusive but not necessarily limited." Therefore, for example, the sentence "The portfolio includes red widgets and blue widgets" means that the portfolio includes red widgets and blue widgets, but may also include other things.

[0015] The word "consisting of" and its variations mean "including and limited to" unless otherwise specified. Therefore, for example, the sentence "The portfolio consists of red widgets and blue widgets" means that the portfolio includes red widgets and blue widgets, but does not include anything else.

[0016] The word "to constitute" and its variations, unless otherwise specified, means to constitute a component, an ingredient, or to be a member of something. Therefore, for example, the sentence "The red widget and the blue widget constitute the portfolio" means that the portfolio includes the red widget and the blue widget.

[0017] The phrase "exclusively constitutes" and its variations, unless otherwise specified, means that a component is the sole component or member of a particular part. For example, the sentence "The red widget and the blue widget exclusively constitute the portfolio" means that the portfolio contains the red widget and the blue widget, but nothing else.

[0018] In this specification and in the claims, the words "a," "an," and "the" refer to "one or more" unless otherwise specified.

[0019] In this specification and in the claims, the term "plurality" means "two or more" unless otherwise specified.

[0020] As used herein, the term "herein" includes, unless otherwise indicated, anything that can be incorporated by reference.

[0021] When the phrase "at least one of" modifies a plurality of items (such as a list enumerating items), unless otherwise indicated, it represents one or a combination of more than one of the items. For example, the phrase "at least one of a widget, a car, and a wheel" represents (i) a widget, (ii) a car, (iii) a wheel, (iv) a widget and a car, (v) a widget and a wheel, (vi) a car and a wheel, or (vii) a widget, a car, and a wheel. The phrase "at least one of" does not represent "one of each of the plurality of items" when the foregoing phrase modifies a plurality of items.

[0022] When numbers such as "1", "2", etc. are used as cardinal numbers indicating the quantity of something (such as one widget, two widgets), they represent the quantity indicated by the number, but not only the quantity indicated by the number. For example, the phrase "one widget" does not represent "at least one widget", and thus, the phrase "one widget" does not, for example, encompass two widgets.

[0023] As used in this specification and the claims, the phrase "based on" does not, unless otherwise indicated, represent "based solely on". That is, the phrase "based on" represents "based solely on" and "based at least on". The phrase "based at least on" as used in this specification and the claims is equivalent to the phrase "based at least in part on".

[0024] The terms "represent" and similar terms as used in this specification and the claims are not exclusive unless otherwise specified. For example, the term "represents" does not mean "represents only that" unless otherwise specified. That is, the phrase "the aforementioned data represents a credit card number" means both "the data represents only the credit card number" and "the data represents the credit card number and the data also represents something else".

[0025] The term "whereby" is used only to precede a clause or other group of words that represents only the intended result, purpose or consequence of what has been expressly described previously. Thus, when the term "whereby" is used in a claim, the clause or other words that "whereby" modifies do not set a further limitation specific to the claim, nor do they limit the meaning or scope of the claim.

[0026] Words such as "e.g." mean "for example", and thus do not limit the words or phrases they explain. For example, in the sentence "the computer sends data (e.g., instructions, a data structure) over the Internet", the word "e.g." explains that "data structures" are examples of "data" that the computer can send over the Internet, and also explains that "instructions" are examples of "data" that the computer can send over the Internet. However, neither "instructions" nor "data structure" are anything more than examples of "data", and other things besides "instructions" and "data structure" can also be "data".

[0027] Words like "respective" indicate "when interpreted individually." Therefore, when two or more things have "individual" characteristics, each of the aforementioned things has its own characteristics, and these characteristics may or may not be different from each other. For example, the phrase "each of two machines has a respective function" means that the first machine has a function, and the second machine also has a function. The function of the first machine may or may not be the same as the function of the second machine.

[0028] Words like "ie" indicate "that is," and therefore limit the word or phrase they describe. For example, in the sentence "the computer sends data (ie, instructions) over the Internet," the word "ie" explains that the "instructions" are "data" that the computer sends over the Internet.

[0029] Any specific numerical range includes all numbers and fractions within that range. For example, the range "1 to 10" shall be interpreted to specifically include all numbers between 1 and 10 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, ... 9) and non-all numbers between 1 and 10 (e.g., 1.1, 1.2, ... 1.9).

[0030] The existence of two or more words or phrases that are synonymous (for example, because it is explicitly stated that the preceding words or phrases are synonymous) does not imply that the existence of another preceding word or phrase must have a different meaning. For example, if one statement makes the meaning of "including" synonymous with "including but not limited to," simply using the phrase "including but not limited to" does not imply that the word "including" represents something other than "including but not limited to."

[0031] II. "Determining" The word "determining" and its grammatical variations (e.g., "to determine a price," "determining a value," "determine an object which meets a certain criterion") are used in an extremely broad sense. The word "determining" encompasses a wide range of actions and therefore can include calculation, computation, processing, derivation, investigation, lookup (e.g., looking up a table, database, or other data structure), verification, etc. Furthermore, "determining" can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory), etc. Moreover, "determining" can include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, etc.

[0032] The term "determining" does not imply certainty or absolute accuracy; therefore, "determining" can include estimation, extrapolation, prediction, and conjecture.

[0033] The term "determining" does not imply that mathematical processing must be performed, that numerical methods must be used, or that algorithms or processes must be used.

[0034] The term "determining" does not imply that a specific device must be used. For example, a computer does not necessarily have to perform the determination.

[0035] III. Sentence Structure If the limitation of the first claim includes one or more of the components (for example, a limitation such as "at least one widget" includes one widget and two or more widgets), and the second claim dependent on the first claim uses the definite article "the" to express the limitation ("the widget"), this does not imply that the first claim includes only one of the components (for example, "the widget" can include one widget and two or more widgets).

[0036] When ordinal numbers (such as "first," "second," "third," etc.) are used as adjectives preceding a word, they are used (unless otherwise specified) merely to indicate a particular structure (for example, to distinguish that particular structure from other structures represented by the same or similar words). For example, "the first widget" may be named that way simply to distinguish it from, for example, "the second widget." Therefore, simply using the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the word "widget" does not indicate any other relationship between the two widgets, nor does it indicate any other characteristic of one or both widgets. For example, simply using the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the word "widget" does not (1) indicate whether a widget comes before or after another in order or place, (2) indicate whether a widget occurs or operates before or after any other in time, or (3) indicate whether any widget is ranked above or below any other in terms of importance or quality. Furthermore, simply using an ordinal number does not imply a numerical limit on the configuration identified by the ordinal number. For example, simply using the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the word "widget" does not indicate that there may be no more than two widgets.

[0037] Where a single device, article, or other product is described herein and in the claims, two or more devices / articles (whether working together or not) may be used as substitutes for the aforementioned single device / article. Thus, the functions described as being possessed by a device or by two or more devices / products (whether working together or not) may be possessed by the two or more devices / products.

[0038] Similarly, if two or more devices, articles, or other products are described herein and in the claims (whether they work together or not), a single device / article may be used as a substitute, in place of the two or more aforementioned devices or articles. For example, multiple computer-based devices can be replaced by a single computer-based device. Thus, various functions described as being possessed by two devices or products can be possessed by a single device / product.

[0039] The functions and / or configuration of the single device described above may be implemented by one or more other devices that are described but not explicitly stated to have the functions / configurations described above. Therefore, other embodiments may not include the device described above itself, but may include one or more other devices that have the functions / configurations described above in the other embodiments described above.

[0040] IV. The examples and terms disclosed are not limiting.

[0041] Neither the title (presented at the beginning of the first page) nor the abstract (presented at the end of this application) shall be construed in any way as limiting the scope of the invention disclosed herein, nor shall they be used in the interpretation of the meaning of any claim, or as limiting the scope of any claim. The abstract is included in this application simply because it is required under U.S. 37 CFR § 1.72(b).

[0042] The title of this application and the headings of the sections described herein are for convenience only and should not be interpreted in any way as limiting the disclosure of this application. Numerous embodiments are described in this application, which are presented solely for illustrative purposes. The embodiments described are not intended to be limiting in any sense. The invention disclosed herein is broadly applicable to numerous embodiments, as readily apparent from the disclosure herein. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention disclosed herein can be implemented with various modifications and alterations, such as structural modifications, logical modifications, software modifications, and electrical modifications. Specific configurations of the invention disclosed herein may be described with reference to one or more specific embodiments and / or drawings, but the use of such configurations is not limited to the embodiments or accompanying drawings described by reference unless otherwise specified.

