JP2002273014A - Card processor - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve convenience for players as well as service efficiency of devices by eliminating problems in aspects of space and cost and about wiring layout, or the like. SOLUTION: One unit of a card processor is loaded with functions of issuing, renewing and settling cards.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a card processing device for issuing, paying out, paying, and updating a prepaid card, a membership card, and the like in a game arcade where a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine or a slot machine is installed.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, game machines such as a pachinko machine and a slot machine for playing a game by putting game media such as pachinko balls and medals into the game machine are known. In a game arcade where these gaming machines are arranged, various cards such as prepaid cards and membership cards are often used these days.

[0003] A publicly known prepaid card for pachinko is issued by inserting money into a card issuing machine in a game arcade and performing a predetermined card issuing operation.
It has frequencies for various amounts of money such as yen and 5000 yen. An identification code (card ID) set for each card is recorded on the prepaid card, and the remaining number and the like are managed using this identification code. In many cases, the prepaid card is made of paper having magnetism, and the cost can be reduced.

[0004] A membership card is issued to a player who has registered as a member, and various services which cannot be received by non-members are set for the member.
It is possible to enclose fixed customers. The membership card is
Since it is assumed that the magnetic card is used repeatedly over a long period of time, a magnetic card made of plastic or the like having relatively high durability is often used. An identification code (member ID) set for each member is recorded on the member card, and the management device manages member information such as the remaining number using the member ID.

In a game arcade system employing such a prepaid card or a membership card, a card issuing machine, a card renewal machine, and a card settlement machine are provided for issuing, updating, and adjusting cards. Many.

[0006] The card issuing machine has a function of issuing a prepaid card, a function of registering a number corresponding to a deposit amount in a member card, and the like. The card renewal machine has a function of renewing a prepaid card that cannot be used as it is after a predetermined period has elapsed from the issuance date to a playable card again. The card settlement machine has a function to settle a prepaid card or a membership card having a residual number into money.

Conventionally, such a card issuing machine, a card renewal machine, and a card settlement machine have been installed in a game arcade as separate housings.

[0008]

The card issuing machine, the card renewal machine, and the card settlement machine as such separate housings are often located far from each other even in the hall, and there is a possibility that the card may be used erroneously. Yes, and inconvenience users. Also, the card user needs to understand required operations for each device, which is complicated.

Also, it is necessary to purchase each device on the hall side, and it is necessary to secure a space for the installation location in consideration of the user's convenience, which is problematic in terms of cost and space.

[0010] For the purpose of fraud prevention, a system is employed in which some identification code is recorded on a card without recording a value plant, and a management device records and manages the value in association with the identification code. In such a system,
Communication with the management device is required for any of the issuance, settlement, and update processing, and if each device is installed individually,
There has been a problem that the routing of the wiring is complicated and a communication load is increased.

Immediately after opening, the issuing machine is frequently used.
Other devices (especially checkout machines) are rarely used. On the other hand, when the store is closed, even if the settlement machine is used, the issuing machine is hardly used. Originally, issuance machines were often used, but checkout and renewal machines had low cheeks and were often idle when installed individually. As described above, although the use frequency and the time period during which the use frequency is high differ depending on each device, if these devices are separately installed, the use efficiency of the devices deteriorates.

[0012] The present invention has been made in view of the above,
By realizing at least two of card issuance, settlement, and renewal processing with one device, it solves problems such as space, cost, wiring, etc., improves convenience for players, and uses equipment. It is an object of the present invention to provide a card processing device that improves efficiency.

[0013]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, a predetermined card process is executed for an inserted card by communicating with a management device that stores value data corresponding to identification data of each card. In a card processing device composed of a single casing, a card reading means for reading the recording data of the card, a money processing means having a function of discriminating a deposited amount and dispensing money, and corresponding to a deposit operation Card issuing control means for executing processing for transmitting the value data of the issued card together with the identification data of the card to the management device, and the expiration date of the card read by the card reading means. Performs a card update process to issue a new card that can be used in accordance with the value of the newly issued card. Characterized in that it comprises a card update control means for executing a process of transmitting to said management apparatus together with.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, a single casing for executing a predetermined card process for an inserted card by communicating with a management device that stores value data corresponding to identification data of each card. In a card processing device composed of a body, card reading means for reading the recording data of the card, money processing means having a function of paying out money,
Card payment control means for performing card payment processing for paying out money using the money processing means in accordance with the value data of the card read by the card reading means, and executing processing for transmitting payment information to the management device, A card renewal process for issuing a new card that can be used according to the expiration date of the card read by the card reading unit is performed, and value data of the newly issued card is transmitted to the management device together with the identification data of the card. Card update control means for executing processing.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, a single casing for executing a predetermined card process for an inserted card by communicating with a management device that stores value data corresponding to identification data of each card. In a card processing device composed of a body, a card reading means for reading the recording data of the card, a money processing means having a function of discriminating a deposit amount and dispensing money, and issuing a card in response to a deposit operation Card issuing control means for performing processing and transmitting the issued card value data to the management device together with the identification data of the card; and the money processing in accordance with the card value data read by the card reading means. Card settlement control means for performing card settlement processing for paying out money by using means, and executing processing for transmitting settlement information to the management device Characterized in that it comprises a.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, a single casing for executing a predetermined card process for an inserted card by communicating with a management device that stores value data corresponding to identification data of each card. In a card processing device composed of a body, card reading means for reading recorded data of the card, money processing means having a function of discriminating a deposit amount and dispensing money, and issuing a card in response to a deposit operation Card issuing control means for performing processing and transmitting the issued card value data to the management device together with the identification data of the card; and the money processing in accordance with the card value data read by the card reading means. Perform a card settlement process to pay out money using means,
A card settlement control unit for executing a process of transmitting settlement information to the management device; and a card update process for issuing a new card that can be used in accordance with the expiration date of the card read by the card reading unit. Card update control means for executing a process of transmitting the issued card value data together with the identification data of the card to the management device.

