37th week of 2008 patent applcation highlights part 47 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20080220807 | Multiple radio receive chain wireless communication devices - The present invention provides architectures and methods which use multiple radio receive chains in mobile devices to boost performance of the mobile devices. While a first set of the receive chains are assigned to a serving base station, another set of receive chains are dynamically allocated to neighbor base stations and/or to the serving base station depending upon present or expected system conditions and timing. A first synthesizer is configured to provide signals to the first and second set of receive chains. Other synthesizers are also configured to provide signals to the second set of receive chains. Thus, depending on the mode of operation, the second set of receive chains utilizes signals from a given synthesizer as needed. A priori data may be used to allocate specific receive chains to the serving base station, neighboring base stations or both. Unused synthesizers may be turned off to conserve power. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220808 | COMMUNICATIONS HANDOFF USING AN ADAPTIVE ANTENNA - One implementation provides a novel station-to-station handoff using an adaptive or directional antenna. The directional antenna generates a plurality of directional search beams to search for pilot signals from new base stations. The search beams are scanned one beam at a time to obtain the relative direction of all new base stations detected. From the detected base stations, a new base station with the strongest signal strength is selected and compared to the currently used base station. If the new base station has stronger signal strength than the current base station, then a communication handoff from the current base station to the new base station is initiated. In one feature of the present invention, two directional beams are used to communicate with the current and new base stations. Once a communication link is established with the new base station, the directional beam to the current base station is terminated. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220809 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR A SELF TIMER FUNCTION FOR A CAMERA AND ... - An electronic equipment includes a camera for taking digital photographs. The electronic equipment further includes a radio circuit for establishing communication with a communications network, a camera for taking digital photographs; a display, and a control circuit. The control circuit is configured to execute image detection logic to: periodically acquire an image and storing a least one of the acquired images in the memory; processing the periodically acquired images to determine an occurrence of a predefined event; and performing a function based upon the occurrence of the predefined event. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220810 | COMMUNICATIONS SERVER FOR HANDLING PARALLEL VOICE AND DATA CONNECTIONS AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME - The present invention provides for a communications server and a method of using the same. In one embodiment the communications server, is comprised of (1) a voice channel interface configured to establish a voice channel with a mobile communication device and generate a voice to transmit menu information thereto; and (2) a data channel interface associated with the voice channel interface and configured to establish a data channel with the mobile communication device and transmit data containing the menu information thereto, in response to a selected one of (i) an automatic determination that the mobile communication device is capable of outputting the menu information to a user, and (ii) a command received from the mobile communication device to transmit the data containing the menu information. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220811 | System and method for obtaining location of wireless telephone from internet server - A user who loses or has stolen his wireless telephone can access an Internet server that prompts the phone to send to the server (and, hence, the user) the GPS location of the phone. Also, when a wireless telephone reaches a low voltage state, indicating the imminent loss of the ability to call the phone to cause it to ring as a location aid, the phone automatically sends its last GPS location to the server. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220812 | PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH MOVABLE SPEAKER - A portable electronic device ( | 2008-09-11 |
20080220813 | MULTI-SERVICE CELLULAR PHONE NETWORK ACCESS DEVICE - An access device is described herein for determining and selecting, for a cellular call received by a cellular transceiver of the access device, one of a plurality of networks to route the call to. In some embodiments, the determining and selecting may be based at least on a type of each of a plurality of network interfaces of the access device and availability of each corresponding network, the network interfaces including at least two of a cellular retransmitter, an IP networking interface, or a PSTN interface. In various embodiments, if a cellular network is determined and selected, the access device may relay the call. Also, if an IP or PSTN network is determined and selected, the access device may establish on behalf of the call an outgoing call through the IP or PSTN network and translate signals of the cellular call to signals for the IP or PSTN network. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220814 | WIRELESS DEVICE WITH PRIVACY SCREEN - A cellular telephone including a medical device to monitor he medical or health condition of a user is provided. The cellular telephone is provided with a keypad that is movable from a first position, where a first display and keypad is exposed, to a second position where a second display and keypad is exposed. In the first position, the cellular telephone operates in a conventional cellular telephone manner. In the second position, the cellular telephone operates as the medical device. The second display and/or keypad is hidden from public view when the keypad is in the first position. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220815 | Personal Communication System Based on the Use of Mobile Telephony, and Device and Telephone Used in Said System - It includes a telephone ( | 2008-09-11 |
20080220816 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING STANDBY SCREEN IMAGE OF MOBILE TERMINAL - An apparatus and a method for providing a standby screen image of a mobile terminal are disclosed to change a standby screen image in a story-telling manner according to a communication event or a usage amount of the terminal. The method for providing a standby screen image of a mobile terminal includes: displaying a standby screen image of one or more themes; and changing the displayed standby screen image in a story-telling manner according to a usage amount of the mobile terminal. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220817 | Portable terminal and portable telephone having a camera and lens cover - In a portable terminal having a photographic function for receiving photographic light from a camera subject and obtaining image data, the portable terminal comprises an optical member receiving photographic light from the camera subject, and a cover member mounted on a slidable basis. The cover member selectively opens and shuts to cover said optical member in accordance with a sliding operation. The cover member has a mirror on a surface of the cover member. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220818 | BASE STATION RADIO APPARATUS, MOBILE UNIT COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, AND BASE STATION RADIO APPARATUS CONTROL METHOD - This invention provides a base station radio apparatus, a mobile unit communication system, and a control method for a base station radio apparatus that suppress a deterioration in communication quality. Success rates can be monitored by monitoring outgoing/incoming calls and call connections, and control can be executed to detect a potential card for which a success rate declines and force the card to enter an ALM state. Thus, a deterioration in communication quality can be suppressed. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220819 | DYNAMICALLY RECONFIGURABLE RECEIVER - Aspects of the disclosure describe a cellular transceiver that can include multiple diversity branch receivers that receive a transmitted signal from a base station (BS). The cellular transceiver can include 1) a windup detector that can detect a low windup condition and 2) a receiver selector that can modify a number of active diversity branch receivers when the low windup condition is detected. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220820 | BATTERY SAVING SELECTIVE SCREEN CONTROL - A method determines when a user is talking on a mobile phone by monitoring a sound level of a user's voice. If it is determined, based on the monitoring, that the mobile phone is near the user's ear, the display of the mobile phone may be turned off to save battery power. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220821 | PORTABLE INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS - An outer display is provided in an area exposed to the outside, of a first movable part in a closed condition where the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other. An outer operation section is provided in an area other than the exposed area of the first and second movable parts whichever comes behind the outer display in a closed condition where the first and second movable parts are opposed to each other. The operator can enter predetermined information on a predetermined display content displayed on the outer display. Even in a condition where the first and second movable parts fold closed, the operator can enter predetermined information from the outer operation section while watching the outer display, which enhances the operability. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220822 | MOBILE TERMINAL AND METHOD OF PLAYING A VIDEO FROM A WEBSITE - A method for displaying video on a mobile terminal that includes a display defined by a user area and an information area includes displaying a list of videos available for playing within the user area, selecting one video from the list of videos, automatically playing and displaying the selected video on the display in a display region that substantially utilizes all of the user area. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220823 | NOTIFYING STATIONS FOR PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND METHODS - Generally, the present invention provides stations for one or more portable electronic devices (PEDs) and methods for such stations. A station can support a PED, and sense when the PED would be notifying its user about a wireless signal that is received from a remote transmitter. When the station so senses, it further generates a human-perceptible indication to help notify the user, who might have walked away. The human-perceptible indication can include, a call sound, a light signal, etc. This way, for example, when the PED is only vibrating, the call sound can be such that the station rings like a regular home telephone, and/or the light signal can be such that the station lights up without distracting coworkers as much. As such, the user can always keep the PED at the “Silent” annunciation mode. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220824 | Terminal device and incoming e-mail/call notification method - An incoming mail notification unit notifies the user, of the terminal device, of the incoming e-mail when the incoming e-mail is received. A vibration number measurement unit measures the number of vibrations applied to the terminal device. A determination unit determines whether the user has switched from a walking state to a walking-stopped state based on the measured number of vibrations. The incoming mail notification unit re-notifies the user of the incoming e-mail when the determination unit determines that the user has switched from the walking state to the walking-stopped state. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220825 | Bluetooth earphone with multiple audio gateways - A multiple audio gateway Bluetooth earphone, comprising an audio signal input module, an audio signal output module, a Bluetooth module, a key-in module; and a power supply. When the Bluetooth earphone is communicating via Bluetooth wireless connection with one of the audio gateways, another audio gateway may, via the existing or a newly established wireless connection, prompt another incoming call, and through the switching function built in the Bluetooth module, the earphone can detect the calling signals, and then trigger a signal to alert the user. The user may then choose to answer or ignore it, with the on-going call being hung up or put in waiting, or to invite the new caller to join as a multi-party phone conference. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220826 | Controller and Method for Using a DC-DC Converter in a Mobile Handset - A controller enables the integration of a DC-DC converter in an amplitude modulation power control loop in a mobile handset. The controller includes an input conditioner and an event sensor. The input conditioner uses a peak detector to track the output of a regulator and responds to available baseband input signals. The event sensor controls a switch that connects the DC-DC converter to a battery in response to a bypass event. The controller bypasses the DC-DC-converter when a transmitter is not enabled. The DC-DC converter is enabled prior to a transmission burst. A target voltage is determined from a series of detected peak voltages from the output of the regulator. The controller commands the DC-DC converter to transition to the target voltage until the end of a transmission burst. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220827 | GENERATOR AND COMMUNICATION DEVICE USING THE SAME - A generator disposed in an electronic device (such as a communication device) capable of vibrating is provided. The generator includes a vibrating motor, an actuating device and a weighting device. The electronic device can be vibrated or temporarily charged by the vibrating motor. The vibrating motor is driven by the actuating device to generate electricity. When the generator is in a first state, the vibrating motor can be driven for generating electricity by the actuating device through the weighting device. When the generator is in a second state, the electronic device is capable of vibrating through the vibrating motor. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220828 | METHODS AND APPARATUS TO REDUCE POWER CONSUMPTION IN A WIRELESS DEVICE - Methods and apparatus to reduce power consumption in a wireless device are disclosed. An example method includes sensing movement of the wireless device via a sensor unit; conveying data of a first size at a first frequency from the sensor unit to a first microcontroller, wherein the first microcontroller comprises data buffers of a second size; wirelessly transmitting data of the second size to a second microcontroller at a second frequency, wherein the second microcontroller comprises data buffers of the second size; and conveying data of the first size at a third frequency from the second microcontroller to an electronic device to communicate with the wireless device. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220829 | MOBILE TERMINAL DEVICE, METHOD OF POWER SAVING CONTROL FOR MOBILE TERMINAL DEVICE AND COMPUTER PRODUCT - A mobile terminal device having a display includes an image capturing unit capturing an image at a prescribed periodical timing; an image changing detector detecting an image change exceeding a prescribed extent between the image captured at a prescribed timing and one or more of images obtained at a previous timing; and a power saving controller controlling a power saving state of the display depending on whether an image change exceeding the prescribed extent is detected. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220830 | STORAGE MEDIUM FOR A CELLULAR TELEPHONE - A storage medium for a cellular telephone is disclosed. An apparatus that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a cellular telephone having a housing assembly, and a Modular Hard Disk Drive (MHDD) storage medium that couples to the housing assembly as an integral portable accessory unit. The housing assembly can have a wireless transceiver that exchanges messages with at least one among a plurality of cellular base stations, and a controller that manages operations of the wireless transceiver and the MHDD storage medium. Additional embodiments are disclosed. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220831 | EARMOUNTED ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND METHOD - Disclosed is a wireless communication device capable of being positioned in a wearable position adjacent a user's head. The wireless communication device may include a housing and an arcuate earmount coupled to the housing. The earmount may be configured so that it includes an overhanging portion and a hinge portion, the hinge portion electrically and mechanically coupling the earmount to the housing. A proximity sensor can be positioned on the overhanging portion and configured to detect proximity of a user's skin behind the user's ear. The sensor location for earmounted devices can provide that the sensor may be trapped between the user's ear auricle and the user's head as the earmount sits down on the top portion of the ear, which may result in accurate sensing activation. The device may be further configured to, for example, change a state based on whether the proximity sensor detects proximity. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220832 | Mobile Communications Station - A mobile communications station (MS), which includes a first part ( | 2008-09-11 |