[0043] While the embodiments may be disclosed as including several configurations, other embodiments of the present invention may include configurations less than all of those described above. Therefore, for example, a claim may relate to a set of configurations that is less than the entire set of configurations in the disclosed embodiments, and the aforementioned claim does not include configurations beyond those specified in the claim.

[0044] None of the examples of method processes or product components described in this application constitute the present invention as described in the claims, or are not essential to the invention as described in the claims, or do not have the same scope as the invention as described in the claims, unless otherwise explicitly stated in this specification or in the claims.

[0045] The preamble to the claims of this application merely describes the purpose, benefits and possible uses of the claimed invention and does not limit the claimed invention.

[0046] This specification and claims are not a complete description of all embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, this disclosure is not a list of configurations of the present invention that must be present in all embodiments.

[0047] Not all disclosed embodiments are necessarily encompassed by the claims (including pending, amended, registered, and deleted claims). Furthermore, embodiments may be encompassed by some claims (though not necessarily). Therefore, the fact that a claim relates to a particular embodiment (whether pending, amended, registered, or deleted) is not evidence that the scope of other claims does not encompass that embodiment.

[0048] Devices described as communicating with each other are not required to communicate constantly unless otherwise specified. Rather, such devices may transmit data to each other only when necessary or desirable, and in practice, they may refrain from exchanging data for most of the time. For example, a machine communicating with another machine over the internet may not transmit data to the other machine for extended periods (e.g., several weeks at a time). Furthermore, devices communicating with each other may communicate directly or indirectly through one or more intermediates.

[0049] The descriptions of embodiments with certain components or configurations do not imply that all or any of the aforementioned components / configurations are necessary. Rather, various optional components are described to illustrate a wide range of possible embodiments of the present invention. Unless otherwise specified, none of the components / configurations are essential or required.

[0050] While processing steps, algorithms, etc., may be described in a specific order in the specification or claims, the aforementioned processing can be configured to be performed in various orders. That is, any order of the processes that may be explicitly described in the specification or claims does not necessarily indicate a requirement that the processes be performed in that order. The processes of the processing described herein can be performed in any order that is feasible. Furthermore, certain processes can be performed simultaneously even if they are described or suggested not to be performed simultaneously (for example, because one process is described after another). Moreover, the illustrations of the processes in the accompanying drawings do not suggest that the illustrated processes exclude other variations and modifications thereof, nor do they suggest that the illustrated processes or any of their steps are necessary for the present invention, nor do they suggest that the illustrated processes are preferred.

[0051] A process may be described as involving multiple steps, but this does not imply that any or all of the steps are preferred, essential, or necessary. Various other embodiments within the scope of the invention described herein include other processes that omit some or all of the steps described herein. Unless otherwise specified, no step is essential or necessary.

[0052] The process can be described in isolation or without reference to other products or methods, but in embodiments, the process can interact with other products or methods. For example, such interactions may include a step of linking one business model with another. Such interactions may be provided to improve the flexibility or desirability of the process.

[0053] A product may be described as comprising multiple components, aspects, qualities, characteristics, and / or configurations, but this does not indicate that any or all of the aforementioned components are preferred, essential, or necessary. Various other embodiments within the scope of the invention described herein include other products that omit some or all of the components described herein.

[0054] The enumerated list of items (whether numbered or not) does not imply, unless otherwise specified, that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive. Similarly, the enumerated list of items (whether numbered or not) does not imply, unless otherwise specified, that any or all of the items encompass all of any category. For example, the enumerated list of "computers, laptops, and PDAs" does not imply that any or all of the three items in that list are mutually exclusive, nor does it imply that any or all of the three items in that list encompass any category.

[0055] The enumerated list of items (whether numbered or not) does not suggest that any or all of the items are equivalent to or readily interchangeable with one another.

[0056] All examples are illustrative and do not suggest that the present invention or any of its embodiments have been performed or carried out.

[0057] V. Calculation The various processes described herein and in the claims can be implemented, for example, by a appropriately programmed general-purpose computer, a special-purpose processor, and a computer device. Typically, a processor (e.g., one or more microprocessors, one or more microcontrollers, one or more digital signal processors) receives instructions (e.g., from memory or similar devices), executes the aforementioned instructions, and thereby performs one or more processes defined by the aforementioned instructions. Instructions can be implemented, for example, in one or more computer programs, one or more scripts.

[0058] "Processor" means one or more microprocessors, central processing units (CPUs), computer units, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, or similar devices, or any combination thereof, regardless of architecture (e.g., chip-level multiprocessing / multicore, RISC, CISC, microprocessors without interlocked pipeline stages, pipelining configurations, simultaneous multithreading).

[0059] Therefore, the description of the process is similarly a description of the apparatus that performs the aforementioned process. The apparatus that performs the process may include, for example, a processor, input devices, and output devices suitable for performing the aforementioned process.

[0060] Furthermore, programs (or other types of data) that implement the aforementioned methods can be stored and transmitted in several ways using various media (e.g., computer-readable media). In certain embodiments, wiring circuits or custom hardware can be used in place of, or in combination with, some or all of the software instructions that can implement the processing of various embodiments. Thus, various combinations of hardware and software can be used in place of software alone.

[0061] The term “computer-readable medium” refers to any medium, multiple such mediums, or a combination of separate mediums that are involved in supplying data (e.g., instructions, data structures) that can be read by a computer, processor, or similar device. Such mediums can take many forms, including but not limited to non-volatile, volatile, and transmission media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks and other permanent memory. Volatile media include dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), which typically constitutes main memory. Transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wires, and optical fibers (including wires with a system bus coupled to a processor). Transmission media may include, or transmit, sound waves, light waves, and electromagnetic emissions (such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications). Typical forms of computer-readable media include, for example, computer-readable floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes or any other magnetic media, CD-ROMs, DVDs, any other optical media, punch cards, paper tapes, any other physical media with hole patterns, RAM, PROMs and EPROMs, flash EEPROMs, any other memory chips or cartridges, carriers as described below, and any other media.

[0062] Various forms of computer-readable media may be involved in transporting data (e.g., a series of instructions) to a processor. For example, data may be (i) supplied from RAM to a processor, (ii) transported via a wireless transmission medium, (iii) formatted and / or transmitted by numerous forms, standards and protocols such as Ethernet® (and IEEE 802.3), SAP, ATP, Bluetooth®, TCP / IP, TDMA, CDMA and 3G, and / or (iv) encrypted in any of the various methods well known in the art to ensure privacy or prevent unauthorized access.

[0063] Therefore, the description of the process is similarly a description of a computer-readable medium for storing a program for performing the aforementioned process. The computer-readable medium is capable of storing (in any appropriate format) the program components appropriate for performing the method.

[0064] Just as a description of the various steps in a process does not indicate that all of the described steps are necessary, the examples of the apparatus include a computer / calculating device capable of performing some, but not all, of the described processes.

[0065] Similarly, just as a description of the various steps in a process does not indicate that all of the described steps are necessary, embodiments of computer-readable media for storing programs or data structures include computer-readable media for storing programs that, when executed, can cause a processor to perform (but not necessarily all) of the described processes.

[0066] If a database is described, a person skilled in the art will understand that (i) alternative database structures can be readily used instead of the one described, and (ii) other memory structures other than databases can be readily used. Any example or description of any sample database described herein and in the claims is an illustrative configuration of the stored representation of information. For example, any number of other configurations other than those suggested by the tables illustrated in the accompanying drawings or elsewhere can be used. Similarly, any illustrated entry in a database represents only illustrative information. A person skilled in the art will understand that the number and content of entries may differ from those described herein and in the claims. Furthermore, even if a database is described as a table, it is possible to store and manipulate the data types described in the specification and in the claims using other forms (including relational databases, object-based models, and / or distributed databases). Similarly, it is possible to implement various processes, such as those described herein and in the claims, using the object methods or behaviors of a database. Furthermore, a database can be stored locally or remotely in known ways on devices that access the data in the aforementioned database.

[0067] Various embodiments can be configured to be implemented in a network environment including a computer communicating with one or more devices (for example, via a communication network). The computer can communicate directly or indirectly with the devices via any wired or wireless medium (e.g., the Internet, LAN, WAN or Ethernet®, Token Ring, telephone lines, cable lines, wireless channels, optical communication lines, commercial online service providers, bulletin board systems, satellite communication links, or any combination of the above). Each device may itself have a computer or other computing device (such as one based on an Intel® Pentium® or Centrino® processor) adapted to communicate with the computer. Any number and type of device can communicate with the computer.

[0068] In embodiments, a server computer or centralized authority may be unnecessary or undesirable. For example, the present invention can be implemented in embodiments for one or more devices without central authority. Any function described herein and in the claims that is performed by a server computer, or any data described as being stored on a server computer, can instead be performed by or stored on the aforementioned one or more devices.

