(19) |
|
|
(11) |
EP 1 778 375 B1 |
(12) |
EUROPEAN PATENT SPECIFICATION |
(45) |
Mention of the grant of the patent: |
|
03.10.2012 Bulletin 2012/40 |
(22) |
Date of filing: 28.04.2005 |
|
(51) |
International Patent Classification (IPC):
|
(86) |
International application number: |
|
PCT/US2005/015167 |
(87) |
International publication number: |
|
WO 2006/019443 (23.02.2006 Gazette 2006/08) |
|
(54) |
INTEGRAL ERGONOMIC GAMING TERMINAL
INTEGRALES ERGONOMISCHES SPIELENDGERÄT
TERMINAL DE JEU INTÉGRAL ERGONOMIQUE
|
(84) |
Designated Contracting States: |
|
AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU MC NL PL PT RO SE SI
SK TR |
(30) |
Priority: |
14.07.2004 US 892541
|
(43) |
Date of publication of application: |
|
02.05.2007 Bulletin 2007/18 |
(73) |
Proprietor: IGT |
|
Reno, NV 89521 (US) |
|
(72) |
Inventors: |
|
- GATTO, Jean-Marie
London SW1X 7JP (GB)
- LINARD, Sylvie
London SW1X 7JP (GB)
- BRUNET DE COURSSOU, Thierry
Henderson, NV 89052 (US)
|
(74) |
Representative: Franzolin, Luigi et al |
|
Studio Torta s.r.l.
Via Viotti, 9 10121 Torino 10121 Torino (IT) |
(56) |
References cited: :
US-A- 4 440 443 US-A- 5 762 552 US-A- 5 807 177 US-A1- 2003 195 043 US-A1- 2005 014 554 US-B1- 6 322 451 US-B2- 6 910 734
|
US-A- 5 669 818 US-A- 5 765 910 US-A- 6 050 895 US-A1- 2003 236 117 US-A1- 2005 168 021 US-B1- 6 942 574
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Note: Within nine months from the publication of the mention of the grant of the European
patent, any person may give notice to the European Patent Office of opposition to
the European patent
granted. Notice of opposition shall be filed in a written reasoned statement. It shall
not be deemed to
have been filed until the opposition fee has been paid. (Art. 99(1) European Patent
Convention).
|
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0001] This invention relates generally to the field of casino gaming terminals and, more
particularly, relates to an ergonomically designed "integral" gaming terminal configured
to comfortably surround a player.
Copyright Notice / Permission
[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject
to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction
by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent
and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright
rights whatsoever. The following notice applies to the software and data as described
below and in the drawings hereto: Copyright 2004, Cyberscan Technology Inc., All Rights
Reserved.
Description of the Related Art
[0003] Traditional gaming terminals such as found in casinos are designed on the omnipresent
3-piece model comprising 3 separate elements. Gaming terminals based on this 3-piece
model include a base (or bench) that is usually made of wood, a gaming cabinet that
sits on top of the base, and a chair. Some manufacturers such as WMS Gaming are now
proposing ergonomically improved cabinets such as described in
US patent 6,334,612 entitled Ergonomically Designed Gaming Machine. Other suppliers are proposing a 2-piece
gaming terminal in which the base and the gaming cabinet are combined. In any event,
it appears that, for current gaming terminals, the player's comfort in terms of what
may be called body comfort, the player's video viewing comfort, the player's audio
comfort and the design of the player interaction means (the player may play on the
gaming terminal for a considerable number of hours) is always considered as an afterthought.
In addition, players using such conventional gaming terminals are often subjected
to the characteristic surrounding casino clatter and din, which may displease or even
disturb music/sound aficionados accustomed to the high-quality sound available on
current multimedia PCs and DVD home theaters.
[0004] Also, when two persons wish to play on one gaming terminal as a team or when a second
person acts as a supporter, such as is the case in casinos located in areas attracting
younger generation of players (beach casinos, holiday resorts, etc.) in which the
players like to try their luck as a couple rather than individually, there are no
provisions in conventional gaming terminals for accommodating a second player comfortably
for an extended period of time.
[0005] Moreover, as computer controllers integrated in gaming terminals are rapidly adopting
the generic PC architecture and windowing software such as Microsoft windows and Linux
(whether embedded or not) and that the gaming industry is rapidly shifting to cashless
payment operation, the cost of gaming machines hardware is declining.
[0006] US 5,807,177 relates to a gaming machine chair comprising a seat. An armrest incorporates: i)
an operation section that permits a player to perform operating instructions for the
game to be played; and ii) a card read/write section that permits the introduction
and removal of a card having memory for storing information that is extracted from
or written into the memory.
[0007] US 2003/0195043 describes a gaming system and method for enabling remote players to participate in
the play of a casino game of chance through a selected proxy. The gaming system enables
remote interactive gaming by a large number of remote players who place wagers with
the outcome determined by the play of the proxy. The proxy is equipped with a personalized
transmitter module so that audio signals spoken by the proxy and the ambiance of the
casino are transmitted to remote players. The presence of the transmitter module is
detectable by a gaming machine. Each gaming machine includes a machine manager and
at least two video cameras. One video camera is internal to the game machine cabinet
but positioned to capture the video image of the physical player. The other camera
is positioned such that it is able to capture the result of the game of chance. Machine
manager detects the result and transmits this information to a network manager for
use in calculating payouts for winning wagers
[0008] There is, therefore, a need for new gaming terminals that address the comfort and
usability issues discussed above. It is also clear that these issues offer the opportunity
for gaming terminal manufacturers to differentiate their products and gain a competitive
advantage by offering gaming terminals of greater appeal and increased functionality.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an "integral" gaming
terminal design configured to offer the player a comfortable, private, relaxing and
entertaining gaming experience. The gaming experience may be augmented by personal
services such as TV viewing and Internet access.
[0010] In a first aspect of the invention there is provided a network of at least two gaming
terminals for wagering on games, the network in accordance with claim 1.
