WO1999046019A1 - Automated system for playing live casino table games having tabletop changeable playing card displays and play monitoring security features - Google Patents
Automated system for playing live casino table games having tabletop changeable playing card displays and play monitoring security features Download PDFInfo
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- WO1999046019A1 WO1999046019A1 PCT/US1999/005361 US9905361W WO9946019A1 WO 1999046019 A1 WO1999046019 A1 WO 1999046019A1 US 9905361 W US9905361 W US 9905361W WO 9946019 A1 WO9946019 A1 WO 9946019A1
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- card
- participant
- player
- game
- dealer
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Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
- G07F17/32—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements
- G07F17/3202—Hardware aspects of a gaming system, e.g. components, construction, architecture thereof
- G07F17/3204—Player-machine interfaces
- G07F17/3211—Display means
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F3/00—Board games; Raffle games
- A63F3/00003—Types of board games
- A63F3/00157—Casino or betting games
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
- G07F17/32—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for games, toys, sports, or amusements
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F1/00—Card games
- A63F1/06—Card games appurtenances
- A63F1/12—Card shufflers
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F3/00—Board games; Raffle games
- A63F3/00003—Types of board games
- A63F3/00157—Casino or betting games
- A63F2003/00164—Casino tables
Definitions
- the field of this invention is apparatus and methods for playing live table playing card games; namely, games which use playing cards and are played at a casino, cardroom, residential or other gaming table with live human participants.
- live table games which use playing cards.
- Exemplary live table games include blackjack, poker, baccarat, and others.
- the use of playing cards has a number of associated limitations and disadvantages which have long plagued the casino industry. Some of these are of general concern to all or most playing card games. Others are problems associated with the use of playing cards in particular games. Some of the principal concerns and problems are discussed below.
- the use of playing cards at live table games typically involves several operational requirements which are time-consuming. These operations are conveniently described as collecting, shuffling and dealing of the cards. In many card games there is also a step of cutting the deck after it has been shuffled.
- a dealer In the collecting operation, a dealer typically collects the cards just played at the end of a hand of play. This is done in preparation for playing the next hand of cards. The cards are best collected so all are in a face-down or face-up condition. The cards also are typically straightened into a stack with the long sides and short sides aligned. These manipulations take time and are not typically appreciated by either the dealer or players as enhancing the play and entertainment value of the game. In many games the cards collected at the end of the hand are deposited in a discard rack which collects the played cards until the time a new stack is obtained or the stack is shuffled. In some games the cards are immediately shuffled into the stack either manually or using a shuffling machine.
- shuffling is of substantial financial 2 significance to the casino industry because it requires significant time and reduces the number of hands which can be played per hour or other period of time.
- the earnings of casinos is primarily dependent upon the total number of hands played. This is true because the casino on average wins a certain percent of the amounts wagered, and many or most casinos are open on a 24-hour basis. Thus, earnings are limited by the number of hands that can be played per hour.
- Shuffling machines currently available have costs in the thousands of dollars. Such machines save time in performing the shuffling process, but still require time to load, operate and unload. These factors reduce the savings associated with reduced shuffling time and effort. Further reductions in the costs and time associated with shuffling of cards is still desired.
- Casinos have recognized that their efforts to reduce cheating would be improved if the casino had comprehensive information on the cards which have been played, the amounts bet, the players and dealers involved and other information about actions which have taken place at the card tables. This is of particular importance in assessing the use of stacked decks. It is also important where card tracking is occurring. Additional explanation about card tracking is discussed below.
- the information desired by the casinos includes knowing the sequence and exact cards being dealt.
- Card shoes having card detection capability.
- Card shoes hold a stack of cards containing typically from one to six decks of cards. The cards are held in the card shoe in preparation for dealing and to secure the deck within a device which restricts access to the cards and helps prevent card manipulations.
- Card shoes can be fit with optical or magnetic sensors which detect the cards as they are being dealt.
- card shoes One advantage of such card shoes is that the card sequence information can be collected in a machine readable format by sensing the specific nature (suit and count) of each card as they are dealt out of the card shoe.
- most such card shoes have special requirements for the cards being used.
- Such cards must carry magnetic coding or are specifically adapted for optical reading. This increases the cost of the cards and may not fully resolve the problems and difficulties in obtaining accurate information concerning sequence information.
- the automated data collecting card shoes also do not have an inherent means for collecting data on the assignment of the card to a particular player or the dealer. They further do not collect data on the amounts bet. These factors thus require some other 5 manual or partially automated data collection system to be used, or require that time- consuming human analysis be performed using video tapes as explained above.
- Card tracking can be thought of as being of two types. Sequential card tracking involves determination of the specific ordering of the card deck or decks being dealt. This can be determined or closely estimated for runs of cards, sequences of cards forming a portion or portions of a stack. Sequential card tracking can be devastating to a casino since a player taking advantage of such information can bet large in a winning situation and change the odds in favor of the player and against the casino.
- Slug tracking involves determining runs of the deck or stack which show a higher frequency of certain important cards. For example, in the play of blackjack there are a relatively large number of 10-count cards. These 10-count cards are significant in producing winning blackjack hands or 20-count hands which are also frequently winning hands. Gamblers who are proficient in tracking slugs containing large numbers of 10- count cards can gain an advantage over the house and win in blackjack. There is also a long-standing problem in the play of blackjack which concerns the situation when the dealer receives a blackjack hand in the initial two cards dealt. If the dealer has a 10-count card or ace as the upcard, then it is possible for the dealer to have 6 a blackjack.
- the dealer cheats in collaboration with an accomplice-player.
- This cheating is frequently accomplished when the dealer signals the accomplice using eye movements, hand movements or other signals. If a dealer does not peek, then he does not know the value of his hand until after the players have completed their play. If the dealer does peek, then he can use such eye movements, hand movements or other techniques to convey instructions to his accomplice- player. These signals tell the accomplice what hand the dealer has been dealt. With this knowledge of the dealer's hand, the accomplice has improved odds of winning and this can be sufficient to turn the long-term odds in favor of the accomplice-player and against the casino.
- a further problem associated with live table card games are the costs associated with purchasing, handling and disposal of paper and plastic playing cards.
- Casinos pay relatively favorable prices for card decks, but the decks roughly cost about $ 1 per deck at this time.
- Each casino uses decks for a very limited period of time, typically only one shift, and almost always less than one day. After this relatively brief life in the limelight, the decks are disposed of in a suitable manner. In some cases they can be sold as souvenirs. This is done after the cards are specially marked or portions are punched out to show they have been decommissioned from a casino. This special marking allows the cards to be sold as souvenirs while reducing the risk that they will later be used at the card tables in a cheating scheme which involves slipping a winning card into play at an appropriate point. In other cases the playing cards are simply destroyed or recycled to eliminate this last risk. In any case, the cost of playing cards for a casino is significant and can easily run in the hundreds of thousands of dollars per year.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a gaming table fitted with a preferred system according to the current invention.
- Fig. 2 is a top view of the gaming table and system shown in Fig. 1.
- Fig. 3 is a sectional view showing portions of the gaming table and system of Fig. 1.
- Fig. 4 is a top view showing the presentation unit of Fig. 1 shown in isolation.
- Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a preferred dealing shoe module forming a part of the preferred system of Fig. 1. 9
- Fig. 6 is an enlarged top view showing in isolation a dealer display which forms part of the preferred presentation unit shown in Fig. 4.
- Figs. 7-22 are enlarged top views showing portions of a single player station with a display which forms part of the preferred presentation unit shown in Fig. 4. Each of Figs. 7-22 show a different stage in a sequence of display images as a hand of cards is played.
- Figs. 23-25 are schematic diagrams showing a preferred electronic system forming part of the system of Fig. 1.
- Figs. 26-37 are operational flow diagrams showing significant steps in the logical processes employed for data processing functions carried out by the preferred system of Fig. 1.
- Fig. 38 is a top view of an alternative betting chip used with a system similar to the system of Fig. 1.
- Fig. 39 is an enlarged sectional view of the betting chip shown in Fig. 38 as taken along line 39-39.
- Fig. 40 is top or plan view of a further preferred gaming system according to the invention.
- Fig. 41 is a top view of a portion of the gaming system pictured in Fig. 40.
- Fig. 42 is a top view of the base plate portion of Fig. 41 with additional components mounted thereon which form additional parts of the system of Fig. 40.
- Fig. 43 is a top view of the presentation unit shown in Fig. 40 in isolation.
- Fig. 44 is a sectional view taken along line 44-44 of Fig. 40.
- Fig. 45 is a top or plan view in isolation of an alternative dealing shoe and control unit forming part of the system of Fig. 40.
- Fig. 46 is a sectional view taken along line 46-46 of Fig. 45.
- Fig. 47 is a first flow diagram showing a portion of a main operational flow scheme which is employed in the gaming system of Fig. 40.
- Fig. 48 is a second flow diagram showing another portion of the main operational flow scheme which is employed in the gaming system of Fig. 40.
- Fig. 49 is a third flow diagram showing another portion of the main operational flow scheme which is employed in the gaming system of Fig. 40.
- Fig. 50 is a fourth flow diagram showing a two card play sequence portion used in the operational flow scheme employed in the gaming system of Fig. 40.
- Fig. 51 is a fifth flow diagram showing a dealer play sequence portion used in the operational flow scheme employed in the gaming system of Fig. 40.
- Fig. 52 is a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment game system according to the invention. 10
- Fig. 53 is an enlarged front elevational view showing an ancillarty display portion forming a part of the system of Fig. 52.
- Fig. 54 is an enlarged top view showing portions of a single player station with a display which forms part of the preferred presentation unit shown in Fig. 52.
- Fig. 1 shows a gaming table 50 which is shown adapted and provided with a preferred system for playing live card games built in accordance with the invention.
- Gaming table 50 can be of a variety of common constructions.
- table 50 includes a table support trestle 51 having legs 52 which contact an underlying floor to support the gaming table thereon.
- the gaming table has a table top 53 and perimeter pad 54 which extends fully about a semicircular portion of the table periphery.
- the straight, back portion of the periphery is used by the dealer 56 and can be partly or wholly padded as may vary with the particular table chosen.
- a playing surface 55 is provided upon the upwardly facing surface of table top
- a plurality of players sit or stand along the semicircular portion and play a desired card game, such as the popular casino card game of blackjack.
- a desired card game such as the popular casino card game of blackjack.
- Other card games are alternatively possible, although the system described herein is specifically adapted for playing casino blackjack.
- the gaming table 50 also advantageously includes a betting chip rack 59 which allows the dealer to conveniently store betting chips used by the dealer in playing the game.
- a money drop slot 57 is further included to allow the dealer to easily deposit paper money bills thereinto when players purchase betting chips.
- Table 50 can support a system, or form a part of a system for playing live card games which is constructed according to the present invention.
- the card game system
- Such retrofit system includes a presentation unit 100 which displays images which depict the cards and card hands being played along with additional information used in the play of the card game.
- the presentation unit will be explained more fully below.
- the system also preferably includes a dealer control which is preferably -provided in the form of a simulated dealing shoe 80 upon which live dealer 56 can rest his hand and use control keys to provide control commands as will be detailed below.
- Dealing shoe 80 also advantageously includes a dealer control or dealing shoe display.
- the shoe display is subdivided into two different sections, one forms a first shoe display or stack display which is a video display which simulates the stack of cards from which the dealer is dealing cards.
- the other section of the shoe 11 display forms a second shoe display used to simulate cards moving from the shoe. This second display section can also show the back of a traditional card, the name of the casino, or other desired information.
- Fig. 3 shows that system 60 further includes at least one game processor, such as game processor 90.
- Game processor 90 includes a main module 92 which can advantageously be mounted beneath table top 53, such as by using a game processor support casing or housing 91.
- the housing can be directly connected to the underside of the table top using fasteners (not shown).
- the bottom panel of housing 91 is advantageously provided with a bottom access door 95 which is hinged and locked with a key lock (not shown) for security purposes.
- the controller main module 92 also is advantageously provided with a main power switch 96 which controls supply of power to an internal power supply. Electrical power is supplied to the module using a typical power cord.
- the main controller module 92 can further be provided with a second access door (not shown) which is also secured by a key lock to control access to a serial port and auxiliary keyboard port described below with regard to the electronics.
- the game processor or processors 90 are connected with the dealing shoe 80 and presentation unit 100 using suitable connection cables 93.
- connection cables 93 In the preferred construction there are fourteen data cables running between the module 92 and the presentation unit
- Gaming table 50 has been fitted with a presentation unit 100 which is supported thereon.
- the presentation unit or units are preferably supported upon the upper or playing surface 55 of the gaming table. This allows the system to be easily installed upon a variety of differing gaming tables without extensive modifications being performed.
- the presentation unit can otherwise be mounted upon the gaming table in a manner which allows participants to view one or more of the displays which form a part of the presentation unit.
- there is one presentation unit 100 which is adapted for use by a single live dealer 56 and six live players (not shown) who are in live attendance and positioned about the gaming table.
- Figs. 2-4 show in greater detail the preferred form of the presentation unit.
- the unit includes an outer shell or housing
- the perimeter of the upper housing semicircular section which has a semicircular periphery segment 104.
- the semicircular periphery and 12 associated player section of the presentation unit are along a player side of the unit.
- the opposing dealer side of the presentation unit can be of various shapes. As shown, it includes a back periphery segment 106 which has a central portion which is relatively straight and is designed to allow placement of the presentation unit near to the betting chip rack 59.
- Presentation unit 100 includes a number of visual displays, herein termed participant video displays, which are capable of displaying changeable display images.