[0069] The processes described in the embodiments can operate without any user intervention. In other embodiments, the processes involve specific human intervention (for example, the process is performed by a human or with human assistance).

[0070] VI. Continuing applications This disclosure provides to those skilled in the art a number of embodiments and / or descriptions that enable the invention. The aforementioned embodiments and / or parts of the invention may not be described in the claims of this application, but may be described in the claims of one or more successive applications claiming priority to the invention.

[0071] The applicant intends to file further applications to pursue patentability for subject matter disclosed and made available, although not described in the claims of this application.

[0072] VII.35 USC §112(6) Any limitation of a claim that includes the phrase “means for” or the phrase “steps of” means that 35 U.S.C. § 112(6) falls under that limitation.

[0073] Any limitation of a claim that does not include the phrase “means for” or “step for” means that 35 U.S.C. § 112(6) does not apply to that limitation, regardless of whether the limitation describes a function without a description of the structure, material or operation for performing that function. For example, the mere use of the phrase “step of” or “steps of” in a claim to describe one or more steps in that claim or in another claim does not mean that 35 U.S.C. § 112(6) applies to that step.

[0074] With respect to means or processes for performing specific functions under 35 U.S.C. § 112(6), the corresponding structures, materials or operations described in the specification and its equivalents may perform further functions and specified functions.

[0075] Computers, processors, computer devices, and similar products are structures capable of performing a wide range of functions. Such products can operate to perform specific functions by executing one or more programs (programs stored in the product's memory devices or in memory devices accessed by the product). Unless otherwise specified, such programs do not have to be based on any particular algorithm (such as any particular algorithm disclosed herein). It is well known to those skilled in the art that specific functions can be achieved through different algorithms, and that any of these different algorithms are merely design choices for performing a particular function.

[0076] Therefore, with respect to means or processes for performing a specified function under 35 U.S.C. §112(6), a structure corresponding to a specified function includes any product programmed to perform the specified function. The aforementioned structure includes programmed products that perform the function, whether or not the aforementioned product is programmed with (i) a disclosed algorithm that performs the function, (ii) an algorithm similar to the disclosed algorithm, or (iii) another algorithm that performs the function.

[0077] Where a means for performing a function is described, one structure for performing this method includes a computing device (e.g., a general-purpose computer) consisting of appropriate hardware and / or programmed for performing the aforementioned function.

[0078] Furthermore, this also includes a computing device (e.g., a general-purpose computer) that is composed of and / or programmed with appropriate hardware to perform the aforementioned functions via other algorithms, as can be understood by a person with ordinary skill in the art.

[0079] VII. Disclaimer Numerous references to specific embodiments do not constitute a disclaimer or disclaimer of further separate embodiments, and similarly, references to descriptions of embodiments that include all of a particular configuration do not constitute a disclaimer or disclaimer of embodiments that do not include that particular configuration. Any explicit disclaimer or disclaimer in this application shall be preceded by the phrase “does not include” or “cannot perform.”

[0080] IX. References Unless it is not possible for a person of ordinary skill in the art to ascertain the ordinary meaning without any reference, patents, patent applications and other documents referenced herein are solely for the purpose of fulfilling the descriptive and enablement requirements of 35 U.S.C. § 112(1). No word in this application shall ever be used to limit, define or otherwise interpret.

[0081] No reference by any means implies any endorsement, ratification, or tacit approval of any representations, opinions, arguments, or characterizations contained in the referenced patent, patent application, or other document, unless otherwise stated in this patent application.

[0082] X. Application History In interpreting this application (including the claims), a person skilled in the art will refer to the application history of this application, but not to the application history of any other patent or patent application, regardless of whether there are other patent applications deemed to be related to this application, or whether there are other patent applications sharing a priority claim with this application.

[0083] XI. Card Playing cards have been around for a long time. While many types of playing cards exist and are used in many different games, the most common type of playing cards (playing cards) consists of 52 cards, each divided into four separate suits (i.e., spades, hearts, diamonds, and clubs), printed or shown on one side or the front of each card. In a standard deck, each of the four suits is numbered from 2 to 10, or has the letter A (Ace), K (King), Q (Queen), or J (Jack), also printed or shown on the front of each card. Each card thus includes the suit on its front, along with the number or letter. Kings, Queens, and Jacks usually also include a specific type of design on the front of the card and may also be called picture cards. Other types of playing cards are also described herein and in the claims, but various topics may apply to any type of playing card, some types of playing cards, and / or all types of playing cards.

[0084] In some cases, a standard 52-card playing deck may also include several additional cards, sometimes represented as jokers, which may have specific uses or meanings depending on the particular game being played with the deck. For example, if a card game includes jokers, a player who receives a joker in their "hand" may use it as any card in the deck. If a player has the 10 of Spades, Jack, Queen, and King along with a joker, they use the joker as the Ace of Spades. In that case, the player has a royal flush (10 of Spades through Ace).

[0085] Many separate games can be played using a standard deck of playing cards. Games played with a standard deck of cards may include other items such as a game board and chips, or they may only require the deck of playing cards itself. In most games played with a standard deck of cards, each card is assigned a value. The values ​​may differ for each separate game.

[0086] Typically, the value of cards starts with the number 2 as the lowest value, increasing as the number increases up to 10, followed by Jack, Queen, King, and Ace. In some games, an Ace may have a lower value than a 2, and in games where a particular card is a wild card or determined to have any value, that card can have the highest value of all. For example, in a card game where the 2 is a wild card, a player holding a playing card that includes a 2 can use that 2 as any other card, just as a 9 and a 2 are equivalent to two 9s.

[0087] Furthermore, the four separate cards shown on the card may have specific values ​​depending on the game. In games where one card (i.e., a spade) is worth more than another (i.e., a heart), the 7 of spades may be worth more than the 7 of hearts.

[0088] It is easy to imagine that it is possible to play many different games using different card quantities and card values. In a particular game, whether a player has defeated another player is determined by the combination of cards that player obtains. Generally, the more difficult a combination is to obtain, the more valuable the combination is, and (taking into account the value of the cards,) the player who obtains the more difficult combination wins the game.

[0089] For example, in a game of poker, each player can ultimately receive five cards. A player who receives three cards with the same value on their faces (i.e., a 4 of hearts, a 4 of diamonds, and a 4 of clubs) beats a player who receives only two cards of the same value (i.e., a king of spades and a king of hearts). However, a player who receives five cards that are all clubs, commonly known as a flush, beats a player who receives three of the same type as described above.

[0090] In many cases, a standard deck of playing cards is used to create a gaming machine. In the aforementioned gaming machine, players insert coins and try to get back more money than they originally inserted into the machine, playing a specific card game using an imitation of a standard playing card on a video screen.

[0091] Another form of gambling that uses playing cards is table gambling (also known as table games). Table gambling involves a table and a dealer, with players sitting or standing around the table. Players place their bets on the table, and the dealer gives each player cards. The number of cards given, or whether they are given face up or face down, depends on the specific table game being played.

[0092] Furthermore, imitations or depictions of standard playing cards are used in many handheld electronic games such as poker and blackjack, and in many computer and internet games. Using handheld electronic games or computer terminals, whether or not they are connected to the internet, players receive imitation playing cards and play card games against a computer or other players. Moreover, many of the aforementioned games can be played on a computer in combination with gambling.

[0093] Furthermore, there are many televised game shows that use decks of playing cards in gameplay, where the cards are typically enlarged or displayed on a video screen or monitor for easier viewing. In these aforementioned televised game shows, participants usually play card games for prizes or cash, with an individual acting as the host overseeing the action.

[0094] Furthermore, there are lotteries where players purchase and play by "scratching off" an opaque layer to determine if they have won a prize or cash. The opaque layer prevents players from knowing the result of the lottery before purchasing and scratching off the aforementioned layer. In some of the aforementioned lotteries, playing cards are used beneath the opaque layer, and players may need to match several similar cards to win a prize or cash.

[0095] XII. Casino Countermeasures Some methods of interfering with card counters involve using multiple decks. Cardboard shoees containing six or eight decks are common. The more cards there are, the less variation there is in the proportion of the remaining cards, making it more difficult to count. It is also possible to reduce the player's advantage by shuffling the cards more frequently, but this reduces the amount of time that can be dedicated to actual play and thus reduces the casino's profits. Some casinos use shuffling machines in this case, some of which shuffle one deck of cards while another player is playing, while someone else continues to shuffle. Distractions from the gaming floor environment and free alcoholic beverages also act to interfere with card counters. Some methods of interfering with card counters involve various payout structures, such as a 6:5 blackjack payoff, which is less favorable to the player than the standard 3:2 blackjack payoff.