[0011] The gaming terminals according to embodiments of the present invention may be networked
within a distributed gaming system and may communicate in many ways with other machines,
such as via a peer-to-peer communication protocol with other gaming terminals and/or
with other secure web services. Such gaming terminals may participate in bonusing
and progressive schemes locally within the gaming operator premises or globally with
other gaming operations located in other geographic areas.
[0012] The gaming terminals according to embodiments of the present invention may be reserved
in advance (for high rollers, for example). Alternatively, such gaming terminals may
be configured to keep the player's identity and personal information private. Players
of gaming terminals according to embodiments of the present invention may choose their
own music or soothing sounds when playing. They may also securely communicate with
others (players or PC users) within or outside the gaming premises using instant messaging
technology such as Microsoft MSN/Windows Messenger that features text messaging, a
personal contact list, voice communication, webcam communication and photo transfer
(via file transfer), augmented with a personal calendar for organizing contact time
and gaming events. The present gaming terminal may have the capability to process
video and sound.
[0013] When a player is sitting in a gaming terminal and has not played any games or utilized
some other functionality of the terminal for a predetermined period of time that may
be determined by the casino operator, the gaming terminal may transmit a signal to
both the player and the operator to prevent prolonged non-play time. Although the
present gaming terminal may include soothing and relaxing services (such as massaging
in the chair and leg rest, for example), the player should not stop playing, and in
particular should be prevented from falling asleep.
[0014] According to the present invention there is provided a network of at least two gaming
terminals for wagering on games, each gaming terminal comprising:
a frame;
a first display adjustably fitted to the frame, the first display having at least
one screen;
a seat fitted to the frame for each of at least two participating players, the seats
fitted side-by-side to the frame;
a payment accepting and/or dispensing device;
a game wagering controller for controlling wagering on the games;
a communication device configured to enable communication between the at least two
terminals, the communication device being configured for at least one of data, voice
and video communication;
a single shared set of game interaction devices to enable interaction with the games,
the game interaction devices including a bet button for placing a bet, the game wagering
controller being further configured to enable the at least two participating players
to press the bet button according to a first to press mode, a turn taking mode and
a random mode in which the next player allowed to activate the bet button is randomly
selected;
a sound generator for generating sound, and
a headset or at least one overhead sound delivery device, coupled to the sound generator,
for delivering sound, the at least one overhead sound delivery system coupled to the
frame and positioned above the seat,
wherein the at least two networked gaming terminals are configured to communicate
with one another over the network to enable all participating players playing at all
of the at least two networked gaming terminals to be collectively considered as a
single player to allow sharing of a single game outcome and a single credit balance.
[0015] The sound delivering means may be fitted to the frame and/or to or above the seat,
for example. The frame may be a generally U- shaped armature having a bottom end,
a first top end and a. second top end, the bottom end being configured to rest on
or to be attached to a floor surface; the first display being fitted near the first
top end, the seat being fitted near the second top end. The sound delivering means
may be fitted to the frame near the second top end and above the seat. The integral
gaming terminal may further comprise an integral armrest fitted to the frame and/or
to the seat, for example. The payment accepting and/or dispensing device may be fitted
to the frame and/or to the seat, and/or to the armrest, for example. The gaming terminal
may further include a second display fitted to the frame and/or the seat, to enable
the player to view predetermined TV channels or video streams. The seat may further
include an armrest and the second display may be attached to the armrest. The sound
generator may be configured to generate and the sound delivering means may be configured
to deliver: audio feedback while gaming or navigating through gaming options; game
operator messages or announcements; prerecorded sound or music selected by the player
via an (a jukebox-like, for example) interface; audio streaming, and/or soothing sounds,
for example. The sound generator may include means for active or passive sound cancellation
to isolate the player from surrounding noise. The integral gaming terminal may also
include means for isolating the player from surrounding light. Such means may include,
for example, an orientable opaque, semi-opaque or tinted panel, or a drop down filtering
visor or goggles, for example, to isolate the player from surrounding light.
[0016] The ergonomic gaming terminal may also include ergonomic adjustment means coupled
to the first display, the seat, the cash accepting and dispensing device, the game
interaction devices and/or the sound delivering means, for example. The ergonomic
adjustment means may include, for example, mechanical adjustment means, motorized
adjustments means, tilt/rotation adjustments means, computer controlled adjustment
means, remotely controlled adjustments means controllable via a joystick or a touch
screen, and/or means for adjusting ergonomic parameters according to pre-stored user
parameter profiles. The ergonomic adjustment means may include predetermined configuration
settings to facilitate the player sitting in and standing up from the integral gaming
terminal.
[0017] The game wagering controller may further include means for allowing the player secure
access to PC functions according to a predetermined scheme. The predetermined scheme
may include a. gaming quota, pay per use, a promotion and/or a bonus, for example.
The PC functions may include, for example, Internet browsing, email access, instant
messaging, stock market, music playing, video playing, video conferencing and/or travel
and entertainment bookings, to name a few of possible services that may be made available
to the player.
[0018] The integral gaming terminal may include massaging mechanisms for massaging the player,
such as mechanisms for massaging the player's back, mechanisms for massaging the player's
arms, mechanisms for massaging the player's leg and/or foot, for example. The massaging
mechanisms may include thumbing mechanisms, vibrating mechanisms, rolling mechanisms,
kneading mechanisms, percussion mechanisms, and/or mechanisms for applying therapeutic
compression, among other possibilities. The integral gaming terminal may also include
an adjustable footrest fitted to one of the chair and the frame. The game interaction
devices may include an adjustable console that may include at least one of play buttons
and/or a joystick, for example.
[0019] The game wagering controller may be configured to communicate with a central computer
system via a network and/or to communicate with other gaming terminals via a network.
The integral gaming terminal may also include one or more communication device configured
to enable instant personal communication with participating players on other gaming
terminals. The communication device may be configured to implement, for example, text
messaging, a personal contact list, voice communication, webcam communication and
photo transfer and/or a personal calendar for organizing contact time and gaming events,
among other possible services that may be made available to the player.