- the participant display images are intended to display virtual playing cards and other information used in the play of the card game.
- Figs. 2 and 4 show presentation unit 100 with a single dealer display 102 and six player displays 103.
- Displays 102 and 103 are advantageously liquid crystal matrix displays having color capability and integrated backlights for added viewing ease and clarity. Such displays are used in recent notebook computers and are commercially available in a variety of types and sizes from several manufacturers. The exact nature and size of the display can vary and alternative types of displays and future display technologies will likely serve the intended purposes for participant video displays 102 and 103.
- the dealer display 102 is advantageously centered along a central centerline 110 to allow easy viewing by both the dealer and players.
- the area of the presentation unit including and adjacent to dealer display 102 is the dealer section of the presentation unit.
- Player displays 103 are preferably arranged in an arcuate array forming a segment of an annular band across the upper face of the presentation unit. Each display is centered upon a radial display centerline 11 1. This arrangement complements the semicircular player side of the presentation unit and the adjacent semicircular player side of the gaming table. In this arrangement the player displays are adjacent and opposite to each player seating position. In the preferred construction shown having six player positions, the displays are centered upon the player display centerlines at angularly spaced positions of about 20-30° of angular arc, more preferably about 25 ° of arc. Varying the number of player positions and table configuration will allow or require varying angular spacings to be used. This angular spacing arrangement facilitates easy viewing by the player who is viewing the virtual cards from his or her display. It also allows the dealer to have easy view from across the gaming table.
- the player displays 103 are also advantageously presented in an upwardly facing orientation and contained in a single plane or approximately a single plane, to facilitate easy viewing by other players from around the table. Although this arrangement and capability are not essential, they increase viewing and interest of the nonparticipating players as a particular player's hand is being played out between the active player and 13 dealer. This helps to maintain the ambience of a live table game, enables skilled players to keep track of cards played, and overcomes some of the deficiencies of most video card games. Such games in particular lack significant interest to other people as the hand is being played out between a computer and a single player. - Presentation Unit Betting Chip Detectors
- each player station also advantageously includes a betting chip detection zone 120.
- Betting chip detection zones 120 are zones into which a player must position a betting chip 160 to be considered a participant in the game being played.
- the preferred presentation unit includes betting chip sensors 121 which are immediately below or otherwise adjacent to zones 120.
- Sensors 121 can be selected from several different types of sensors.
- One suitable type is a weigh cell which senses the presence of a betting chip thereon so that the game processor knows at the start of a hand, that a player is participating in the next hand being played.
- a variety of weigh cells can be used.
- Another suitable type of sensor 121 includes optical sensors. Such optical sensors can be photosensitive detectors which use changes in the sensed level of light striking the detectors. In a preferred system according to this invention, sensor 121 uses ambient light which beams from area lighting of the casino or other room in which it is placed.
- the amount of light striking the detector 121 located beneath the zone is measurably diminished by the opaque betting chip.
- the detector conveys a suitable electrical signal which indicates that a betting chip has been placed within the detection zone 120.
- a variety of other alternative detectors can also be used.
- a further type of preferred betting chip sensor is one which can detect coding included on or in the betting chips to ascertain the value of the betting chip or chips being placed by the players into detection zones 120.
- a preferred form of this type of sensor or detector 121 is used to detect an integrated circuit based radio frequency identification unit which is included in or on the betting chips. The most preferred sensors are sometimes referred to as radio frequency identification detection or read-write stations.
- Figs. 38 and 39 show an alternative betting chip 164 which can be used with an alternative card game system similar to system 60.
- the betting chips 164 are used in lieu of normal betting chips 160.
- Each betting chip 164 includes a radio frequency identification transponder 161 which is connected to the betting chip 160.
- the transponder 161 is sandwiched between a first betting chip part 162 and a second betting chip part 163.
- the parts 162 and 163 can advantageously be made from a formed paper or plastic material and then adhered or 14 otherwise secured together to enclose the transponder and provide protection for the transponder during use.
- the transponder can be molded within the betting chip, or otherwise connected thereto, such as by using adhesives to an outer surface of the betting chip.
- One type of integrated circuit radio frequency identification transponder is available from Texas Instruments and is sold under the trademarks TIRIS TAG-IT. This transponder is available in a very thin wafer shape, and can be laminated between paper and plastic to form the transponding betting chip 164.
- the betting chip detection sensor 121 will be a radio frequency interrogator detection unit which sends out a query signal and receives a detectable response from the betting chip transponder 161.
- the transponder can be either powered or unpowered, depending upon the specific vendor chosen and the associated sensor technology and detection device used with that type of sensor. In the case of one suitable type of transponder, explained above from Texas Instruments, this same vendor has associated detection systems which can read data from the transponders. Also available are detection systems which can both read data from the transponder and write data onto the transponders. This vendor or other vendors may provide suitable detection and sensing subsystems which can be employed to not only read and write data thereto, but also provide confirmatory identification codes which deter counterfeiting of the gaming chips or provide additional data processing capabilities.
- Such alternative sensors may work with typical betting chips or other types of betting chips.
- Such sensor can provide identification circuits or other identification or value-coding inserts or appliques which can be included in or on the betting chips to provide value information, serial number information, and any other desired information.
- Figs. 2 and 3 further show that the preferred presentation unit includes insurance bet detection zones 130 which have associated insurance bet sensors 131.
- the insurance bet sensors can be of various types and constructions as explained above in connection with the general betting detection zones 120 and bet sensors 121.
- the insurance bet detection zones 130 are used by players to place an insurance bet during play of the card game blackjack. An insurance bet is placed as desired by the players upon the occurrence of the dealer receiving an ace as the dealer's upcard. If the dealer's down card is a ten-count card, then the dealer has blackjack and the player placing an insurance bet does not lose his original bet or insurance bet. If the dealer's down card does not make blackjack, then the insurance bet is lost to the dealer and play continues in the normal fashion. 15
- Live card game system 60 also preferably includes a plurality of dealer controls which are advantageously provided in the form of a simulated dealing shoe 80.
- the dealer controls can alternatively be provided in the presentation unit or in other different forms which do not necessarily require the simulated dealing shoe and other features which are included therewith.
- Dealing shoe 80 is shown in greater detail in Fig. 5.
- the dealing shoe has a dealing shoe case 84 which forms the outer surface of the dealing shoe.
- the dealing shoe case is connected to and covers a base plate (not shown) which serves as a structural frame to which case 84 is connected and upon which other internal components are mounted.
- Case 84 has a first display opening or window which allows a first dealing shoe display 81 to be presented for viewing.
- the dealing shoe also advantageously includes a second display opening or window which allows a second dealing shoe display 82 to be presented for viewing.
- the first and second displays 81 and 82 are provided by a single liquid crystal panel display.
- the display has two different portions or sections which are changeable and operated to provide different images through the display windows.
- the first display image typically shows a simulated stack of cards similar to what appears in viewing a traditional card stack contained in a manual dealing shoe long used in dealing blackjack.
- the first display image can also be varied to allow presentation of programming options which are available in setting up the system and customizing operational parameters to the desired settings for a particular casino or cardroom in which the system is being used.
- the second shoe display 82 has a second display image which is advantageously used to provide a depiction of the back decorative side of a traditional playing card. This can be used along with some attractive presentation of the casino's name or other desirable image.
- the second shoe display image can also be moved or otherwise varied during the period of dealing to give the impression of movement and thus simulate cards being dealt from the shoe to add a touch of additional realism.
- Other display images are also clearly possible and can vary from casino to casino as management desires.
- the dealer controls on the dealing shoe 80 also preferably include a key operated switch 83 which is used to control basic operation of the system and for placing the unit into a programming mode.
- the key operated switch can provide two levels of access authorization which restricts access by dealers to programming, or additional security requirements can be provided in the software which restricts programming changes to management personnel. 16
- Programming may be input in several different modes consistent with the invention.
- the programming can be provided using a touch screen display used as display 81 with varying options presented thereon and the programming personnel can set various operational and rules parameters, such as: the shuffle mode, number of decks of cards used in the virtual card stack, options with regard to the portion of the stack which is used before the stack is cut, limits on the amounts which can be bet at a particular table, whether splits are accepted for play and to what degree, options concerning doubling down plays, whether the dealer hits or stands on soft 17, and other rules can be made variable dependent upon the particular form of the system programming used in the system.
- control keys 85-89 instead of a touch screen display in some forms of the invention to allow various menu options to be displayed and programming options to be selected using the control keys.
- an auxiliary keyboard (not shown) to the dealing shoe through a keyboard connection port 186 (see Fig. 24). The auxiliary keyboard can then be used to more easily program the system, or be used in maintenance and diagnostic functions.
- the dealing shoe also includes a plurality of dealer operational controls provided in the form of dealer control sensors 85-89.
- Dealer control sensors 85-89 are advantageously electrical touch keys.
- the dealer control sensors are used by the dealer to indicate that desired control functions should take place or further proceed.
- sensor 85 can be used to implement a player's decision to split his two similar cards and play them as two separate or split hands.
- Sensor 86 can be used to implement a player's decision to double down.
- Sensor 87 can be used to implement a player's decision to stand on the cards already dealt or assigned to that player.
- Sensor 88 can be used to "hit" a player by dealing him another card.
- Sensor 89 can be used to command shuffling and dealing of a new hand to the participants.
- other functions can be attributed to other keys or input sensors of various types.
- it is planned that the above touch keys can be assigned to additional functions, such as in changeable soft key assignments during the programming or setup of the system.
- Dealer control touch keys 85-89 can be selected from a wide variety of commercially available touch keys used to provide electrical control signals.
- the dealer control sensors can be provided in another form which are touch sensors, or other types of sensors which allow the dealer to indicate control commands being made or implemented by the dealer.
- the use of dealer control keys is designed with the object of minimizing most or all direct player input to the system. Instead, the players are required to provide the dealer with traditional hand gesture signals and/or oral 17 instructions and then the dealer implements these instructions using the touch keys or other dealer control sensors.
- the card game system 60 also includes suitable data and control processing subsystem 90.
- Control and data processor 90 is largely contained within a main control module 92 supported beneath the table top 53 in casing 91 (Fig. 3). Alternatively, the control module can be at some other suitable location. Other portions of the data and control processing subsystem may reside in part or totally within the dealing shoe 80 or presentation unit 100, as convenient in a particular construction of the electronics and related components.
- the control and data processing subsystem 90 includes a suitable power supply 181 for converting alternating current from the power main as controlled by main power switch 96 (Fig. 3).
- the power supply transforms the alternating line current to a suitable voltage and to a direct current supply.
- Power is supplied to a power distribution and sensor electronics control circuit 184.
- Control circuit 184 can be one of several commercially available power switching and control circuits provided in the form of a circuit board which is detachable, and plugs into a board receptacle of a computer mother board 185 or an expansion slot board receptacle.
- Power control circuit 184 is connected to a first mode control switch 182 and a second mode control switch 183.
- the first and second mode control switches are operated by the key control 83 (Fig. 5) contained on dealer control shoe 80.
- the first switch controls powering up the system once current is supplied to the power supply.
- the second switch controls activation of the programming mode of operation.
- Fig. 24 also shows a controller mother board 185 which includes a central microprocessor (not shown) and related components well-known in the industry as computers using Intel brand Pentium microprocessors and related memory (not specifically shown).
- a variety of different configurations and types of memory devices can be connected to the mother board as is well-known in the art. Of particular interest is the inclusion of two flat panel display control boards 188 and 189 connected in expansion slots of mother board 185.
- Display control boards 188 and 189 are each capable of controlling the images displayed and other operational parameters of the video displays used in system 60. More specifically, the display control boards are connected to player bet interfaces circuits 196, 198, 201 and 203 which show four of the six player stations (two are omitted for purposes of illustration brevity but are similarly connected). Additionally, the display control board 189 is shown connected to the dealing shoe interface circuit 190 and the dealer interface 194. This arrangement allows the display 18 control boards to provide necessary image display data to the electronic driver circuits 197, 199, 202 and 204 used to drive the six player displays 103 of Fig. 2.
- This arrangement also allows the display control boards to provide necessary image display data to the display electronic drive circuits 192 and 195 associated with the dealing shoe displays 81 and 82 (Fig. 5) and the dealer display 102 (Fig. 2), respectively.
- the display electronic drive circuits just described have associated backlight power supplies 193.
- the mother board 185 also includes a serial port 187 which allows stored data to be downloaded from the mother board to a central casino computer or other additional storage device. This allows card game action data to be analyzed in various ways using added detail, or by providing integration with data from multiple tables so that cheating schemes can be identified and eliminated. It also allows monitoring of dealer performance and accuracy on a routine basis. Player performance and/or skill can be tracked at one table or as a compilation from gaming at multiple tables. Additionally, player hand analysis can be performed.
- Fig. 24 further shows a keyboard connection port 186 which can be used to connect a larger format keyboard (not shown) to the system to facilitate programming and servicing of the system.
- Fig. 25 further shows a number of sensor interface connections 191 which indicate schematically connection of both the player bet sensors 121 and insurance bet sensors 131.
- shoe interface 190 there is a control key interface 179 which is used to interact with the control keys 85-89 (Fig. 5).
- Dealer interface circuit 194 has an associated interface 179 should any touch screen or other desired capability be provided with respect to dealer display 102.
- - Optional Player Identification Although the preferred system shown does not have features illustrated for receiving automated player identification information, such can alternatively be provided. Card readers such as used with credit cards, or other identification code reading devices (not shown) can be added in the presentation unit to allow or require player identification in connection with play of the card game and associated recording of game action by the controller 90.
