3D Gaming Machine Multiple Reel Stops
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional mechanically driven slot machines are being replaced by processor-based gaming machines due to their ability to offer complex games, advanced player tracking, improved security, and digital features, but there is a need for innovative ways to maintain player interest with diverse game offerings.
Innovation Solution
A gaming machine with 3-D video capabilities that includes at least one display device and a processor to display 3-D images of games with multiple reel stops, where objects move about a central axis, each having individual center points and associated payout values, allowing for varied payout determinations based on object orientations and positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mechanically driven reel slot machines are used, then the gaming machine has simple structure and ease of manufacture, but it cannot provide complex games and advanced digital features
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical reels with virtual video reels displayed on an LCD screen. The mechanical reel structure, motors, and physical components are substituted with digital graphics and video processing, enabling complex game logic, player tracking, and digital features while simplifying the physical machine structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses video graphics to create virtual copies of traditional slot machine reels. These virtual reels replicate the visual appearance and gameplay mechanics of mechanical reels while being controlled entirely by software, allowing for complex game variations without additional mechanical complexity.
2Productivity
If processor-based gaming machines with virtual video reels are used, then complex games and digital features are enabled, but player interest may diminish without innovative game variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the virtual reel into multiple independent symbol regions that can be selectively stopped at different positions. Instead of a single reel stop, the system can halt different segments of the reel at different locations, creating multiple winning lines and game outcomes from a single spin, thereby increasing game diversity and player engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a third dimension to traditional 2D slot gameplay by implementing multi-level reel stops where symbols can be stopped at different vertical positions and depths. This creates layered winning combinations and additional gameplay dimensions that increase variety without requiring multiple physical reels.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple reel stops with individual center points are implemented, then varied payout opportunities are created, but the game logic and processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reel stopping where the reel can be halted at multiple predetermined positions during a single spin sequence. The system dynamically selects which reel stops to activate based on game state, creating varied payout opportunities while using software control to manage the complexity of multiple stopping points rather than requiring separate mechanical systems for each.
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming machine may have at least one display device capable of displaying 3-D images of a game of chance, and at least one processor to execute instructions to display the 3-D images on the display device, the at least one processor having display video data to display the 3-D images for: at least one first object having a first reel stop associated with a first payout value, the at least one first object moving about a central axis, each of the at least one first object having an individual center point, and at least one second object having a second reel stop, the at least one second object moving about the individual center point, the second reel stop associated with a second payout value, wherein the first payout value and the second payout value determine a total payout associated with an outcome of the game of chance.