Gaming machines with directed sound
US6638169B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 28, 2001 |
| Grant date | Oct 28, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 16, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07F17/3216
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A casino gaming apparatus is disclosed which includes a controller programmed to generate an audio signal. The controller is operatively linked to an ultrasonic audio processor. The ultrasonic audio processor is programmed to convert the audio signal received from the controller into an ultrasonic signal. The ultrasonic audio processor is operatively linked to an ultrasonic emitter which emits the ultrasonic signal along a column of air in front of the gaming apparatus. The ultrasonic signal is demodulated into audible sounds along the column by interaction of the ultrasonic signal with air to produce audible sound substantially confined within the column. The column intersects the position where the player stands or sits. Accordingly, sounds are generated by the gaming apparatus are confined to an area occupied by the player and provide little or no distractions for players using adjacent gaming apparatuses.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.