Patent attributes
A card handling apparatus and method of manufacture and assembly is used for creating pre-formed hands for use in casino poker games whereupon the apparatus may be programmed to accommodate a number of different game variations, and a differing number of players, is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an unshuffled card input portal, a shuffled card discharge portal and an elevator having a plurality of card storage nests whose operation utilizes inertial forces. The exploitation of inertial forces allows the apparatus to be operated without the need for the motorized card pusher mechanisms which are prevalent in the prior art, thus creating a card handling apparatus that is more compact and requires less manufacturing cost. In comparison to prior art hand-forming shufflers which typically utilize five or six motors, the preferred embodiment utilizes just two motors. A method of rotating the axis of individual playing cards during nest insertion is also taught.