- Such a user identification interface can be implemented in the form of a variety of magnetic card readers commercially available for reading a user-specific identification information.
- the user-specific information can be provided on specially constructed magnetic cards issued by a casino, or magnetically coded credit cards or debit cards frequently used with national credit organizations such as VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS, or banks and other institutions.
- the user identification could include coding for available credit amounts purchased from a casino.
- the identification card or other user-specific instrument may include specially coded data indicating security information such as would allow accessing or identifying stored security information which must be confirmed by the user after scanning the user identification card through a card reader.
- security information might include such things as file access numbers which allow the central processor 90 to access a stored security clearance code which the user must indicate using input options provided on displays 103 using touch screen displays.
- Each player can carry a transponder card which can be read and written to by the sensor 121. Upon arrival at the table, the player presents the transponder card to sensor 121 and the player is logged in. Thereafter bets can be charged from and winnings can be applied to the transponder according to the wishes of a casino customer.
- the player identification card could be used merely to identify the player and all betting could be accomplished using betting chips 164.
- participant identification using a fingerprint image, eye blood vessel image reader, or other suitable biological information to confirm identity of the user. Still further it is possible to provide such participant identification information by having the dealer manually code in the information in response to the player indicating his or her code name or real name. Such additional identification could also be used to confirm credit use of a smart card or transponder.
- presentation unit 100 can alternatively be provided with suitable display cowlings or covers (not shown) which can be used to shield display of card images from viewing by anyone other than the player.
- display cowlings or covers can be used to shield display of card images from viewing by anyone other than the player.
- Such an alternative construction may be desired in systems designed for card games different from blackjack, where some or all of the player or dealer cards are not presented for viewing by other participants or onlookers.
- Such display covers or cowlings can be in various shapes and configurations as needed to prevent viewing access.
- a player controlled switch which allows the display to be momentarily viewed and then turned off.
- the display can be shielded using a cover or merely by using the player's hands.
- a touch screen display that would be controlled by touch to turn on and turn off. Similar shielding can be used to prevent others from viewing the display.
- Fig. 6 shows a preferred display image which can be displayed by the dealer display 102. Various features of the preferred display and related operational information will now be described.
- Fig. 6 shows the dealer display 102 in greater detail.
- a typical dealer display image is portrayed.
- Card 107 is the dealer's upcard and card 108 is the dealer's down card or hole card.
- the upcard is faceup and the hole card is facedown.
- the image of Fig. 6 depicts the dealer's card hand after the initial dealing of two cards to each participant. This is prior to the dealer playing out his hand. When the dealer plays out his hand, then the hole card will be shown faceup and the dealer will receive additional cards according to the casino's rules of play for the dealer.
- the dealer display image will change and show the cards either side-by-side if space allows, or overlapping if the dealer's hand has sufficient number of cards so as to require overlapping.
- the dealer will typically hit on his hand if the hand count is 16 or less and stand if it is 17 or more.
- a preferred option in setup of the system is to select according to casino procedures whether to hit or stand when the dealer has a soft 17 (ace and one or more cards which together total 17 when the ace is counted as 1 1). Additional information can also be displayed on the dealer display 102 as may be desired by the casino or as provided by the manufacturer of the system.
- the dealer display is planned to display the card hand of the dealer and other information is presented on the player displays 103 as will be explained below in greater detail. 21
- Figs. 7-22 shows preferred display images which can be displayed by the player displays 102. Various features of the preferred display images and related operational information will now be described.
- Fig. 7 shows principal parts of a preferred player station 1 18.
- Station 1 18 includes the betting chip detection zone 120.
- Not pictured in Figs. 7-22 are the added feature of the insurance bet detection zones 130 which are shown in Fig. 2.
- the player station also includes a player station display 103 which includes a display border zone 105 which is part of the changeable display face and can vary from one display image to the next.
- the border zone lies within an outer display perimeter line 1 13 and an inner border zone boundary 1 14.
- the inner border zone boundary 1 14 is shown in dashed line to indicate it's position but it is not highlighted in this view and other views except when the border zone is turned on as an indication of whether the player's hand has won or lost. This is preferably done by two different mechanisms to clearly indicate to the live participants at the table the outcome of that player's hand.
- the outcome indicating zone is also used to indicate with certainty whether the hand has been won or lost in a manner which can be recorded by any monitoring camera used above or near the gaming table.
- the border zone 105 is highlighted in green or other suitable color.
- the border zone is also flashed on and off so that a black and white camera can also clearly identify the outcome as a win.
- the border zone 105 is highlighted in red or other suitable color.
- the border zone is maintained red and is not flashed on and off in distinction to the flashing used to indicate a winning hand.
- the constantly highlighted border zone is identifiable by a black and white camera because of this constant highlighting.
- the border zone 105 is not highlighted or can be dashed or otherwise distinguished. This too can be easily discerned from a black and white or color camera monitoring the table from above. The absence of the border zone from being either flashing or being on constantly provides certain indication that a tie outcome has occurred.
- Fig. 7 shows the player station when no bet has been placed and nothing is being displayed. Alternatively, there can be some attract mode advertising of the casino or game in anticipation of the next game or the arrival of customers.
- Fig. 8 shows player station 118 after a customer has placed a betting chip 160 into betting chip detection zone 120.
- the presence of the chip blocks part of the casino room light and serves to provide an indication of the bet being in place. This is interpreted by the controller as a player is present.
- There can alternatively be more overt 22 login procedures for each player which can be accomplished by either the dealer or player either with or without added player identification subsystems.
- Fig. 8 shows the player display 103 as being blank since the game has not become active. This condition applies when one player may have placed his bet and the dealer is awaiting similar action by one or more other players before beginning the next card hand.
- Fig. 9 shows the player station with display 103 activated in part.
- the upper left corner includes a secondary display section 141.
- secondary display section 141 is used to indicate the content of the dealer's hand at any particular time. This is done with a background triangle for appearance and easy viewing. There is also a display subtitle "DEALER TOTAL". Since no cards have been dealt as of the time associated with Fig. 9, there is no indication of the dealer's hand.
- Fig. 9 also shows a tertiary display section 151 which is advantageously used for several different functions as will be explained more fully below.
- Fig. 9 does show a display subtitle "BASIC STRATEGY" and a background triangle. Since no cards have been dealt as of the time associated with Fig. 9, there is no basic strategy information presented in section 151.
- Fig. 10 is similar to Fig. 9 except that the player has been dealt one virtual card, the ace of spades. This is shown faceup in the lower left-hand corner.
- the area displaying the player's hand is herein termed the primary display section 146.
- the virtual card image displayed in section 146 can be very realistic in the manner of paper or plastic playing cards, or it can be of various other styles.
- Fig. 10 also shows a hand count total numeral 147 which represents the count of the player's card hand at any particular time. This is done to help the player and eliminate or greatly reduce the risk for mistakes about the count of the hand.
- Fig. 1 1 shows the player display after the dealer has received his first card which is the secondary display dealer upcard 148.
- the secondary display 141 shows the ace and gives a dealer hand count numeral 150. In this case the dealer hand count is 11.
- Fig. 12 shows play advanced by the player having been dealt his second virtual card which is a three of diamonds.
- the primary player display section shows the card image 142 in an overlapping relationship to the first card.
- the player hand count numeral 147 has been revised to the new count which is 14.
- a suggested basic strategy 23 note is displayed at tertiary display section 151 which reads, "HIT". This indicates that basic strategy is to receive another virtual card from the stack.
- Fig. 13 shows the player display after the dealer has received his second card provided in the initial dealing.
- the second dealer card 149 is the hole card and is shown facedown and beneath the dealer upcard 148.
- the dealer hand count remains at 1 1 because the value of hole card 149 is not indicated until all players have played out their hands.
- the exception to this rule can occur when the dealer's hand count is twenty one and the dealer has a blackjack.
- Fig. 14 shows further progress of the hand and a changed player display image.
- the tertiary display section has been changed to have a subtitle which reads "PLAYER 3 TOTAL". This indicates that instead of basic strategy information, the tertiary display is now showing how player 3 is playing out his hand. This progresses as the various active players play out each hand until the current player is up.
- the active player display 170 shows the active player card images 171, 172. Also shown is the active player hand count numeral 173.
- Fig. 15 shows the active player display 170 changed to reflect a third active player card image 174.
- the hand count 173 has been revised to reflect the third card dealt to player 3. Also indicated is the decision by player 3 to stand.
- Fig. 16 shows the player display 103 after the current player has come up as the active player and has elected to receive a third player card 143.
- the hand count numeral 147 has been revised to reflect the new count of 16.
- the basic strategy has returned to the tertiary display 151 and is suggesting to the player that he should be hit to receive another card. Although basic strategy has been suggested, there is no limitation on how the player decides and he indicates such to the dealer and the dealer operates the dealer controls 85-89 to implement the player's decision.
- Fig. 17 shows the player display after the player has elected to have another card dealt.
- the fourth player card 144 results in a changed hand count of 12 because the valuation of the ace is necessarily changed from 11 to 1 because otherwise the player is over 21 and has lost.
- the basic strategy display again suggests a hit because of the low hand count.
- Fig. 18 shows a fifth player card 145 which revises the hand count to 16 and the basic strategy is again to hit. 24
- Fig. 19 shows a sixth player card 146 which is counted with the other player cards to reach a hand count of 26 which is a bust.
- the tertiary display shows that the player has busted.
- the border zone 105 is shown highlighted and maintained in an on condition to show a bust and loss for easy dealer, pit and camera detection from above the table.
- Fig. 20 is similar to Fig. 19 except the player has lost the betting chip 160 due to collection by the dealer.
- Fig. 21 shows the losing player's display has been cleared with regard to the primary display section and the tertiary display section due to the loss. If other players have yet to play out, then the tertiary display 151 will show the active player hand as previously illustrated in Fig. 14. Fig. 21 indicates an image when there is no other player playing out his hand and prior to the dealer having played out the dealer's hand.
- Fig. 22 shows the dealer's hand as being a 21 and thus the dealer is a winner.
- the game processor controller 90 includes software which is used in the operation of the card game system 60. It should initially be understood that the particular software used will vary dependent upon the card game being played. The system described herein is being used for playing blackjack and so specific description in that context is provided. However, other games can be played and there will necessarily be modifications to the software and program routines to accomplish these changed games, or such may be required in connection with playing the wide variety of blackjack games played in casinos and cardrooms everywhere.
- the game processor includes operational modules for performing a number of data processing functions in connection with the preferred blackjack card games.
- One key function is tallying the card array which forms the stack of virtual cards.
- Other key functions include: tallying the player hand counts; generating random number selections or listings; selecting virtual cards within a stack or selecting virtual cards which are to be distributed from the stack; monitoring a set of house rules or options to apply the correct rules during play of the game; monitoring player hand counts and cards dealt; providing basic strategy suggestions for use by the player in response to various different hands; and, communicating the various data processing sets and files between system components to achieve successful operation.
- Fig. 26 shows an overview of game processor logic flow in the form of a block diagram.
- Step 206 Power is applied at step 206 and the system goes into an initiation sequence using programming contained in a programmable read only memory forming part of 25 mother board 185.
- Step 208 is provided to indicate possible editing of game rules if a properly authorized user indicates programming should occur in the manners described above.
- step 208 the dealer initiates a new game by control command S, such as by pushing the deal control key switch 89 (Fig. 5).
- step 212 the game processor performs by identifying who is participating in the game from the available player stations, and includes the dealer by default.
- Step 215 involves dealing the two initial cards played in blackjack to the participating players and to the dealer. Such dealing involves generating random numbers which are used in selecting from the available cards contained in the set of cards defined to be the card stack. It further involves displaying the cards which have been dealt upon the displays in the manner and with the appearance described above, or some other suitable manner and appearance. Additional description of the two card dealing operation will be described below in connection with Fig. 28.
- Fig. 26 also shows a step 218 which involves showing or displaying the dealer's top or upcard on the dealer display and in the secondary sections of the player displays. This block also represents not displaying the dealer's down or hole card.
- the next step illustrated in Fig. 26 is a step of identifying players having a blackjack hand after the dealing of the two initial cards to each participating player station and to the dealer station (all participants).
- the following step 224 includes considering the next active player and analyzing the hand which is held by such player.
- After the analyzing the hand there is a process of applying the basic strategy rules to the analyzed player hand to perform a deriving of basic strategy suggestion.
- This basic strategy suggestion is then implemented by displaying the basic strategy as step 227, such as in a manner explained above in connection with the player display descriptions.
- Step 230 provides a surrender option which may be made available to the player by presenting some indication of surrendering, or by merely allowing the player to orally or otherwise indicate he or she is surrendering after the initial two cards have been dealt and as an initial play decision associated with the hand the player has received versus the knowledge the player has of what the dealer has been dealt.
- One possible playing rule in this regard might be to allow the player to surrender, in which case the player would lose at that point one-half of his bet. This might be done in case the dealer appeared to have a blackjack hand and the player did not have a blackjack hand and did not believe he was likely to achieve a winning hand by receiving one or more hit cards. 26
- step 233 occurs which involves deactivating the surrendering player. The process can then be continued with regard to additional players who would either opt for surrendering or not surrendering.
- Fig. 26 also shows a step 239 which involves analyzing to determine if the dealer has been dealt an ace as his upcard. If so, then the game can advantageously perform by presenting the players with a notice, such as by displaying a message concerning insurance on the player or dealer displays. Although such a message is not shown in the figures, a simple flashing "INSURANCE?" might be used on either or both displays and then waiting sufficient time for the player to place their insurance bets upon the insurance bet detection zones 130. The game processor can then perform by detecting the presence of any insurance bets and logging such information into the game files being created in the game processor memory. If the dealer does not have a blackjack hand, then the step 242 of collecting the insurance bets can be performed by the dealer.
