JP4518352B2 - Amusement park monitoring system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a game hall monitoring system, and in particular, is intended to monitor abnormalities, violations, illegal activities, etc. related to prize exchange in a game hall equipped with a pachinko gaming machine, a slot machine, and the like.
[0002]
[Prior art]
For example, in a pachinko machine or slot machine, a game ball (pachinko ball or medal; hereinafter referred to as a prize ball in some cases) remaining at the end of the game is exchanged for a prize, and thus has a monetary value. Is. In practice, prize balls are often exchanged for special prizes that are purchased and cashed at a predetermined location outside the amusement hall.
[0003]
Therefore, a so-called Goto teacher or the like may illegally obtain a game ball illegally and use it for prize exchange. There are also people who steal prize spheres obtained by other people and exchange them for prizes.
[0004]
Therefore, a lot of devices and devices for monitoring fraud are provided in the game hall. For example, pachinko machines are equipped with trapezoid sensors that detect electromagnetic waves, magnetic forces, vibrations, etc. that Goto uses when trying to obtain game balls illegally, and when the sensor is activated, an alarm is issued, And a function to notify the user. In addition, for example, the entire game hall is imaged and monitored with one or a plurality of surveillance video cameras.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the method of alerting or notifying fraudulent activity based on sensor output or operational abnormality can prevent fraudulent behavior, but it cannot recognize the fraudulent person if he / she leaves immediately In many cases, the illegally obtained prize balls are exchanged for prizes.
[0006]
Further, in monitoring using a surveillance video camera, it is also possible to recognize an unauthorized person. However, there is a problem that monitoring cannot be performed without someone at all times in front of the monitor device displaying the image signal from the surveillance video camera. Even if the monitor is always in front of the monitor device, monitoring is not possible. The attention of a person cannot last during business hours, and fraud is often overlooked. In addition, in practice, the floor area of the amusement hall is generally large, and a plurality of surveillance video cameras are installed. Therefore, when monitoring with a single monitor device, it is often overlooked. Also, even if one monitor device is provided for each surveillance video camera, fraud is often overlooked if there are few supervisors. As a result, the video camera is not perfectly monitored, and a prize sphere may be illegally obtained and exchanged for a prize.
[0007]
Therefore, there is a need for a game hall monitoring system that can guarantee only prize exchange (game reward ball processing) for a player who has just obtained a prize ball (game reward ball) through a game.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve such a problem, the game field monitoring system according to the first aspect of the present invention includes a player imaging means (81) capable of imaging a player who has acquired a game reward ball. To the corresponding game ball supply command device (4) that commands the supply of the own device or game ball. A plurality of gaming machines (5) provided, and a player image data storage means (7) storing image data of the player who acquired the game reward ball obtained by imaging by the player imaging means. ) And a game reward sphere conversion process such as exchanging the game reward sphere for a prize or converting it into a storage ball, which is stored in the player image data storage means as a confirmation process in the previous stage. ing , Imaged by the player imaging means A game reward ball processing device (6) for displaying image data of a predetermined player; Each of the gaming machines activates the imaging of the player imaging means when there is a reward ball presence / absence determining means for determining whether or not there is a game reward ball at the end of the game and a game reward ball at the end of the game. Imaging start-up means It is characterized by that.
[0009]
Here, each of the above gaming machines inserts a card (35) to which unique identification information is given into the own gaming machine or a corresponding gaming ball supply commanding device (4) that commands the supply of gaming balls. Game balls are supplied as a condition, The remuneration ball presence / absence discriminating means possessed by each gaming device recognizes that the card has been ejected as the end of the game and confirms the presence / absence of a game remuneration ball, The player image data storage means stores player image data in association with at least the identification information of the card, and the game reward ball processing device includes an insertion slot for the card and is inserted The card identification information is given to the player image data storage means. Imaged by the player imaging means It is preferable to extract and display the player's image data.
[0010]
Also ,Up The imaging opening (81a) of the player imaging means is provided on the side of the opening side of the lid that swings and opens the corresponding gaming device, and is provided at a position higher than the upper edge of the lid. preferable.
[0012]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
(A) Embodiment
Hereinafter, an embodiment of a game hall monitoring system according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0013]
The type of gaming machine in the gaming hall monitoring system of this embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it uses a gaming ball (pachinko ball, coin, metal, etc.). A description will be given assuming that the gaming machine provided in the game hall is a pachinko gaming machine.
[0014]
(A-1) Configuration of embodiment and functions of each part
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the game hall monitoring system of this embodiment. The game hall to which the game hall monitoring system of this embodiment is applied is also characterized by the system for various cards used in the game hall. Hereinafter, not only from the game hall monitoring face but also from the card processing face. Also explain.
[0015]
In FIG. 1, the game hall monitoring system 1 of this embodiment includes an admission card issuing machine 2, a game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3, a game ball supply command device 4, a pachinko gaming machine 5, a prize exchange processing computer 6, a ticket issuing machine. A settlement management computer 7 and a system management computer 8 are connected by a network N.