[0020] The sound generator may include audio input means to enable the sound delivering
means to deliver audio from a personal audio player. The audio input means may be
configured for wired and/or wireless operation. The integral gaming terminal may include
a signal generator configured to generate a signal when a seated player has not placed
a wager for a predetermined amount of time. The signal generator may be configured
to send the generated signal to a central computer system, send the generated signal
to a floor manager of a casino, and/or communicate to the player to inform the player
that services available on the gaming terminal are reserved for active players.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021]
Fig. 1 is a conceptual view of an integral gaming terminal.
Fig. 2 is a side view of the integral gaming terminal with player of Fig.1.
Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the integral gaming terminal of Fig. 1.
Fig. 4 is another detailed view of the integral gaming terminal of Fig. 1.
Fig. 5 illustrates the articulated and motorized functionality of the screen and console
of the integral gaming terminal of Fig 1.
Fig. 6 illustrates the articulated/motorized functionality of the chair and overhead
sound system of the integral gaming terminal of Fig. 1.
Fig. 7 illustrates additional articulated and/or motorized rotational functionality
of the integral gaming terminal of Fig. 1.
Fig. 8A shows a view of the overhead sound system of the integral gaming terminal
of Fig. 1.
Fig. 8B shows another view of the overhead sound system of the integral gaming terminal
of Fig. 1.
Fig. 8C shows another view of the overhead sound system of the integral gaming terminal
of Fig. 1.
Fig. 8D shows yet another view of the overhead sound system of the integral gaming
terminal of Fig.1.
Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of the integral gaming terminal equipped with an armrest
and television.
Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the integral gaming terminal of Fig. 9.
Fig. 11 is a rear view of the integral gaming terminal of Fig. 9.
Fig. 12 is a side view of the integral gaming terminal of Fig. 9.
Fig. 13 is a top view of the integral gaming terminal of Fig. 9.
Fig. 14 is a perspective view of an integral gaming terminal that is ergonomically
configured to accommodate at least two seated participating players.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] In the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments not presently claimed
together with networks, of at least two terminals in accordance with the present invention,
reference is made to the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are described in
sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and
it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that logical, mechanical,
electrical and other changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present
invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a
limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended
claims.
[0023] Fig. 1 at 100 illustrates aspects of an embodiment in which the integral gaming terminal
102 accommodates a seated player 104 (the player forms no part of the present invention).
A headset or overhead sound system 106 may surround at least a portion of the player's
head. The overhead sound system may include means for generating and delivering sound
or may include only means for delivering the sound, and the sound generating means
may be disposed elsewhere within the integral gaming terminal. Fig. 2 shows side view
200 of the integral gaming terminal of Fig. 1.
[0024] Fig. 3 at 300 illustrates the various components of an embodiment of the integral
gaming terminal 102. Fig. 4 shows a side view 400 of the gaming terminal 102. Considering
now Figs. 3 and 4 collectively, the embodiment of the integral gaming terminal 102
may include dual flat screen displays (LCD displays, for example) 302, a game interaction
devices (including a buttons console 304, for example), cash or cash-less payment
accepting and/or dispensing devices 306, a base 308, a front frame 310, a chair 312,
an overhead sound system 106 and a rear frame 312. The front name 310 may support
the display 302 and the buttons console 304, and may include a metal enclosure or
an enclosure formed of lightweight composite material in a configuration that includes
a central post-like name such as shown in the illustrations. The rear frame 312 may
support the chair(s) 312 and the overhead sound system 106. The front frame and the
rear frame may be attached to the base 308, or alternatively may be attached (e.g.,
bolted) directly to the floor. The overhead sound system 106 may he attached directly
to the rear frame 312, or alternatively to the chair(s) 312 and/or the chair frame
(not shown). A game wagering controller for controlling wagering on the games offered
on the integrated gaming terminal may be disposed behind the display(s) 302 or inside
the base 308, for example. The game wagering controller may be coupled to the game
interaction devices and to the payment accepting and/or dispensing devices.
[0025] Fig. 5 at 500 illustrates various ergonomic adjustments on the front frame 310 that
may be available to a player using a gaming terminal 102. Such front name adjustments
enable the present gaming terminal 102 to be adjusted by the player to achieve the
most comfortable playing position. The display(s) 302 may be adjusted up and down
as indicated at 506 as well as tilted backward and frontward as suggested at 508.
The buttons console 304 may be adjusted up and down as shown at 514 as well as tilted
upward and downward as indicated at 512. The front frame 310 may be tilted backward
and frontward, as shown at 516.
[0026] Fig. 6 at 600 illustrates the various ergonomic adjustments of the components of
the gaming terminal that may be fixed on the rear frame 316. Adjusting these components
enables the player to achieve a comfortable playing position. The chair 312 may be
adjusted up and down as shown at 604 as well as tilted backward and frontward as indicated
at reference numeral 608. The overhead sound system 106 may be also be adjusted up
and down as shown at 618 as well as tilted upward and downward as shown at 616. The
rear frame 316 may be moved backward and frontward on the base-308, as indicated at
612.
[0027] Fig. 7 at 700 illustrates additional ergonomic adjustments that may be carried out
on the gaming terminal 102. Such adjustments may include swiveling 704 of the monitor
302 (or the front frame 306), and/or swiveling of the rear frame 310, as shown at
712.
[0028] The adjustments detailed above may be made manually via hand-locking mechanisms or
electrically via motorized mechanisms. Motorized mechanisms may be activated via switches
and joysticks (such as for adjusting car exterior mirrors) or via the touch screen.
All or some of the above-described adjustments may be memorized together with the
player profile (when a player card is used for example, whereby personal parameters
related to die player identity, activity and habits are recorded in a central server
or a smart card), so the player may recall personalized ergonomic adjustments each
time he or she plays on a similar gaming terminal. Embodiments of the present gaming
terminal are not limited to the adjustments described above and shown in the drawings,
as other ergonomic adjustments may be provided, including any motorized and/or memorized
gaming terminal ergonomic adjustments.