- a notice such as by displaying a message concerning insurance on the player or dealer displays.
- a simple flashing "INSURANCE?” might be used on either or both displays and then waiting sufficient time for the player to place their insurance bets upon the insurance bet detection zones 130.
- Fig. 26 further shows a step 245 which entails considering whether any player desires to split his or her hand.
- the split option typically occurs when the player has received two cards of similar kind, such as two kings or two aces.
- the player in particular may want to split on two aces since each has a relatively high probability of getting a ten-count card to make blackjacks. This is in comparison to valuing each of the aces as either 1 or 1 1 and further playing the cards as a single hand.
- Step 248 represents implementing the active split hands and dealing an additional card to the split hand to provide two cards.
- the first split hand is then played out and play continues on to the second or subsequent split hand of the same player.
- Fig. 26 further includes a step 254 which performs by considering whether any players want to make a double down play. If so, then they indicate such to the dealer who depresses control key 86 (Fig. 5) and step 257 occurs which involves dealing the additional double down card to that player. The system then performs by evaluating the player's hand in step 263.
- step 260 is performed and such an election is made and the player performs by communicating such to the dealer.
- the dealer follows through by depressing either the stand or hit control keys 87 and 88, respectively.
- step 266 is performed and the game processor performs by analyzing the player's hand to determine whether the player has busted. If not, then the player is given another opportunity to obtain a hit card and the process repeats until the player elects to stand. In the last case the processor performs in step 263 by evaluating the final hand count and hand composition and then proceeds to address the additional participating players. If the 27 player busts, then step 269 is performed in which case the dealer proceeds to the next available participating player or proceeds to step 271.
- step 271 the process continues by playing out the dealer's hand. This may involve hitting or standing in a manner similar to play by the players as explained above.
- Step 274 is performed by determining which players have won or lost, and then such information is displayed on the displays 103, or 102, such as described hereinabove.
- Fig. 27 shows additional detail not depicted in Fig. 26 in the form of a main loop routine to further clarify processes used leading up to the dealing of the initial two cards.
- Steps 206 and 207 are as explained above.
- Step 283 involves testing for the edit rules security lock having been opened by the appropriate code key. If so, then the edit rules subroutine 208 is performed. If not, then various buffers and arrays are prepared for normal operation in an initiating step 292.
- Step 295 involves displaying any casino names or logos or otherwise displaying an attraction display image, such as upon the player displays 102, dealer display 103, or shoe displays 81 or 82. Thereafter, the game processor performs in step 298 by looking for any wagers as indicated by sensors 121.
- Step 301 represents initiating the active player stations and querying for a response that the player display has been activated. The sequence shown in Fig. 27 then performs by waiting for the dealer to proceed by depressing the deal command key 89. If not pressed then the waiting process is continued. If pressed, then step 307 is passed.
- step 310 is performed in which case the participating players are set and any additional information is loaded in preparation for dealing.
- step 313 indicates that the shoe display 81 is performing a displaying operation and step 316 indicates the marking or highlighting of the cut card and performance of the cutting operation as further explained now.
- the processes according to this invention can also include a cutting step which can be performed either by the dealer or by a player.
- the cutting is performed by displaying a simulated card stack on the first shoe display 81 and then having the player perform a touching of display.
- the display 81 is a touch screen display and the touching step causes a location in the stack to be selected as the cut position.
- the cut card can then be specially displayed, such as by using a highlighting color.
- Such a process can also involve progressively moving the cut card as virtual cards are dealt.
- An alternative cutting operation can be performed similar to the cutting just described but it is instead performed by the dealer touching display 81 rather than the 28 player. This can be done in response to the dealer's judgement, or more preferably, the dealer can undertake such action in response to instructions from one of the players.
- a still further alternative approach in performing a stack cutting operation is to have a selected player perform by instructing the dealer.
- the dealer in this alternative would be empowered to move a virtual cut card as it appears on the display.
- the stack image display 81 would function by displaying and highlighting a cut card.
- the dealer could then perform by moving or repositioning the cut card position within the stack by using one or more of the dealer control keys 85-89 which would become soft keys assigned to this repositioning function.
- the player performing the cutting judgement would then act by instructing the dealer as to the desired position of the cut card and the dealer would perform this repositioning as displayed on the display.
- the repositioning could be affected by adjusting the cut card position as needed in response to the instructions given by the player who is empowered with the cutting operation. After the cutting position is resolved, then the stack order is changed to reverse the two sections of the stack which are divided by the cutting position.
- a house or dealer cut card placing action which is advantageously made. This is made after the stack cutting operation discussed above.
- the dealer or other representative of the casino moves the cut card indicator to a position which is set by casino policy to be within a defined range. For example the cut card position might be midway in the stack. In such situation cards would be played until the cut card position is achieved and then the stack would be reshuffled.
- Step 322 of Fig. 28 illustrates the moving card routine advantageously performed by the second shoe display 82 in order to add realism to the game.
- Such a step includes indicating motion of playing card images after the dealer has commanded that dealing begin using touch key 89. This can advantageously be performed using the second shoe display 82.
- the motion indicating step can by done by shifting the apparent card back face image downwardly within the second shoe display and thus visually indicating that the dealing process is being performed. This can be of added realistic effect and aid the players in easily recognizing the action of the blackjack or other card game being played.
- Step 322 is followed by adjusting the simulated stack display in the first shoe display 81 by shifting the position of the cut card and moving it closer to the second display. 29
- Fig. 28 also shows step 328 which involves selecting a card from the stack using the random number generator.
- the shuffling processes used in the system can be performed in three preferred processes.
- a first shuffling process herein called traditional shuffling
- the random number generator is used to create an assigned order to all cards of the stack prior to dealing any card to any participant in the game. This is akin to the manner in which paper or plastic playing cards are handled, since the decks comprising the stack are shuffled and reshuffled the desired number of times to reorder the stack.
- any desired cutting of the deck is performed and the stack is placed into a dealing shoe. Once placed into a dealing shoe the order of the cards is fixed and no reordering occurs.
- shuffling is made available using system 60 which cannot reasonably be performed in playing card games using paper or plastic physical playing cards.
- This shuffling process is herein termed continuous random shuffle.
- the order of distribution of cards from the stack is not predetermined before the hand is played. Instead the random number generator operates on the fly as needed when the game requires a card to be taken from the stack.
- the position from the stack is varied to produce the random distribution of potentially any card at any time.
- the entire set of virtual cards which make up the stack is maintained at all times, without removing cards which may already have been dealt in the same playing hand. This maintaining a set of all available cards in the stack achieves truer randomness than by reducing the stack set for removed cards.
- random balance shuffling In random balance shuffling the set of available cards in the virtual stack is reduced by the assignment of prior cards dealt in the hand. For example, where the first card dealt is an ace of spades, and the stack is defined by the casino to be only one deck, then no other player in that hand can receive the ace of spades. In most casinos blackjack is played using stacks where there are multiple decks, for example six decks. In such situations, then there clearly would be additional aces of spades which might be dealt. However, the frequency of selecting the ace of spades after one or more other aces of spades have been already dealt in that hand does diminish. This should be contrasted to the continuous random shuffle wherein the expected statistical frequency does not change as cards are dealt.
- Step 328 schematically represents the selection of the next card whether this is done on the fly using continuous random shuffle, or random balance shuffle. 30
- the selection process can be done with pre-ordering using the traditional shuffle.
- the traditional shuffle does have a significant disadvantage which blackjack players may have noticed or experienced. This disadvantage is demonstrated by the situation where one player either stands or hits in a nonconventional manner, either by mistake or intent. Other players at the table often notice this apparent error, and as a result the next player or dealer would receive a different card than if the prior player had played his hand in a conventional manner. In some cases, the difference in cards can affect some or all who receive cards thereafter. In some cases, players become irate because of the realization that this mistaken choice by another player has cost the other players their bets and the wins which they otherwise would have enjoyed. This type of situation can be very upsetting and sometimes even leads to fights among the players.
- step 334 effects the displaying of the card on the player's display if it is a card assigned to a player.
- the preferred game system also effects displaying a copy of the player's card on all screens when appropriate as explained above in connection with the preferred player display images.
- the game then involves assessing whether the next action is with a player or dealer in step 340. This process repeats until all players have received their first card. Then a virtual card is assigned to the dealer in step 343.
- the first card to the dealer is dealt as a face-down card and is often referred to as the hole card.
- Step 350 indicates that the hole card of the dealer is dealt and displayed facedown.
- the process explained above repeats again for the active players and dealer until step 347 indicates that a second card has been received by the dealer.
- process 221 proceeds to determine the players with blackjack hands.
- Fig. 29 details the process, shown abbreviated as step 221 in Fig. 26, for determining players with blackjack hands.
- Step 362 involves going on to the next active 31 player for consideration.
- Step 365 is evaluating the player's hand.
- Step 369 is a deciding whether a blackjack hand is present.
- Step 369 leads to repeating steps 362 and 365 for another player if no blackjack hand is present. If a blackjack hand is present, then the process branches to step 372 wherein the program functions by identifying the player or players with a blackjack hand by player number "n".
- Step 375 performs a decision whether the player, more properly participant, is a player or the dealer. If the answer is yes indicating it is the dealer, then the game is over and the two card play sequence is then repeated in another hand. If the blackjack hand is not for the dealer, then the player's status is changed by step 381 to changing the status to inactive with regard to additional play of the hand.
- Fig. 30 details a two card play sequence 387 which is shown in abbreviated form in Fig. 26.
- Step 224 includes going to the next active player. Thereafter the processor performs in step 393 by displaying the active hand on all player displays, in the tertiary part of the display as explained above.
- Step 396 involves displaying the dealer's hand to all displays.
- Step 399 involves calling up the strategy analysis monitor and performing such strategy analysis to provide a basic strategy note to be displayed to the active player.
- the step 227 of displaying the basic strategy on the active player's display is then included, thereby rendering helpful advice to the player.
- Step 405 involves checking the game rules to see if the casino allows surrender as a play option. If yes, then decision step 408 proceeds to branch to an instructing step for allowing surrender by a player or players in step 411. Step 414 indicates the player's individual decisions whether to surrender. If decision 414 is yes, then that player is rendered into inactive status by an inactivating step 417. This process is repeated via connection A for other players. If surrender is not selected, then step 420 provides for evaluating the dealer's upcard. If the dealer's upcard is an ace, then decision step 239 branches to an insurance sequence detailed in Fig. 31. Return occurs in returning from insurance sequence at step 429.
- the game processor performs by assessing whether the player's hand has a pair in steps 432 and 435. If no pair exists, then the process continues by proceeding on with the consideration of whether the player wants to double down as shown in step 254 of Fig. 26. If there is a pair, then a split sequence branch step 441 is performed as detailed in Fig. 32.
- the insurance sequence shown in Fig. 31 branches from decision step 239 of Fig. 30 and advances to step 447 which involves going to the next active player.
- the possibility for taking insurance is publicized by notifying the players using a displaying step 450 which notes such on all displays 102 and 103.
- Step 453 then involves detecting 32 whether insurance bets have been made. This is repeated by deciding in step 456 whether additional active players have taken insurance bets and the logical loop is again cycled until there are no more players and the process returns via branch 429 to the two card play sequence shown in Fig. 30.
- Fig. 32 details the split hands process sequence 441 from step 435 of Fig. 30.
- step 462 This first involves offering a player with a pair the option to split the hand in step 462. The player then decides whether to split his hand at step 465 and this is implemented by the dealer depressing key 85 to indicate the hand should be split by the game processor. If the hand is not split, then processing goes on to the additional two card play sequence of Fig. 33 at step 504. If the player elects to split by accepting the split offer, then step 468 is processed and a split counter is incremented. Thereafter in step 471 the processor processes data to split the original hand containing the pairs into two hands. Step 474 performs by identifying that each of the split hands has only one card. Step 477 performs by instructing that an additional card should be dealt. Step 480 performs by copying the instruction to deal cards to the split hands.
- Step 483 involves dealing the additional cards.
- Step 486 performs by deciding whether there are additional split opportunities which have developed from the newly dealt cards. If so, then step 489 performs by incrementing the split counter.
- Decision step 492 compares the split counter to make sure the maximum allowable splits programmed by the casino rules has not been exceeded. If not, then recycling through step 468 and the splitting function repeats. If there are no further split options from decision step 486, then processing continues on to step 504 of Fig. 33.
- Fig. 33 shows an additional two card play sequence which includes a step 504 which involves calling the strategy monitor to apply the strategy rules to the player's hand after the splitting or insurance subroutines have been completed.
- the next step 507 involves displaying the suggested strategy.
- the players place an additional bet to "double down" in step 510.
- Decision step 254 responds to a yes with a doubling of the wager in the processor at step 516.
- Step 519 is dealing of the additional single double down card.
- Step 522 involves evaluating the player's hand after the double down card has been assigned.
- Decision step 525 involves determining whether the resultant player hand has busted. If yes, then step 528 involves displaying the bust outcome. If no, then a revised hand total results and this is performed by communicating or displaying the new hand total in step 531.
