Gaming Shutter Device for Dual Symbol Display Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gaming systems, such as stepper machines and video machines, lack variety to maintain or increase player enjoyment, as they primarily rely on displaying symbols from a predetermined set and determining game outcomes based on these displays.
Innovation Solution
A gaming system that includes a selector for choosing symbols from two sets, with a shutter device allowing the display of second symbols when in a closed configuration, enabling a transition between base and special game modes, where the shutter device can conceal or reveal the display area, and a touch screen for player interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a gaming system uses a single predetermined set of symbols for display, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and player enjoyment are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter device serves multiple functions: it acts as a physical barrier to conceal the display area, and simultaneously functions as a display device itself when in the closed configuration. This multi-functionality allows the gaming system to switch between base game mode (using first symbols through the shutter) and special game mode (using second symbols on the shutter), thereby improving adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter device and display device are merged into a single component. The shutter device incorporates a display device that can display second symbols when the shutter is in the closed configuration. This merging allows the system to present different symbol sets through a unified structure, enhancing versatility while maintaining relatively simple device architecture
2Adaptability or versatility
If the shutter device is always in the open configuration, then the display area is always visible, but the special game mode cannot be implemented
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter device is designed to be movable between open and closed configurations, enabling dynamic switching between base game mode and special game mode. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different game requirements while maintaining ease of operation, as the transition between modes is achieved through a simple mechanical movement rather than complex operational procedures
3Adaptability or versatility
If the shutter device is always in the closed configuration, then the special game mode can be implemented, but the display area cannot be revealed
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter device alternates between open and closed configurations depending on the game mode being played. During base game mode, the shutter is open to allow visibility of the display area and first symbols. During special game mode, the shutter closes to display second symbols. This periodic switching ensures that information is not lost, as the appropriate symbols are visible at the appropriate times, while enabling both game modes to function properly
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming system is disclosed that comprises a selector arranged to select a plurality of first symbols from a first set of symbols for display in a display position area, and a shutter device selectively disposable in a closed configuration wherein the display position area is concealed or an open configuration wherein the display position area is revealed. The gaming system is arranged to select a plurality of second symbols from a second set of symbols. The shutter device comprises a display device arranged to display the selected second symbols at a location corresponding to the display position area when the shutter device is disposed in the closed configuration. A corresponding method is also disclosed.