[0016]
(A-1-1) Admission card issuing machine 2
The admission card issuing machine 2 issues an admission card 20 as an issuance condition for a game ball supply card 35 described later, and is installed, for example, in the vicinity of the entrance of the game hall. For example, the appearance image of the entrance card issuing machine 2 is as shown in the perspective view of FIG. 2, and is functionally as shown in the block diagram of FIG.
[0017]
In FIG. 2, the following components are visually observed from the outside of the entrance card issuing machine 2. That is, from the outside, a ticketing button 10, a card outlet 11, a card discharge lamp 12, a liquid crystal display device 13, an attendant call button 14, a signal tower lamp (hereinafter referred to as a signal tower) 15, and a digital camera 16 (see FIG. The optical window 16a can be visually observed.
[0018]
In addition to the above components, the entrance card issuing machine 2 also includes components as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. That is, the digital camera 16, the control unit 21, the card feeding unit 22, the card storage unit 23, the card identification information reading unit 24, the communication processing unit 25, the light amount sensor 26, the door sensor 27, the destruction sensor 28, the extinguishing button 29, and the like. I have.
[0019]
The liquid crystal display device 13 displays a guidance message that prompts an operation under the control of a control unit (for example, composed of a microcomputer) 21, and displays status information (for example, an abnormal state) of the entrance card issuing machine 2. is there.
[0020]
The ticket issuing button 10 is operated by the player when requesting the issuance of the admission card 20, and the operation information is given to the control unit 21. The card storage unit 23 stores a large number of entrance cards. The card feeding unit 22 feeds one entrance card 20 from the card storage unit 23 under the control of the control unit 21, and is discharged to the outside through the card identification information reading unit 24. is there. The card identification information reading unit 24 reads the information of the entrance card 20 to be ejected and gives it to the control unit 21. The card discharge lamp 12 is lit or blinked under the control of the control unit 21 when the entrance card 20 is discharged.
[0021]
The clerk call button 14 is a button that is operated to call a clerk (employee) when a player who wants to receive an admission card recognizes a trouble or the like of the admission card issuing machine 2. Information is provided to the control unit 21. The signal tower 15 is controlled to be lit under the control of the control unit 21 and informs the employee of trouble or abnormality of the entrance card issuing machine 2 (note that a buzzer or the like is provided as a notification means). Of course, it is also good). For example, it is turned on when the attendant call button 14 is operated, or when the delivery monitoring sensor of the entrance card 20 detects a conveyance abnormality although not shown. The turn-off button 29 is a button that is provided inside the housing of the entrance card issuing machine 2 and turns off the signal tower 15.
[0022]
The door body sensor 27 detects an open / closed state of a door body (not shown) of the admission card issuing machine 2 and its locked / unlocked state, and gives it to the control unit 21. The break sensor 28 detects a break abnormality of the entrance card issuing machine 2 and gives it to the control unit 21. For example, a vibration sensor, a tilt sensor, or the like corresponds to the break sensor 28.
[0023]
The digital camera 16 is, for example, a still camera such as a CCD camera (which may be capable of continuous imaging for about 5 seconds), and is controlled by the control unit 21 (in other words, imaged from the control unit 21). When one trigger signal is given), one image (or an image for a predetermined time) is taken and an image signal is given to the control unit 21. The direction of imaging by the digital camera 16 is a person who operates the entrance card issuing machine 2 (player or player) with the door of the entrance card issuing machine 2 closed (including the unlocked state). This is the direction in which the employee can be imaged.
[0024]
The optical window portion 16a in FIG. 2 represents an optical window portion for imaging light to the digital camera 16 (which may be a pure opening or an opening in which glass or the like is fitted), and the main body of the digital camera 16 is a housing. It is provided inside. The window portion 16a is made larger than the light diameter of the objective lens of the digital camera 16, and a light amount sensor 26 is provided in the immediate vicinity of the inside of the housing of the window portion 16a.
[0025]
The light amount sensor 26 monitors and detects the amount of light that is abnormal when the window portion 16a is blocked, in other words, an environmental abnormality that the digital camera 16 cannot perform imaging, and gives it to the control unit 21.
[0026]
The communication processing unit 25 exchanges information with other devices connected to the network N, for example, the ticket issue settlement management computer 7 and the system management computer 8 under the control of the control unit 21.
[0027]
The control unit 21 controls the entire entrance card issuing machine 2. The control function by the control unit 21 is roughly divided into two types: an issuance control function for the entrance card 20 and an abnormality monitoring function. In addition, the control function of the control unit 21 will be clarified in the operation description to be described later.
[0028]
Next, the admission card 20 issued by the admission card issuing machine 2 will be described.