20080220833 | MOBILE TERMINAL WITH CAMERA - A folding-type mobile terminal is provided with a camera that is capable of accurately imaging an object. This is accomplished by mounting the camera such that a viewing direction of the display of the terminal is substantially parallel to a camera imaging direction. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220834 | Protective Shroud | 2008-09-11 |
20080220835 | GAMING METHOD AND GAMING MACHINE ACCEPTING SIDE BET - A playing method of a card game according to the present invention comprises the steps of: (a) dealing a predetermined number of cards to a player as player's cards and dealing a predetermined number of cards to a banker as banker's cards; (b) placing a side BET different from a normal BET; (c) determining whether or not the banker should fold; (d) determining a result of a game by comparing a hand of the player's cards with a hand of the banker's cards, when determining that the banker should not fold in the step (c); (e) determining whether or not the banker should fold following a rule different from a rule in the step (c), on condition that the side BET is placed, when determining that the banker should fold in the step (c); and (f) determining the result of the game by comparing the hand of the player's cards with the hand of the banker's cards, when determining the banker should not fold in the step (e). | 2008-09-11 |
20080220836 | GAME SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING GAMES - A game system | 2008-09-11 |
20080220837 | Gaming Machine Capable Of Operating To Indicate The Number Of Bets, And Game Playing Method - Baccarat is executed by placing a bet using a bet screen | 2008-09-11 |
20080220838 | Gaming Method And Gaming Machine Accepting Side Bet - A playing method of a card game according to the present invention comprises the steps of: (a) dealing a predetermined number of cards to a plurality of players as player's cards and dealing a predetermined number of cards to a banker as banker's cards; (b) placing a side BET different from a normal BET; (c) determining whether or not a hand of the player's cards dealt to a player who has placed the side BET, satisfies a predetermined condition; (d) when determining, in the step (c), that the number of the players determined to have hands of the player's cards which satisfy the predetermined condition is one, determining a normal payout value which is determined based on this hand and the side BET, as a payout to be offered to the player; and (e) when determining, in the step (c), that the number of the players determined to have hands of the player's cards which satisfy the predetermined condition is equal to or more than two, determining payouts to be offered to those players, so as to make a total sum of the payout values to those players be smaller than a total sum of normal payout values to those players. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220839 | Slot Gaming Devices and Methods - Methods and systems for providing a video slot machine game of chance are provided herein. A video slot machine may use M-reels to play an N-reel game, where M>N, or may use any field of play larger than necessary to determine a payout outcome of the game. For example, nine reels may be used to play a multi-line five reel video slot game. The reels may be selected by an N-reel wide frame that slides back and forth over the available reels. In some embodiments, reels on one side of the screen pay at a higher rate than reels on the other side of the screen, or pay rates of reels gradually increase or decrease from one end of the visually displayed reels to the other. Optional bonus modes may take advantage of all M reels, e.g., by sliding the frame across the reels without respinning the reels and recalculating pay lines, by providing free spins with the frame locked in place, and/or by moving the frame to a highest paying position for one or more free spins. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220840 | Methods and Apparatus for Enhanced Interactive Game Play in Lottery and Gaming Environments - Methods and systems for electronic interaction comprising a display for presenting a grid of identifying objects, an input for receiving a player selection of an identifying object, a random generator for randomly selecting a winning identifying object, and a point tally system for awarding points to the player according to the rules comprising a first point value if the player selected identifying object exactly matches the winning identifying object, a second point value if the player selected identifying object is in a geometric relationship with the winning identifying object, and a third, negative, point value if the player is not awarded the first point value or the second point value. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220841 | Sharing Game Assets in a Wagering Game Network - Systems and methods for presenting streaming video content in a gaming machine are described herein. In one embodiment, the method includes acquiring, in a first gaming machine, access to a set of shared game assets. The method can also include providing a second gaming machine with access to the set of shared game assets. The method can also include conducting, in the first gaming machine, a first wagering game in which one of the set of shared game assets is consumed, and wherein during the first wagering game, the second gaming machine conducts a second wagering game in which another of the set of shared game assets is consumed. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220842 | Lottery based entertainment system - The present invention generally provides a sequential method for producing and/or casting a film, television, play or other form of entertainment. More specifically, a lottery based system is implemented so that the winning person obtains rights to be a subject in a play, television show, film or other form of entertainment. The winning person may actually act in the project or the winning person may elect to have an actor play him or her in the project. Audience members who obtain tickets to showings of the project are themselves given a lottery ticket to obtain the rights to be a subject in a subsequent play, television show or film. Further, the winning audience member may also obtain a prize, such as cash, for winning the lottery. The process repeats itself so that a subject of each new project is taken from the audience of the previous project. The cycle may continue until future audiences no longer support the running project. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220843 | GAME SYSTEM AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - A game system has roulette gaming devices that are connected to each other and an accumulator that accumulates progressive bonus scores in each of the roulette gaming devices. Each gaming device includes terminals, a roulette wheel having pockets to which numbers are attached, respectively, and a first processor. The first processor operates to receive a bet on a game through the terminals, to determine whether or not a win of a result of the game for each of the terminals, and to determine whether to give a progressive bonus award different from an award based on the game result for the terminals. The game system further has a second processor that operates to control, when the first processor of any roulette gaming device determines to give the progressive bonus award to any terminal, the terminal to perform a payout for the progressive bonus award based on the accumulated scores. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220844 | Roulette apparatus and roulette gaming machine - A roulette apparatus includes: a roulette wheel having a rolling region where a ball rolls; and a ball reception member provided contiguously to the rolling region to receive the ball. The ball reception member includes: a plurality of reception portions that receives the ball in one of the reception portions; and a plurality of separation walls that separates the reception portions from one another, wherein the ball reception member is formed separately from the roulette wheel and removably attached to the roulette wheel. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220845 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PLAYING A ROLE-PLAYING GAME - A method and apparatus for playing a variation of keno in which the game player pays to play through any number of methods, reveals whether the player has a winning number of matches by playing a solitaire game, and then receives the appropriate winnings if any. The solitaire game may be played, for example, over the Internet or other network using a computer system. The computer system may be, for instance, a cell phone, a personal computer, a set-top box, kiosk, or other computing system. