3 ms·
That's the title, but the main innovation was using a random number generator to choose from among more positions than symbols that the physical wheel possesses
by sirclueless 9y ago
That's the title, but the main innovation was using a random number generator to choose from among more positions than symbols that the physical wheel possesses, thus allowing different odds for different symbols. The interesting bit comes from claim 8 and 9:
> a random number generator for selecting one number from a plurality of numbers each representing one of said different angular rotational positions, said plurality of numbers exceeding the number of rotational positions of said reel such that a plurality of numbers represents some of the reel positions; and
...
> assigning a different quantity of numbers to each position to obtain the win odds desired.
- joezydeco 9y agoYou have to remember this was invented in 1982. Using RNGs, stepper motors, and mapped tables was certainly enough for a patent in that era.
- paulsutter 9y agoI used to program in 1982 and these things were completely obvious at that time. However, you can patent almost anything, both then and today. Patents are more of a process than a science.
- joezydeco 9y agoYou could have made a fortune selling this to a slot manufacturer in 1982. So why didn't you?
- paulsutter 9y agoBusiness is about understanding customers, not code. I was a 16 year old kid in West Virginia.