The admission card 20 is a record in which only identification information unique to the admission card (ID; distinguishable from a game ball supply card 35 and a membership card 70 described later) is fixedly recorded. Although this admission card 20 itself does not have the same value as money, it has a function for making the issuance of a game ball supply card 35 having the same value as money described later more cautious. Is. The unique ID of the admission card 20 is preferably one that can distinguish not only the difference between the admission cards 20 but also the game hall itself. As a fixed recording method, it is sufficient to write a barcode or emboss (unevenness information) and the like and cannot be rewritten.
[0029]
(A-1-2) Game ball supply card issuing and settlement machine 3
The game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 issues a game ball supply card 35, which is necessary for lending a pachinko ball (game ball) at the time of a game of a pachinko gaming machine, It is installed at any position in the amusement hall. For example, one unit may be installed on a so-called island unit.
[0030]
The game ball supply card issuance / accounting machine 3 has, for example, an appearance image as shown in the perspective view of FIG. 4 and functionally as shown in the block diagram of FIG.
[0031]
In FIG. 4, the game ball supply card issuance / accounting machine 3 can be visually observed from the outside. That is, from the outside, the liquid crystal display device 36, the attendant call button 37, the signal tower 38, the select button 39, the checkout button 40, the cancel button 41, the card entrance / exit 42, the card receiving / discharging lamp 43, the employee card entrance / exit 44, the employee Member card receiving / discharging lamp 45, coin dispensing outlet 46, coin dispensing lamp 47, bill insertion slot 48, bill insertion lamp 49, bill dispensing outlet 50, bill dispensing lamp 51, optical window to digital camera 52 (see FIG. 5) The part 52a and the finger contact window 72a of the fingerprint reader 72 are visually observed.
[0032]
In addition to the above-described components, the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 also includes components as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. That is, the digital camera 52, the control unit 55, the card information reading unit 56, the entrance card collection unit 57, the game ball supply card storage unit 58, the game ball supply card collection unit 59, the employee card access unit 60, and the bill discriminating device. 61, a bill storage unit 62, a coin storage unit 63, a communication processing unit 64, a light amount sensor 65, a door body sensor 66, a destruction sensor 67, a turn-off button 68, a fingerprint reader 72, and the like.
[0033]
The liquid crystal display device 36, the clerk call button 37, and the signal tower 38 in the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 also have the same functions as the corresponding ones in the entrance card issuing machine 2.
[0034]
When the balance (40) corresponding to the deposit of money remains in association with the inserted gaming ball supply card 35, the settlement button 40 allows the player to settle the balance. The operation information is given to a control unit (for example, made of a microcomputer) 55.
[0035]
The cancel button 41 is operated when a player or the like cancels the operation mode of the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3, and the operation information is given to the control unit 55.
[0036]
The card entry / exit 42 functions as an insertion port and a discharge port for the entrance card 20, the game ball supply card 35, and a member card 70 described later. The card acceptance / discharge lamp 43 is controlled to be lit or blinked by the control unit 55 when various cards are inserted or ejected through the card entrance 42.
[0037]
The entrance card collection unit 57 collects and stores the entry card 20 inserted from the card entrance 42 under the control of the control unit 55.
[0038]
The game ball supply card storage unit 58 stores the game ball supply card 35 to be discharged from the card slot 42, and also includes a card feeding mechanism. The stored game ball supply card 35 is discharged under the control of the control unit 55.
[0039]
The game ball supply card collection unit 59 collects and stores the game ball supply card 35 inserted from the card slot 42 under the control of the control unit 55.
[0040]
The card information reading unit 56 reads the information of the entrance card 20, the game ball supply card 35 and the member card 70 inserted from the card entrance 42 and gives them to the control unit 55.
[0041]
In the case of this embodiment, the game ball supply card 35 is necessary for lending a pachinko ball (game ball) at the time of the game of the pachinko gaming machine as described above. Only the identification information unique to the business card (ID; can be distinguished from the entrance card 20 and the membership card 75) is fixedly recorded. The unique ID of the game ball supply card 35 is preferably one that can distinguish not only the difference of the game ball supply card 35 but also the game hall itself. As a fixed recording method, it is sufficient to write a bar code or emboss it and cannot be rewritten.
[0042]
Although the game ball supply card 35 itself does not record balance information that can supply game balls, the game ball supply card 35 can supply game balls by accessing the ticket settlement management computer 7 with the card ID. Since the balance information can be taken out, it has the same property as a prepaid card.
[0043]
The membership card 70 has the same function as the entrance card 20 described above for a player who has signed a membership contract with the game hall. In other words, as a condition for issuing the game ball supply card 35, insertion of a legitimate member card 70 into the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 is a condition.
[0044]
In the membership card 70, only unique identification information (ID; can be distinguished from the entrance card 20 and the game ball supply card 35) is fixedly recorded. The unique ID of the member card 70 is preferably one that can distinguish not only the difference of the member card 70 but also the game hall itself.