[0096] XIII. Video Wagering Games The video wagering game is designed to mimic a table game using adapted table game rules and cards.

[0097] In one version of video poker, the player is allowed to examine five cards randomly selected by the computer. The aforementioned cards are displayed on the video screen, and the player selects any cards they wish to keep. If the player wishes to keep all the cards (i.e., stand), they press the STAND button. If the player wishes to keep only some of the cards, they select the cards they wish to keep by pressing the HOLD key located directly below each card displayed on the video screen. After selecting the HOLD cards, pressing the DEAL button automatically and simultaneously replaces the unselected cards with additional cards randomly selected from the rest of the deck. After the STAND button is pressed or cards are replaced, the final number of cards held is evaluated by the game machine's computer, and the player is awarded the coin payout or play credits calculated from the payoff table. This payoff table is stored in the machine's computer memory and is also displayed on the machine's screen. Hands with higher poker value are awarded more credits or coins. Extremely rare poker hands can have payoffs of 800 to 1 or more.

[0098] XIV. Device for playing via the communication system. Figure 1 shows a device for playing a game. A game-playing system comprising a management device 42, a player register 43, and a game device 45 is connected to multiple player devices 40-1 to 40-n via a communication system 41, such as the Internet. Each device 40 is typically a personal computer equipped with a display device and control means (keyboard and mouse).

[0099] When a player logs on to the game playing system, device 40 identifies itself to the management device. The system maintains player details in register 43, including separate player register devices 44-1 to 44-n for all potential players (i.e., for all members of the system).

[0100] Once a player is identified, they are assigned to the game device 45. The game device includes a set of player data devices 46-1 to 46-6, a dealer device 47, a control device 48, and a random dealing device 49.

[0101] Up to seven players can be assigned to the game device 45. If there are more than seven system members logged in at the same time, several games can be played simultaneously. The assignment of player devices 40 to player data devices 46 may be arbitrary or random, depending on which player data devices 46 and game devices 45 are available. Each player data device 46 is loaded from its corresponding player register device 44 and further contains substantially the same details as its corresponding player device 40, and communicates with player device 40 to keep the contents of the player devices and player data devices updated. In addition, appropriate portions of the contents of other player data devices 46 and dealer devices 47 are transferred to player device 40 for display.

[0102] The logic unit 48 of the game device 45 initiates the dealer operation and, after waiting for an appropriate response from the player device 40, causes the game device to execute the various stages of play. The random dealing device 49 distributes cards substantially randomly to the dealer device 47 and the player data device 46. At the end of a hand, the logic unit informs the player of the result of the hand (i.e., win and / or loss) by communicating it to the player data device 46. The management device 42 receives the result as appropriate and updates the player register device 44.

[0103] The player device 40 is configured to display a screen. The player's position is highlighted to identify the player. As play progresses, the player selects various boxes, places bets in them, and the results of the aforementioned actions are displayed. As cards are dealt, a series of overlapping card symbols are shown in the bonus box. At the player's option, cards may be shown within the lines below the box, and similarly for cards dealt to the dealer. At the end of a hand, the player is notified of the result of their bet (i.e., the amount won or lost).

[0104] XV. Alternative technologies The methods described in this specification and claims, which are demonstrated, used, and implemented in various embodiments, are merely a subset of possible methods that may be used for the same or similar purposes. The specific methods described herein and in the claims are not to be construed as limiting. Rather, the various embodiments envision alternative methods for creating, using, or implementing the various embodiments.

[0105] XVI. References For all purposes, U.S. Patents and patent applications No. 6,579,181, 6,299,536, 6,093,103, 5,941,769, 7,114,718, U.S. Patent Application No. 10 / 622321, U.S. Patent Application No. 4515,367, 5,000,453, 7,137,630, and 7,137,629 are incorporated herein by reference in the claims. [Examples]

[0106] XVII. Exemplary Examples Some gambling systems allow users to bet on the outcome of a game (e.g., which team will win and / or by how much). Gaming operators attempt to determine the exact probability for each game outcome (e.g., win, loss, point spread) so that they can offer unbeatable odds to potential bettors who may bet on each outcome. Probabilities (and odds) are usually determined before the game begins based on pre-game information such as historical data on each team, player, and coaching staff, expert evaluations and opinions from sports writers and other coaches, and other public and proprietary information about the game. For example, some gaming operators use complex, proprietary computer algorithms to determine odds based on existing statistics and other information. Odds can fluctuate during the betting period as bettors bet on one side or the other of the outcome (for example, if many bet on Team A to win and fewer bet on Team B to win, the odds on Team A to win may become less favorable).

[0107] As a result, odds are the gaming operator's "price" to a bettor for placing a bet on a particular outcome (higher odds mean a lower price for the bettor). When there are multiple gaming operators offering odds on a particular outcome to multiple bettors, these operators compete with each other to offer the best possible price to attract bettors seeking the highest payout for their wagers. Thus, a gaming operator may base their odds, at least in part, on the odds offered by competing gaming operators. Betting behavior can also influence odds. For example, high demand for a bet that the Chicago Cubs will win their next game against the Phillies can drive up the effective price of that bet. Therefore, as with any other competitive market, determining odds often reflects the "market price" for each game outcome as gaming operators adjust their odds based on market conditions. Effective market prices can fluctuate over time as the betting market changes and new relevant information (such as an injury to the Cubs' star pitcher the day before a game) is released. In particular, the amount bet by the loser on one side of a bet can be used to increase the payout for the winner on the other side. Thus, in large betting markets where there are many bettors on each side of a bet, gaming operators can adjust their odds to balance the potential payouts on either side of the bet.

[0108] However, the determination of odds often does not reflect the consensus "market price" (for example, the number of market participants is limited, or the market does not have enough time to match new and appropriate information to a stable market price). For example, some gaming operators allow users to bet on performance parameters during a game (such as whether a particular player will strike out in a particular at-bat in a baseball game). The betting market is usually opened manually just before the in-game event, and the odds are often determined manually in a "hasty" manner. If another gaming operator offers a similar bet, the aforementioned rapid timing of the bet may prevent the gaming operator and bettors from comparing the various odds offered. In the aforementioned case, the gaming operator may, overall, attempt to offer odds without the benefits of a competitive betting market, based on the operator's best assessment of the probabilities of various outcomes.

[0109] Identifying potential in-game betting markets (e.g., bets on the outcome of a particular at-bat), determining accurate probabilities and odds for each outcome, offering odds to bettors, receiving stakes, determining the outcome, and then paying out the winners can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. Some systems require many of the aforementioned operations to be performed manually and "quickly," and when labor is limited, the number and scope of in-game betting opportunities that a gaming operator can offer can be substantially restricted. Betting on in-game events often requires calculating probabilities and odds within a very short timeframe. Calculating accurate probabilities of in-game outcomes can become more difficult when new and relevant information becomes available during the game, such as a quarterback injury. Inaccurate odds can lead to unnecessarily high prices (and therefore fewer bettors) or unnecessarily low prices (meaning unnecessarily high payouts for winners).

[0110] In various embodiments of the present invention, the system may allow users to bet on in-game events such as whether a particular baseball player strikes out in a particular at-bat, and / or on more traditional game outcomes such as which team wins and / or by how much. The system may automatically receive general game information (e.g., team names, player lists, start time, etc.) from a data feed or other source. From the same data source (or another source), the system may further automatically receive a stream of real-time game information such as elapsed time, batting lineups, scores, errors, pitching information (strikes, balls, fouls, etc.).

[0111] Odds for events such as strikeouts can be calculated based on algorithms and odds databases stored in the system. The algorithms may use information from real sports (such as players' batting averages) and may be updated based on in-game events (for example, if Barry Bonds strikes out four times against the same pitcher, the odds of getting a hit off that pitcher may decrease).

[0112] Once a specific gambling event is completed (for example, once Barry Bonds finishes his at-bat by striking out or hitting a home run), the system settles the bets placed on that event. Simultaneously (or at a different time), the system may open bets on another event (for example, the next at-bat). In one embodiment, a human operator clears the bets after each event. For example, a human gaming agent might select "Strikeout" immediately after Barry Bonds strikes out. This action allows the system to immediately settle all bets on Barry Bonds' current at-bat and then open bets on the next event (for example, the outcome of the next batter's at-bat). In other embodiments, the system may use automated information (e.g., a data feed) to determine event results (such as a strikeout) in real time. In some embodiments, a human gaming agent may assist with error correction to ensure the system identifies the correct outcome and settles all bets appropriately.