- Fig. 33 also shows that if the player does not double down in decision step 254, then step 534 results. Thereafter the action is for the player to proceed by indicating whether he or she wants to be hit with another card or stand. If the decision in step 540 is to hit, then dealing of another card occurs as shown in step 543. The player's 33 hand is then acted upon by the game processor performing an evaluating step 546 to proceed on with a decision step 549 whether the hand has busted. If not, then the hit/stand option is again considered by the player and the portion of the sequence is repeated until either there is a bust or a stand decision. If there is a bust, then step 552 involves displaying the bust as described above. If the decision is to stand as represented by standing step 555, then processing continues on to step 558 looking for more active players. If there are more active players, then circle A leads back to step 224 at the top of Fig. 30 for additional cycling of the processes discussed.
- step 561 proceeds on to a finish sequence shown in Fig. 36.
- Fig. 34 details a deal card subroutine used in the overall process at a number of steps discussed above, such at Fig. 33, step 543.
- the deal card sequence starts with step 564 which involves the simulated moving of a card from the dealing shoe using the second display 82 and suitable image processing techniques to suggest movement.
- step 567 involves adjusting the first shoe display 81 to show repositioning of the cut card and any other desired adjustments in the image.
- Step 570 involves using the random number generator and selecting a virtual card from the stack as discussed more fully above.
- Step 573 involves assigning the selected card to the appropriate player.
- Step 576 involves displaying the assigned card faceup on the display screen for the player.
- Step 579 involves copying the assigned and displayed card onto other displays as needed for the tertiary display section explained above.
- Step 582 represents return to other points in the processing after the deal card subroutine has been completed.
- Fig. 35 further details a play out sequence. This is illustrated in more abbreviated form at Fig. 26, steps 260 and 266.
- the play out sequence subroutine includes step 585 which involves the player instructing the dealer with regard to whether the dealer should command hit or stand, such as implemented by control keys 88 and 87, respectively.
- Step 591 shows decision branching when the player has decided to stand.
- the step 594 is pursued which either returns the program to the calling routine from whence it branched to the play out sequence, or step 594 involves proceeding on to the finish sequence routine covered in Fig. 36, which will be further explained below.
- decision step 597 is implemented with regard to a hit.
- a decision to hit passes the processing onto the deal card sequence subroutine via step 600 as discussed above in connection with Fig. 34.
- Fig. 36 shows a finish sequence which starts with step 603 which involves turning over the dealer's hole card and displaying this information to the players.
- Step 606 involves playing out the dealer's hand according to house rules. This step is detailed further by the content of Fig. 37.
- Fig. 36 shows step 609 which involves determining 34 the winners and losers.
- Step 612 involves collecting from losers and paying winners.
- Step 615 is followed by another game which is indicated by initiate step 615.
- Fig. 37 details the playing out of the dealer's hand which is shown in abbreviated form at step 606 of Fig. 36.
- Step 618 involves evaluating the dealer's hand count as a soft count, in which case any aces held are valued at 11 rather than at a value of 1. This is followed by step 621 which compares the soft hand count to whether it is greater than the value 17. If greater than 17 then the step 624 proceeds to step 609 of Fig. 36. If the dealer's soft hand count is equal to a value of 17, then decision step 627 branches to step 630 which involves considering the house rule on soft 17 dealer hand counts. This is a variable house rule option in system 60. Decision step 633 can result in either the dealer standing on a soft 17 as depicted by step 636. This leads back to step 609 of Fig. 36. Alternatively, the other soft 17 rule leads to the dealer hitting his hand at step 639. That in turn leads back to step 609 of the finish sequence.
- Fig. 37 also shows a branch from decision step 627 toward evaluating step 642 indicating the situation where the dealer's soft hand count is less than the value 17.
- Evaluation step 642 considers the dealer's hand and determines the hard dealer hand count with the ace valued at 1 1.
- Decision step 645 branches on the basis of whether the hard dealer hand count is less than the value 17. If less than 17, then the dealer receives another card as illustrated by step 651. If the dealer's hard hand count is 17 or greater, then the dealer stands and step 648 leads back to step 609 of the finish sequence.
- Figs. 40-46 show an alternative preferred gaming system according to the invention.
- the alternative gaming system is in most respects similar to the gaming systems and variations shown and described above in connection with Figs. 1-39. Similar features are numbered with the same reference numerals and description will not be repeated. Alternative or varying aspects of the alternative gaming system will now be described.
- the presentation unit 100 advantageously includes ambient light sensors 132 (Fig. 43) which allow the system to sense ambient light to which the system is exposed during operation. This allows the betting chip detectors 121 and insurance bet detectors 131 to more appropriately determine whether a chip 164 (Fig. 40) has been placed over the detectors.
- the detectors or sensors 121, 131 and 132 are advantageously optical detectors in the embodiment illustrated. Alternative detectors are also possible.
- Fig. 40 shows the dealer control module inco ⁇ orated in the form of a simulated dealing shoe 80 similar to the dealing shoe 80 shown and described above.
- the dealing shoe of Fig. 40 is shown in larger illustration in Figs. 45 and 46.
- the dealing shoe has first and second display portions 81 and 82 which are provided using a single display 35
- the case 84 advantageously includes metallic base plate 284 and a plastic case top 285. This construction is preferred to help dissipate static or stray electricity which may come into contact with the dealing shoe. It also provides a ground plane which can be used by electrical components 286 used to power, communicate and/or control the display 281 and dealer control keys 83 and 85-89.
- Fig. 41 shows a presentation unit base plate 701 which is provided with a number of mounting holes and features which allow various connections to be made. These connections include connection of various wiring cables and other components to the base plate 701.
- mounting holes 702 which allow the base plate to be secured to a gaming table 50 (Fig. 40).
- cable opening 703 which is used to allow wiring cables to be connected to a control module, such as module 92 mounted beneath the gaming table.
- the gaming table can accordingly be drilled or otherwise provided with a corresponding opening that allows the cabling to extend through the table top.
- a plurality of standoffs 704 are provided to support the overlying presentation unit cover 101 to be held in supported relationship over the base plate 701.
- the base plate 701 is preferably made of a metallic or other electrically conductive sheet to facilitate grounding of various electrical components thereto and to help dissipate static or other stray electricity which may encounter the presentation unit.
- the electrical ruggedness of the presentation unit 100 and other parts of the system is in some cases tested by regulatory authorities to make sure operation is not affected by stray electrical discharges. Shocks are applied to the case using a suitable test voltage supply (not shown) which may involve electrical discharges of approximately 25,000 volts.
- the overlying cover 101 is advantageously made from a transparent acrylic material which is relatively non-conductive to minimize the effects of such electrical discharges.
- the conductive base plate 701 tends to conduct any stray electricity to a ground terminal (not shown) to further reduce possible derogatory effects.
- Fig. 42 shows base plate 701 fitted with several participant displays 102 and 103 as described above.
- the displays may be mounted in raised positions upon the base plate to allow cabling (not shown) to pass between the displays and base plate.
- Fig. 42 further shows the bet and insurance detectors 121 and 131. Ambient light detectors are also shown mounted upon the base plate.
- Fig. 44 further illustrates that the cover 101 can advantageously be made from a continuous or substantially continuous sheet of transparent material, such as transparent acrylic. This allows the displays 102 and 103 to beam their images therethrough and allows optical detectors 121, 131 and 132 to perceive light levels adjacent thereto. The remaining portions cover 101 are advantageously made opaque to hide the other internal components.
- the surface of the cover can be treated using spray coatings or by direct 36 surface treatment to provide a matte or semi-matte finish to minimize reflection and improve participant visibility of displays 102 and 103.
- Figs. 47-51 diagrammatically illustrate another form of preferred programming and related processes used in the operation of the alternative embodiment of Figs. 40-51. Many of the processing steps are the same or have analogous control processes as those described above. The following outline explains the diagrams of Figs. 47-51 in greater detail. Computer file names are generally shown italicized using a preferred or suitable file name. 1.0 MAIN LOOP
- Figs. 47-49 illustrate diagrammatically the main logic loop employed by the game system. Particular aspects will now be further explained.
- Step 715 entails checking to see if the key switch 83 is activated to enter the rules editor and whether the password required by the system has been provided for security reasons.
- the house rules are recalled or modified with a call to file pit_boss_ed().
- the following parameters may be adjusted: - number of splits allowed RULE_splits
- the rules editor is discussed in greater detail in following outline section on the RULES EDITOR. If the dealer or pit boss have not elected to enter the rules editor, then the system starts a new game at step 717.
- Random Number Generator Seed Data, get_seed_data() This initialization step is illustrated at step 718 of Fig. 47. There are multiple numbers that are stored which hold the terminal state of the random number generator. These numbers are retrieved in a call to get_seed_data() which reads the data from disk. This provides for non-repetitive operation of the random number generator needed to prevent patterns from being discernable.
- Game Process Tables clear_the_deck(), hand_ini(), make_cardjray()
- the initialization process also advantageously includes loading many graphics images that are displayed during game-play are facilitated by a graphics engine which is initialized with a call to transfer ().
- Step 298 determines the presence of a wager over the bet sensors 121 and indicates an interested player.
- the dealer presses the deal key on the shoe all wager sensors which detect a wager will communicate the information back to the rules program. Player positions 1-6 which have wagers over the sensor will be counted as active players.
- the system reads the keypad on control 80 in step 209.1 and make a decision in steps 209.2 and 209.3 indicating when the dealer presses the deal key 85. Virtual cards will then be dealt according to the deal sequence selected in the rules editor.
- step 708.1 the system again checks the security of the controller doors and chooses between a service mode condition 720 or continued operation carrying onto the top of Fig. 48.
- Fig. 48 shows step 723 which loads information indicating whether the shuffler rule is traditional shuffle 724, random balance shuffle 725, or full random balance shuffle 726.
- Shuffling occurs according to the shuffler rule in steps 729.
- Cut card procedures 730 are used in the traditional and random balance shuffle rules.
- the display 81 preferably shows the stack with a cut point highlighted 38 in an alternative color.
- the dealer controls the cut card position as specified by the player who is entitled to cut the deck.
- the display then shows the stack displaced laterally and the stack parts are reversed in a display graphics which simulates the physical cutting of a card stack.
- Step 215 represents the operation of dealing or assigning the initial two cards of blackjack to each participant. Beginning with the first active player to the dealer's left hand, cards will be dealt one at a time until all players have received a card. The dealer then receives his first card, which may be face up or face down, depending on the house rules selection. The sequence is repeated until all active players hold two cards. One of the dealer's cards will be face down. A call to two_card_deal() accomplished this. In the preferred emplementation of this action the speed of dealing is subject to adjustment of a speed parameter implemented when the rules are loaded. Thus the action can be relatively fast or slower as may be appreciated by different groups of participants. 1.5 Find Blackjack hands, find '_bj JiandsQ
- a search can be made for all hands that may hold blackjack.
- a status table can be updated with this information.
- the find blackjack hands sequence is illustrated in Fig. 29 and the description is not herein repeated.
- step 738 If the dealer does hold BJ as determined by step 738, the finish sequence 739 is entered wherein all active hands are compared to the dealer's. Any hand which also holds blackjack (BJ) is determined to be a PUSH. All others are NO WIN,
- Figs. 49 and 50 show a preferred two card play out sequence.
- normal play is resumed at step 740 and the next player decides his or her move. This is implemented by a reading step 741 which reads the conditions of the dealer control keys 83 and 85-89.
- a call to two_card_play_seq() begins the cycle through which all active hands are played out as assessed by step 747. This has a beginning with the first active hand to 39 the dealer's left. Additional hands are recognized in step 748. Through this cycle split hands are created from pairs of like cards, depending upon house rules. Double down is a choice a player may have, depending on house rules. A player may hit or stand as they like. These options are generally shown at step 746 of Fig. 49. Fig. 50 shows at step 772 consideration of the next active player to allow play out of this sequence. Step 773 considers the next hand and decision block 774 branches achieve dealing of both cards via step 775. A suggested best strategy is produced as represented by step 776. The strategy is displayed at step 777.
- the call to strategy ⁇ returns a message code which becomes displayed as the most appropriate strategy with respect to applicable house rules and hand content. Strategies are calculated upon the dealer's face card and the hard/soft count of the active hand. A recommended strategy will preferably be displayed on the active player's lower right screen.
- step 779 determines whether the hand is eligible for splitting by have a pair. The player is presented with the decision in step 780 and the input response is represented by step 781. If split then the system creates the second hand in step 782 and deals a first card to the first of the split hands in step 783. Reconsideration and revised strategy information is made and then displayed as illustrated by step 784.
- Fig. 50 also shows the possible action of allowing a player to double-down are represented by step 785 and subsequent steps. This is covered in greater detail below.
- the final win/lose determination is made here against the hard/soft counts of each active hand at shown at step 739 with respect to the dealer's.
- a call to f ⁇ nish_seq() performs this process.
- Step 718 can be performed by two RNG's which are employed in the production of random numbers.
- the first generator is an ANSII standard function that is resident with the compiler. It is a pseudorandom generator which yields 32-bit integers.
- the second generator comes from George Marsaglia at Florida State University math department, and is known as The Mother of All Random Number Generators, or "Mother" for short. It returns 64-bit random numbers.
- the 32-bit generator is provided a chaotically produced seed in order to return a randomly generated seed for "Mother.”
- the second seed is fed once to "Mother” and from that time onward the generator is always running on a set of numbers saved from game to game.
- a primary seed is obtained with a call to init_seed() when the software is initially powered up.
- a 32-bit unsigned number is allowed to increment through a modulo- 32-bit cycle until a key is pressed.
- the state of this variable, a_seed is sent to the 32-bit RNG as a seed, and a random number is produced, b_seed.
- the variable, b_seed is sent to "Mother, " from which a dual ten element array is constructed.