[0045]
The employee card entrance / exit 44 functions as an insertion port and an exit port for the employee card 71. The employee card receiving / discharging lamp 45 is controlled to be lit or blinked by the control unit 55 when the employee card 71 is inserted or discharged through the employee card entrance 44.
[0046]
The employee card access unit 60 reads the information of the employee card 71 inserted from the employee card entrance 44 and gives it to the control unit 55, or writes the information given from the control unit 55 to the employee card 71. Is.
[0047]
The employee card 71 is a recordable / reproducible card such as an IC card, for example. The employee is distributed and carried by the game hall manager or the game hall operator. The employee needs to insert the employee card 71 into the employee card entrance / exit 44 when operating the card issuing / settlement machine 3 for supplying game balls.
[0048]
The employee card 71 includes a card ID (or employee ID), operation level information that can be executed by the employee, and an ID of the card issuing and adjusting machine 3 for supplying a game ball that can be operated by the employee. Recorded in advance in an EEPROM or the like. It is also possible to provide a recording area in which the operation history can be written.
[0049]
The employee card 71 may be used by another device (for example, the entrance card issuing machine 2), and the employee who can operate the device may be changed depending on the device. Even employees who can operate the same device may change the type of operation permitted.
[0050]
The banknote insertion port 48 is an opening through which a player inserts banknotes, the coin payout outlet 46 is an opening through which coins are paid out to the player, and the banknote discharge outlet 50 is an opening through which banknotes are paid out to the player. . In relation to these, a bill insertion lamp 49, a coin dispensing lamp 47, and a bill dispensing lamp 51 are provided, and the lighting or blinking control is appropriately performed under the control of the control unit 55.
[0051]
The banknote storage unit 62 collects banknotes inserted from the banknote insertion port 48 and feeds out banknotes to be paid out from the banknote outlet 50 under the control of the control unit 55. The coin storage unit 62 pays out coins to be paid out from the coin payout outlet 46 under the control of the control unit 55.
[0052]
The banknote discriminating device 61 discriminates the type of banknotes inserted from the banknote slot 48 or the type of banknotes to be paid out from the banknote outlet 50 and the authenticity of the banknotes, and the discrimination information is given to the control unit 55.
[0053]
Here, there are two cases where a bill is inserted into the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3. In the first case, when the game ball supply card 35 is issued, an amount that is a premise for setting balance information (amount of money that can be supplied for the game ball) in relation to the game ball supply card 35 is deposited. The second case is a case of depositing an amount which is a precondition for increasing the balance information related to the already-issued game ball supply card 35.
[0054]
On the other hand, there are two cases where banknotes and coins are paid out from the game ball supply card issuing and settlement machine 3. First, when the balance information (amount of money that can be supplied for game balls) relating to the game ball supply card 35 is initially set (when the card 35 is issued) or when the balance information is increased, This is a case where change is paid out when the specified initial set amount or the increased amount is different. The second is a case where when the settlement is instructed by operating the settlement button 40, the amount of balance information related to the game ball supply card 35 is paid out.
[0055]
The select button 39 is used for initial setting or increase of balance information (amount of money that can be supplied for game balls) relating to the game ball supply card 35 when initial setting (when the card 35 is issued) or when increasing the balance information. The amount is specified. For example, as the select button 39, a plurality of buttons with different designated amounts (for example, 1000 yen, 2000 yen, 3000 yen, 5000 yen, and 10,000 yen) are prepared.
[0056]
The digital camera 52 in the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 is also a still camera such as a CCD camera (which may be capable of continuous imaging for about 5 seconds), and is controlled by the control unit 55. Below (in other words, when an imaging trigger signal is given from the control unit 55), one image (or an image for a predetermined time) is taken and an image signal is given to the control unit 55. The imaging direction by the digital camera 52 is operated with respect to the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 in a state where the door of the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 is closed (including the unlocked state). This is a direction in which a person (player or employee) who is playing can be imaged. A light amount sensor 65 having the same function as that of the entrance card issuing machine 2 is provided in the immediate vicinity of the inside of the housing of the optical window 52a shown in FIG.
[0057]
In addition, since the communication processing unit 64, the door sensor 66, the destruction sensor 67, the extinguishing button 68, and the like of the game ball supply card issuing / accounting machine 3 have the same functions as the corresponding ones in the entrance card issuing machine 2, The functional description is omitted.
[0058]
The control unit 55 controls the entire game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3. The control function by the control unit 55 is roughly divided into a control function for issuing the game ball supply card 35, a control function for increasing the balance information related to the game ball supply card 35, and a game ball supply card. 35 is divided into four types, that is, a control function when the balance information related to 35 is settled and an abnormality monitoring function. The control function of the control unit 55 will be clarified in the operation description to be described later.