[0113] Users may interact with the system and other users via an interface such as a gaming table or mobile touchscreen gaming device, which can be configured to place bets or, otherwise, display a live TV feed of an event such as a baseball game via an optional touch-sensitive betting interface overlay. In one embodiment, when Barry Bonds approaches the plate, the user may touch an image of Barry Bonds (or another image or icon) to trigger a betting interface overlay that allows the user to select and place a specific bet on Barry's at-bat. To bet on Barry getting a single hit, the user may touch an image of first base (or provide another appropriate input).

[0114] Various embodiments of the system may enable gambling on many different types of outcomes in a single game or other event (e.g., whether a particular runner steals a particular base, the number of runs scored in an inning, whether a pitcher throws a ball or a strike on a particular pitch). The system may open and close each betting event based on the start and end times of that particular event. The system can also be applied to various sports and other events such as elections (e.g., whether Barack Obama will win the upcoming 2008 presidential election in New Hampshire). Various embodiments of the invention may manage many separate betting markets simultaneously or overlapping at any given time. Each betting market may be opened, closed, and closed according to the conditions of that particular betting market, independently of other betting markets.

[0115] Various embodiments may include, for example, any type of wager, such as an in-game wager for a sport or other event, or a wager for the outcome of a game or other event. Various embodiments may include any system and / or method for estimating initial and / or future odds for any wager, such as, for example, a transaction-based system, a sportsbook algorithm and / or a wager line set up by an employee. Various embodiments may include any system and / or method for wagering and / or managing wagers, such as, for example, a centralized computer system, a distributed computer system, one or more servers, one or more client computers, an in-person system, a ticketing system, a mobile system, etc. The types of wagers, the systems and methods for estimating odds, and the systems and methods for wagering and managing wagers are described in Storm's U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 258297, entitled Wager Market Creation and Management, which is incorporated herein by reference in the claims.

[0116] Some embodiments may include wagers at a sportsbook or other venue for betting wagers on one or more competitions. Some exemplary competitions for which wagers can be bet wagers at a sportsbook may include auto racing, baseball, basketball, American football, golf, hockey, and horse racing. Each type of competition may have a separate set of odds associated with it.

[0117] For example, in auto racing, a sportsbook may list several individual drivers and / or field (and all other) options. Each field and / or individual driver may be associated with specific odds for each type of bet. For example, Jeff Gordon might be listed at 4 to 1, Jeff Burton at 15 to 1, and Casey Atwood at 100 to 1. If you bet $10 on Burton (15 to 1) and Burton wins the race, you would win $150 and get your $10 back, for a total payoff of $160. Matchup wagers may also be available, where two or more drivers are paired together in a head-to-head wager. Odds for the aforementioned wagers may also be offered. For example, a matchup could pit Dale Jarrett (minus 145) against Bobby Lavonte (plus 125). If you bet $145 on the favorite Jarrett, the payoff will be $245, which is $100 plus the $145 you get back. If you bet $100 on the underdog Lavonte, the payoff will be $225, which is $125 plus the $100 you get back. Various other weighers may also be available, such as over / under for the number of cautions during the race, the winning car manufacturer, and other weighers during the game.

[0118] For example, in baseball, a sportsbook may list each team matchup along with the odds associated with each team in that matchup. If the team on which a bet is placed wins the matchup, the payout for the winner may vary according to the odds. In some instances, baseball odds are shown using a moneyline.

[0119] In a moneyline, odds can be based on a specific dollar value (e.g., $1). In a moneyline, a "minus" preceding a number indicates that the team is favored, while a "plus" preceding a number indicates that the team is the underdog. For example, if the Braves' odds are -120, this means that a $12 bet will yield $10, resulting in a return of $22. In another example, if the Dodgers' odds are +110, this means that a $10 bet will yield $11, resulting in a return of $21. Various moneylines exist, such as the dime line and the 20-cent line, and these various moneylines can be used in various implementations. In the above implementations, the price of the underdog in a matchup may not be listed, but the house line may be used for the underdog. Various implementations may include various other wagers (e.g., over / under for total runs, run line, parlay where bettors can choose multiple teams to win, in-game wagers, etc.).

[0120] The moneyline can change as the bet progresses. In some embodiments, the odds calculated by the moneyline at the time of the wager may be the odds used to calculate the wager's payout at the end of the wager. In some embodiments, the moneyline after the end of the betting period may be used to calculate the wager's odds, even if the moneyline was different when the wager was placed.

[0121] In basketball, for example, sportsbooks may operate in a similar manner to baseball. In some embodiments, a points spread may be used so that bets on the winning team are only awarded if the team wins by the points spread. In some embodiments, the odds may be the same for all gaugers, but the points spread may differ. For example, as with the fluctuations in odds described above for baseball, the points spread may increase as more bettors place bets on the winning team. Some embodiments may allow "teasing" of the points spread (i.e., changes to the points spread) in exchange for changes to the odds. Various other embodiments may be included in some embodiments, such as parlays, over / under total points, and in-game gaugers.

[0122] For example, in boxing, sportsbooks may operate a moneyline similar to that of baseball. For example, in hockey and American football, sportsbooks may operate a moneyline similar to that of basketball.

[0123] For example, in golf, a sportsbook may operate a weighting method and / or system similar to that of auto racing described above. For instance, a sportsbook may list several individual golfers and fields. Each option may be associated with odds for each type of bet (e.g., on winning a tournament). For example, Tiger Woods might be listed at 2 to 1, Tom Lehman at 25 to 1, and Bob May at 100 to 1. If you bet $10 on Lehman at 25 to 1 and Lehman wins the tournament, the payoff would be $250 plus the $10 you get back, for a total of $260. A sportsbook may also include match-up propositions between two or more golfers. In some embodiments, the aforementioned propositions may match one golfer with two or more other golfers. In some embodiments, various other weights may be included, such as over / under the winning score, over / under the lowest score by any golfer, over / under the final ranking of a golfer, and in-game weights.

[0124] For example, in horse racing, a sportsbook may offer a wide range of betting options. These may include win, place, show, across the board, exacta, quinella, trifecta, superfecta, daily double, pick six, and other wagering options, as well as the availability of wagers during any game. Each wagering option may be associated with a moneyline or other type of odds system, such as those mentioned above.

[0125] As stated above, some embodiments may include various events or propositions on which bets are made, such as election results or awards. Some embodiments may include wagers on seasons of television shows (e.g., Survivor) or seasons of games. Some embodiments may include wagers on other casino games (e.g., craps, blackjack, slots, poker). The aforementioned bets may include bets on individual games, bets on other people, bets on game statistics, bets on tournaments for the aforementioned games, etc. Examples of various wager types and odds types are presented only as examples and are not limiting, and various embodiments may include any desired wager type and / or odds type.

[0126] In some instances, multiple sportsbooks may offer the same or similar wage proposition (for example, the Bears winning a particular American football game). For example, in Las Vegas and many other jurisdictions where gambling is legal, many casinos operate their own sportsbooks. In each of the aforementioned sportsbooks, bettors may bet on the same or similar proposition.

[0127] Some sportsbooks may compete to attract customers in the market by adjusting the odds on propositions. Some sportsbooks may have different odds than others because more fans of one team visit that sportsbook than fans of another team, placing similar wagers and thereby altering the odds for that wager. Some embodiments may allow one or more sportsbooks to communicate regarding odds. For example, such communication may allow a sportsbook to establish consensus odds for a desired market. The aforementioned embodiments may allow one or more sportsbooks to swap the responsibility of one or more wagers. For example, such functionality may allow a sportsbook to adjust the number of wagers on a proposition's side to reach a desired balance.

[0128] Figure 2 shows an example of multiple sportsbooks 201 interacting via a central system 203. The central system 203 may include one or more computing devices configured to execute one or more sets of instructions to perform one or more actions. Interaction via the central system may allow one or more sportsbooks to establish consensus odds for a weighter offered in one or more sportsbooks. Interaction via the central system may allow one or more sportsbooks to adjust the risk exposure on one or more sides of a weighter. While the example in Figure 2 includes a central system, it should be recognized that some embodiments may not include the aforementioned system, and / or the aforementioned system may have a different function. For example, some embodiments may include a decentralized system (e.g., a peer-to-peer system), some embodiments may include sportsbooks that perform the operation of a central system, some embodiments may include a central system that controls sportsbooks, and / or any other configuration may be used as needed in various embodiments.

[0129] As shown in Figure 2, each sportsbook 203 may include one or more wagering interfaces 205. A wagering interface may allow a bettor to place wagers on one or more propositions. Each proposition may have associated odds (e.g., moneyline). A wagering interface may include kiosks, computer terminals, mobile gaming devices, home computers, tellers, gaming tables, etc. In each wagering interface 205, a bettor may, for example, place wagers, view the odds on the wagers, and collect winnings from the wagers.