[0017]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present embodiment, a case where the present invention is mainly applied to a pachinko game will be described.

First, the meanings of the main terms used in the present embodiment will be defined. "Card" used in the present embodiment
Is a recording medium on which identification data for searching for value data recorded in a place other than the card is recorded.

A general card has two types: one that records the value data itself indicating the amount of money or the value corresponding to the amount of money, and the other that records identification data for searching for the value data recorded in a place other than the card. However, here, the latter card is used.

To explain this point, in the former card, the amount or the number corresponding to the amount is recorded on the card as value data, and the remaining amount or the remaining number of the value data is rewritten each time the card is used. For example, a telephone card or the like can be used.

However, if such a card is used for a pachinko game or the like, there is a possibility that fraudulent acts such as falsification of magnetic data recorded on the card may occur. For this reason, in the present embodiment, identification data (eg, account number, customer number, ID) used as a search key when searching for value data or the like registered (recorded) or stored in a place different from the card. It is assumed that a card on which is recorded.

The "valuable medium" used in the present embodiment
The term refers to something that has its own value, such as a coin or a bill, a debit card, or the like. Also,
The “frequency” used in the present embodiment is a processing unit for renting out game media, and is associated with the number and amount of game media at a fixed rate. For example, if the frequency is 1
A predetermined number of balls are lent for 100 yen, corresponding to 00 yen.

First, the overall configuration of a game arcade system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 shows an overall configuration of a system in a pachinko hall. In this game arcade system, a plurality of gaming machines 10 are arranged for each group called "island". Each island is managed by the island controller 100. Further, each gaming machine 10 is provided with an inter-card processing unit 30 for renting a pachinko ball as a game medium.

The inter-stand card processing unit 30 includes the gaming machine 1
The pachinko balls are lent out in cooperation with a ball throwing-out mechanism provided in the gaming machine 10 between the game machines 10 and the gaming machine 10 (between tables). Inter-card processing unit 30
The front panel has a bill insertion slot, a coin insertion slot, a card insertion slot, an amount display section, and the like. The gaming machine 10 has a frequency display section, a lending button, and the like.

The player inserts a card such as a prepaid card or a membership card (and, in some cases, cash) into the inter-card processing unit 30 in advance, and if necessary, lends a unit (one lending operation). The number of times it is lent). When the player operates the lending button, the ball dispensing mechanism is activated, and pachinko balls for the lending unit are dispensed to the upper plate of the gaming machine 10. This expenditure is settled by subtracting from the frequency registered in advance corresponding to the identification data of the card.

When money is directly inserted in a state where a prepaid card or a member card is loaded in the inter-card processing unit 30, it is possible to accept the money and add value to the prepaid card or the member card. It is. The player plays a game in the gaming machine 10 using the ball thus lent.

At the end of the island, an island-side safe (not shown) is installed, and cash inserted into the inter-card processing unit 30 is used to prevent the player from seeing the cash. Is collected by a transport mechanism (not shown) installed in the island end safe. In addition, a card processor 200 for managing cards is provided on each island. Each of the card processors 200 has a card issuing function, a card settlement function, and a card updating function. The card processor 200 will be described later in detail.

The terminal controller 120 as a management device manages various information including frequency information of each card. When a prepaid card or a membership card is inserted into the inter-card processing unit 30, the terminal controller 120 stores the information in the card. The identification data is transferred to the terminal controller 120, and the value data (remaining frequency) corresponding to the identification data is returned to the inter-card processing unit 30 from the terminal controller 120.

First, the types of cards used in this system will be described. In this system, three types of prepaid card P, membership card K, and service card S are mainly used.
Different types of magnetic recording cards are used.

(Prepaid Card) Prepaid Card P
Is issued if money is inserted into the card processor 200 and a predetermined issuing process is performed. Types of data to be magnetically recorded include an issuer code, a card ID as identification data,
There are an issue date, an issue amount, and a card type (a distinction between a prepaid card and a service card). Further, information visually printed on the prepaid card P includes the name of the issuing store, card ID (issuing machine number + serial number), issuance date, expiration date, issuance amount, card type (prepared card and service card, etc.). Distinction). Prepaid card P
Is generated from, for example, magnetic roll paper loaded in the card processor 200.

(Member Card) The member card K is issued by performing a member registration process. A player who wishes to register as a member fills in an application form and passes it to a clerk in charge. The clerk registers predetermined items in the terminal controller 120, registers the user as a member, and creates a table in the terminal controller 120. Then, the member card is handed to the player (member). The member card is formed of plastic (JIS2) or the like, and is thicker than the prepaid card.

The types of data magnetically recorded on the member card K include an issuing store code, a member ID as identification data,
There is a final store code and the like, and the information embossed and printed on the member card K includes the name of the issuing store, a member code, a sales company code, a store code, and the like.