[0059]
Although FIG. 1 shows the system configuration having only the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3, the game ball supply card issuing machine responsible only for issuing the game ball supply card 35 and the balance addition function, Needless to say, a game ball supply card settlement machine responsible only for the balance settlement function of the game ball supply card 35 may be provided as a component of the system. There may be a device that only issues the game ball supply card 35 and a device that only adds a balance.
[0060]
(A-1-3) Game ball supply command device 4 and pachinko gaming machine 5
The above-described game ball supply card 35 is effectively used for supplying game balls in the set of the game ball supply command device (so-called card sand) 4 and the pachinko gaming machine 5. Hereinafter, components and functions thereof will be described by taking a set of gaming ball supply command device 4 and pachinko gaming machine 5 as an example.
[0061]
In the following description, it is assumed that there is no game ball supply command device for supplying a game ball by inserting coins or banknotes, which is different from the game ball supply command device 4 of the first embodiment. That is, the pachinko gaming machine 5 itself will be described as a so-called CR machine having a game ball supply (ball lending) function. Of course, in addition to the game ball supply command device 4 of the first embodiment, a game ball supply command device for supplying game balls by inserting coins or banknotes may be provided.
[0062]
One set of game ball supply command device 4 and pachinko gaming machine 5 are, for example, as shown in the perspective view of FIG. The game ball supply command device 4 is functionally as shown in the block diagram of FIG. The pachinko gaming machine 5 can be applied to a conventional so-called CR machine as it is, so the illustration of the internal detailed configuration is omitted, and the block diagram only shows the gaming ball supply command device 4.
[0063]
In FIG. 6, the following components can be visually observed from the outside regarding the set of game ball supply command device 4 and the pachinko gaming machine 5. That is, regarding the game ball supply command device 4, from the outside, the status lamp 75, the card entrance / exit 76, the remote control receiving unit 77, and the optical window 81a to the digital camera 81 (see FIG. 7) can be seen, and the pachinko gaming machine 5, the balance display section 78, the ball lending button 79, and the return button 80 can be seen from the outside. Regarding the pachinko gaming machine 5, many other components can also be visually observed, but the description thereof is omitted here.
[0064]
In addition to the above components, the game ball supply command device 4 also includes components as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. That is, the digital camera 81, the control part 82, the card identification information reading part 83, the communication processing part 84, the interface circuit 85, the light quantity sensor 86, the door body sensor 87, the destruction sensor 88, etc. are provided.
[0065]
The status lamp 75 indicates that, by turning off the status lamp 75, the game ball supply card 35 can be inserted into the game ball supply command device 4 and the game can be executed, and is turned on when the game ball supply card 35 is inserted. Is.
[0066]
The card slot 76 is used for inserting and discharging the game ball supply card 35. The player is required to insert the game ball supply card 35 into the card slot 76 when starting the game of the pachinko gaming machine 5. The inserted game ball supply card 35 is drawn to the position of the card identification information reading unit 72. The card identification information reading unit 72 reads the ID of the inserted game ball supply card 35 and gives it to the control unit (for example, composed of a microcomputer) 82 in the game ball supply command device 4. This ID is used to determine the validity of the game ball supply card 35.
[0067]
The remote control receiver 77 notifies the control unit 82 of the contents instructed by the employee using a remote control transmitter (not shown). That is, the operation of the game ball supply command device 4 can be controlled by remote control communication without using an input unit or various buttons.
[0068]
The balance display part 77 provided in the pachinko gaming machine 5 is composed of, for example, 7 segments of a plurality of digits (for example, 3 digits), and the inserted gaming ball supply card 35 can supply gaming balls. Balance information is displayed. The displayed balance information may be, for example, a frequency obtained by dividing an amount by a single supply unit amount, or may be the number of game balls that can be supplied.
[0069]
The ball lending button 78 provided in the pachinko gaming machine 5 is for instructing supply (ball lending) of game balls for a unit, and the return button 79 is for instructing to return the game ball supply card 35. It is.
[0070]
The interface circuit 85 of the game ball supply command device 4 has an interface function for exchanging information with the pachinko gaming machine 5. Although not shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, inside the pachinko gaming machine 5 is provided a trapezoid sensor for detecting electromagnetic waves, magnetic forces, vibrations, etc. used by Goto when attempting to obtain game balls illegally. The detection information of the sword sensor is also given to the control unit 82 of the game ball supply command device 4 via the interface circuit 85.
[0071]
The digital camera 81 in the game ball supply commanding device 4 is also a still camera (for example, a continuous imaging of about 5 seconds may be possible) made up of a CCD camera or the like, under the control of the control unit 82 ( In other words, when an imaging trigger signal is given from the control unit 82, one image (or an image for a predetermined time) is taken and an image signal is given to the control unit 82. A light amount sensor 86 having a function similar to that of the above-described apparatus is also provided in the immediate vicinity of the inside of the housing of the optical window portion 81a shown in FIG. The optical window 81a is provided with, for example, a fisheye lens, and is attached above the side that opens when the door body of the pachinko gaming machine 5 swings. In other words, the direction in which the digital camera 81 is imaged can be taken for a person (player or employee) who is operating the game ball supply command device 4 and the pachinko gaming machine 5 paired therewith, and the pachinko game. The operation of an employee or the like when the door body of the machine 5 is in an open state is taken as a direction in which imaging can be performed.