[0130] As shown in Figure 2, each sportsbook may include one or more controllers 207. A controller 207 may include a gauging server configured to perform any desired operation relating to the gaugers, such as monitoring, settling, regulating, recording, and verifying. A controller 207 may be configured to establish odds, determine which propositions to bet on, and establish a desired level of risk tolerance for the gaugers. A controller may receive input from an odds maker, a casino operator, one or more gauging interfaces 205, etc. (e.g., via a communication network and / or interfaces).

[0131] A sportsbook 201 may include a physical location in a casino where betting on sports propositions can be placed. It should be recognized that a sportsbook may not be limited to a physical location. Some embodiments may include virtual sportsbooks, such as sportsbooks accessible from mobile devices or online sportsbooks. In the illustrated example in Figure 2, the sportsbook at the top of the figure may be on one continent, and the sportsbook at the bottom of the page may be on another continent. Some embodiments may include any number of sportsbooks having any configuration in any location.

[0132] The sportsbooks 201 can communicate with each other and / or with the central system 203 using the communication network 209. The aforementioned communication may be controlled by each controller 207. In a centralized embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the aforementioned communication may be communication with the central system 201. In a decentralized embodiment, the aforementioned communication may be communication between various sportsbooks 201.

[0133] The central system 203 may receive and / or transmit information to and from the sportsbooks 201. The central system 203 may receive information about the odds for various weighters in each of the sportsbooks 201. The central system 203 may determine consensus odds for the aforementioned weighters based on the odds received. The central system 203 may transmit a display of the consensus odds to one or more of the sportsbooks 201.

[0134] In some embodiments, the central system 203 may determine a market in which one or more sportsbooks compete. The aforementioned market may be a physical market and / or a demographic market. For example, in the illustrated embodiment of Figure 2, the market may be a continent, such that the lower sportsbook may form one market and the upper sportsbook may form a second market. The market may be a demographic market that spans continents, so that a high-roller sportsbook on one continent may form a market with high-roller sportsbooks on another continent. In some embodiments, consensus odds may reflect a desired market in which sportsbooks can compete.

[0135] A sportsbook 201 may request the aforementioned information from a central system 203. The central system 203 may provide the aforementioned information as a service with respect to a gaming information feed. A sportsbook 201 may be operated by the same owner that operates the central system 203. A sportsbook receiving the aforementioned consensus odds information may adjust the odds offered for a wager based on the wager's consensus odds (for example, to match the consensus odds). In some embodiments, a sportsbook may request and / or receive information about odds offered in one or more sportsbooks and determine how to adjust the odds for a wager in the sportsbooks based on the aforementioned odds. Some sportsbooks may request that the aforementioned individualized wager information not be propagated, but only the information in consensus format may be propagated.

[0136] In some embodiments, the sportsbook 201 may determine that the level of risk associated with the wager is too high at the odds level (for example, at the consensus odds received). The sportsbook may facilitate the exchange of obligations on one or more sides of the wager. The central system 203 may act as an exchange where a sportsbook can purchase obligations on the first side of the wager and / or sell obligations on the second side of the wager to one or more other sportsbooks. The aforementioned exchange may operate in a manner similar to a financial instruments exchange. The aforementioned exchange may enable the first sportsbook to place bids and / or offers on obligations on one side of the wager. The aforementioned exchange may enable the second sportsbook to hit or lift a bid or offer, thereby entering into a transaction in which obligations on one side of the wager are transferred through the exchange. The exchange may perform one or more clearing functions of the aforementioned transactions locally and / or remotely. An example of a system similar to a wagering exchange is described in U.S. Patent No. 7,233,922 by Asher, entitled "System and method for wagering-based transferable financial instruments," which is incorporated by reference herein and in the claims.

[0137] Figure 3 shows an exemplary method 300 that may be used in some embodiments to determine consensus odds. The aforementioned method may be used by a central system 203, by a sportsbook 201, and / or by any desired element. The aforementioned consensus odds may be used by one or more sportsbooks to determine the odds for a wager so that the odds offered by one sportsbook are not inferior to the odds offered by other sportsbooks. The aforementioned consensus odds may be used by a sportsbook to determine the odds for a wager so that the sportsbook does not have to determine the odds for the wager in any other way (e.g., by hiring an oddsmaker). The aforementioned consensus may be used to help establish odds for fast-paced wagers and / or low-liquidity wagers, such as wagers in the game, by increasing the pool of wagers for which odds can be determined. Information about odds from one sportsbook may be used in another sportsbook to adjust the odds in that sportsbook to compete with the first sportsbook as needed. Method 300 may begin in block 301.

[0138] As shown in Block 303, some embodiments may include identification of a first wagering venue where a wager can be bet. The aforementioned wagering venue may include a sportsbook. Identification may be performed in a central system, by the wagering venue, or by a computer. In some embodiments, identification may be performed upon request from the wagering venue. In some embodiments, identification may be performed upon determination that the odds for a wager differ from the consensus odds. In some embodiments, identification may include identification of all wagering venues where a wager can be bet. While a single wager is represented in some examples, it should be noted that some embodiments may include multiple wagers that are similar or / or identical. For example, a wager for a basketball team with a first spread may be considered the same wager as a wager for a basketball team with another spread. Even if there is variation in one wager with any other wager, both wagers may be considered the same wager, as is desirable for the operation of some embodiments. In some embodiments, a wager may have the same or similar underlying propositions (e.g., Field Wins, Bears Win) and / or the same or different related criteria (e.g., different spreads, different members of the field, different levels of over / under bets, etc.). Allowing the aforementioned deviations in wagers allows for a wider sampling of odds for similar wagers. In some embodiments, wagers may need to be identical or nearly identical before being considered the same wager for the purpose of seeking consensus odds. Wagers may include in-game wagers, wagers for competitions, wagers for casino games, etc.

[0139] Some embodiments may identify a betting waxer at a first waxing venue. Wager identification may involve receiving information about the waxer (from a computer system associated with the waxing venue, or from cameras recording the waxing at the first venue, etc.).

[0140] As shown in Block 305, some embodiments may receive multiple displays, each displaying the odds for each of the Wagers at individual Wagering Venues among a plurality of second Wagering Venues. The second Wagering Venues may include one or more other sportsbooks. In some embodiments, odds from the first Wagering Venues may also be received. In some embodiments, the aforementioned displays may, if desired, identify to a central system or other element performing the method, how much the odds for the Wager and / or similar Wagers are at the second Wagering Venues. In some embodiments, the displays may be relative to the base odds, identifying whether the odds are higher or lower than the base odds. In some embodiments, the displays may include displays of spreads, underdogs, in-game propositions, and other elements of the bet that are added to or in place of the odds. Since the odds at each venue change continuously, as a raw feed, and as needed, the aforementioned displays may be received in response to queries by a central system.

[0141] As shown in Block 307, some embodiments may include the step of finding a set of second wayging venues that define a market in which a first wayging venue competes. In some embodiments, the market may include a regional market, such as a venue in a particular city or district. In some embodiments, the market may include a demographic market, such as a venue that caters to a particular customer. The market may include any desired set of parameters having any specificity. In some embodiments, all of the second wayging venues may be in the market. For example, some wayging venues that cater to high rollers may form a market with a first wayging venue that also caters to high rollers. Wayging venues may be located geographically separated from each other. For example, in some embodiments, one of the second wayging venues in the same market as a first wayging venue may be on a different continent. In another example, some of the waging venues on the Las Vegas Strip may form a market with the primary waging venue, also located on the Las Vegas Strip.

[0142] As shown in Block 309, some embodiments may include a step of determining consensus odds for a weigher based on the respective odds for each of the second weighing venues in a set of second weighing venues. The consensus-seeking step may include a step of performing any mathematical calculations on the received data. In some embodiments, the data may include data relating to the odds offered at the first weighing venue. In some embodiments, the data may not include information relating to the odds offered at the first weighing venue. In some embodiments, the consensus-seeking step may include a step of determining representative values, mean values, median values, mode values, maximum values, minimum values, and / or a step of applying any desired formula. The aforementioned determining steps may be periodic, in response to the receipt of updated odds from one or more of the second venues, or on request.

[0143] Some embodiments may include a step of determining the market impact for each second weighting venue. The aforementioned determining step may include, for example, receiving an impact indication from the first weighting venue, receiving a venue ranking in the market from the first weighting venue, and calculating similarity based on customer demographics and distance. The aforementioned determining step may be based on information provided by one or more weighting venues and / or information collected in other ways.

