Interacting Rotators Drive Translating Indicator for Gaming Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gaming devices have lost the mystique of mechanical displays with the transition to video monitors, necessitating a solution that combines the flexibility of video technology with the excitement of mechanical elements to enhance symbol combinations and bonus games.
Innovation Solution
An electromechanical display device featuring multiple interacting rotators and a translating indicator, driven by a stepper motor, which creates a complex and engaging motion to point to award values or symbols, providing a mechanical and thematic experience while operating within both base and bonus games.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If video monitors are used to replace mechanical reels, then the number of symbols and winning combinations can be expanded, but the mystique and excitement of mechanical displays are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines video monitor technology with mechanical display elements by integrating a video monitor that displays both the base slot game and bonus games, while incorporating mechanical reels or symbols that physically rotate and stop to indicate outcomes. This merging allows the system to enjoy the versatility of video displays (expanded symbol combinations, bonus game flexibility) while retaining the mystique and excitement of mechanical displays through physical motion and tangible symbols.
2Device complexity
If a single video monitor is used for base game and bonus games, then space is saved, but the upper display area remains underutilized and lacks engaging content
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the single video monitor and its upper display area multi-functional by using it to display both the base slot game and various bonus games. The upper display area is programmed to show different content depending on game state: it can display bonus game outcomes, show additional symbol combinations, present animated sequences during bonus triggers, or display thematic graphics that enhance the overall game experience. This allows every portion of the display to be actively utilized for gaming purposes rather than remaining static or decorative.
3Device complexity
If mechanical reels are used, then mystique and excitement are maintained, but the number of paystops and symbol combinations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical reel system with a video monitor-based display system that uses electronic graphics and software-controlled animations to simulate reel rotation and symbol display. This substitution allows for virtually unlimited symbol combinations, variable payline configurations, and dynamic bonus game sequences that would be impossible with fixed mechanical reels. The video system can display different symbol sets, adjust paytable values, and create complex winning patterns without requiring physical reconfiguration of mechanical components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The display device enhances player engagement by offering a unique and interesting mechanical display that maintains the excitement of mechanical gaming while utilizing video technology, allowing for varied and elaborate symbol combinations and bonus games.
Implementation Method 1
driven by a stepper motor
Data Source
AI summary
A gaming device having an award value or symbol display device is provided. The display device includes multiple interconnecting rotators that cooperate to drive an indicator to produce a translating motion. The translating indicator is positioned along linearly spaced apart award values to sequentially and intermittently indicate or point to various ones of those values and ultimately to one of the values, which has been generated randomly for the player. The value can be awarded to the player or be combined with another value to form an award for the player.