[0029] The motorized adjustments may have a special setting that facilitates entry and exit
of the player into and out of the seated position, including putting away the overhead
sound system.
[0030] As noted above, embodiments may include integrated relaxation mechanisms such as
back massage devices integrated in the seat, leg/foot massage devices so that the
player may enjoy body relaxing while playing. Such massaging mechanisms may include,
for example, means for thumbing, vibrations, rolling, kneading, percussion, therapeutic
compression or a combination thereof.
[0031] Fig. 8A, 8B, 8C and 8D at 800 show various views of an embodiment of the overhead
sound system 106 wherein digital quality speakers 804 are integrated in a shell 802.
The shell 802 may be made of composite materials such as used for example for the
fabrication of motorcycle helmets. The overhead sound system 106 may include an articulated
mount 812 point for attachment to the rear frame 310.
[0032] The overhead sound system 106 may include active or passive noise-canceling or noise
attenuation electronics to eliminate or attenuate ambient noise. The player may listen
to the sounds generated by the game as well as selected songs or soothing music, all
the while being substantially isolated from surrounding noise. The songs and music
may be made available by the casino operator via a jukebox screen selection, or alternatively,
the player may plug his personal MP3/WMA/AAC (among other possible formats) compatible
portable player to an wired or wireless input line of the gaming terminal 102 in order
to listen to his or her favourite music via the overhead sound system 106 while playing,
The present integrated gaming terminal may also include devices for isolating the
player from surrounding and parasitic light. Such devices may include, for example,
one or more opaque or tinted panels or a drop down filtering visor or goggles. Such
light isolation devices may be fitted or integrated into the overhead sound system.
[0033] Personal preference settings such as sound level, sound environmental rendering (studio
effect, hall effect, cathedral effect, etc.), and/or music type (for example) may
be memorized together with player profile.
[0034] Fig. 9, 10, 11 and 12 at show various views of another embodiment of the present
gaming terminal referenced at numeral 902. The gaming terminal 902 further includes
an integral armrest 904 that may be fitted, for example, to the rear frame 1004 and
that may include information and user interaction devices such as a joystick (no shown)
and/or a small size display monitor, as shown at 906. Buttons and controls for the
small size display monitor 906 are shown at 1108 in Fig. 11. Fig. 13 at 1300 is a
top view of the gaming terminal of Figs. 9-12, fitted with an armrest 904 fixed directly
to the gaming machine rear frame 1004. A footrest may also be provided. The small
size display monitor is shown at numeral 906. The integral armrest 904 may further
comprise control buttons 1108 to adjust, for example, the information displayed on
the small size display monitor 906. The integrated arm rests 904 may further include
control buttons 1310 for interacting with the game in a more relaxed position with
the arm resting on the armrest 904, a joystick 1312, trackball or mouse for precision
interaction with the game or information selection on the main front monitor 302 (large
size monitor mounted on the front frame) such as when browsing Internet pages.
[0035] The button console including the control buttons 1310, joystick 1312 and/or other
controls may be fitted on a telescoping arm or a deployable arm (not shown) mounted
on the integrated armrest 904 such that the play buttons and/or joystick/mouse may
be adjusted to the player's favourite ergonomic position. The telescoping arm or a
deployable arm may be motorized and memorized together with the player profile.
[0036] The gaming terminal may further comprise on-line access to casino services or generic
Internet access. Generic Internet access may he independent from the casino services,
but should securely isolated such as not to interfere with casino regulated software
and security.
[0037] According to another embodiment depicted in Fig. 14, the gaming terminal may be configured
as a two-seater allowing two players to seat conformably as well as play buttons to
allow the players to play as a team or as a couple. Two seats 1302, 1304 may be provided.
Alternatively, a bench suitable for two players may be fitted to the integral gaming
terminal's frame. The overhead sound system may he enlarged to accommodate the head
of the two players, or alternatively each player may have an individual overhead sound
system, which is the embodiment shown in Fig. 13. The gaming machine may comprise
one or two sets of play buttons whereby the gaming terminal software may select the
player to play in accordance with a predetermined logic such as first one to press,
each player in turn, or at random. The play buttons may be configured such that the
two players are considered to be a single player. The embodiment of Fig. 14 may be
extended to more than two players. The gaming terminal may accept payments (cash or
cash-less) and/or deliver payments and display (cash or cash-less) of winnings/bonus
(if any) for the team or for each player. This two-seater embodiment may also support
the generation of downloadable games.
[0038] Two (or more) individual gaming terminals may be networked together (distance between
the terminals not being a factor) such as to act as a single gaming machine in which
one of the gaming terminal is selected as the master gaming machine and the other(s)
gaming machines is/are slaved to the master gaming machine. In that case, the credit
balance and the game outcome are common to all ganged gaming terminals. The gaming
software of the participating networked terminals may be configured to provide the
same features as described above. In addition, each individual gaming terminal may
comprise voice and/or video communication (such as a webcam) to enable direct communication
between the team members.
[0039] Indeed, in order to maximize revenue, such multi-player arrangement in which several
gaming terminals act as a single gaming machine may be reserved for high-stake players
or to boost play at times of low casino activity.
[0040] Team players may elect to play completely individually each on a separate gaming
terminal machine (terminals are configured for conventional gaming), but elect to
join with other team members in such a way that the play selection and performance
of others may be seen by all on their screen, as a video insert for example. In this
manner, players may be stimulated by the good performance of the bigger winners and
try to catch-up by persevering in continuing to play. The gaming software of the participating
terminals is configured to provide the features described.
[0041] The described and illustrated embodiments set out ergonomically adjustable "integral"
gaming terminals configured to comfortably surround the player and provide audio isolation
from the surroundings as well as dispense favourite music, secure access to the Internet,
access to news information, communicate with others, play against others, play as
a team and provide body relaxing. Some entertainment, relaxing and information services
may be activated for an additional fee, if a bonus or quota is attained or according
to a promotional scheme. If the player stops playing for an extended predetermined
period of time, a warning signal may be generated and communicated to the player and/or
to the casino's floor manager, for example.