[0144] In some embodiments, the consensus-seeking step may include a step of seeking consensus based on the aforementioned influences. For example, the aforementioned influences may be used as weights in an equation for seeking consensus such that venues that have a greater impact on the market are weighted more heavily than venues that have a smaller impact on the market. In some embodiments, the consensus odds may include a step of seeking consensus odds such that each of the odds of a weighter in each of the second weighting venues in a pair has an impact on the consensus odds that are proportional to the impact of each of the second weighting venues in the second weighting venues on the market.

[0145] In some embodiments, consensus may also be sought regarding other elements of the weighter. For example, consensus may be sought regarding the spread, the members of the field, or the levels of the over / under bet. In some embodiments, the consensus-seeking step may include weighting the weighters based on their similarity to the desired weighter, such that identical or very similar weighters are weighted more heavily in the calculation than less similar weighters.

[0146] As shown in Block 311, some embodiments may include the step of transmitting a representation of consensus odds for a first weighing venue. In some embodiments, the representation may be transmitted to a sportsbook from a central system or any preferred computing device. The representation may be transmitted periodically, either on request or in response to the process of seeking consensus.

[0147] In some embodiments, Method 300 includes the step of offering a gauger. The aforementioned offer may be made from a first gauging venue, from any system for obtaining consensus odds, or via an online system. The gauger may be offered based on any other information, such as consensus odds and / or information about odds at individual venues. In some embodiments, the gauger may be offered together with consensus odds.

[0148] While various examples are presented in terms of consensus odds, it should be noted that some embodiments may include a process of seeking consensus on any element of any possible weigher. Consensus may be transmitted in some embodiments, and / or individual information on the weigher odds or other elements at individual venues may also be transmitted. The embodiments described above may be used by the receiving venue for advertising and / or informational purposes. In some embodiments, receiving the aforementioned information and / or preventing its transmission may be a premium service. The aforementioned information may be transmitted on request, periodically, or operationally.

[0149] The aforementioned embodiments may include the step of collecting any type of information about any number of wagering opportunities at any number of wagering venues. The aforementioned embodiments may include the step of distributing any information about the collected information about wagers to any destination. The aforementioned information may include any conversion of the collected information and / or one or more of the aforementioned information. The aforementioned distribution may be made as a service to wagering venues or individuals. The aforementioned distribution may be made via a website. The aforementioned distribution may be made by the destination for a fee.

[0150] Method 300 may terminate in block 313. It should be noted that Method 300 is presented as an example only, and that any alternative method involving more operations, fewer operations, different operations, or operations in a different order may be performed in some embodiments.

[0151] Figure 4 shows an exemplary method 400 that a sportsbook may use in some embodiments to adjust the wager's obligations. The aforementioned method may be used by the central system 203, by the sportsbook 201, and / or by any desired element. The aforementioned adjustment of obligations may be used, for example, to maintain a desired level of risk, so that a sportsbook may offer odds that do not lose to others based on the wager's consensus odds without risking a large sum of money. The obligations of one side of a wager may be exchanged for money, the obligations of the other side of a wager, etc. The wager's obligations may be exchanged from one wagering venue to another wagering venue, and / or between any desired source or destination. Method 400 may begin in block 401.

[0152] One party's obligations as a payer may include the right to acquire legal ownership of money or other valuables based on the losses of the other party as a payer. Another party's obligations as a payer may include the obligation to make payments based on the wins of the other party as a payer.

[0153] As shown in Block 403, some embodiments may include the step of identifying desired odds for a two-party wager proposition. A two-party wager proposition may include the outcome of a competition such as which team wins a baseball game, or a wager during a game. Some embodiments may include a wager with a side of either number. The step of identifying desired odds may include the steps of selecting odds, receiving an odds display, and determining the odds. The odds may include odds based on odds offered by one or more wagering venues, such as the consensus odds. The embodiments described above may include the step of determining consensus odds by Method 300, etc.

[0154] As shown in Block 405, some embodiments may include a step of determining the amount wagered on each side of a two-party wager proposition for which a first wagering venue is responsible. The aforementioned determining step may include a step of receiving information from one or more wagering interfaces, one or more wagering venues, etc. The aforementioned determining step may include a step of totaling the amount for which a wagering venue may be responsible if such a result of the wager occurs. The aforementioned determining step may include a step of totaling the amount for which a wagering venue may own if such a result of the wager occurs.

[0155] As shown in Block 407, some embodiments may include a step of determining the level of risk exposure to the first wagering venue for the first side of the two-party wager proposition based on the amount wagered by the first side. The aforementioned level of risk exposure may take any form. In one example, the aforementioned level of risk exposure may include an amount that the wagering venue may be obligated to pay. In some embodiments, the aforementioned determining step may not have any additional steps than those performed in Block 405. Some embodiments may include a step of reading from a database after performing Block 405. Some embodiments may include a step of performing one or more calculations on the result of Block 405. Some embodiments may include a step of determining a first amount that the first wagering venue may be obligated to pay if the first side of the wager wins based on the amount wagered by the first side.

[0156] As shown in block 409, some embodiments may include a step of determining the offsetting level of risk exposure to the first wagering venue for the first side of the two-party wager proposition based on the amount wagered by the second side. The aforementioned level of risk exposure may take any form. In one example, the aforementioned level of risk exposure may include the amount that the wagering venue may receive. In some embodiments, the aforementioned determining step may not have any additional steps in addition to the operation of block 405. Some embodiments may include a step of reading from a database after performing block 405. Some embodiments may include a step of performing one or more calculations on the result of block 405. Some embodiments may include a step of determining the second amount that the first wagering venue may receive if the second side of the wager wins based on the amount wagered by the first side.

[0157] As shown in Block 411, the process may include determining whether the offsetting level of risk exposure and the total level of risk exposure to a first wagering venue, based on the level of risk exposure, are too high at the desired odds. The process of determining the total level of risk exposure may include performing one or more mathematical calculations on the level of risk exposure and the offsetting level of risk exposure. In some embodiments, the calculations may include subtracting the offsetting risk exposure from the risk exposure. In some embodiments, the process of determining whether the level is too high at the desired odds may include determining whether the level is above a certain threshold. In some embodiments, the threshold may be based on the expected future wagers at the desired odds. In some embodiments, the threshold may be based on other wagers wagered at the wagering venue. For example, in some embodiments, a wagering venue may determine that continuing to offer the above side of the wager at the above odds would pose too much risk to the wagering venue if it has a total risk of more than $1 million on a particular side of the wager. Any method for determining that the level of risk is too high at a particular odds on the wager may be used in various embodiments. Some embodiments may include a step of determining the total amount at which the first wagering venue is exposed to risk based on the first and second amounts. Some embodiments may determine that the total amount is too high at the desired odds.

[0158] As shown in Block 413, some embodiments may include a step of facilitating a transaction with a second weighting venue to adjust the amount wagered on at least one of the first and second sides for which the first weighting venue has a responsibility. In some embodiments, the aforementioned facilitating step may be performed in response to a determination that the total level of risk exposure is too high. In some embodiments, the aforementioned facilitating step may include a trading responsibility for one or more weighters on an exchange. The aforementioned responsibility may be exchanged for one or more other weighting venues and / or any other desired entity. For example, in some embodiments, a buy or sell order may be placed on the exchange for a responsibility on one side of a weighter. The exchange may perform any function of matching buyers and sellers and resulting in an exchange of responsibility. The aforementioned transaction may allow the weighting venue to readjust its risk level so that it can offer the weighter at desired odds.

[0159] In some embodiments, the aforementioned facilitating steps may include placing at least one of the following: an order to sell a wager obligation to a first side on a wager exchange, and an order to buy a wager obligation to a second side on a wager exchange. It should be recognized that any method of performing the aforementioned trades may be used by any system or method of exchange. In some embodiments, blocks of wagers may be traded. In some embodiments, blocks of wagers may be traded. In some embodiments, portions of wagers may be traded. In some embodiments, wager auctions may be held. In some embodiments, bid, offer, hit, and take similar to those of a stock exchange may be used. In some embodiments, a dark pool trading system may be used. Order expiration, execution or cancellation, stop-loss, and / or any other desired order may be used.

[0160] In some embodiments, to assume liability for a wager, a first wagering venue may pay another wagering venue, or be paid by another wagering venue. The amount to be paid may be determined by bid processing, reverse auction, transaction-based systems, etc. In some embodiments, if a first wagering venue makes the aforementioned offer through an exchange, a portion of the offer may be fulfilled by one or more second wagering venues. For example, ten second wagering venues may each agree to assume 10% liability for each wager. In some embodiments, if an exchange determines that multiple wagering venues are interested in an offer regarding a change in wager liability, it may use a first-in, first-out method to determine matching requests, a proportional method to satisfy matching requests, etc. A matching engine may be used by the exchange to request matching requests from the exchange.