[0072]
Note that the communication processing unit 84, the door sensor 87, the destruction sensor 88, and the like of the game ball supply command device 4 have the same functions as the corresponding ones in the above-described device, and thus description of the functions is omitted.
[0073]
The control unit 82 controls the entire game ball supply command device 4. In addition, depending on the control content, the pachinko gaming machine 5 forming a set is also indirectly controlled. The control function by the control unit 82 is roughly divided into two types: a game ball supply command control function using the game ball supply card 35 and an abnormality monitoring function. The control function of the control unit 82 will be clarified in the operation description to be described later.
[0074]
(A-1-4) Gift exchange processing computer 6
The prize exchange processing computer 6 is composed of, for example, a computer device provided at a prize exchange place in a game hall to which various adapters described later are connected. The prize exchange processing computer 6 performs a process for receiving prizes, a process for exchanging prize spheres for prizes, and the like. The prize sphere is a game sphere that remains at the end of the game by the player, and is an object for exchange of prizes.
[0075]
The prize exchange processing computer 6 includes a configuration as shown in FIG. 8 including an adapter configuration (the external view is not shown). That is, the prize exchange processing computer 6 includes a control unit 110 (for example, a microcomputer), a prize ball counting device 111, a prize code reading unit 112, a prize stock status storage unit 113, a card information reading unit 114, an input unit 116, and a display unit. 117, a communication processing unit 118, a game ball supply card collection unit 119, and the like.
[0076]
The prize ball counting device 111 counts the prize balls brought to the prize exchange by a non-member player or a member player, and gives the count data to the control unit 110.
[0077]
The premium code reading unit 112 reads a product code (generally a bar code) of the premium and gives it to the control unit 110. For example, when a premium product is received or when a premium sphere is exchanged, the product code of the premium is read.
[0078]
The premium stock status storage unit 113 stores the stock status of premium products under the control of the control unit 110. For example, the stock quantity is increased when a premium product is received, and the stock quantity is decreased when a premium sphere is exchanged for a premium.
[0079]
The card information reading unit 114 reads the recorded information of the game ball supply card 35 and the membership card 70 inserted from a card insertion slot (not shown) and supplies the information to the control unit 110.
[0080]
The game ball supply card collection unit 119 collects and stores the inserted game ball supply card 35 under the control of the control unit 110.
[0081]
Note that the functions of the input unit 116, the display unit 117, and the communication processing unit 118 are the same as those of a normal one, and thus description of the functions is omitted.
[0082]
The control unit 110 controls the prize exchange processing computer 6 as a whole. The control function by the control unit 110 is roughly divided into a control function when a premium product is received and a control function for exchanging a premium sphere for a premium. The exchange control function for the prize sphere to the prize of the control unit 110 will be clarified in the operation description to be described later.
[0083]
A digital camera 115 that is activated by the control unit 110 is provided, for example, at the upper ceiling of the installation position of the prize exchange processing computer 6. The function itself of the digital camera 115 is the same as that of the described digital camera. The reason why the position of the digital camera 115 is set as described above is that it is a position where both the player and the employee who are used for prize exchange can be imaged simultaneously.
[0084]
(A-1-5) Ticket settlement management computer 7
The ticket issuance management computer 7 is composed of a computer device equipped with a keyboard and a display, for example, provided in a game hall office and capable of performing the minimum necessary input work. It has a database function for accumulating data necessary for the monitoring system 1. The accumulated data is data related to various cards related to the game hall and data related to monitoring of the game hall.
[0085]
As shown in FIG. 9, the ticket issuance management computer 7 is functionally composed of a control unit (for example, a microcomputer) 90, a storage unit (for example, a mass storage device such as a hard disk) 91, a communication processing unit 92, and the like. (The input unit and the display unit are not shown).
[0086]
The storage unit 91 stores an entrance card file 93, a game ball supply card file 94, a member card file 95, an employee card file 96, a photo data file 97, and the like.
[0087]
As shown in FIG. 10, one record of the admission card file 93 includes, for example, an ID 93a of the admission card 20 currently handled at the game hall, a registration date 93b when the record of the ID is registered in the file 93, Issuing date and time 93c when issued, number of times (usage number) 93d that has been issued so far by the admission card issuing machine 2, identification number 93e of the card issuing / settlement machine 3 for supplying the game ball from which the admission card 20 has been collected, etc. Has as a field.
[0088]
Note that the data of each field 93a to 93e is not necessarily stored at consecutive addresses in the address space of the storage unit 91, and is omitted in FIG. There is also management data that can be handled as a single piece of data.