[0042] Embodiments of the invention may accommodate two (or more) seated players to allow
the players to play comfortably as a couple or team for extended periods.
[0043] As computer controllers integrated in gaming terminals are rapidly adopting the generic
PC architecture and windowing software such as Microsoft windows and Linux (embedded
or not-embedded) and that payment is rapidly shifting to cashless, the cost of gaming
machines hardware is declining. The present inventions provide attractive means to
differentiate gaming terminals for the competition and consequently prevent or avoid
erosion of profit margins.
1. A network of at least two gaming terminals (102) for wagering on games, each gaming
terminal comprising:
a frame (310, 316);
a first display (302) adjustably fitted to the frame (310, 316), the first display
(302) having at least one screen;
a seat (312, 1302, 1304) fitted to the frame (310, 316) for each of at least two participating
players, the seats (1302, 1304) fitted side-by-side to the frame (316);
a payment accepting and/or dispensing device (306);
a game wagering controller for controlling wagering on the games;
a communication device (906) configured to enable communication between the at least
two gaming terminals (102), the communication device being configured for at least
one of data, voice and video communication;
a single shared set of game interaction devices (304, 1310, 1312) to enable interaction
with the games, the game interaction devices (304, 1310, 1312) including a bet button
for placing a bet, the game wagering controller being further configured to enable
the at least two participating players (104) to press the bet button according to
a first to press mode, a turn taking mode and a random mode in which the next player
allowed to activate the bet button is randomly selected;
a sound generator (106) for generating sound, and
a headset or at least one overhead sound delivery device (804), coupled to the sound
generator (106), for delivering sound, the at least one overhead sound delivery system
(804) coupled to the frame and positioned above the seat,
wherein the at least two networked gaming terminals are configured to communicate
with one another over the network to enable all participating players (104) playing
at all of the at least two networked gaming terminals (102) to be collectively considered
as a single player to allow sharing of a single game outcome and a single credit balance.
2. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, wherein the game interaction
devices (304, 1310, 1312) and the game wagering controller are configured to identify
each of the at least two participating player (104) symbolically or by name and to
track and display a game performance of each of the at least two participating players.
3. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1 or 2, wherein the sound delivering
device (106) is fitted to the frame (316).
4. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1 or 2, wherein the sound delivering
device (106) is fitted to the seat (312).
5. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 4, wherein the sound delivering
device (106) is fitted above the seat (312).
6. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, wherein the frame (310, 316)
is a generally U-shaped armature having a bottom end (308), a first top end and a
second top end, the bottom end being configured to rest on or to be attached to a
floor surface; the first display (302) being fitted near the first top end, the seat
(312) being fitted near the second top end.
7. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 6, wherein the sound delivering
device (106, 804) is fitted to the frame (316) near the second top end and above the
seat (312).
8. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, further comprising an integral
armrest (904) fitted to the frame (316) or to the seat (312).
9. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, wherein the payment accepting
and/or dispensing device (306) is fitted to the frame (310).
10. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, further comprising a second
display (906) fitted to one of the frame (310) and the seat (312), the second display
(906) enabling the player to view predetermined TV channels or video streams.
11. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 10, wherein the seat further
comprises an armrest (904) and the second display (906) is attached to the armrest.
12. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, wherein the sound generator
is configured to deliver at least one of:
audio feedback while gaming or navigating through gaming options;
game operator messages or announcements;
prerecorded sound or music selected by the player via an interface;
audio streaming, and
soothing sounds.
13. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, wherein the sound generator
(106) includes active sound cancellation means for isolating the player from surrounding
noise.
14. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, wherein the sound generator
(106) includes passive sound cancellation means for isolating the player from surrounding
noise.
15. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, further comprising means
for isolating the player from surrounding light.
16. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 15, wherein the light isolating
means includes one of:
an orientable opaque or tinted panel, and
a drop down filtering visor or goggles.
17. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, further comprising ergonomic
adjustment means coupled to at least one of: the first display (302), the seat (312),
the cash accepting and dispensing device (306), the game interaction devices (304)
and the sound delivering means (106).
18. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 17, wherein the ergonomic adjustment
means includes at least one of mechanical adjustment means, motorized adjustments
means, tilt/rotation adjustments means (508, 512), computer controlled adjustment
means, remotely controlled adjustments means controllable via a joystick or a touch
screen, and means for adjusting ergonomic parameters according to pre-stored user
parameter profiles.
19. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 17, wherein the ergonomic adjustment
means includes predetermined configuration settings to facilitate the player sitting
in and standing up from the integral gaming terminal.
20. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, wherein the game wagering
controller further comprise means for allowing the player secure access to PC functions
according to a predetermined scheme.
21. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 20, wherein the predetermined
scheme includes at least one of a gaming quota, pay per use, a promotion and a bonus.
22. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 20, wherein the PC functions
include at least one of Internet browsing, email access, instant messaging, stock
market, music playing, video playing, video conferencing and travel & entertainment
bookings.
23. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, further comprising an adjustable
footrest fitted to the chair or to the frame.
24. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, wherein the game interaction
devices include an adjustable console that includes at least one of play buttons and
a joystick.
25. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, wherein the game wagering
controller is configured to communicate with a central computer system via a network.
26. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, wherein the communication
device is configured to implement at least one of text messaging, a personal contact
list, voice communication, webcam communication and photo transfer and a personal
calendar for organizing contact time and gaming events.
27. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, wherein the sound generator
(106) includes audio input to enable the sound delivering device to deliver audio
from a personal audio player.
28. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 27, wherein the audio input
is configured for wireless operation.
29. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 27, wherein the audio input
means is configured for wired operation.
30. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 1, further including a signal
generator configured to generate a signal when a seated player has not placed a wager
for a predetermined amount of time.