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220846 | GAMING MACHINE HAVING A FUNCTION OF CHANGING THE NUMBER OF FREE GAMES ACCORDING TO THE RESULT OF A ROLE PLAYING GAME - A controller is provided which includes: a function whereby a video image is randomly determined with respect to a mini game to be displayed on a display each time the mini game is executed; a function whereby the determined video image is extracted from memory and displayed on the display; a function whereby determination is randomly made as to whether the points associated with the displayed video image are to be added to the accumulated points; a function whereby, in a case that determination has been made that the points are to be added to the accumulated points, the points are added to the accumulated points, thereby updating the accumulated points; and a function whereby, after the mini game has been executed a predetermined number of times, the number of free games is determined according to the updated accumulated points. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220847 | GAME SYSTEM INCLUDING SLOT MACHINES AND GAME CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - A gaming machine is provided with a controller which carries out operations to display on a display a predetermined number of card images every time a mini game is executed; decide whether to update an accumulative point number, depending on a combination of displayed card images; when a decision is made to update, update the accumulative point number by adding a point number based on the combination to the accumulative point number; decide a game number of a free game depending on an accumulative point number updated after the mini game is executed a predetermined number of times; and if a predetermined condition is met, make a transition from the basic game to the free game, and execute the free game the decided game number of times. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220848 | Wagering Game Content Publishing - Systems, methods, and machine-readable media including instructions for publishing gaming content are described herein. In one embodiment, a machine-readable medium includes instructions for detecting new gaming content and creating a gaming content publication indicating that the new gaming content is available. The machine-readable medium also includes instructions for transmitting the gaming system publication to a gaming network component. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220849 | Presenting Streaming Video Content in a Gaming Machine - Systems and methods for presenting streaming video content in a gaming machine are described herein. In one embodiment, the method includes detecting satisfaction of a condition in a wagering game and determining which one of a plurality of streaming video effects are associated with the condition. The method can also include applying to a streaming video segment the one of the plurality of streaming video effects associated with the condition and displaying the streaming video segment on a display device. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220850 | System and Method for 3D Gaming Effects - Embodiments of the invention described herein include, in a reel-based gaming machine, a system and method of displaying a gaming outcome. The system and method include displaying a reel image on a display, wherein displaying includes displaying one or more symbols as three-dimensional symbols. The method also includes animating a three-dimensional object on the display, wherein animating includes rendering at least a portion of the animation at around the time the image is displayed. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220851 | GAMING DEVICE HAVING DIFFERENT SETS OF PRIMARY AND SECONDARY REEL SYMBOLS - An apparatus and method for a gaming device having a bonus game that provides a player with a primary set of reel symbols having a primary probability of winning and a secondary set of reel symbols having a secondary probability of winning, where the secondary probability of winning is greater than the primary probability of winning. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220852 | Gaming Machine with a Game Feature - A gaming machine having a display and a game controller arranged to control images displayed on the display. The game controller is arranged to play a game wherein symbols are randomly selected from a set of symbols, and selected symbols are displayed on the display and, if a winning combination of symbols results, the machine awards a prize. The range of symbols includes at least one first symbol and at least one second symbol. When the first and second symbols are displayed together a feature event is awarded by the game controller. The feature event when played results in one of a plurality of feature outcomes. The game controller is arranged during the feature event to animate the first and second symbols on the display to give the appearance of interaction between the first and second symbols, there being a plurality of different possible interactions which reflect the different feature outcomes. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220853 | Gaming Method And Gaming Machine Accepting Side Bet - A playing method of a card game according to the present invention comprises the steps of: (a) dealing a predetermined number of cards to a player as player's cards and dealing a predetermined number of cards to a banker as banker's cards; (b) placing a side BET different from a normal BET; (c) dividing the predetermined number of the player's cards and the predetermined number of the banker's cards into two sets of cards, respectively, using a strength-determination ranking which is the strength ranking of hands to be referred in a step of determining winning or losing of a game, under a basic condition imposed on the strength of respective hands consisting of the cards in the respective sets resulting from the division of cards into two sets of cards, and also dividing the predetermined number of said banker's cards into two sets of cards; (d) determining winning or losing of the game by comparing hands of the player's cards divided into two sets with hands of the banker's cards divided into two sets, using the strength-determination ranking; (e) dividing the predetermined number of the player's cards into two sets of cards without applying the basic condition thereto and/or without using the strength-determination ranking, when determining that the game results in losing of the player in the step (d) and that the side BET is placed in the step (b); and (f) determining winning or losing of the game by comparing the hands of the player's cards divided into two sets in the step (e) with the hands of the banker's cards divided into two sets, using the strength-determination ranking. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220854 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COLLECTING USER GAME PLAY DATA AND CREDITING USERS IN AN ONLINE GAMING ENVIRONMENT - A computer implemented method for monitoring game play behavior of a user in an online gaming environment. Responsive to detecting execution of a game, gaming characteristics of the user are monitored. The game interacts with a game server. Game play data of the user is collected. Collecting game play data is performed by a plug-in application located on the game server. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220855 | System and method for permutation betting - An improved system and method is provided for permutation betting. To do so, a permutation betting engine may be provided for providing services to support betting on an outcome resulting in an ordinal ranking of objects. Orders specifying a property of an ordering of one or more positions of an object in an ordinal ranking of objects may be received. The quantities for orders to accept may be determined, a response may be sent to traders indicating the quantities of orders for payment, and the amount owed for accepted orders may be collected. Winning accepted orders may be identified and payout may be made for winning accepted orders. Advantageously, the present invention may provide a framework for efficiently optimizing an auctioneer's objective using linear programming for a prediction market where the outcomes of interested events are ordered statistics. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220856 | Wager recording method and system - A method and system for accepting individual or group candidate wager sets is provided. A plurality of selections for candidate wagers may be received and stored. A unique identifier may be associated with the plurality of selections and used to retrieve the selections when a wager is placed. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220857 | Gaming system having progressive tournaments & weighting - The invention provides a prize redemption system for use with one or more game apparatuses. A game is provided on a game apparatus for a player to play in exchange for monetary input, and prize credits are credited to the player based on the game outcome. A prize selection menu is then displayed by the game apparatus, the menu including one or more prizes, where the player may select a prize that has a prize cost within the player's prize credit amount. The player is dispensed a specific prize ticket that is redeemable for the selected prize. The game apparatus can also provide specific prizes and tournament games played for a tournament prize contributed to by multiple players. An operator can adjust prizes and payout percentages of the system to achieve a desired profitability for game apparatuses. Prize input is entered into a prize table describing multiple available prizes and also describing payout information that indicates a desired amount of payout that the operator wishes to provide back to players of the game apparatus in terms of the value of the prizes. Prize information, such as prize costs and specific prize win ratios, is automatically determined by the system for each of the prizes in view of the desired profitability of the game apparatus. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220858 | Dynamic Power Management in a Gaming Machine - A gaming machine for conducting a wagering game includes a value input device for receiving a wager and a processor for executing gameplay on the gaming machine. The processor has a plurality of power consumption levels. A power regulator is operative to alter the power consumption level of the processor amongst the plurality of power consumption levels. In an embodiment, the power regulator comprises application software stored on a memory device in communication with the processor. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220859 | Console game purchase and downloading through an internet protocol television system to a console device - Particular embodiments of the disclosed subject matter provide methods and systems to support the purchase and downloading of console games via a set-top box and internet protocol television system. An example embodiment includes an apparatus and system to receive a console game user selection through a user interface of a set-top box, to send the console game user selection to a VOD server via a network, to enable purchase of a selected console game corresponding to the console game user selection from the VOD server, and to download the selected console game to a console device via an interface provided by the set-top box. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220860 | GAME SYSTEM INCLUDING SLOT MACHINES AND GAME CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - A gaming machine is provided with a controller which carries out operations to execute a mini game upon completion of a transition to a free game; display a predetermined number of card images on a display every time the mini game is executed; decide whether to update an accumulative point number, depending on a combination of the displayed card images; update, when a decision is made to update, the accumulative point number by adding a point number based on the combination to the accumulative point number; decide a game extension number allowing for extension of the free game depending on an accumulative point number updated after the mini game is executed a predetermined number of times; and extend and execute the free game by the decided game extension number. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220861 | GAME SYSTEM INCLUDING SLOT MACHINES AND GAME CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - A gaming machine is provided with a controller which displays on a display a predetermined number of card images every time a mini game is executed; if card image identification data are received before an elapse of a predetermined time, perform processing to display the received card image, depending on the received card image identification data, by replacing the displayed predetermined number of card images; unless the card image identification data are received before the elapse of the predetermined time, displays intactly the displayed predetermined number of card images; decides whether to update the accumulative point number, depending on a combination of the displayed card images; and decides the number of times of a free game, depending on an accumulative point number updated after the mini game is executed a predetermined number of times. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220862 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THE GENERATION OF NAVIGATION GRAPHS IN REAL-TIME - A system and method for navigation graph generation in real time is provided including a dictionary operable to maintain information mapping surface features to navigational costs. Further included is a graphical module operable to transform geometrical data of a virtual world and associated navigational costs obtained from the dictionary into navigation data; a graph-generation module operable to translate the navigation data into a semi-generated navigation graph; and a physical module operable to receive the semi-generated navigation graph, and generate an updated navigation graph based on collisions test. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220863 | Gaming System Modelling 3D Volumetric Masses - Embodiments of the invention described herein include, in a pick-based gaming machine, a method of displaying a gaming outcome. The method includes displaying an image having a plurality of picks arranged adjacent to a plurality of objects; receiving a pick selection; simulating, as a function of the pick selection, a drop of fluid falling through the plurality of objects to fall in or past receptacles; and determining a gaming outcome as a function of fluid accumulated in the receptacles. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220864 | GAME CONTROLLER SIMULATING A MUSICAL INSTRUMENT - A simulated musical instrument may be used to alter the audio of a video game, the video aspects of video game, or both. Use of a controller simulating a musical instrument allows a rhythm-action game can be enjoyed in a manner closer to a realistic state of playing an instrument. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220865 | Interactive playstation controller - An interactive playstation controller includes a housing; a linear button set, a mode-switching digital button set, a battery pack, a cable connector and a physiological reaction sensing button set disposed on an exterior of the housing; and an integrated circuit embedded in the housing. The physiological reaction sensing button set includes a heartbeat signal sensor, a humidity sensor, a grip strength sensor and a voice sensor so as to momentarily sense body and physiological condition variations of a player when he or she is playing a game, and the sensed variations are fed back to a game host. Then, a program in the host properly responds with the sensed variations so as to achieve the object and the effect of man-machine interaction. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220866 | Game Playing Apparatus - A game playing apparatus includes a plurality of handsets, each of which has at least two operating buttons. The apparatus further includes a device for receiving an input signal identifying the correct sequence in which the buttons of each handset must be pressed, a device for determining from the input signal whether the buttons of each hand-set are pressed in the correct sequence and a device for transmitting at least one control signal identifying at least the handset having the buttons that are the first to be pressed in the correct sequence. The game playing apparatus conveniently allows for a plurality of players to compete against one another in, for example, a general knowledge quiz game. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220867 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR APPLYING GEARING EFFECTS TO ACTIONS BASED ON INPUT DATA - Methods and systems for interactive interfacing with a computer gaming system are provided. The method includes providing a controller, where the controller is configured to convey input data that is to be interpreted by the computer gaming system. The method includes identifying an action to be performed by the computer gaming system, and the action is mapped to the input data provided by the controller. Then, a gearing is applied between the action to be performed by the computer gaming system and the input data received from the controller. The gearing scales an adjustment to impact the action to be performed by the computer gaming system. The gearing can be set dynamically by the game, by the user, or can be preset or set by software, user configured, or in accordance with a gearing algorithm. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220868 | STEERING WHEEL-SHAPED JOYSTICK FOR ARCADE GAME MACHINE - A steering wheel-shaped joystick of an arcade game machine is provided. The steering wheel-shaped joystick is rotated to generate a direction signal and send it to the arcade game machine. The steering wheel-shaped joystick includes a plurality of rods which are radiantly distributed, and includes at least one button at the end of the rods. The button is used to generate a function signal and send it to the arcade game machine so as to control ship-related electronic games of the arcade game machine. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220869 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING GAME GUIDE DATA IN A GAMING ENVIRONMENT - A computer implemented method, a data processing system, and a computer program product for presenting a user guide for supplementing game play. An exemplary method includes querying a source of data containing game guide data corresponding to a game. The game is executing on a data processing system. The source of data is external to the game. The method also includes presenting, while the game is executing in a foreground, the game guide data to the user in a dynamic window. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220870 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING A SEAMLESS TOURNAMENT SYSTEM FOR MULTIPLAYER GAMES - An interactive gaming system is described that comprises a host gaming server comprising memory and a processor; said host gaming server being capable of remotely communicating with at least two client consoles that are capable of running application software; an SDK capable of being integrated with the application software running on the at least two client consoles wherein said SDK will facilitate communication with said host gaming server; a tournament management program stored in said memory and capable of being run on said processor; wherein said tournament management program will manage the operation of a tournament involving games to be played by players on the at least two client consoles; wherein said games are hosted on one of the at least two client consoles involved in said game and said SDK will communicate information regarding said game after said game has ended. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220871 | GAME ACCESS DEVICE - Systems and methods for verifying the eligibility of players attempting to participate in gaming events are disclosed. Communication objects having RFID tags and closed electrical circuits are individually assigned to and worn by players within a gaming player verification system, which can be administered by a casino desk, hotel concierge, or other operating entity. These RFID tags are adapted to communicate with associated player tracking units attached to gaming machines and other devices via radio frequency waves, and each communication object is adapted to alter its communication pattern in response to any break of its closed electrical circuit. Bracelets, wristwatches or collars can be used as communication objects, such that the removal of such an object from a player cannot be accomplished without breaking the closed electrical circuit contained therein, thereby disabling or de-authenticating the device. Communication objects, such as bracelets, may further include patterns, colors, designs, or other markings to indicate a player status. A computer server having a player verification program and database may also be used. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220872 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ISSUING A CHALLENGE PROMPT IN A GAMING ENVIRONMENT - A computer implemented method, a data processing system, and a computer program product for providing game play security measures. An exemplary method includes retrieving a prompt rule set. The prompt rule set identifies at least one rule for providing challenges during game play. Responsive to detecting game play, a current game play condition is matched with the at least one rule of the prompt rule set. Responsive to matching the current game play condition with the at least one rule of the prompt rule set, a challenge prompt is presented to a user. The challenge prompt is presented in a dynamic window that is present while the user is playing the game. Responsive to receiving an answer to the challenge prompt, the answer is processed. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220873 | Distributed network architecture for introducing dynamic content into a synthetic environment - Embodiments of the invention relate generally to computer-based simulations and synthetic environment generation, and more particularly, to a system, a computer-readable medium, a method and an apparatus for generating synthetic environments in a distributed architecture to, among other things, introduce dynamic content. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220874 | Network game system - A distribution server distributes meteorological data to a first game apparatus. The first game apparatus obtains, from the distribution server, meteorological data corresponding to region data set by region data setting means and transmits the meteorological data to a second game apparatus. The first game apparatus executes an on-line game with the second game apparatus using the obtained meteorological data. The second game apparatus receives the meteorological data transmitted from the first game apparatus. Using the received meteorological data, the second game apparatus executes the on-line game with the first game apparatus. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220875 | Multiplayer Platform for Mobile Applications - A wireless terminal comprising a transmitter configured to support a wireless connection with a server and a processor configured to enable a user to play an interactive game through the server with a plurality of other users on wireless terminals across a plurality of platforms. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220876 | Transaction systems and methods for virtual items of massively multiplayer online games and virtual worlds - Systems and methods for trading, exchanging, and/or valuating virtual items that exist in MMOGs or other types of virtual worlds. According to various embodiments, the present invention utilizes a homogenous database to store virtual objects and their attributes across different MMOGs and virtual worlds. The items in the database are indexed and searchable. Using the system, users can trade, exchange, sell and/or valuate their virtual objects | 2008-09-11 |
20080220877 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING RECRUITING AND PLAYER ALLOCATIONS WITHIN SPORTING COMPETITIONS | 2008-09-11 |
20080220878 | Method and Apparatus to Create or Join Gaming Sessions Based on Proximity - Devices and methods use a close range communication link, such as a near field communication (NFC) protocol link, to enable users to establish multiplayer gaming sessions conducted over a second communication link different from the close range link. Once two or more gaming devices are brought close enough together to establish a close range peer-to-peer communications link, the devices exchange gaming information that allows the devices to synchronize or otherwise initiate or join the game session. The devices may also exchange communication information useful for establishing the second communications link or for further game synchronization. Embodiments enable users to initiate or join multiplayer gaming sessions merely by bringing two or more game devices into close proximity. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220879 | Trusted Cabinet Identification Method - A method of identifying components within a gaming machine cabinet that is linked to a central server over a network is disclosed in which the gaming machine includes a plurality of components to be identified within the cabinet. The method includes storing a unique cabinet identifier and encryption key; generating a digital signature from the encryption key; transmitting the unique cabinet identifier to a component to be identified within the cabinet upon power-up of the component; transmitting the digital signature to the component to confirm origin of the unique cabinet identifier; and enabling components within the gaming machine cabinet to register with a game floor manager system on the central server via the network. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220880 | Trusted Cabinet Identification System - A trusted cabinet identification device is secured within a cabinet of a gaming machine that is linked to a central server over a network. The gaming machine includes a plurality of components to be identified within the cabinet. The trusted cabinet identification device includes an interface processor and a security device. The interface processor communicates unique identifiers and encryption keys to one or more components to be identified within the cabinet. Preferably, the interface processor is capable of communicating in multiple protocols. The security device stores unique identifiers and encryption keys, as well as performing security functions. The trusted cabinet identification device enables components within the gaming cabinet to obtain unique identifiers and encryption keys as needed, and register with the central server over the network. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220881 | GAMING MACHINE HAVING A FUNCTION OF THE NUMBER OF FREE GAMES ACCORDING TO THE RESULT OF A GAME IN WHICH A PLAYER SELECTS A CHOICE FROM AMONG MULTIPLE CHOICES - A controller is provided which includes: a function whereby, in a case that the game mode has been switched to the free game mode, a mini game is executed; a function whereby, each time the mini game is executed, selection data is received from a first input device, and determination is made based upon the received selection data as to whether accumulated points are to be updated; a function whereby, in a case that determination has been made that the accumulated points are to be updated, the points that correspond to the received selection data are added to the accumulated points, thereby updating the accumulated points; and a function whereby, after the mini game has been executed a predetermined number of times, the number of extra free games, which are extra games provided in addition to the free game, is determined according to the updated accumulated points. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220882 | Torque Converter - A torque converter for transferring rotational motion between a first axis and a second axis is provided. The torque converter has a first body rotatable about the first axis; a plurality of first magnets mounted to the first body, each of the first magnets having an inner end portion, the inner end portion being located closer to the first axis than to a peripheral portion of the first body; a plurality of first backing plates, each disposed adjacent to the inner end portion of each of the first magnets; a second body rotatable about the second axis; and a plurality of second magnets mounted to the second body. The second magnets magnetically interact with the first magnets to transfer the rotational motion between the first and second axes. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220883 | LOW NOISE AND VIBRATION FLEXIBLE SHAFT ASSEMBLY - A rotatable torque transmitting flexible shaft assembly having a casing surrounding the shaft and a sheath of felt wrapped around and bonded to the shaft either throughout its length or at spaced intervals, to reduce transmission of noise and vibration between the shaft and the casing. Alternatively the felt sheath may be secured to the interior surface of the casing. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220884 | FLEX DRIVE CONNECTOR - A flexible connector may include a tube having an open end and a lower end distal from the open end, an inner surface of the open end comprising a plurality of apices forming a substantially polygonal lower cross-section, an upper shaft having an insert end disposed insertably in the open end, an outer surface of the insert end comprising a plurality of substantially planer flats forming a substantially polygonal upper cross-section normal to the driven axis of rotation, the upper cross-section being substantially similar to the lower cross-section, and an elastic member disposed compressably between each of the flats and each of the apices. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220885 | Non-Rigid Coupling for the Mutual Connection of Two Rotary Bodies, the Axes Thereof Being Inclined in Relation to Each Other - The coupling ( | 2008-09-11 |
20080220886 | Constant Velocity Joint - A constant velocity join has an input shaft side member having first guiding grooves formed in it; an output shaft member having guiding grooves formed in it, the second guiding grooves intersecting the first guiding grooves; a retainer having retaining windows formed in it; and a torque transmission member that is held so as to be displaceable along the retaining windows of the retainer and in which a first ring body and a second ring body are rotatably supported by a first shaft body and a second shaft body through a needle bearing, the first shaft body and the second shaft body being in rotating contact with side walls of the first guiding grooves and/or with side walls of the second guiding grooves. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220887 | POOL CUE SYSTEMS - Pool cue systems are disclosed which include at least one graphical icon on the pool cue shaft adapted to be observed within the shooter's peripheral vision while shooting pool. The icons are preferably aligned along the longitudinal axis of the pool cue shaft at predetermined distances indicative of game parameters, which are stroke lengths, bridge hand locations, and stroke speeds. The icons are adapted to enable easy peripheral observation of pool cue stick motion while shooting pool with the eyes focused on an object billiard ball. The icons may additionally be decorative. Methods of use, making, and doing business are integral to the pool cue systems. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220888 | Light up pool ball - A light emitting billiard ball adapted to transmit light upon impact having an outer shell and a light emitting circuit. The light emitting circuit energizes an LED and the energized LED transmits light through the outer shell. The principle use is for billiard balls however other applications will benefit from this invention. For example, Bocce balls, bowling balls, tennis balls, ping pong balls, as well as other balls in impact applications will benefit from this application. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220889 | Golf practice putting aid - This invention is a ⅝″ to ¾″ thick plastic or wood board which is hinged in the middle to fold up to 18″ by 11½″ for easy carrying, portability, and storage. Carrying is facilitated by a slot handle at each end. When laid out flat on the floor, the long edge facing the golfer contains three U-shaped “cup” openings which replicate the same diameter holes found on a golf course. The golfer putts the golf ball into one of the three cups to practice his or her putt. Because each cup opening is at a different angle, the golfer is forced to practice the direction of his or her stroke as well as the length of his or her stroke. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220890 | Ball House - Various apparatus, methods, and arrangements are provided for a ball house. In one embodiment, an arrangement for aiming a ball toward a predetermined target is provided that comprises a playing surface including the predefined target; and a ball house on the playing surface, the ball house configured to form a ball runway when adjacent to the playing surface, wherein the ball runway is substantially aligned with the predetermined target such that the ball will intersect the predetermined target after passing through the ball runway. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220891 | METHOD FOR PREDICTING BALL LAUNCH CONDITIONS - The present invention relates to a method and a numerical analysis for predicting golf ball launch conditions, e.g., velocity, launch angle and spin rate. By acquiring pre-impact swing conditions, e.g., club speed, rotational rate and ball hit location, along with pertinent club features, e.g., moment of inertia, and ball impact features, e.g., normal and transverse forces as well as time of contact, the method can predict the resulting trajectory and launch conditions of the golf ball. The predicted ball launch conditions and trajectories can also be used to modify one or more properties of the golf ball or golf club. The time of contact measurements can be corrected to account for drag force. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220892 | Golf ball and club handle - A golf ball with an imbedded chip and a golf club grip that is capable of communication with the golf ball in order to provide certain information to the golfer, such as the height of the ball, how hard the ball was hit, the distance traveled, the spin and trajectory, and the angle it was hit at, along with other factors | 2008-09-11 |