- the array contains state data for which new random numbers are generated. The array contents are different with each new number.
- a serial card tray is built at the start of each new game series as illustrated by step 723.
- the tray size is determined by the number of decks specified in the house rules settings.
- a call is first made to make_card_tray() .
- the RNG is queried for new cards, the conditions being that acceptable card numbers cannot be 0 or any number greater than 52.
- a card number (1-52) may be used only up to the number of decks that are allowed. For example, if 12 decks are used, the card number 13 may be used only 12 times while filling the array.
- step 724 emulates a randomly filled card tray which is continually shuffled until the deal/cut key is pressed by the dealer. After the key is pressed, cards are drawn sequentially through the tray. The tray is not shuffled again until the cut card is located. The mechanism for shuffling swaps randomly selected pairs of cards from the tray. The process continues until the deal/cut key is pressed. A recorded sound file of shuffling cards is played through the speakers while the cards are shuffled.
- step 725 The card tray is filled once, as with the traditional scheme, but with a random balance shuffling scheme all cards following the drawn card are shuffled every time a card is drawn . Cards are drawn sequentially through the tray, however with each drawing the balance of cards is shuffled by swapping randomly selected cards. While a player waits to decide his next move, the deck is shuffled. A shuffle sound file is played while he decides.
- step 726 The card tray is filled once, as with the traditional scheme, but with a full random balance shuffling scheme the entire tray is shuffled every time a card is drawn . Cards are drawn randomly from the tray. While a player waits to decide his next move, the deck is shuffled. A shuffle sound file is played while he decides. This scheme precludes the need for a cut card. 5.0 DEAL SEQUENCES card_select() 5.1 Traditional
- Cards are drawn from the card tray sequentially through the deck as illustrated by steps 731.
- An index, card_tray_indx, is incremented for each card drawn from the tray, card_tray[card_tray_indxj. When the cut card is encountered the tray will be shuffled at the close of the current game. 5.2 Random Balance
- Cards are drawn from the card tray sequentially through the deck.
- An index, card_tray_indx, is incremented for each card drawn from the tray, card_tray[card_tray_indx].
- card_tray[card_tray_indx] is incremented for each card drawn from the tray.
- each player is processed by step 772 by active hand numbers 773.
- active hand numbers 773 For each active player there will be at least one active hand, referred to as the basejiand.
- the number of active hands per player could number as many splits as are allowed plus one. For example, if three splits are permitted by house rules, up to four hands could be played out by one active player. All hands are played in order, starting with the leftmost hand from the dealer.
- a call to two_card_play_seq() begins the sequence.
- the sequence begins with two cards having been dealt to the base hand as indicated by steps 774 and 775.
- the hand is evaluated at step 776 and the most appropriate strategy is returned following a call to strategy ().
- the strategy is calculated against the dealer's face-up card and the player's soft and hard count.
- the rules table is consulted before a strategy is finally returned.
- a maximum allowed split count of zero would preclude the recommended strategy of splitting.
- Hit or stand might be recommended instead.
- the strategy is sent to the player's screen and displayed graphically. Through the course of play, the player may choose to split his hand, double-down, hit, or stand. If the hand holds only one card, the result of a split, a second card is automatically dealt. 43
- a split sequence is entered at step 778 with a call to split_seq().
- the player may choose to split his hand step, double-down at step 787, hit or stand at step 792.
- This general decision is also represented at steps 747 and 746 of Fig. 49.
- the hand is re-evaluated at step 794 and a new strategy is formulated and displayed.
- the call to the splits function returns with information about his decision. If double-down is not chosen at step 787, the sequence will branch around the double-down option, offered next. 6.5 Double Down double _down()
- a call to double __down() will enter that sequence.
- a third card is automatically dealt the hand at step 788, the hand is evaluated at step 789, and the sequence terminates at step 790. The next active hand is then played out starting back at step 772.
- a loop is entered at step 791 that allows the player to accept hits or to stand at step 792.
- the loop is terminated when the hand either busts or the player chooses to stand.
- a call is made to deal_card_seq() wherein a card is drawn from the tray.
- a call to evaluateQ computes both hard and soft count for the hand. The count and card type are sent to the active player's display. For every decision, a new strategy is formulated and displayed until the hand terminates. 6.7 Exit from Loop
- a test determines whether a hand may be split.
- a second test 779 examines the number of splits already active. If the count does not exceed house limits, as set in RULE_splits, then 44 the player may choose to split his hand. A final test is that variable repeat is 1 ; a choice not to split resets it.
- a RULE_face 1 ; like face cards only
- G RULE_splt_10 0 pairs of 10's may NOT split
- H Card One is not 10 ;
- the split count for the player is first incremented, pJnfo[player].num_splits.
- the top card is moved to the dealer's left.
- a new card is dealt to the card on the left. This pair remains hand 0, while the single card on the right becomes hand 1.
- a new strategy for hand 0 is formulated and returned to the calling function, two_card_play_seq().
- the hand is played out in two_card_play_seq(), and when the next hand becomes active, hand 1 , a second card is dealt. If this hand also holds a pair, the split sequence is entered again.
- Hand 1 is dealt a second card at step 783 and the hand is thereafter played out. This process continues until further splits are prevented and all hands are played out.
- the algorithm for creating new hand is:
- Level HO.HLSl The pair A1,A2 is split, Al receiving new card A3, and A2 moving to the right to form HI .
- step 785 determines whether such a play is permitted under the rules of play.
- a player decision to double down is first qualified by step 786 and then implemented in step 787.
- the option to double-down is granted by permission where house rules govern the qualifying hand.
- the common qualifier is that the hand hold only two cards.
- step 788 results in issuing a third card.
- the hand is evaluated at step 789 and flow proceeds to the next active hand at step 790. If the hand was previously split, house rules may prevent a double-down.
- the governing rules are summarized below. 8.2 Any Two-Card Hand
- the function is passed not only player/hand data, but previous decision codes made in two_card_play() as well. For example, if the hand had previously split and the new hand wished to double-down, that decision is passed from split_seq() back to two_card_play(), and on into double _down() at step 785. If permission is granted in double _down(), then a third card is dealt. After action is taken in double _down(), the decision code is passed back to the calling function, two_card_play(). If a double-down was taken, the hand terminates in two_card_play(). Otherwise, the hand is played out. 9.0 PLAY DEALER SEQUENCE play _dlr _seq()
- Fig. 51 This sequence is illustrated by Fig. 51 starting at step 801.
- the hold card is turned over in step 802.
- step 804 branches action to 805 and the game is returned to scan winners step 750 of Fig. 49.
- the dealer's status with a blackjack causes the game to proceeds to the finish sequence shown by steps 750, recording game data in step 751 and preparing for the next game in step 752.
- a call to evaluateQ the dealer hand at step 806 determines both hard and soft count for the dealer's two-card hand. Further decisions are based upon this evaluation which is accomplished as illustrated by steps 807, 808, 809, 810, and 811.
- a call to findjbj_hands() examines each active hand for the presence of an ace and a 10 or a face card. Any player that holds a BJ receives a status code "BJ" for that hand. This status is different than an ACTIVE 5 status which is necessary for processing through the two-card-deal sequence. 11.
- a call to scan_players() starts the process of translating active hands into final score determinations at step 739. If the hand status is BUSTED, the final score is 15 BUSTED. If the hand did not bust, the hand's best count is compared to the dealer's best hand. If the dealer's is better, the hand is NO WIN. If the hand beats the dealer's, it is WIN. If the hand ties the dealer's, the score is a PUSH. If the hand is a BJ and the dealer's is not, the player receives BJ; if the dealer also has BJ, the hand is a PUSH.
- the card count must equal two, the two cards must be like values (determined by house rule RULE_face_cards), and additional splits must be permitted.
- This array holds the quantity of cards that has been dealt to each hand of an active player.
- the number of hands is limited by RULE_split, and indexed by num_cards[hand_num]. For example,
- Every player position 1-6 (where 0 is the dealer) has at least one hand assigned by default, hand 0 (the base hand.)
- hand 0 the base hand.
- Discrete hands are indexed by status[hand_num]. The status codes are listed: INACTIVE 0
- Score_card [MAX_PL A YERS] [M AX_SPLITS+ 1 ]
- the first field [MAX_PLAYERS] is indexed by player, and points to a discrete player.
- the second field, [MAX_SPLITS+1], is indexed by hand_num, and points to a discrete hand. For each active hand, a score code is ultimately assigned, listed below:
- Any card may have an absolute face value from 1 to 10. Aces count as 1, and face cards are 10. Since there are four of every type in a deck, the range of card types progress in groups of four, beginning with ACES, which are 1-4. All ACES return a value of 1 when the argument ace ium > 1. This yields a hard count.
- the first ACE counts as 1 1.
- the argument acejium must be 1 in order for the function to return a value of 11 when the card type is 1-4.
- the ACE count increments and subsequent calls to card_calc() will return a value of 1 for an ACE. 14.3 Card Type card_type()
- RNG Non-element arrays of unsigned 32-bit numbers hold the terminal state of the RNG from the last access of a number 3.
- House Rules the last revision or update to the house rules are kept on file.
- All of the house rules settings are stored in the file GAME_SET.DAT at the conclusion of a game session. To facilitate the pit-boss in reinstating these rules, they are read from file into the game settings and become the default rules. They may be altered in the rules editor (see pit_boss_ed() ).
- the parameter TABLE 0 from the above listing refers to which of the five tables were used as the basis for setting the current rules. 55
- Cards Dealt refers to the quantity of cards dealt to active hands, including the dealer's.
- Cards Rejected is a count of all the cards that did not qualify for the initial filling of the card tray.
- Cards Accessed is the sum of the two quantities above.
- the card tray from which cards are selected is built into an array whose is length is the number of decks times 52 cards.
- the first 52 cards of this initial tray are printed as "Card Tray Init.”
- the card tray is shuffled, and the final state of this tray is printed for comparison as "Card Tray Final.”
- the next task is to build a screen with graphics tools and then plug in the rule settings.
- a call to setJableQ builds all but the settings portion of the screen.
- a working image of the screen is saved in buf_all_B[tab_indx] where tab_indx points to one of five tables that will be used to complete the settings column.
- the buff_all_X images are advantageous arrayed from 50,50 to 590,425. 57
- the RULE TYPE column is filled in with the set of parameters for the house rules.
- DEFAULT settings that correspond with the indicated table A-E, a pair of tables, ruleJable_opt[], ruleJable_opt[] in pit Jab. h are indexed to fill text buffers buf_opt[0-7] with the correct default value.
- the option buffers are then written respectively beside each RULE TYPE parameter beneath DEFAULT.
- an image box is created for the pu ⁇ ose of scrolling the list with a reverse-video box enclosing each item.
- These image buffers are buf_rule_A-G.
- the sceen image is saved in an image buffer, buf_all_A, which has no selected options under SELECTED. It is defined by an array between 50,50 and 590,425.
- buf_all_A and buf_all_B hold identical information now.
- buf_all_B will hold a running memory of the changes, whereas buf_all_A will remain empty beneath that column.
- the pu ⁇ ose of this function is to complete the building of a table[tab_indx] by filling in the SELECTED column with either default values, or values saved in game_set.dat for this particular table. If default values are to be used, the function set G. ⁇ / /ules (i.e. def_splits() ) will find the default values in tables ruleJable_opt[], ruleJable_opt[] and write them beneath the header SELECTED. When done, the working image is saved to image buffer buf_allJB [tab Jndx] .
- Several hot keys are listed 58 below the screen in order to save/revise the working screen. Key FI allows the table to be edited.
- F2 accepts the current settings, and F3 restores any default settings that were changed.
- the screen exits upon the pressing of F2, after which the entire screen image is saved in buffer bufjall _C [tab Jndx] . If the table requires editing, FI will effect a call to editjtem ⁇ where items in the parameter list can now be changed.
- This rule pertains to a split hand and the option of splitting a pair of 10's.
- house rule RULE_face applies (see sec. 16.7, above).
- a dialogue box is written with the text "Split '10' Value Hands? (0)No (l)Yes "A single typed character completes the selection. If an out-of-bounds character is typed, the default value for this table is used.
- the choice is saved in rule Jable [tab Jndx] '.spit O, where tab_indx points to one of the five tables A-E.
- the function returns to edJtemQ where the rest of the column is redisplayed and the image buffer bufjallJ3 is updated for this table.
- This rule pertains to a split hand and the option of splitting a pair of ACEs.
- a dialogue box is written with the text "Play Out Split ACES? (0)No (l)Yes”. If "(1) Yes" is selected, a pair of ACEs may be split and each new hand played out as normal. However, if "(0) No” is selected, then each ACE automatically becomes the first card of new hand HO and HI, respectively, and a second card is dealt to each hand. Both hands are required to stand, and play proceeds to the next active player.
- a dialogue box is written with the text "Play Out Split ACES? (0)No (l)Yes", and a single typed character completes the selection. If an out-of-bounds character is typed, the default value for this table is used.
- a dialogue box is displayed.
- the full text selection is displayed The choice is saved in rule jable [tab Jndx]. num_decks, where tab_indx points to one of the five tables A-E. The function returns to edJtemQ where the rest of the column is redisplayed and the image buffer buf_all_B is updated for this table.
- This selection determines what restrictions apply to hands that wish -to double- down.
- the hand must have only two cards and neither can be an ACE - 9,10,1 1 Hands; the hand count is nine, ten, or eleven
- the choices here are binary. The house either permits or does not permit a surrender.