For (service card) members, service points are stored and recorded in the member management table 1210 of the terminal controller 120 in accordance with predetermined conditions (such as visiting a store, use, and birthday). When the service point reaches a predetermined value, a service card S (a card such as a free prepaid card, the shape and the position of a magnetic stripe are the same as the prepaid card) is obtained. Alternatively, when the service point reaches a predetermined value, the member can receive the service card by inserting the member card into the card processing machine 200.

Next, the terminal controller 120 will be described. The terminal controller 120 is a controller for controlling and controlling the entire game system. Specifically, as shown in FIG.
22, a storage device 123 such as a hard disk, an input / output device 124 such as a mouse and a keyboard, a display device 125 such as a CRT, and a communication interface unit 126. The CPU 121 realizes various functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the memory 122. For example, it has a function of managing the remaining frequency of each player. In addition, a function of displaying a predetermined setting screen on the display screen of the display device 125 and accepting the setting of the automatic lending frequency on the setting screen is also provided. Programs and data necessary to realize these functions are stored in the memory 122 or the storage device 123, and the CPU 121 reads or updates them as necessary. The memory 122 includes a member management table 121
0 and a prepaid card management table 1220.

In the member management table 1210, various managements such as the number of stored coins, the remaining number, the number of visits, the number of visits, the enrollment date and time, the address, the name, the telephone number, the additional deposit amount, the debit deposit, etc. Data is stored. The prepaid card management table 1220 stores, for each card ID, various management data such as an issue date and time, an issue amount, a remaining number, a reissue number, an expiration date, and an additional deposit amount.

The terminal controller 120 uses the frequency management information stored in the management tables 1210 and 1220 to manage the remaining frequency corresponding to the identification data recorded on each card. The content of the frequency management information is appropriately updated during the game by the player, at the end of the game, at the time of issuing the card, at the time of updating the card, at the time of adjusting the card, and the like.

Note that the memory 122 also includes an automatic lending management table (not shown) in which the automatic lending frequency for each of the gaming machines 10 is registered. In this table, the machine number of each gaming machine 10, the automatic lending frequency of the gaming machine 10 specified by the machine number, the limit frequency, and the like are managed in association with each other. In addition, in order to enable batch setting based on various classification standards, information for specifying the gaming machine 10 (island number, model of the gaming machine 10) and the like can be registered.

(Embodiment 1) Next, the card processor 2
The first embodiment for 00 will be described in detail. Embodiment 1
, One card processor 200 configured as one housing is provided with three functions of card issue, card settlement, and card update.

FIG. 3 shows a front part of the card processor 200. The card processing machine 200 has a box-shaped main body (housing).
The main body 201 is provided with a door body 202 which can be opened with respect to the main body 201 on the front surface. The door 202 can be locked by a lock mechanism 218.

On the front face of the door 202, a prepaid card insertion / issuing opening 203 for inserting and issuing (returning) the prepaid card P (or service card S);
A member card insertion / issuing port 204 for inserting and issuing (returning) a member card K, a liquid crystal display unit 205 capable of displaying various information, and a door mechanism 202 are provided so as to be openable and closable. A possible auxiliary door 206;
A handy terminal 208 is provided in the auxiliary door 206 and connected to the internal electric circuit by a cord.

Further, on the front surface of the door 202, an update button 209 for selecting a card update process, a settlement button 210 for selecting a card settlement process, and a plurality of buttons for selecting an amount of a card to be purchased. (For example, 1000
Yen, 2,000 yen, 3,000 yen, 5,000 yen, 10,000
A button 211 for selecting the amount of money (yen) and a cancel button 212 for canceling various card processes in the middle are provided. By inputting the cancel button 212, the amount can be changed, the processing can be changed, and the like.

Further, a bill insertion / payout port 215 for inserting and returning bills, a coin insertion slot 216 for inserting coins, and a coin payout port for returning coins are provided on the front surface of the door 202. 217 are provided.

FIG. 4 shows the arrangement of the components incorporated in the main body 201 of the card processor 200, and FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the connections of these components. 4 and 5, reference numeral 220 denotes a prepaid card processing device, 2
21 is a member card processing device, 222 is a bill processing device, 2
23 is a coin processing device, 224 is a journal printer, 2
25 is a control board, and 226 is a power supply device.

The prepaid card processing device 220 mainly performs issuance of a prepaid card and read / write processing.
The prepaid card processing device 220 is pre-loaded with magnetic roll paper that is the basis of a prepaid card (paper card). When issuing a card, the required issue data (store code, issue date and time, issuing machine number, identification code for each card, etc.) is magnetically recorded and printed on the fed roll paper, and the card is cut and further cut. Issue Further, the prepaid card processing device 220 performs an operation of reading magnetic recording data of the prepaid card inserted from the prepaid card insertion / issuing port 203 and, if necessary, inserts the inserted prepaid card into the prepaid card inserting / issuing port 203. The operation to return to is also performed.

FIG. 6 shows a prepaid card processing device 220.
1 shows a card transport system. In FIG. 6, a card read / write unit 240 is capable of reading magnetic recording data of a card inserted from a prepaid card insertion / issuing port 203 and magnetically recording required recording data on a prepaid card to be issued. And a built-in magnetic head (not shown). In FIG. 6, 241 is a roll paper feed motor, 242 is a paper feed roller, 243 is a print motor, 244 is a roll paper feed roller, 245 is a printing unit, 246 is a cutter motor, 247
Is a cutting unit, 248 is a transport motor, 249 is a paper feed roller, 250 is a card collection box, and 251 is a one-way lever.

