Gaming Reel Display Actuation for Parallax Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gaming machines with mechanical spinning reels lack precise control over stop positions and payouts, and electronic simulations fail to replicate the appeal of mechanical reels, leading to a need for a solution that combines mechanical and electronic elements to enhance player experience.
Innovation Solution
A display device for gaming machines featuring a mechanical reel with a structural support, a display for showing game-related images, and an actuator that moves the display between retracted and advanced positions relative to the reel's periphery, allowing precise alignment and minimization of parallax effects, driven by a stepper motor and controlled by a microprocessor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mechanical reel is used, then the appeal to players is maintained, but precise control over stop positions and payouts is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a mechanical reel with an electronic display system. The mechanical reel maintains player appeal while the electronic display provides precise control over stop positions and payout information. The display is integrated with the reel structure, merging mechanical and electronic components to achieve both aesthetic and functional goals.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic display acts as an intermediary between the mechanical reel and the control system. It translates the mechanical reel's position into precise digital measurements, enabling accurate control of stop positions and payout determination while preserving the mechanical reel's visual appeal.
2Measurement precision
If an electronic simulation is used, then precise control over stop positions is achieved, but the appeal of mechanical reels is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges electronic simulation capabilities with a physical mechanical reel. The mechanical reel provides tactile and visual appeal, while integrated electronic components enable precise stop position control and digital tracking of game outcomes.
3Loss of information
If the display is always positioned at the outer periphery of the reel, then content display is optimized, but the reel cannot rotate freely
Solution Approach 1:
The display is designed to be dynamically repositionable relative to the reel. It can move between an inner position during reel rotation and an outer position during stop for optimized content display. This dynamic adjustment resolves the conflict between rotation freedom and display visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The display system is segmented into movable and fixed components. The display element can independently adjust its position relative to the reel, allowing the reel to rotate freely while the display positions itself optimally for viewing when the reel stops.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the display is retracted inwardly during rotation, then reel rotation is enabled, but display visibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The display dynamically adjusts its radial position based on reel operation state. During rotation, it retracts inward to avoid interference; during stop, it extends outward for optimal visibility. This dynamic behavior enables both free rotation and effective display visibility at different operational phases.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a gaming machine having mechanical spinning reels and display units mounted inside the reels that are driven between a retracted position and a forward position. The display unit is displaced inwardly toward a central axis of the reel when located in the retracted position, and in this position the reel is free to rotate in response to a wager being placed. The display unit is located closer toward the outer periphery of the reel when in the forward position and in registration with a variable display when the reel is stopped. Movement of the display unit between the retracted and forward positions minimizes parallax effects and increases enjoyment for a player.