- the dialogue box is built. Text is displayed in the box: "Type Surrender Option: (0) None (1) Allowed”. A single typed character completes the selection. If an out-of- bounds character is typed, the default value for this table is used. Next, the full text selection is displayed. The choice is saved in rule Jableftab Jndx]. surrender, where tab_indx points to one of the five tables A-E. The function returns to edJtemQ where the rest of the column is redisplayed and the image buffer buf_all_B is updated for this table.
- the dealer's hole card may appear first, second, or not at all. These choices are offered in this selection.
- Watcom C/C++ Version 11 17.2 Source files rules_21.c pit_boss.c transfer.c send.c bit blt.c 63 game_comm.c
- This file holds records of the ten most recent games, including player win/lose status and card usage data.
- This module performs a polled retrieval of serial data from a specified port, and transmits serial data via the same port.
- the port is connected to the game hardware interface PCB where the following information is collected and assembled into a ten-field data string:
- Sensor data up to 14 optical bet sensors
- the port is operated at 19.2K baud without flow control. If the host returns an ACK the bet sensor will remain idle. If the host returns a NAK, the bet sensor will retransmit the data.
- the first white-space deliniated field contains keypad data from the shoe.
- Valid keys are 1-16, where an active key sends a ' 1'. A string will be sent every time a valid key is pushed.
- Sensors 132 are ambient light sensors. Sense_0_ok and sense_l_ok will be set if minimum light levels were measured on these respective sensors during the bet light detection process. It is the responsibility of the host as to accept the reliability of the individual player bet sensors if there is a problem with either the ambient light sensors.
- Incoming data is organized within game_com() into the following structure:
- PortOpenGreenleafFast (COM2, 19200L,'N',8, 1 )
- the function game_comm() first looks to see if new data is in the received buffer of the serial port. If the buffer is not empty, the volume of data must exceed 20 bytes before the buffer is read. Next, a NAK is sent to the PCB for a retransmit of data. Then, a "c" is sent in order to calibrate the bet sensor. Finally, a function serial parseQ is called.
- the pu ⁇ ose of this function is to fill the data structure tx_dat.a.xxx with the received string.
- the string is first read into buffer rx_data.
- the data fields are parsed into tx_dat.a.xxx .
- the checksum is computed against the nine fields and is compared against the received checksum in field ten. If the two don't match, a NAK is sent requesting a retransmission of the data. If the transmission is valid, a ACK is sent instead.
- This function works to retrieve each character in the transmission by calling a Greenleaf CommLib function ReadChar(port) . Until a carriage return is found, the data is read into array rx_data[J.
- This function serves to assemble a message string for transmission to the UART on the communications PCB.
- a Greenleaf CommLib function WriteString(port) handles the physical layer task of transmitting the data.
- the Host On power up (or any time the bet system is not responding) the Host will send a "c" to the bet sensor to calibrate the bet optics.
- the bet sensor will respond with an
- This display shows the raw analog data the 16 possible bet light sensors for one to six AC line cycles. Values can range from 0 to 255 and 1 to 6 line cycles.
- the format is a-d val / line cycles.
- the game will immediately enter the replay mode and all data from the previous game that was interrupted will be recalled from non-volatile CMOS memory and fed into the (1) decision making engine, and the (2) card selection engine. The game will play automatically up to the player and card at which the power was lost.
- Figs. 52-54 show a still further preferred embodiment gaming system according to this invention.
- the system shown in these Figs, is substantially the same as the system of Figs. 40-51, and very similar to the systems of Figs. 1-40, and can include most or all of the various options discussed with regard to all embodiments described herein. Additional features of the system of Figs.
- Fig. 52-54 The system of Fig. 52 also has a set of slot symbols which can be associated with the virtual playing cards dealt to the participants.
- Fig. 52 shows a slot symbol 69 secondary display 900 which facilitates the play of card games have the added slot symbols and related features.
- Fig. 53 shows the slot symbol secondary display 900 in greater detail.
- Display 900 has a pay line display 902 which includes at least one, and preferably a plurality of slot symbol positions 903.
- the slot symbol positions can be assumed by slot symbols chosen from a total set of slot symbols.
- the slot symbols can the same as a variety of know slot machine symbols used in a variety of know slot machines of the known constructions.
- One advantage to the current invention is that the total set of slot symbols can be very large and is not limited by the number of physical stops existing on traditional reel slot machines. In theory there is no definite limit to the number of slot symbols which can be employed. More practically, the participants interested in using the system of Fig.
- Fig. 53 shows some of the more common slot symbols which as suitable for use. These include the symbols “7" shown in window 906; the symbol “triple BAR” shown in window 907; the symbol “double BAR” shown in window 908; the symbol “single BAR” shown in windows 909 and 910; and the symbol “cherry” shown in window 911. There is also a blank window 905 which is used to depict the possibility of have a changeable display contained therein wherein a varying symbol or symbol combination can be presented.
- Fig. 53 also shows a second column of windows 915-921 which are used to state the payoff for a given symbol or symbol group which may be received and for which a jackpot will be awarded.
- Window 915 is blank and is used to indicate a changeable display which may alternatively, or coorndinately change with the symbol or symbols presented in changeable payoff display 905.
- Windows 916-921 represent more traditional payoff schedule information showing what jackpot or jackpots will be awarded to a player or other participant for receiving a given slot symbol or group of slot symbols.
- the system is configured to ordinarily consider three slot symbols, as indicated by the three windows 903 on the pay line display 902. Fig.
- the ante bet detector 980 which optically or otherwise detects the placement of a betting chip thereon to indicate optional participation of a player in the slot symbol secondary game aspect of this system.
- the ante bet detector can also be able to detect the value of the ante chip or chips placed thereon in alternative configurations, such as discussed above in connection with other betting chip 70 detectors.
- the ante can also be paid from an electronic account, or paid in fashions suitable to the players and casino.
- Fig. 54 further shows the slot symbols are displayed in one or more of the vitual cards 142-146 by displaying slot symbols 941-946 near the lower left corner of each virtual card. In the configuration shown, only the first three vitual cards received are considered as the slot symbol group for determining the award of any jackpots.
- the symbols 944-946 can be displayed, or alternatively, they can be suppressed from the display.
- the slot symbols considered from the first three player cards are depicted as three of the same "double BAR" slot symbols. This is typically a symbol group for which a jackpot would be awarded, as suggested in the payoff schedule at windows 908 and 918 wherein it is indicated that such a combination of slot symbols would result in a payoff of 500 times the ante bet.
- the player display shown in Fig. 54 further shows a primary pay line display 952 having display windows sections 963 which depict the slot symbols associated with the players first three cards dealt, namely, 142-144 which were associated with slot symbols 941-943, respectively.
- the methods are for playing a live card game involving a plurality of live participants.
- the live participants including at least one player and at least one dealer.
- the live participants attend the card game personally about a gaming table.
- the methods include providing at least one presentation unit which is supported by the gaming table and has a viewing face which is available for viewing by the participants attending the game about the gaming table.
- the providing step occurs by constructing or having constructed a gaming table with system, such as system 60, retrofit or otherwise installed thereon.
- the methods include displaying a plurality of changeable participant display images from at least one participant video display which forms a part of the at least one presentation unit.
- the plurality of participant video displays can be provided in the form of discreet displays are shown herein, or part of a large- display if practical in terms of positioning about the gaming table.
- the displaying step involves providing participant display images which include playing card images indicating virtual playing cards dealt or otherwise assigned to the live participants.
- the methods further advantageously include processing data using at least one game processor.
- the processing of data is advantageously used to perform a number of data processing functions as have been described herein.
- the 71 data processing steps which provide the following steps or functions. In one aspect such involves providing game rules which at least partially administer play of the card game.
- Such decks can be conventional decks, abbreviated decks, or decks of unusual composition depending upon the card game being played.
- the preferred data processing function further includes shuffling the stack of virtual playing cards to produce a stack sequence which determines the order of virtual playing cards dealt or otherwise assigned to the participants.
- the stack sequence referred to can be done in a single time frame, such as by using the traditional shuffle discussed above.
- shuffling can be done on an intermittent basis to perform the continuous random shuffle, random balance shuffle or other shuffling routines on the fly as cards need to be dealt or otherwise assigned in play of the card game.
- the data processing functions can further include dealing virtual playing cards to participants from the stack according to the game rules.
- the data processing functions further advantageously include instructing the participant video displays to display at least playing card images indicating virtual playing cards assigned to the participants, said virtual playing cards assigned to the participant forming the participant's card hand.
- the instructing step relative to participant video displays can also include presentation of additional information as detailed above.
- the methods of this invention further involve controlling play of the card game using at least one dealer control, such as dealer control keys 85-89.
- the dealer control keys act as dealer control sensors which are controllably activated by the dealer to control action of the card game. This control action includes at least dealing of virtual playing cards to the participants. The description given above further details other control actions of the dealer's operation of the system.
- the novel methods can further include recording game action for the card game being played to enable subsequent analysis or replay. This can be done using the mother board memory described above or by recording the data on a remote memory device (not shown), such as connected through serial port 187. The analysis will likely be performed at some other location on a different data processing unit so that operation o the gaming table is not impeded.
- Additional methods according to the invention can include reversing the action of a game to remove or back-up one or more steps performed in playing the game. This is indicated at step 743 of Fig. 49 and requires authorization from a pit boss using a key as read in step 742. The game can thus be backed up and resumed at a prior play. Security is assured by performing the doors open step 744 which can suspend play at 72 step 745 if the security doors are open or allow the player to decide his next move as shown in step 746.
- the novel methods can also include replaying one or more sequence steps of the game to show a participant the action which has transpired.
- Methods according to the invention may further include displaying a simulated stack image, such as at first dealing shoe display 81. This displaying can be further enhanced by display of a cut card image, and moving or adjusting the cut card image to simulate playing of the stack.
- Methods according to the invention can further include sensing placement of betting chips by a player, such as at betting chip detection zones 120 using sensors 121. This is advantageously done for pu ⁇ oses of indicating participation in the card game.
- Another method according to the invention can include sensing placement of betting chips by a player for pu ⁇ oses of indicating an insurance bet being placed in the card game, such as at insurance bet detection zones 130 using sensors 131.
- the methods involving sensing the betting chips can be enhanced by using betting chips which are encoded to allow determination of the value of the betting chips. Such methods can further include sensing the value of chips placed by the players.
- the decisions of the players are effected by communicating instructions from the players to the dealer. These indicate playing decisions being made by the player in carrying out play of the card game.
- the dealer then implements the player's decision using dealer controls which perform by controlling the data processing and other functions of the card game system.
- the methods according to this invention can use shuffling processes which are performed in a manner which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck.
- the continuous random shuffling and random balance shuffling described above perform this function.
- the shuffling function can also be effected using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck, the reordering being performed after excluding any cards which have been dealt and are currently in the hand of a participant. This latter shuffling is performed by the random balance shuffling.
- the gaming system of Figs. 52-54 is additionally novel in its operation and methods by including the steps of associating slot symbols, such as symbols 941-946 with virtual playing cards dealt or otherwise assigned to the participants.
- All or some of the virtual cards may be enhanced by associating one or more slot symbols thereto.
- the associated slot symbols can be associated automatically with all cards or only the virtual playing cards for those players who have wagered an optional ante bet, such as by placement of a better chip at ante chip detector 980.
- the association of symbols with the virtual playing cards can be qualified by the ante bet, or it can occur for all cards 73 and the slot symbols can be selectively displayed depending on game rules or optional participation by placement of an ante bet.
- the association of slot symbols is preferably a separate process in the game software apart from the random number assignment of virtual cards in the stack of virtual cards. This preferably independent process causes the variable association possibilities to be very large. This is important in providing a large number of possible odds. Since the slot symbol set can be defined to include multiple copies of the same symbols the different probabilities of symbols or groups of symbols can essentially be tailored to achieve large frequencies of winning slot symbols or combinations of symbols, or very low frequencies of winning symbols or combinations of symbols. These can be held constant or varied over time or with different machines or different versions of games played on each machine.
- the novel methods involving the system of Figs. 52-54 further preferably include displaying the slot symbol or symbols. This can be done on the player displays, or upon all participant displays. This is preferably done using the pay line display section 952 at player pay line display windows or frames 961-963. It is also alternatively or additionally possible to display the slot symbol or symbols upon the secondary pay line display 902 of slot symbol display unit 900. Other alternative manners and modes of display can also be used.
- the preferred methods for using the system of Figs. 52-54 also include awarding jackpots to players or other participants who receive a winning slot symbol or combinations of slot symbols which make up a winning symbol group.
- the slot jackpot aspect of the system of Figs. 52-54 is also important in that it adds an additional dimension to the play of the blackjack or other virtual card game. For example, a player may have two slot symbols received in association with the first two virtual blackjack cards dealt to that player. If these two virtual cards are a winning slot combination, then this may affect the players decision making relative to receiving additional cards. In one instance the player may go for a bigger jackpot on the slot symbols while possibly risking loss of the blackjack hand.
- the slot jackpot awards can be made completely independent of the virtual card hand, or the slot awards can be made conditional upon not busting or other game parameter. The added nuances provided in playing the dual aspect of this game may prove to be of particular attraction to some people who particularly enjoy complex gaming phenomenon.