In FIG. 6, when a prepaid card is issued, the one-way lever 251 is switched to one position (broken line position). At this time, the cut portion 24
The prepaid card conveyed from the side 7 is the paper feed roller 2
49, the card read / write unit 2
It is carried into 40. Magnetic roll paper (not shown) is fed out by a roll paper feed motor 241,
Reaches 5. In the printing unit 245, predetermined visible printing is performed on the magnetic roll paper. The roll paper on which the visual information is printed is further fed out and cut by the cut unit 247. The cut prepaid card is fed by a paper feed roller 249 and carried into the card reading / writing unit 240, where necessary magnetic recording data (such as a card ID) is recorded, and then the prepaid card is inserted / removed.
It is issued through the issuing port 203.

At the time of settlement processing, the one-way lever 251 is switched to the other position (solid line position). Thus, the card transport path is connected to the card collection box 250. The prepaid card inserted through the prepaid card insertion / issuing port 203 at the time of settlement processing or the like is conveyed to the card reading / writing unit 240,
Here, the magnetic recording data is read. When collecting the prepaid card that has been read, the prepaid card is further transported inside the apparatus by the paper feed roller 249 and collected in the card collection box 250.

Next, the member card processing device 221 performs an operation of reading magnetic data (member information such as a member number) of the member card inserted into the member card insertion / issuing port 204. Therefore, similarly to the prepaid card processing device 220, the member card processing device 221 also has a built-in magnetic head. After the card processing is performed, the member card is returned through the member card insertion / issuing port 204.

In this card processor 200, when a card is inserted into one of the prepaid card insertion / issuance slot 203 and the member card insertion / issuance slot 204, the other card insertion slot is closed. And
Only one of a prepaid card and a membership card can be inserted.

The bill processing device 222 receives and identifies four denomination bills inserted through the bill insertion / payout port 215, and stores normal bills by denomination.
Unrecognizable bills are returned from the bill insertion / payment exit 215. Also, when paying out bills, predetermined bills are fed out from the bill storage unit, accumulated in the holding unit, and inserted / collected together.
Pay out from payout outlet 215.

The coin processing device 223 has a coin slot 216.
Accepts and identifies four denomination coins inserted through
Normal coins are stored by denomination, and unidentifiable coins are returned from the coin payout slot 217. At the time of coin payout, the coin is taken out from the coin storage section and paid out from the coin payout port 217.

The journal printer 224 outputs a journal in which card settlement history, card issuance history, card update history and the like are recorded. The handy terminal 208 is used by a store clerk to easily set various items of the card processing machine 200. The control board (control unit) 227 controls these components, and also has a communication function with the terminal controller 120.

Next, the operation of the card processor 200 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. FIG.
In this figure, issuance, update, and settlement processing for a prepaid card is mainly shown, and processing for a membership card and a service card is omitted.

Prior to operating the card processor 200,
The clerk has a bill processing device 222 and a coin processing device 223.
Is loaded with money (for fishing). Also, the card processing machine 200
Then, a magnetic roll paper for a card is loaded.

In the card processor 200, a screen as shown in FIG. 8 is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 205 during standby. In other words, the content of the display is, "If you want to issue a prepaid card, please press the select button after depositing. If you want to update the card, press the update key and then insert the card. Press it before inserting the card. "

During standby, the control unit 22 of the card processor 200
5 is whether the update button 209 has been pressed (step S
300), whether the settlement button 210 has been entered (step 301), or whether there has been a deposit (step S302).

(Prepaid Card Issuing Process) In this state, it is assumed that money is inserted from the bill insertion slot / payout port 215 or the coin insertion slot 216. When the money is inserted, the money accepted by the bill processing device 222 or the coin processing device 223 is identified, the received money amount is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 205, and the received money amount is equal to or less than the received money amount among the five money amount selection buttons 211. Select button is enabled (light emission, operable)
Is done. Unrecognizable money is returned from the bill insertion slot / payout port 215 or the coin payout port 217. In this state, when the cancel button 212 is pressed, the bill processing device 2
The input money (or the same amount of money) is returned from the bill insertion slot / payout port 215 or the coin payout port 217 by the coin processing device 22 or the coin processing device 223.

When any of the activated selection buttons 211 is pressed (step S303), a predetermined prepaid card issuance process is executed (step S30).
4). That is, the control unit 225 transmits to the terminal controller 120 the value information corresponding to the pressed selection button 211 and the identification code (card ID) of the issued prepaid card. Terminal controller 12
0, upon receiving such information, stores the information in the prepaid card management table 1220 in association with the card ID,
Issue date and time, issue amount, remaining count, reissue count, expiration date,
Register various management data such as additional deposit amount. Further, the prepaid card processing device 220 creates a prepaid card from magnetic roll paper as described above, and issues the created prepaid card from the prepaid card insertion / issuing slot 203. If there is a change, the required number of coins are paid out from the storage section through the bill insertion / payout port 215 or the coin payout port 217.