20080220893 | GOLF CLUB HEAD WITH HIGH MOMENT OF INERTIA - A golf club head having a high moment of inertia is disclosed herein. The golf club head preferably has a volume ranging from 450 cubic centimeters to 475 cubic centimeters, a mass ranging from 180 grams to 225 grams, and a length ranging from 4.0 inches to 5.0 inches. The golf club head preferably has a moment of inertia, Iyy, about the center of gravity of the golf club head ranging from 2000 grams-centimeters squared to 4000 grams-centimeters squared. Preferably, the first 10% of the golf club head has at least 40% of the mass of the golf club head. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220894 | GOLF CLUB HEAD - This invention provides a hollow metal golf club head including at least a face portion, sole portion, side portion, and crown portion. This golf club head includes a head main body having an opening in the face portion, and a face plate engaged and welded with the opening. The head main body comprises a protruding portion which forms a part of the face portion and protrudes upward from a central portion, in a toe-and-heel direction, of a corner portion between the face portion and the sole portion in the golf club head. The face plate comprises s a recessed portion which extends upward from the lower edge of the face plate and engages with the protruding portion. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220895 | GOLF CLUB HEAD WITH HIGH MOMENT OF INERTIA - A golf club head having a high moment of inertia is disclosed herein. The golf club head preferably has a volume ranging from 450 cubic centimeters to 475 cubic centimeters, a mass ranging from 180 grams to 225 grams, and a length ranging from 4.0 inches to 5.0 inches. The golf club head preferably has a moment of inertia, Iyy, about the center of gravity of the golf club head ranging from 2000 grams-centimeters squared to 4000 grams-centimeters squared. Preferably, the first 20% of the golf club head has at least 60% of the mass of the golf club head. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220896 | GOLF CLUB HEAD WITH HIGH MOMENT OF INERTIA - A golf club head having a high moment of inertia is disclosed herein. The golf club head preferably has a volume ranging from 450 cubic centimeters to 475 cubic centimeters, a mass ranging from 180 grams to 225 grams, and a length ranging from 4.0 inches to 5.0 inches. The golf club head preferably has a moment of inertia, Iyy, about the center of gravity of the golf club head ranging from 2000 grams-centimeters squared to 4000 grams-centimeters squared. Preferably, a middle section of the golf club head has less than 20% of the mass of the golf club head. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220897 | GOLF CLUB HEAD WITH HIGH MOMENT OF INERTIA - A golf club head having a high moment of inertia is disclosed herein. The golf club head preferably has a volume ranging from 450 cubic centimeters to 475 cubic centimeters, a mass ranging from 180 grams to 225 grams, and a length ranging from 4.0 inches to 5.0 inches. The golf club head preferably has a moment of inertia, Iyy, about the center of gravity of the golf club head greater than 4000 grams-centimeters squared. Preferably, the golf club includes a metal face component, a non-metal aft-body and a weight member attached to an inlaid portion of the non-metal aft-body. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220898 | GOLF CLUB HEAD WITH HIGH MOMENT OF INERTIA - A golf club head having a high moment of inertia is disclosed herein. The golf club head preferably has a volume ranging from 450 cubic centimeters to 475 cubic centimeters, a mass ranging from 180 grams to 225 grams, and a length ranging from 4.0 inches to 5.0 inches. The golf club head preferably has a moment of inertia, Iyy, about the center of gravity of the golf club head greater than 4000 grams-centimeters squared. Preferably, the golf club includes a metal face component, a non-metal aft-body and a weight member attached to an inlaid portion of the non-metal aft-body. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220899 | MULTI-LAYER GOLF BALL HAVING IMPROVED INTER-LAYER ADHESION VIA INDUCTION HEATING - This invention is directed to golf balls having at least two adjacent layers, wherein a coating layer of metal materials is on at least one surface of the adjacent layers. The adhesion of the adjacent layer is improved by induction heating. The invention also is directed to ink solution for golf equipment comprising metal materials that can improve adhesion of the ink to the golf equipment. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220900 | GOLF BALL - The invention provides a golf ball composed of a core, an intermediate layer which encases the core, and a cover which encases the intermediate layer. The core has a diameter of 36 to 40 mm and a deflection of 3.5 to 4.2 mm, and the intermediate layer has a Shore D hardness of 45 to 55 and a thickness of 0.6 to 1.6 mm. The cover has a Shore D hardness of 63 to 66 and a thickness of 0.6 to 1.6. The ball as a whole has a deflection of 2.6 to 3.5 mm, and the intermediate layer and cover have a combined thickness of 1.8 to 2.8 mm. The ball has a hardness design such that the Shore D hardnesses of the ball components satisfy the relationship | 2008-09-11 |
20080220901 | Golf ball - The invention provides a golf ball composed of a core, a cover, and an intermediate layer between the core and the cover, which ball has a surface with a plurality of non-circular dimples thereon. The cover is harder than the intermediate layer. The ball surface has land areas with intervals therebetween of from 0.05 to 1.0 mm, the lands having outer surfaces that define an outermost peripheral face of the ball. The non-circular dimples have non-circular inside corners that are curved. The ball satisfies conditions (I) to (IV) below: | 2008-09-11 |
20080220902 | Golf Balls Having a Low Modulus HNP Layer and a High Modulus HNP Layer - The present invention is directed to golf balls comprising a fluid-filled center surrounded by an outer core, wherein the outer core comprises a layer formed from a low modulus HNP composition and a layer formed from a high modulus HNP composition. The present invention is not limited by which outer core layer is formed from the low modulus HNP composition and which layer is formed from the high modulus HNP composition, so long as both layers are present in the outer core of the golf ball. Low modulus HNP compositions of the present invention comprise a highly neutralized acid copolymer having a modulus of from 1,000 psi to 50,000 psi. High modulus HNP compositions of the present invention comprise a highly neutralized acid copolymer having a modulus of from 25,000 psi to 150,000 psi. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220903 | Golf Balls Having Two or More Core Layers Formed From HNP Compositions - The present invention is directed to golf balls comprising a fluid-filled center surrounded by an outer core, wherein the outer core comprises a layer formed from a relatively soft HNP composition and a layer formed from a relatively hard HNP composition. The present invention is not limited by which outer core layer is formed from the relatively soft HNP composition and which layer is formed from the relatively hard HNP composition, so long as both layers are present in the outer core of the golf ball. Relatively soft HNP compositions of the present invention have a Shore D hardness of 55 or less and comprise a highly neutralized acid copolymer. Relatively hard HNP compositions of the present invention have a Shore D hardness of 45 or greater and comprise a highly neutralized acid copolymer. The material hardness of the relatively soft HNP composition is less than the material hardness of the relatively hard HNP composition. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220904 | Golf Balls Having at Least Two Core Layers Formed From HNP Compositions - The present invention is directed to golf balls consisting of a multi-layer core and a cover. The multi-layer core consists of a center and an outer core layer that are both soft relative to a hard intermediate core layer. The outer core layer is preferably thin relative to the center and the outer core layer. The multi-layer core includes at least one layer formed from a relatively soft HNP composition and at least one layer formed from a relatively hard HNP composition. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220905 | GOLF BALLS HAVING A LOW MODULUS HNP LAYER AND A HIGH MODULUS HNP LAYER - The present invention is directed to golf balls consisting of a dual-layer core and a cover. The core consists of a layer formed from a low modulus HNP composition and a layer formed from a high modulus HNP composition. The low modulus HNP composition has a material hardness of 55 Shore D or less and comprises a highly neutralized ethylene/(meth)acrylic acid/alkyl(meth)acrylate copolymer. The high modulus HNP composition has a material hardness of 45 Shore D or greater and comprises a highly neutralized ethylene/(meth)acrylic acid copolymer. The cover preferably consists of a single cover layer. | 2008-09-11 |
20080220906 | Golf Balls Having at Least Two Core Layers Formed From HNP Compositions - The present invention is directed to golf balls consisting of a multi-layer core and a cover. The multi-layer core consists of a small, hard center enclosed by a soft intermediate core layer and an outer core layer. The multi-layer core includes at least one layer formed from a relatively soft HNP composition and at least one layer formed from a relatively hard HNP composition. | 2008-09-11 |