[0089]
As shown in FIG. 11, one record of the game ball supply card file 94 is issued, for example, with an ID 94a of the game ball supply card 35 and a registration date 94b when the record of the ID is registered in the file 94. Issuance date and time 94c, issued game ball supply card issuance and settlement machine 3 number 94d, settlement date and time 94e when the settlement is completed, total amount 94f of the deposit amount of the day, balance 94g, game ball supply Operation history 94h from the issuance of the card 35 to the settlement, the number of times (the number of times of use) 94i has been issued by the game ball supply card issuance / acquisition machine 3, and the insertion of the game ball supply card 35 into the device with the The presence / absence and inserted device number 94j, the number 94k of the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 that has collected the game ball supply card 35, and the membership card 70 Thus the membership card ID (member ID) 94J recorded when issued, has a member information 94k, and prize counts 94n as a field.
[0090]
Note that the data of each field 94a to 94n is not necessarily stored at consecutive addresses in the address space of the storage unit 91, and is omitted in FIG. There is also management data that can be handled as a single piece of data.
[0091]
In addition, the information recorded in the prize ball number field 94n records the number of game balls (the number of prize balls) to be exchanged when the game is ended at that time. The number of prize balls increases when a game ball is supplied or when a prize ball is discharged from a pachinko gaming machine, and decreases when the game ball is fired on the board of the pachinko gaming machine.
[0092]
As shown in FIG. 12, one record of the member card file 95 includes, for example, an ID 95a of the member card 70 currently handled at the game hall, a registration date and time 95b when the record of the ID is registered in the file 95, Issuance date and time 95c when the game ball supply card 35 is issued, accumulated deposit amount 95d deposited by the member, member detailed information 95e such as a member's address and name, and the game ball supply card issuance and settlement machine 3 The number of times that the game ball supply card 35 has been issued is 95f.
[0093]
Note that the data of each field 95a to 95f is not necessarily stored at continuous addresses in the address space of the storage unit 91, and is omitted in FIG. There is also management data that can be handled as a single piece of data.
[0094]
As shown in FIG. 13, one record of the employee card file 96 includes, for example, an ID 96a of the employee card 71, the name of an employee 96b carrying the card 71, an operation history 96c, and an operable level 96d. Etc. as a field. A large number of fields of the operation history 96c are prepared, and the time from the opening to closing of the cover of the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 and the contents of the operation are recorded in each field.
[0095]
Note that the data in each field 96a to 96d is not necessarily stored at consecutive addresses in the address space of the storage unit 91, and is omitted in FIG. There is also management data that can be handled as a single piece of data.
[0096]
As shown in FIG. 14, one record of the photo data file 97 includes, for example, photo data (still image data) 97a, an imaging trigger event 97b that triggers acquisition of the photo data, an imaging date and time 97c, and a subject ( The field includes a card ID 97d that is considered to be related to a person and a device number 97e on which the digital camera that performed the imaging operation is mounted.
[0097]
Note that the data of each field 97a to 97e is not necessarily stored at continuous addresses in the address space of the storage unit 91, and is omitted in FIG. There is also management data that can be handled as a single piece of data.
[0098]
Hereinafter, the data of the fields 97a to 97e of the photo data file 97 will be described in more detail.
[0099]
The photograph data relating to the field 97a is taken by the digital camera 16, 52, 81 or 115 of the admission card issuing machine 2, the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3, the game ball supply commanding device 4 or the prize exchange processing computer 6. Basically, it is still image data. Depending on the type of imaging trigger, when imaging is performed for a few seconds, it may be short-time continuous image data. Here, the stored photographic data may be image data as it is obtained by the digital camera 16, 52, 81, or 115, or may be image-compressed captured image data. In the latter case, the image compression may be executed by the control unit in the imaged apparatus, or may be executed by the control unit 90 of the ticket issue settlement management computer 7.
[0100]
The imaging trigger event data relating to the field 97b represents the cause (event) that caused the imaging to be activated.
[0101]
The imaging trigger event is largely triggered by a device on which the digital camera 16, 52, 81 or 115 is mounted (however, the game ball supply command device 4 includes a pachinko game machine 5 forming a set). An event can be divided into an event in which a device (mainly the system management computer 8) other than the device on which the digital camera 16, 52, 81, or 115 is mounted generates a trigger.
[0102]
When the device on which the digital camera 16, 52, 81 or 115 is mounted generates a trigger, (1) When a predetermined sensor (destructive sensor, upside sensor, door sensor, etc.) detects, (2) Sensor When an abnormality or the like is recognized other than the output (for example, when the card verification result does not match), (3) when a predetermined operation is executed such as when the admission card 20 or the game ball supply card 35 is legally issued. .