(Update processing of prepaid card) When the card processor 200 is in the standby state, the update button 209
Is inserted (step S300), and a prepaid card is inserted from the prepaid card insertion / issuing slot 203 (step S305). Card processing machine 200
When the control unit 225 recognizes this, it reads the magnetic recording data of the prepaid card inserted by the prepaid card processing device 220, transmits the read card ID to the terminal controller 120, and inquires about the expiration date. The terminal controller 120 reads the card I from the prepaid card management table 1220.
The expiration date corresponding to D is read, and the read expiration date is transmitted to the card processor 200.

The card processor 200 determines whether the inserted prepaid card has expired based on the received expiration date data. If it has expired,
Further, it is determined whether it is within the update period. In these determinations, if the expiration date has expired and it is within the renewal period, the renewal card issuance processing is executed (step S3).
06). The renewal card is a newly usable prepaid card and has a new card ID.
In the prepaid card processing device 220, first, the one-way lever 251 of FIG. 6 is switched to the card collection box 250 side, and the inserted expired card is replaced with the card collection box 250.
(Step S307). Next, after the one-way lever 251 is switched to the cut portion 247, a new prepaid card (update card) is created from the magnetic roll paper as described above, and the created update card is inserted into the prepaid card insertion / issuing slot. Issued from 203.

Further, the control unit 225 transmits the card ID of the update card to the terminal controller 120.
Upon receiving this information, the terminal controller 120 adds an invalid flag to the card ID column of the expired card in the prepaid card management table 1220, and associates the issued card with the card ID of the received updated card, and issues an issue date and time, an issue amount, Register various management data such as the remaining number, the number of reissues, the expiration date, and the additional deposit amount (copy the management data of the expired card).

If a card that has not expired or a card that has not been renewed has been inserted,
The inserted card is a prepaid card insertion / issuing slot 20
3 and the reason for the return is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 205.

(Prepaid Card Settlement Processing) In the prepaid card settlement processing, the balance can be settled by inserting the prepaid card issued on the day into the card processor 200.

When the card processor 200 is in a standby state, the settlement button 210 is turned on (step S30).
1) It is further assumed that a prepaid card is inserted from the prepaid card insertion / issuing port 203 (step S30).
8). When recognizing this, the control unit 225 of the card processor 200 reads the magnetic recording data of the prepaid card inserted by the prepaid card processing device 220 and stores the read card ID in the terminal controller 1.
20 and inquires about the amount that can be settled. The terminal controller 120 reads out the payable amount corresponding to the card ID from the prepaid card management table 1220, and transmits the read out payable amount to the card processor 200.

The card processor 200 displays the received receivable amount on the liquid crystal display unit 205, and displays, for example, "Please re-enter the payment button" on the liquid crystal display unit 2.
Displayed at 05. When the user confirms this and enters the checkout button 210, the control unit 225 controls the bill processing device 22
2 and the coin processing device 223 to drive the liquid crystal display unit 2
The money corresponding to the receivable amount displayed in 05 is discharged to the coin payout port 217 or the bill insertion / payout port 215 (step S309). Then, the inserted prepaid card is collected in the card collection box 224 in the same manner as in the above-described card update processing (step S310).

The control unit 225 transmits the adjusted card type, card ID, and the like to the terminal controller 120. Thereby, the terminal controller 12
“0” updates the value (remaining frequency) corresponding to the card ID in the prepaid card management table 1220 to the remaining frequency 0.

Next, a process regarding a membership card, a service card, and the like performed by using the card processing machine 200 will be described.

(Value Assigning Process to Member Card) This value assigning process is included in the card issuing process. When the member card is inserted through the member card insertion / issuing port 204, the member ID magnetically recorded on the member card is read by the member card processing device 221. The control unit 225 transmits the read card ID to the terminal controller 120 and inquires about current value data. The terminal controller 120 reads, from the member management table 1210,
The value data (remaining number) corresponding to the member card ID is read, and the read remaining number is read by the card processor 20.
Send to 0.

The card processor 200 displays the received value data (remaining number or remaining amount) on the liquid crystal display unit 205. When money is inserted from the bill insertion slot / payout port 215 or the coin insertion slot 216, the money accepted by the bill processing device 222 or the coin processing device 223 is identified, and the received amount is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 205, Of the five money amount selection buttons 211, selection buttons that are equal to or less than the received money amount are enabled (light emission and operation are possible). The unidentifiable currency is inserted into the bill insertion slot / payout port 215 or the coin payout port 217.
Will be returned from. In this state, the cancel button 212
Is pressed, the inserted money (or the same amount of money) is returned from the bill insertion slot / payout port 215 or the coin payout port 217 by the bill processing device 222 or the coin processing device 223.

When any one of the activated selection buttons 211 is pressed, a predetermined member card valuation process is executed. That is, the control unit 225 transmits the value information corresponding to the pressed selection button 211 and the card ID of the member card to the terminal controller 120. Upon receiving such information, the terminal controller 120 updates the value data (remaining number) of the card ID in the member management table 1210. In other words, the value of the value added is added to the remaining value before value addition,
The data column of the remaining frequency is updated with this addition result. Also,
The member card processing device 221 returns the inserted member card to the member card insertion / issue port 204. If there is change, the required number of coins are paid out from the storage unit through the bill insertion / payout port 215 or the coin payout port 217. These series of situations are displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 205.

(Service Card Issuing Process) This service card issuing process is included in the card issuing process. When a member comes to the store and uses a membership card, points are added according to the performance, and when the points reach a predetermined value,
A service card is issued. When this service card issuance function is adopted, one of the selection buttons 211 is set as a service card button, or a new service card button is added.

