US 11338189

US Patent 11,338,189: Method of and system for conducting multiple contests of skill with a single performance

Title: Method of and system for conducting multiple contests of skill with a single performance

Assignee: Winview IP Holdings LLC (Current Assignee) (Previously Winview Inc)

Inventor: David B. Lockton

Filing Date: September 17, 2020

Issue Date: May 24, 2022

Abstract:
The patent describes a method and system for conducting multiple competitions of skill based on a single user performance. It enables users to participate in various competitions simultaneously by making the same selections or answering the same questions related to a single event. Users are informed about available competitions via email, text message, or website login, and they select which groups to join. Their selections are then sent to a network where results are tabulated and sent back to their devices, separated for each competition group. This allows users to track their standing in each competition and potentially experience varying levels of success from a single performance.

Plain-Language Overview of Independent Claims:

Independent Claim 1 (Server Device):
This claim describes a server device designed to manage multiple simultaneous contests of skill or chance for various events. The server includes a storage mechanism and an application. This application allows many users to compete in real-time. It receives each user's input, which includes their selections for the event and specifies which contests these selections apply to. These selections are then applied separately and simultaneously to all chosen contests. The application also stores the results and standings for each contest, ensuring that standings are distinct for each competition. Finally, it transmits these multiple and separate real-time standings back to each user's client device. The contests can be either single-entry or multiple-entry.

Independent Claim 14 (Device for Participating):
This claim outlines a device (e.g., a mobile phone or computer) that allows a user to participate in multiple real-time contests of skill or chance related to one or more events. The device has a communications module to connect to a server and an application. This application uses the communications module to communicate with the server, enabling the user to compete simultaneously. The application is designed to receive user input for joining specific real-time contests and then to accept a single set of event selections for the specified events. This single set of selections is then used to enable real-time, simultaneous, and separate participation in all selected contests. Like the server claim, these contests can be single-entry or multiple-entry.

Independent Claim 24 (Method Programmed in a Memory of a Device):
This claim describes a method executed by a device's memory for managing multiple contests. It involves generating a list of available skill or chance contests and presenting this list to the user, where these contests correspond to one or more events. The method then receives user input, including event selections related to the events and indicating which contests these selections should apply to. These event selections are then applied separately to each chosen contest, allowing for simultaneous and real-time participation. The method also involves storing results and standings based on these selections, with standings being separated for each contest. Finally, the standings are transmitted to the device. These contests can be single-entry or multiple-entry.

Litigation & Legal Status:

As of April 26, 2026, US Patent 11,338,189 is active.

The patent family is involved in litigation, including:

• A PTAB case, IPR2026-00175, has been filed and is currently pending.
• Two US cases have been filed in the New Jersey District Court (Case 3:25-cv-01146 and Case 3:25-cv-01143).
• General litigation for the patent family has been filed globally, as tracked by Darts-ip.

The anticipated expiration date for this patent is January 10, 2027.