[0161] Some embodiments may include a step of offering a weigher at desired odds. For example, a weighing venue performing method 400 may then offer a weigher after reaching an acceptable level of risk in the odds.

[0162] While various examples are presented in terms of desired odds, it should be noted that some embodiments may involve a step of seeking any request regarding any element of any possible weigher. While some embodiments may use consensus, it should be noted that some embodiments may use individual information from one or more weighing venues.

[0163] Method 400 may terminate in block 415. It should be noted that Method 400 is presented as an example only, and any alternative method involving more operations, fewer operations, different operations, or operations in a different order may be performed in some embodiments.

[0164] While some embodiments are represented in terms of a sports book, various embodiments may include any desired wagering venue, such as remote computer terminals, mobile gaming devices, casino tables, or any area of ​​a casino. While various exemplary systems having specific elements are shown and described, it should be recognized that various embodiments may use any system having any element having any function. While various examples of methods having exemplary steps are described, it should be recognized that various embodiments may include any method having any step in any order.

[0165] XVIII. Further Examples A. A device, Processor and A machine-readable medium storing a set of instructions and The above instruction, when executed by the above processor, is performed on the above device. A process of identifying the payers that can be wagered at the first payering venue, A step of receiving each of multiple indicators, wherein each indicator represents the respective odds of the said weigher in each of the second weighing venues among the multiple second weighing venues, For each of the second weighing venues mentioned above, the process involves determining the respective impact of the first weighing venue on the market in which it competes. Perform a method that includes, The process of determining consensus odds is based on the respective odds of the weigher in each of the second weighing venues, such that each odds has an impact on the consensus odds that is proportional to the impact of each of the second weighing venues on the market. An apparatus comprising the step of transmitting the above-mentioned consensus odds to the above-mentioned first weighing venue.

[0166] B. A device, Processor and A machine-readable medium storing a set of instructions and The above instruction, when executed by the above processor, is performed on the above device. The process of identifying a first wagering venue where wagers can be bet, A step of receiving each of multiple indicators, wherein each indicator represents the respective odds of the said weigher in each of the second weighing venues among the multiple second weighing venues, The process of determining a set of second weighing venues that define the market in which the first weighing venue competes, A process of determining the consensus odds of a weigher based on the respective odds of the weigher in each of the second weighing venues in the set of second weighing venues described above, The process of sending the above consensus odds display to the above first weighing venue and A device that performs the action.

[0167] B.1. The apparatus described in B, wherein each weighing venue includes a sports book.

[0168] B.2. The apparatus described in B, wherein the above-mentioned waxer includes the waxer during gameplay.

[0169] B.3. The apparatus described in B, wherein the above-mentioned weigher includes a weigher for competition.

[0170] B.4. The apparatus described in B, wherein the above market includes a regional market.

[0171] B.5. The apparatus described in B, wherein the market includes a demographic market.

[0172] B.6. The apparatus described in B, wherein the second set of waxing venues includes at least one waxing venue located on a different continent from the first waxing venue.

[0173] Apparatus as described in B.7.B, wherein the method further comprises the step of receiving a display of the odds of the weigher in the first weighing venue, and the consensus odds further comprises an apparatus based on the odds of the weigher in the first weighing venue.

[0174] B.8. The apparatus described in B, wherein the consensus odds include at least one of median odds, mean odds, mode odds, lowest odds, highest odds, and formula-based odds.

[0175] Apparatus as described in B.9.B, wherein the method further comprises the step of offering the weigher from the first weighing venue together with the consensus odds.

[0176] The apparatus described in B.10.B, wherein the above method is For each of the two sets of wagering venues mentioned above, the process involves determining the respective impact on the market. The process of determining the consensus odds such that each of the odds for each of the second weighing venues in the above set has an effect on the consensus odds that is proportional to the effect of each of the second weighing venues on the market. A device further including the following.

[0177] C. A device, Processor and A machine-readable medium storing a set of instructions and The above instruction, when executed by the above processor, is performed on the above device. The process of determining the amount to be wagered on each side of a two-party wager proposition for which the first wagering venue is responsible, A process of determining the first amount that the first wagering venue may be liable to pay if the first side of the wager wins based on the amount wagered on the first side, A process to determine the second amount that the first wagering venue can win if the second side of the wager wins, based on the amount wagered by the first side. A process to determine the total amount that the first weighing venue will risk based on the first amount and the second amount mentioned above, The process of identifying the consensus odds of the above-mentioned weigher based on the influence that each of the above-mentioned second weighing venues has on the market in which the above-mentioned first weighing venue competes, and the odds of the above-mentioned weigher in multiple second weighing venues, The process of determining whether the above total amount is too large according to the above consensus odds, In response to the determination that the above total amount is too large, the process involves placing at least one of the following: an order to purchase obligations to Wager on the second side of the Wager exchange, and an order to sell obligations to Wager on the first side of the Wager exchange. A device that performs the action.

[0178] D. A device, Processor and A machine-readable medium storing a set of instructions and The above instruction, when executed by the above processor, is performed on the above device. A process of identifying the desired odds of the two-party wager proposition, The process of determining the amount to be wagered on each side of the aforementioned two-party wager proposition for which the first wagering venue is responsible, A process for determining the level of risk exposure to the first wagering venue for the first side of the wager proposition between the two parties, based on the amount wagered on the first side, A process of determining the offsetting level of risk exposure to the first wagering venue for the first side of the wager proposition between the two parties, based on the amount wagered on the second side, A step of determining the offsetting level of the above risk exposure and the total level of risk exposure relative to the first weighing level based on the above risk exposure level, In response to a determination that the total level of the above risk exposure is too high, the process of facilitating transactions with the second weighing venue in order to adjust the amount wagered by at least one of the first and second sides for which the first weighing venue is responsible, A device that performs the action.

[0179] D.1. The apparatus described in D, wherein each weighing venue includes a sports book.

[0180] A device as described in D.2.D, wherein the above-mentioned Wager includes a Wager during gameplay.

[0181] The apparatus described in D.3.D, wherein the weigher includes a weigher for competition.

[0182] D.3.1. The apparatus described in D.3, wherein the first side of the wager includes a wager for a first sports team to win a particular game, and the second side of the wager includes a wager for a second sports team to win a particular game.

[0183] D.4. The apparatus described in D, wherein the level of risk exposure includes the amount that the first wagering venue may be liable to pay if the first side of the wager prevails, the level of offset risk exposure includes the amount that the first wagering venue may have if the second side of the wager prevails, and the total level of risk exposure includes the result of subtracting the offset level of risk exposure from the level of risk exposure.

[0184] D.5. A device described in D is considered too large if the total level of the above risk exposure exceeds a certain threshold dollar amount. Apparatus as described in D.6.D, wherein the step of identifying the desired odds includes the step of determining consensus odds based on the odds of the weighers in a plurality of third weighing venues.

[0185] D.6.1. The apparatus described in D.6, wherein the above method is Each display receives a plurality of displays that show the respective odds of the respective weigher in each of the plurality of third weighing venues, For each of the third weighing venues mentioned above, the process includes determining the respective impact of the first weighing venue on the market in which it competes. The apparatus for determining the consensus odds includes a step of determining the consensus odds such that each of the odds of each weigher in each of the third weighing venues has an effect on the consensus odds that is proportional to the effect of each of the third weighing venues on the market.

[0186] D.7. The apparatus described in D, wherein the step of facilitating the above transaction includes placing at least one of the above-mentioned orders to sell obligations to the first side of the Wager Exchange and orders to purchase obligations to the second side of the Wager Exchange.

[0187] Apparatus as described in D.8.D, wherein the method further comprises the step of offering the weigher from the first weighing venue along with the desired odds.

Claims

[Claim 1] A device, said device is Network interface and Touch-sensitive screen, Includes at least one processor, The at least one processor is To display a live stream of a sports event via the aforementioned touch-sensitive screen, The at least one processor defines the objects depicted in the stream as selectable and displays a graphical user interface (GUI). To detect touch input indicating a selection for the object depicted in the stream of the live sporting event via the touch-sensitive screen, In response to the detection of the touch input for selecting the object, the GUI is displayed, wherein the GUI is controllable to facilitate placing bets associated with the object. Receiving the bet associated with the stream of the live sporting event, wherein the bet is further associated with a first wagering venue. Receiving multiple real-time feeds from multiple second wagering venues via the network interface, each real-time feed showing the respective odds of the bets associated with the stream of the live sporting event. Based on the aforementioned multiple real-time feeds, the consensus odds for the bet are determined, and The system transmits the consensus odds indicator to the first weighing venue. Device.

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