If the member card is a member card insertion / issuing port 20
4, the member ID is magnetically recorded on the member card by the member card processing device 221. The control unit 225 transmits the read card ID to the terminal controller 120 and inquires whether a service card can be issued.

The terminal controller 120 determines the service point of the member by referring to the member management table 1210, and if the service point has reached a predetermined value, transmits the fact to the card processor 200. In the card processor 200, for example, the liquid crystal display unit 205
"Service card can be issued" is displayed, and the service card button is activated (light emission and operation are possible).

When the service card button is turned on,
A service card issuance process similar to the prepaid card issuance process described above is executed. That is, the control unit 225
Is the identification code (card ID) of the service card to be issued
To the terminal controller 120. The terminal controller 120 associates the service card ID with the service card ID in the prepaid card management table 1220,
Various management data such as the issue date and time, issue amount, remaining count, expiration date, and additional deposit amount are registered. In addition, the prepaid card processing device 220 creates a service card from the magnetic roll paper as described above, and issues the created service card from the prepaid card insertion / issuing slot 203.

(Prepaid Card Reissue Process) When the magnetic data of the prepaid card is damaged, the card becomes unusable, and it becomes necessary to reissue a new prepaid card having the same value. Suppose the customer tells the clerk to that effect.

The clerk unlocks the lock 207 of the auxiliary door 206 on the front of the card processor 200, opens the auxiliary door 206,
The handy terminal 208 is taken out from the inside. The clerk uses the print information of the prepaid card whose data was
D and reads the card ID into the handy terminal 208.
Is input, a predetermined operation is performed, and the terminal controller 120 is inquired about the value information of the card ID.

The terminal controller 120 reads the card ID from the prepaid card management table 1220.
Is read, and the read value information is transmitted to the card processor 200.

The card processor 200 displays the received value information on the liquid crystal display unit 205. Ask the customer to confirm this display, and if it is OK, handy terminal 208
To perform a pre-paid card reissuing process. That is, as described above, the prepaid card processing device 220 creates a prepaid card from magnetic roll paper, and issues the created prepaid card from the prepaid card insertion / issuing slot 203. Note that a branch number is given to the identification code (card ID) of the reissued prepaid card, and thereafter, the identification code (technical number) is managed by an identification code with a technical number. The control unit 225 transmits the identification code with the technique number to the terminal controller 120. Upon receiving this information, the terminal controller 120 receives the card ID of the data-paid prepaid card in the prepaid card management table 1220.
Is changed to the reissued identification code with the technology number. During the reissuing process, information on the processing procedure is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 205, and the clerk performs the process while viewing the information.

When the series of processing is completed, the clerk returns the handy terminal 208 to the inside of the auxiliary door 206, closes the auxiliary door 206, and locks the lock 207.

(Membership Card Settlement Process) The membership card settlement process is included in the card settlement process. In this member card settlement process, the balance paid for the day can be settled by inserting the member card deposited on the day into the card processor 200.

It is assumed that the payment button 210 is turned on when the card processor 200 is in the standby state, and that a member card is inserted from the member card insertion / issuing port 204.
When recognizing this, the control unit 225 of the card processor 200 reads the magnetic recording data of the inserted prepaid card by the member card processing device 221, transmits the read card ID to the terminal controller 120, and sets the receivable amount. Inquire. The terminal controller 120 reads out the payable amount corresponding to the member ID from the member management table 1210, and transmits the read payable amount to the card processor 200.

The card processor 200 displays the received receivable amount on the liquid crystal display unit 205 and displays, for example, “Please re-enter the payment button” on the liquid crystal display unit 2.
Displayed at 05. When the user confirms this and enters the checkout button 210, the control unit 225 controls the bill processing device 22
2 and the coin processing device 223 to drive the liquid crystal display unit 2
The money corresponding to the receivable amount displayed in 05 is discharged to the coin payout port 217 or the bill insertion / payout port 215.
Then, the inserted member card is returned to the member card insertion / issue port 204.

The control unit 225 transmits the adjusted card type, card ID, and the like to the terminal controller 120. Thereby, the terminal controller 12
0 is the card I in the member management table 1210
Update the valuable value (remaining frequency) corresponding to D.

(Other Maintenance Processes) Various maintenance processes such as changing the setting of the selection button 211 and checking the sales situation can be performed by operating the handy terminal 208. To print out the sales situation and the like, the door 202 is further opened with the handy terminal 208 taken out, and the printout is performed using the journal printer 224.

As described above, in this embodiment, the issuance, update, and settlement processing of the prepaid card, the membership card, and the service card can be performed by a single card processing device, so that space, cost, and wiring can be improved. Problems such as routing are eliminated. In addition, the convenience of the player is improved, and the use efficiency of the device is also improved. In addition, it is possible to reduce the payment reserve and reduce the communication load.

(Embodiment 2) Next, FIG. 9 and FIG.
Embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
In the second embodiment, one card processor 200 has card issuing and card updating functions. In this case, since the card settlement is not performed, the settlement button 210
Components related only to the card settlement process, such as, for example, are omitted from the configuration of the first embodiment.

The operation of the card processor 200 will be briefly described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the card processor 200, a screen as shown in FIG. 10 is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 205 during standby.

That is, the displayed content is "If you want to issue a prepaid card, press the select button after depositing. If you want to update the card, press the update key and then insert the card."