- the numerous methods according to this invention preferably involve digital data processing functions and processes. This allows high speed, accuracy and clarity of display images. 74
- said at least one game processor additionally performs the function of recording game action for the card game being played to enable subsequent analysis or replay.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors which control dealing of the virtual playing cards and substantially control action of the card game.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including a touch key for controlling dealing a hit card to a player.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including a touch key for indicating that a player has chosen to stand without further cards being dealt.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including a touch key for indicating that a player has chosen to double down.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including a touch key for indicating that a player has chosen to split the player's card hand.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including a touch key for controlling the initiation of dealing of virtual playing cards to the participants.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors which are provided in a simulated dealing shoe which has a stack display which displays a stack image which simulates the stack.
- said at least one dealer control is provided in a simulated dealing shoe which has a stack display which displays a stack image which simulates the stack, said stack display being a touch screen display which allows a player or dealer to touch the touch screen display to cut the stack.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said plurality of chip sensors including optical detectors.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said plurality of chip sensors including weigh cells for detecting the presence of betting chips resting thereon.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player to indicate that an insurance bet has been placed.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said chip sensors being capable of reading the value of the betting chips.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said chip sensors being capable of reading the value of the betting chips as a result of the betting chips including an electronically programmed identification circuit.
- said plurality of participant video displays provide participant display images which include a player hand count number and a dealer hand count number.
- said plurality of participant video displays provide participant display images which include a border portion of the display which indicates outcome of the player's hand.
- participant video displays provide participant display images which includes a display portion which indicates outcome of the player's hand when viewed by a monitoring camera.
- presentation unit is a retrofit unit which is supported upon an upper surface of the gaming table.
- a system further comprising at least one participant identification reader for reading identification of at least one participant.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a plurality of different shuffling processes.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck, the reordering being performed after excluding any cards which have been dealt and are currently in the hand of a participant.
- said at least one game processor additionally performs the function of recording game action for the card game being played to enable subsequent analysis or replay.
- stack display being a touch screen display which allows a participant to touch the touch screen display to cut the stack.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including a touch key for indicating that a player has chosen to stand without further cards being dealt.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including a touch key for indicating that a player has chosen to double down.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including a touch key for indicating that a player has chosen to split the player's card hand.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including a touch key for controlling the initiation of dealing of virtual playing cards to the participants.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors which are provided in a simulated dealing shoe which has a stack display which displays a stack image which simulates the stack.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said plurality of chip sensors including optical detectors.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for- detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said plurality of chip sensors including weigh cells for detecting the presence of betting chips resting thereon.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said chip sensors being capable of reading the value of the betting chips.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player to indicate that an insurance bet has been placed.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said chip sensors being capable of reading the value of the betting chips as a result of the betting chips including an electronically programmed identification circuit.
- participant video displays provide participant display images which include a dealer card image which shows at least one dealer upcard.
- participant video displays provide participant display images which include a player hand count number.
- a system wherein said plurality of participant video displays provide participant display images which include a player hand count number and a dealer hand count number.
- participant video displays provide participant display images which include a border portion of the display which indicates outcome of the player's hand.
- participant video displays provide participant display images which includes a display portion which indicates outcome of the player's hand when viewed by a monitoring camera.
- presentation unit is a retrofit unit which is support upon an upper surface of the gaming table.
- a system and further comprising at least one participant identification reader for reading identification of at least one participant.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a plurality of different shuffling processes.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck, the reordering being performed after excluding any cards which have been dealt and are currently in the hand of a participant.
- said at least one game processor additionally performs the function of recording game action for the card game being played to enable subsequent analysis or replay.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors which control dealing of the virtual playing cards and substantially control action of the card game.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including touch keys for controlling action of the card game.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including a touch key for controlling the initiation of dealing of virtual playing cards to the participants.
- said stack display is a touch screen display which allows a participant to touch the touch screen display to cut the stack;
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors which are provided in a simulated dealing shoe which has said stack display therein, said stack display being capable of showing a cut card which indicates the card selected by a participant when the stack is cut using said touch screen display.
- a system wherein said betting chips placed by said at least one player to indicate that an insurance bet has been placed.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said chip sensors being capable of reading the value of the betting chips as a result of the betting chips including a detectable identification code.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said chip sensors being capable of reading the value of the betting chips as a result of the betting chips including a detectable identification code which coded by optically discernible coding.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said chip sensors being capable of reading the value of the betting chips as a result of the betting chips including a detectable identification code which is programmable.
- a system further comprising a plurality of chip sensors for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said chip sensors being capable of reading the value of the betting chips as a result of the betting chips including a detectable identification code which is coded by an electronically programmable circuit.
- said at least one game processor additionally functions by allowing replay of game action which has been recorded by the game processor.
- said plurality of chip sensors being capable of reading the value of the betting chips as a result of the betting chips including an electronically programmed identification circuit.
- a system further comprising a plurality of betting chips which include an electronically programmed identification circuit therein which can be read by said chip sensors.
- a method for playing a live card game involving a plurality of live participants, said live participants including at least one player and at least one dealer, said participants personally attending the card game about a gaming table comprising: providing at least one presentation unit which is supported by the gaming table and has a viewing face which is available for viewing by the participants attending the game about the gaming table; displaying a plurality of changeable participant display images from at least one participant video display which forms a part of the at least one presentation unit, said plurality of participant video displays providing participant display images which include playing card images indicating virtual playing cards dealt or otherwise assigned to the live participants; processing data using at least one game processor to perform at least the following functions: providing game rules which at least partially administer play of the card game; defining a stack of virtual playing cards having one or more decks of virtual playing cards included therein for use in playing the card game; shuffling the stack of virtual playing cards to produce a stack sequence which determines the order of virtual playing cards dealt or otherwise assigned to the participants; dealing virtual playing cards to participants from the stack according to the game rules;
- a method further including recording game action for the card game being played to enable subsequent analysis or replay.
- a method further including displaying a simulated stack.
- a method further including sensing placement of chips by a player for pu ⁇ oses of indicating participation in the card game.
- a method further including sensing placement of chips by a player for pu ⁇ oses of indicating an insurance bet being placed in the card game.
- a method further including sensing the value of chips placed by the players.
- a method further including communicating instructions from the players to the dealer to indicate playing decisions being made by the player in carrying out play of the card game.
- said shuffling step is performed using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck, the reordering being performed after excluding any cards which have been dealt and are currently in the hand of a participant.
- a system further comprising a pay line display for performing said displaying any participant slot symbols, said pay line display being a part of said at least one participant video display.
- a system further comprising at least one pay line display for performing said displaying any participant slot symbols, said at least one pay line display including a secondary pay line display which is separate from said at least one participant video display.
- said at least one game processor additionally performs the function of recording game action for the card game being played to enable subsequent analysis or replay.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including at least one touch sensor controlling one or more of the following functions: indicating a player has chosen to receive a hit card; indicating a player has chosen to stand; indicating a player has chosen to split the participant's card hand; or, indicating a player has chosen to double down.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors which are provided in a simulated dealing shoe which has a stack display which displays a stack image which simulates the stack.
- a system further comprising at least one chip sensor for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said at least one chip sensor including optical detectors.
- a system further comprising: at least one chip sensor for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said at least one chip sensor including an optical detector; at least one background optical detector for sensing ambient light.
- a system further comprising at least one ante sensor for detecting when a player has placed an ante bet which optionally qualifies the player to play for a winning slot group.
- a system further comprising at least one chip sensor for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said at least one chip sensor being capable of reading the value of the betting chips.
- a system further comprising at least one chip sensor for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said at least one chip sensor being capable of reading the value of the betting chips as a result of the betting chips including an electronically programmed identification circuit.
- At least one participant video display provides participant display images which include a player hand count number.
- participant video display provides participant display images which include a player hand count number and a dealer hand count number.
- said at least one participant video display provides participant display images which include a border portion of the display which indicates outcome of the player's hand.
- system includes a presentation unit which is a retrofit unit supported upon an upper surface of the gaming table.
- a system further comprising at least one participant identification reader for reading identification of at least one participant.
- a system further comprising at least one participant identification reader for reading identification of at least one participant using a sensor which detects biological information detected from a body of the participant.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a plurality of different shuffling processes.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck, the reordering being performed after excluding any cards which have been dealt and are currently in the hand of a participant.
- a system further comprising a pay line display for displaying slot symbols, said pay line display being a part of said at least one participant video display.
- a system further comprising at least one pay line display for displaying participant slot symbols, said at least one pay line display including a secondary pay line display which is separate from said at least one participant video display.
- said at least one game processor additionally performs a function of recording game action for the card game being played to enable subsequent analysis or replay.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors, said dealer control sensors including at least one touch sensor controlling one or more of the following functions: indicating a player has chosen to receive a hit card; indicating a player has chosen to stand; indicating a player has chosen to split the participant's card hand; or, indicating a player has chosen to double down.
- said at least one dealer control includes a plurality of dealer control sensors which are provided in a simulated dealing shoe which has a stack display which displays a stack image which simulates the stack.
- a system and further comprising at least one chip sensor for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player.
- a system further comprising at least one chip sensor for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said at least one chip sensor including optical detectors.
- a system further comprising: at least one chip sensor for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said at least one chip sensor including an optical detector; at least one background optical detector for sensing ambient light.
- a system further comprising at least one ante sensor for detecting when a player has placed an ante bet which optionally qualifies the player to play for a winning slot group.
- a system further comprising at least one chip sensor for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said at least one chip sensor being capable of reading the value of the betting chips.
- a system further comprising at least one chip sensor for detecting betting chips placed by said at least one player, said at least one chip sensor being capable of reading the value of the betting chips as a result of the betting chips including an electronically programmed identification circuit.
- said at least one participant video display provides participant display images which include a player hand count number.
- participant video display provides participant display images which include a player hand count number and a dealer hand count number.
- said at least one participant video display provides participant display images which include a border portion of the display which indicates outcome of the player's hand.
- system includes a presentation unit which is a retrofit unit supported upon an upper surface of the gaming table.
- a system further comprising at least one participant identification reader for reading identification of at least one participant.
- a system further comprising at least one participant identification reader for reading identification of at least one participant using a sensor which detects biological information detected from a body of the participant.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a plurality of different shuffling processes.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck, the reordering being performed after excluding any cards which have been dealt and are currently in the hand of a participant.
- said at least one game processor additionally functions by allowing replay of game action which has been recorded by the game processor.
- said at least one game processor additionally functions by allowing reversal of a previous game action which has been recorded by the game processor.
- a method for playing a live card game involving a plurality of live participants, said live participants including at least one player and at least one dealer, said participants personally attending the card game about a gaming table comprising: displaying a plurality of changeable participant display images from at least one participant video display, said plurality of participant video displays providing participant display images; processing data using at least one game processor to perform at least the following functions: providing game rules which at least partially administer play of the card game; defining a stack of virtual playing cards having one or more decks of virtual playing cards included therein for use in playing the card game; selecting slot symbols from a total set of slot symbols which are available for selection; associating slot symbols to virtual playing cards; shuffling the stack of virtual playing cards to produce a stack sequence which determines the order of virtual playing cards dealt or otherwise assigned to the participants; dealing virtual playing cards to participants from the stack according to the game rules; instructing the participant video displays to display at least playing card images indicating virtual playing cards assigned to the participants, said virtual playing cards assigned to the participant forming the participant's card hand;
- a method further including sensing placement of chips by a player for pu ⁇ oses of indicating participation in the card game.
- a method further including sensing placement of chips by a player for pu ⁇ oses of indicating an insurance bet being placed in the card game.
- a method further including sensing an ante chosen by a player for pu ⁇ oses of indicating optional qualification of the player to be awarded a jackpot for receiving a winning slot symbol.
- a method further including sensing placement of at least one ante chip by a player for pu ⁇ oses of indicating optional qualification of the player to be awarded a jackpot for receiving a winning slot symbol.
- a method further including sensing the value of chips placed by the players.
- a method further including communicating instructions from the players to the dealer to indicate playing decisions being made by the player in carrying out play of the card game.
- said shuffling step is performed using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck.
- said at least one game processor is capable of performing said shuffling function using a shuffling process which reorders the stack after each card is dealt from the deck, the reordering being performed after excluding any cards which have been dealt and are currently in the hand of a participant.
- the invention is useful for designing and manufacturing automated system for playing live casino table games having tabletop changeable playing card displays and play monitoring security features.
Abstract
Description
Claims
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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CA2323444A CA2323444C (en) | 1998-03-11 | 1999-03-11 | Automated system for playing live casino table games having tabletop changeable playing card displays and play monitoring security features |
AU29994/99A AU764869B2 (en) | 1998-03-11 | 1999-03-11 | Automated system for playing live casino table games having tabletop changeable playing card displays and play monitoring security features |
AU2003266570A AU2003266570B2 (en) | 1998-03-11 | 2003-12-04 | Automated System For Playing Live Casino Table Games Having Tabletop Changeable Playing Card Displays And Play Monitoring Security Features |
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US09/041,373 | 1998-03-11 | ||
US09/041,373 US6165069A (en) | 1998-03-11 | 1998-03-11 | Automated system for playing live casino table games having tabletop changeable playing card displays and monitoring security features |
US15981398A | 1998-09-23 | 1998-09-23 | |
US09/159,813 | 1998-09-23 |
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WO1999046019A1 true WO1999046019A1 (en) | 1999-09-16 |
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PCT/US1999/005361 WO1999046019A1 (en) | 1998-03-11 | 1999-03-11 | Automated system for playing live casino table games having tabletop changeable playing card displays and play monitoring security features |
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2000
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2003
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2006
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EP1153635A2 (en) * | 1999-12-16 | 2001-11-14 | Peter Dipl.-Ing. Paula | Gaming table |
EP1153635A3 (en) * | 1999-12-16 | 2001-11-21 | Peter Dipl.-Ing. Paula | Gaming table |
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