31. The network of at least two gaming terminals of claim 30, wherein the signal generator
is configured to at least one of send the generated signal to a central computer system,
send the generated signal to a floor manager of a casino, and communicate to the player
to inform the player that services available on the gaming terminal are reserved for
active players.
1. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten (102) für Spielwetten, wobei jedes Spielendgerät
folgendes umfasst:
- einen Rahmen (310, 316);
- eine erste Anzeige (302), die verstellbar am Rahmen (310, 316) angeordnet ist, wobei
die erste Anzeige (302) mindestens einen Bildschirm aufweist;
- einen Sitz (312, 1302, 1304), der am Rahmen (310, 316) für jeden von mindestens
zwei teilnehmenden Spielern angeordnet ist, wobei die Sitze (1302, 1304) nebeneinander
am Rahmen (316) angeordnet sind;
- eine Vorrichtung für die Zahlungsannahme und/oder -ausgabe (306);
- eine Spieleinsatzprüfvorrichtung, um die Spieleinsätze zu prüfen;
- eine Kommunikationsvorrichtung (906), die ausgelegt ist, um die Kommunikation zwischen
den mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten (102) zu ermöglichen, wobei die Kommunikationsvorrichtung
mindestens zur Daten-, Sprach-, und/oder Videokommunikation ausgelegt ist;
- eine einzelne gemeinsame Gruppe von Spielinteraktionsvorrichtungen (304, 1310, 1312),
um die Interaktion zwischen den Spielen zu ermöglichen, wobei die Spielinteraktionsvorrichtungen
(304, 1310, 1312) einen Wettbutton für einen Wetteinsatz aufweisen, wobei die Spieleinsatzprüfvorrichtung
ferner so ausgelegt ist, um den mindestens zwei teilnehmenden Spielern (104) das Drücken
des Wettbuttons gemäß einem First-to-Press Modus, einem Wechselmodus und einem Zufallsmodus,
bei dem der nächste Spieler, der den Wettbutton betätigen darf, zufällig ausgesucht
ist, zu ermöglichen;
- einen Sounderzeuger (106) zum Erzeugen eines Sounds, und
- ein Headset oder wenigstens eine Overhead-Soundgebervorrichtung (804), die mit dem
Sounderzeuger (106) verbunden ist, um Sound zu erzeugen, wobei die Overhead-Soundgebervorrichtung
(804) mit dem Rahmen verbunden und über dem Sitz angeordnet ist,
- wobei die mindestens zwei vernetzten Spielendgeräte ausgelegt sind, um miteinander
über das Netzwerk zu kommunizieren, so dass alle teilnehmenden Spieler (104), die
überhaupt an den mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten spielen, kollektiv betrachtet als
Einzelspieler angesehen werden, um an einem gemeinsamen Spielausgang und einem gemeinsamen
Guthaben teilzuhaben.
2. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Spielinteraktionsvorrichtungen
(304, 1310, 1312) und die Spieleinsatzprüfvorrichtung ausgelegt sind, um jeden der
mindestens zwei teilnehmenden Spieler (104) symbolisch oder namentlich zu identifizieren
und um eine Spielleistung von jedem der mindestens zwei teilnehmenden Spieler zu verfolgen
und anzuzeigen.
3. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei der Sounderzeuger
(106) am Rahmen (316) montiert ist.
4. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei der Sounderzeuger
(106) am Sitz (312) montiert ist.
5. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 4, wobei der Sounderzeuger
(106) über dem Sitz (312) montiert ist.
6. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, wobei der Rahmen (310,
316) als eine gewöhnliche U-förmige Armatur ausgebildet ist, die ein unteres Ende
(308), ein erstes oberes Ende und ein zweites oberes Ende aufweist, wobei das untere
Ende ausgelegt ist, um an einer Bodenoberfläche zu verbleiben oder angeordnet zu werden;
wobei die erste Anzeige (302) in der Nähe des ersten oberen Endes montiert ist, wobei
der Sitz (302) in der Nähe des zweiten oberen Endes montiert ist.
7. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 6, wobei die Soundgebervorrichtung
(106, 804) am Rahmen (316) in der Nähe des zweiten oberen Endes und über dem Sitz
(312) montiert ist.
8. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, ferner mit einer baueinheitlichen
Armlehne (904), die am Rahmen (316) oder am Sitz (312) montiert ist.
9. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Vorrichtung
für die Zahlungsannahme und/oder -ausgabe (306) am Rahmen (310) montiert ist.
10. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, ferner mit einer zweiten
Anzeige (906), die am Rahmen (310) oder am Sitz (312) montiert ist, wobei die zweite
Anzeige (906) dem Spieler das Anschauen von vorbestimmten Fernsehkanälen oder Videos
ermöglicht.
11. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 10, wobei der Sitz ferner
eine Armlehne (904) umfasst und die zweite Anzeige (906) an der Armlehne angeordnet
ist.
12. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, wobei der Sounderzeuger
ausgelegt ist, um folgendes zu liefern:
- Audio-Feedback während des Spielens oder Navigierens durch Spieloptionen;
- Spielbetreibernachrichten oder -ankündigungen;
- vorweg aufgenommene Klänge oder Musik, die vom Spieler über eine Schnittstelle ausgesucht
werden;
- Audiostreaming, und/oder
- beruhigende Klänge.
13. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, wobei der Sounderzeuger
(106) ein aktives Soundunterdrückungsmittel umfasst, um den Spieler gegen umgebende
Geräusche zu isolieren.
14. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, wobei der Sounderzeuger
(106) ein passives Soundunterdrückungsmittel umfasst, um den Spieler gegen umgebende
Geräusche zu isolieren.
15. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, ferner mit einem Mittel,
um den Spieler gegen das umgebende Licht zu isolieren.
16. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 15, wobei das lichtisolierende
Mittel folgendes aufweist:
- eine undurchsichtige oder getönte Platte, und/oder
- ein Klappfiltervisier oder Schutzbrille.
17. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, ferner mit Ergonomie-Einstellmittel,
die mit der ersten Anzeige (302), mit dem Sitz (312), mit der Vorrichtung für die
Zahlungsannahme und/oder -ausgabe (306), mit den Spielinteraktionsvorrichtungen (304)
und/oder mit dem Sounderzeuger (106) verbunden sind.
18. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 17, wobei das Ergonomie-Einstellmittel
mindestens mechanische Einstellmittel, motorisierte Einstellmittel, Kipp-/Rotationseinstellmittel
(508, 512), computergesteuerte Einstellmittel, ferngesteuerte Einstellmittel, die
mit Hilfe eines Joysticks oder eines Touchscreens bedient werden können, und/oder
Mittel zum Einstellen von ergonomischen Parametern gemäß vorab gespeicherten Benutzerprofilen
umfasst.
19. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 17, wobei das Ergonomie-Einstellmittel
vorbestimmte Konfigurierungseinstellungen umfasst, um dem Spieler das Platznehmen
in dem baueinheitlichen Spielendgerät und das Verlassen aus dem baueinheitlichen Spielendgerät
zu ermöglichen.
20. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Spieleinsatzprüfvorrichtung
ferner Mittel umfasst, die den Spieler einen sicheren Zugang zu PC-Funktionen gemäß
einem vorbestimmten Plan gestattet.
21. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 20, wobei der vorbestimmte
Plan wenigstens eine Spielquote, ein Pay-per-Use, einen Aufstieg und/oder einen Bonus
umfasst.
22. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 20, wobei die PC-Funktionen
mindestens Internetnutzung, E-Mail Zugang, Instant Messaging, Aktienmarkt, Musikabspielung,
Videowiedergabe, Videokonferenz und/oder Buchungen für Reisen bzw. Unterhaltungen
umfassen.
23. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, ferner mit einer verstellbaren
Fußauflage, die am Stuhl oder am Rahmen montiert ist.
24. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Spielinteraktionsvorrichtungen
ein verstellbares Bedienungspult umfassen, das Spielbuttons und/oder einen Joystick
umfasst.
25. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Spieleinsatzprüfvorrichtung
ausgelegt ist, um mit einem zentralen Computersystem über ein Netzwerk zu kommunizieren.
26. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Kommunikationsvorrichtung
ausgelegt ist, um zumindest eine Kurznachricht, eine Adressenliste, Sprachkommunikation,
Webcamkommunikation und Fotoübertragung und/oder ein Kalender zum Organisieren von
Kontakten und Spielereignissen zu realisieren.
27. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, wobei der Sounderzeuger
(106) einen Audioeingang umfasst, damit die Soundgebervorrichtung Sound von einem
personenbezogenen Audio-Player erzeugen kann.
28. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 27, wobei der Audioeingang
für den drahtlosen Betrieb ausgelegt ist.
29. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 27, wobei der Audioeingang
für den verkabelten Betrieb ausgelegt ist.
30. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 1, ferner mit einem Signalerzeuger,
ausgelegt, um ein Signal zu erzeugen, wenn ein sitzender Spieler für eine vorbestimmte
Zeit nicht gewettet hat.
31. Netzwerk von mindestens zwei Spielendgeräten nach Anspruch 30, wobei der Signalerzeuger
ausgelegt ist, um mindestens ein erzeugtes Signal an ein zentrales Computersystem
zu senden, um das erzeugte Signal an einen Abteilungsleiter eines Casinos zu senden,
und um dem Spieler mitzuteilen, dass die Serviceleistungen, die an dem Spielendgerät
vorhanden sind, für aktive Spieler vorbehalten sind.
1. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu (102) pour parier sur des jeux, chaque terminal
de jeu comprenant :
un cadre (310, 316) ;
un premier affichage (302) ajusté de façon réglable sur le cadre (310, 316), le premier
affichage (302) comportant au moins un écran ;
un siège (312, 1302, 1304) ajusté sur le cadre (310, 316) pour chacun d'au moins deux
joueurs participants, les sièges (1302, 1304) étant ajustés côte à côte sur le cadre
(316) ;
un dispositif d'acceptation et/ou de distribution de paiement (306) ;
une unité de commande de pari de jeu permettant de commander les paris sur les jeux
;
un dispositif de communication (906) configuré pour permettre une communication entre
les au moins deux terminaux de jeu (102), le dispositif de communication étant configuré
pour au moins un élément parmi une communication de données, vocale et vidéo ;
un seul ensemble partagé de dispositifs d'interaction de jeux (304, 1310, 1312) pour
permettre une interaction avec les jeux, les dispositifs d'interaction de jeux (304,
1310, 1312) incluant un bouton de pari permettant de placer un pari, l'unité de commande
de pari de jeu étant en outre configurée pour permettre aux au moins deux joueurs
participants (104) de presser le bouton de pari selon un mode premier à presser, un
mode prise de tour et un mode aléatoire dans lesquels le joueur suivant autorisé à
activer le bouton de pari est choisi au hasard ;
un générateur de son (106) permettant de générer du son, et
un casque d'écoute ou au moins un dispositif de diffuseur de son en hauteur (804),
couplé au générateur de son (106), pour diffuser du son, l'au moins un système de
diffusion de son en hauteur (804) étant couplé au cadre et positionné au-dessus du
siège,
dans lequel les au moins deux terminaux de jeu en réseau sont configurés pour communiquer
l'un avec l'autre sur le réseau pour permettre à tous les joueurs participants (104)
jouant à tous les au moins deux terminaux de jeu en réseau (102) d'être collectivement
considérés comme un seul joueur pour permettre le partage d'un seul résultat de jeu
et d'un seul solde de crédit.
2. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, dans lequel les
dispositifs d'interaction de jeux (304, 1310, 1312) et l'unité de commande de pari
de jeu sont configurés pour identifier chacun des au moins deux joueurs participants
(104) symboliquement ou par nom et pour suivre et afficher une performance de jeu
de chacun des au moins deux joueurs participants.
3. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1 ou 2, dans lequel
le dispositif de diffusion de son (106) est ajusté sur le cadre (316).
4. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1 ou 2, dans lequel
le dispositif de diffusion de son (106) est ajusté sur le siège (312).
5. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 4, dans lequel le dispositif
de diffusion de son (106) est ajusté au-dessus du siège (312).
6. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, dans lequel le cadre
(310, 316) est une armature généralement en forme de U ayant une extrémité inférieure
(308), une première extrémité supérieure et une seconde extrémité supérieure, l'extrémité
inférieure étant configurée pour reposer sur ou être attachée à une surface de sol
; le premier affichage (302) étant ajusté près de la première extrémité supérieure,
le siège (312) étant ajusté près de la seconde extrémité supérieure.
7. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 6, dans lequel le dispositif
de diffusion de son (106, 804) est ajusté sur le cadre (316) près de la seconde extrémité
supérieure et au-dessus du siège (312).
8. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, comprenant en outre
un accoudoir solidaire (904) ajusté sur le cadre (316) ou sur le siège (312).
9. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, dans lequel le dispositif
d'acceptation et/ou de distribution de paiement (306) est ajusté sur le cadre (310).
10. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, comprenant en outre
un second affichage (906) ajusté sur l'un du cadre (310) et du siège (312), le second
affichage (906) permettant au joueur de visualiser des chaînes TV ou des flux de données
vidéo prédéterminés.
11. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 10, dans lequel le
siège comprend en outre un accoudoir (904) et le second affichage (906) est attaché
à l'accoudoir.
12. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, dans lequel le générateur
de son est configuré pour diffuser au moins l'un parmi :
un retour audio pendant le jeu ou la navigation à travers des options de jeu ;
des messages ou annonces d'opérateur de jeu ;
du son ou de la musique préenregistré sélectionné par l'utilisateur via une interface
;
des flux de données audio, et
des sons apaisants.
13. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, dans lequel le générateur
de son (106) inclut un moyen d'annulation de son actif permettant d'isoler le joueur
vis-à-vis du son environnant.
14. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, dans lequel le générateur
de son (106) inclut un moyen d'annulation de son passif permettant d'isoler le joueur
vis-à-vis du son environnant.
15. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, comprenant en outre
un moyen permettant d'isoler le joueur de la lumière environnante.
16. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 15, dans lequel le
moyen d'isolement de la lumière inclut l'un parmi :
un panneau opaque ou teinté orientable, et
une visière filtrante rabattable ou des lunettes.
17. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, comprenant en outre
un moyen d'ajustement ergonomique couplé à au moins l'un parmi : le premier affichage
(302), le siège (312), le dispositif d'acceptation et de distribution de monnaie (306),
les dispositifs d'interaction de jeux (304) et le moyen de diffusion de son (106).
18. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 17, dans lequel le
moyen d'ajustement ergonomique inclut au moins l'un parmi des moyens d'ajustement
mécaniques, des moyens d'ajustement motorisés, des moyens d'ajustement d'inclinaison/rotation
(508, 512), des moyens d'ajustement commandés par ordinateur, des moyens d'ajustement
commandés à distance commandables par une manette de jeu ou un écran tactile, et des
moyens d'ajustement de paramètres ergonomiques selon des profils de paramètre d'utilisateur
prémémorisés.
19. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 17, dans lequel le
moyen d'ajustement ergonomique inclut des réglages de configuration prédéterminés
pour aider le joueur lorsqu'il s'assied et se lève du terminal de jeu solidaire.
20. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, dans lequel l'unité
de commande de pari de jeu comprend en outre un moyen permettant au joueur de sécuriser
l'accès à des fonctions PC selon un schéma prédéterminé.
21. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 20, dans lequel le
schéma prédéterminé inclut au moins l'un parmi un quota de jeu, un paiement par utilisation,
une promotion et un bonus.
22. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 20, dans lequel les
fonctions PC incluent au moins l'une parmi une navigation Internet, l'accès au courriel,
la messagerie instantanée, la bourse, la diffusion de musique, la diffusion d'une
vidéo, la visioconférence et les réservations de voyages & de divertissements.
23. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, comprenant en outre
un repose-pieds réglable ajusté sur la chaise ou sur le cadre.
24. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, dans lequel les
dispositifs d'interaction de jeux incluent une console réglable qui inclut au moins
l'un parmi des boutons de jeu et une manette de jeu.
25. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, dans lequel l'unité
de commande de pari de jeu est configurée pour communiquer avec un système d'ordinateur
central via un réseau.
26. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, dans lequel le dispositif
de communication est configuré pour implémenter au moins l'un parmi une messagerie
textuelle, une liste de contacts personnels, une communication vocale, une communication
par Webcam et un transfert de photos et un calendrier personnel pour organiser un
moment de contact et des événements de jeu.
27. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, dans lequel le générateur
de son (106) inclut une entrée audio pour permettre au dispositif de diffusion de
son de diffuser de l'audio à partir d'un lecteur audio personnel.
28. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 27, dans lequel l'entrée
audio est configurée pour un fonctionnement sans fil.
29. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 27, dans lequel le
moyen d'entrée audio est configuré pour un fonctionnement filaire.
30. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 1, incluant en outre
un générateur de signal configuré pour générer un signal lorsqu'un joueur assis n'a
pas effectué de pari pendant un délai prédéterminé.
31. Réseau d'au moins deux terminaux de jeu selon la revendication 30, dans lequel le
générateur de signal est configuré pour réaliser au moins l'un parmi : l'envoi du
signal généré à un système d'ordinateur central, l'envoi du signal généré à un chef
de salle d'un casino, et la communication avec le joueur pour l'informer que des services
disponibles sur le terminal de jeu sont réservés aux joueurs actifs.
REFERENCES CITED IN THE DESCRIPTION
This list of references cited by the applicant is for the reader's convenience only.
It does not form part of the European patent document. Even though great care has
been taken in compiling the references, errors or omissions cannot be excluded and
the EPO disclaims all liability in this regard.
Patent documents cited in the description