During standby, the control unit 22 of the card processor 200
5 is whether the update button 209 has been pressed (step S
400) or whether there was a deposit (step S4)
01).

In this state, the money is inserted into the bill insertion slot / payout port 2
15 or coin insertion slot 216 (step S
401) When any one of the five price selection buttons 211 is entered (step S402), a prepaid card issuance process is performed in the same manner as described above (step S403).

When the card processor 200 is in the standby state, the update button 209 is turned on (step S40).
0), and when the prepaid card is further inserted from the prepaid card insertion / issuing slot 203 (step S40)
5) In the same manner as described above, the prepaid card updating process is performed (steps S406 and S407). That is,
The inserted expired prepaid card is collected and a new usable renewal card is issued.

Also in the second embodiment, other processes related to the above-mentioned card issuance and renewal (member card valuation process, service card issuance process, prepaid card reissue process, etc.) are executed.

(Third Embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the third embodiment, one card processor 20
0 has a card update and card settlement function.
In this case, no card is issued, so select button 2
Components related only to the card issuing process such as 11 are omitted from the configuration of the first embodiment.

The outline of the operation of the card processor 200 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the card processor 200, a screen as shown in FIG. 12 is displayed on the liquid crystal display unit 205 during standby.

That is, the display content is "If you want to update the card, press the update key and then insert the card. If you want to settle the card, press the adjustment key and then insert the card." .

During standby, the control unit 22 of the card processor 200
5 is whether the update button 209 has been pressed (step S
500) or whether the settlement button 210 has been pressed (step S505).

In this state, when the update button 209 is pressed (step S500), and the prepaid card is further inserted from the prepaid card insertion / issuing slot 203 (step S501), the prepaid card updating process is performed in the same manner as described above. (Steps S502 and S50)
3). That is, the inserted prepaid card whose expiration date has expired is collected, and a new usable update card is issued.

When the card processor 200 is in the standby state, the settlement button 210 is entered (step S50).
5) When the prepaid card is further inserted from the prepaid card insertion / issuing slot 203 (step S50).
6) In the same manner as described above, the payment processing of the prepaid card is performed (steps S507 and S508). That is,
Money corresponding to the remaining amount of the prepaid card is ejected from the coin payout port 217 or the bill insertion / payout port 215, and the inserted prepaid card is inserted into the card collection box 250.
Will be collected.

Also in the third embodiment, other processes related to the above-described card update and settlement (membership card settlement process, etc.) are executed.

(Embodiment 4) In Embodiment 4, one card processor 200 has two functions of a card issuing function and a card settlement function. As described above, the controller 225 of the card processor 200 determines whether the settlement button 210 has been entered or not during the standby.

In this state, the money is inserted into the bill insertion slot / payout port 2
15 or coin insertion slot 216, and when any one of the five money amount selection buttons 211 is inserted, a prepaid card issuance process is performed in the same manner as described above.

During standby, the settlement button 210 is entered,
Further, when the prepaid card is inserted from the prepaid card insertion / issuing slot 203, the payment processing of the prepaid card is performed in the same manner as described above. That is, the money corresponding to the remaining number of the prepaid card is transferred to the coin payout exit 217.
Alternatively, the prepaid card that has been thrown out from the bill insertion / payment exit 215 and inserted is collected in the card collection box 250.

Also in the fourth embodiment, other processes related to the above-mentioned card issuance and settlement (member card valuation process, service card issuance process, prepaid card reissue process, member card settlement process, etc.) ) Is executed.

(Other Modifications) In the above embodiment, the cards that can be inserted into the card processor 200 are:
Although the magnetic recording type prepaid card and the membership card are used, an IC type membership card may be adopted. Since the IC card has a large amount of stored data, the membership card can be shared with various cards other than the game arcade, such as credit cards and debit cards.

In the above-described embodiment, the card insertion ports for the prepaid card and the member card are separated, and another card transport mechanism and a card reader are used for the prepaid card and the member card. A common card insertion slot, card transport mechanism, and card reader may be used for the prepaid card and the magnetic recording type membership card.

In the above embodiment, the card processor 2
00 only accepts cash deposits,
Payment by debit card may be accepted. Further, a replay card issued in response to the savings may be made available to the card processor 200.

In the above embodiment, the prepaid card insertion / issuing port 203 and the member card insertion / issuing port 2
When a card is inserted into one of the 04, the card cannot be inserted into the other, but the membership card and the prepaid card can be inserted at the same time so that the total remaining amount of these cards can be settled. It is also possible. Furthermore, it is also possible to make it possible to continuously insert a plurality of prepaid cards and to settle the total amount of the plurality of prepaid cards. When such a plurality of cards can be inserted, a process of adding fractions at the time of settlement can be performed.

In the above-described embodiment, both the prepaid card and the member card are settled for the total amount of the remaining amount. However, the user can specify an arbitrary settling amount from the settable amount and settle the specified amount. It may be. In addition, as a recordable recording medium, a token or a coin-shaped recording medium may be used.

In the above-described embodiment, the card processor 200 magnetically records the card ID on the magnetic roll paper when issuing the prepaid card. Paper or magnetic cut paper may be used as the recording medium for the prepaid card. When using such a recording medium,
The card processor 200 only needs to have a function of reading magnetic recording data, and can omit the writing function. Further, the card processing machine 200
, A prepaid card in which predetermined value data is magnetically recorded in advance may be used.

In the prepaid card update process, if a prepaid card issued at another store is inserted, the prepaid card is collected and a new update card usable at the store is issued. Good.

[0111]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, a single card processing device can issue and update a card, so that conventional problems such as space, cost, and wiring can be solved. You. Further, the convenience of the player is improved, and the use efficiency of the device can be improved.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the card update and the settlement process can be performed by one card processing device, so that the conventional problems such as space, cost, and wiring can be solved. Also, the convenience for players is improved,
The use efficiency of the device can be improved.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, a single card processing apparatus can issue and settle a card, so that conventional problems such as space, cost, and wiring can be solved. Also, the convenience for players is improved,
The use efficiency of the device can be improved.

According to the fourth aspect of the invention, the card issue, settlement, and update processing can be performed by one card processing apparatus, so that the conventional problems such as space, cost, and wiring are solved. Is done. Further, the convenience of the player is improved, and the use efficiency of the device can be improved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of a game arcade system in which a card processing device according to the present invention is arranged.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of a terminal controller.

FIG. 3 is an external view showing a front part of the card processing machine.

FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing an internal configuration of the card processing machine.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing connections of various components of the card processing machine.

FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration of a card transport system in the prepaid card processing device.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of a card processing machine having issuance, update, and settlement functions.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a standby screen of a card processing machine having an issue, update, and settlement function.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of a card processing machine having an issuing and updating function.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a standby screen of a card processing machine having an issue and update function.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of a card processing machine having an update and settlement function.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a standby screen of a card processing machine having an update and settlement function.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 10 each gaming machine 30 card processing unit between 100 units 100 island controller 120 terminal controller 122 memory 123 storage device 124 input / output device 125 display device 126 communication interface unit 200 card processing machine 201 main body 202 door body 203 prepaid card insertion / issuance slot 204 member Card insertion / issuing slot 205 Liquid crystal display unit 206 Auxiliary door 207 Lock 208 Handy terminal 209 Update button 210 Settlement button 211 (Amount) selection button 212 Cancel button 215 Banknote insertion / payout port 216 Coin slot 217 Coin payout port 218 Lock mechanism 220 Prepaid card processing device 221 Member card processing device 222 Bill processing device 223 Coin processing device 224 Journal printer 225 Control unit 240 Card reading / writing unit 2 1 roll paper feed motor 245 the printing unit 246 cutter motor 247 cuts 248 conveying motor 250 card collection box 251 one-way lever 1210 member management table 1220 prepaid card management table K membership card P prepaid card S service card

Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Eiji Takada 1-3-1 Shimoteno, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture Inside Glory Industries Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Akihiko Horio 1-3-1, Shimoteno, Himeji City, Hyogo Glory Within Industrial Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Miki Kashiwara 1-3-1, Shimoteno, Himeji-shi, Hyogo F-term within Glory Industrial Co., Ltd. DB02 DC05 DE01 DE07

Claims (4)

[Claims] 1. A card processing unit configured to execute a predetermined card processing for an inserted card by communicating with a management device that stores value data corresponding to identification data of each card. In the device, card reading means for reading the recording data of the card, money processing means having a function of discriminating the amount of money and paying out money, card issuing processing corresponding to the deposit operation, issued card Card issuance control means for executing a process of transmitting the value data of the card together with the identification data of the card to the management device, and a card for issuing a new card that can be used according to the expiration date of the card read by the card reading means An update process is performed to transmit the newly issued card value data to the management device together with the card identification data. Card processing device, comprising a card update control means for. 2. A card processing unit configured to execute a predetermined card processing for an inserted card by communicating with a management device that stores value data corresponding to identification data of each card. In the device, card reading means for reading the recording data of the card, money processing means having a function of paying out money, and money using the money processing means according to the value data of the card read by the card reading means. Card payment control means for performing payment card payment processing and transmitting payment information to the management device; and issuing a new card that can be used according to the expiration date of the card read by the card reading means. A process of performing a card update process and transmitting value data of a newly issued card together with identification data of the card to the management device Card processing device, comprising a card update control means for executing. 3. A card processing unit configured to execute a predetermined card processing for an inserted card by communicating with a management device that stores value data corresponding to identification data of each card. In the device, card reading means for reading the recording data of the card, money processing means having a function of discriminating the amount of money and paying out money, card issuing processing corresponding to the deposit operation, issued card Card issuance control means for executing a process of transmitting the value data of the card together with the identification data of the card to the management device; and paying money by using the money processing means in accordance with the value data of the card read by the card reading means. Card settlement control means for executing a card settlement process for issuing a settlement card and transmitting a settlement information to the management device. Card processing apparatus for. 4. A card processing unit configured to execute a predetermined card processing for an inserted card by communicating with a management device that stores value data corresponding to identification data of each card. In the apparatus, a card reading means for reading the recording data of the card, a money processing means having a function of discriminating a deposit amount and dispensing money, and a card issuing process in response to a deposit operation, issuing a card. Card issuance control means for executing a process of transmitting the value data of the card together with the identification data of the card to the management device; and Card settlement control means for performing card settlement processing for issuing a card, and executing processing for transmitting settlement information to the management device; card reading means Therefore, a card update process for issuing a new card that can be used according to the expiration date of the read card is performed, and a process of transmitting the value data of the newly issued card together with the identification data of the card to the management device is performed. A card processing device comprising: card update control means.