[0103]
When a device other than the device on which the digital camera 16, 52, 81 or 115 is mounted generates a trigger, (1) when automatically generated, and (2) when based on manual operation by the game hall manager And can be divided into For example, the system management computer 8 may have an abnormality in the appearance of the pachinko gaming machine 5 (an abnormality in which there are a lot of appearances although it is not a big hit, or a back ROM at the time of the big hit is used. For example, when a light quantity sensor 86 of a certain game ball supply command device 4 performs a detection operation, a trigger signal is given to the game ball supply command device 4 at the opposite position. Etc. Manual operation by the game hall manager is performed on the system management computer 8.
[0104]
The data of the imaging date / time related to the field 97c is the date / time of imaging, and preferably defines up to seconds. In the case of photographic data of continuous images, for example, it is data of start time and imaging time.
[0105]
The card ID related to the field 97d is the ID of the entrance card 20, the game ball supply card 35, the membership card 70, or the employee card 71. For example, when a game ball supply card 35 is inserted in the game ball supply command device 4 and an image is taken by detection of a sword sensor of the pachinko gaming machine 5 that forms a pair, the game ball supply card 35 An ID is recorded.
[0106]
The device number related to the field 97e is the ID of the device on which the digital camera 16, 52, 81, or 115 that has performed imaging is mounted, or the ID of the digital camera 16, 52, 81, or 115. Note that the ID of the sensor that outputs the detection signal that triggers imaging may also be recorded.
[0107]
In response to the verification request from the admission card issuing machine 2, the game ball supply card issuing / adjustment machine 3, the game ball supply commanding device 4, the prize exchange processing computer 6 and the like as described above, Access and return the result, or update information of the corresponding file based on the information transmitted from these devices. Note that if the control unit 90 determines that it is not valid at the time of collation, the control unit 90 not only replies but also stores it in the storage unit 91.
[0108]
The ticket settlement management computer 7 can be accessed by a third party (for example, a card issuing company or a card delivery company) via a network different from the network N of the game hall, so that various cards can be replenished and judged. You may be able to do it in a remote place.
[0109]
(A-1-6) System management computer 8
The system management computer 8 is constituted by a computer device having a communication function such as a personal computer provided in a game hall office, for example. A monitoring system and a card system as a whole by a game hall manager and an operator. Contribute to the management of For example, card system management, including the number of devices such as game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 and game ball supply command device 4, address on communication network, parameter setting of each device and monitoring of these devices, etc. Is what you do. Further, the system management computer 8 may be connected to a conventional hall management computer (not shown) that has been managing the output information of the pachinko gaming machine 5, the membership card 70, and the like. Can be incorporated into the system management computer 8.
[0110]
Since the system management computer 8 is composed of a computer device as described above, as shown in FIG. 13, the control unit 100, the storage unit 101, the input unit 102, the display unit 103, the communication processing unit 104, and the printing unit 105. Etc.
[0111]
In relation to the various cards described above, the system management computer 8 individually updates the contents of various files of the ticket issue settlement management computer 7 in accordance with an operation on the input unit 102 by an operator or the like. It also records information on the appearance (abnormality) of illegal cards and issues an alarm.
[0112]
The system management computer 8 instructs imaging in relation to the monitoring function. For example, in response to an operation on the input unit 102 by an operator or the like, one of the digital cameras 16, 52, or 81 is instructed to take an image, or the game ball supply command device 4 related to the pachinko gaming machine 5 with an abnormal ball appearance is digitally operated. The camera 81 is instructed to take an image.
[0113]
The system management computer 8 also has a search function for the photo data file 97 in relation to the monitoring function. For example, predetermined photo data is searched according to an input operation of a search condition to the input unit 102 by an operator or the like. The search function can also be activated automatically. For example, when the eaves sensor detects and operates, the ID of the game ball supply card 35 inserted in the game ball supply command device 4 paired with the pachinko game machine 5 is used as a key to the game ball supply card 35. Search for all such photo data.
[0114]
(A-2) System operation of embodiment and operation of player, etc.
Hereinafter, the operation of each part of the game hall monitoring system 1 of the embodiment will be described together with the operation of the player or the like.
[0115]
(A-2-1) Operation when a non-member player enters the store
First, the operation from when the non-member player obtains the game ball supply card from the entrance will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG.
[0116]
When the non-member player enters the store, first, the ticketing button 10 of the entrance card issuing machine 2 is operated (T0). At this time, the entrance card issuing machine 2 discharges the stored entrance card 20 and the digital camera. 16, the non-member player obtains the discharged entrance card 20 (T1, T2). At this time, the admission card issuing machine 2 sends the ID (or information on the date and time of issuance), photo data, and the like of the admission card 20 to the ticket issue settlement management computer 7, and accordingly the admission card file of the ticket settlement adjustment computer 7. 93 and the photo data file 97 are updated (T3).
[0117]
The non-member player who has acquired the admission card 20 inserts the admission card 20 into the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 near the pachinko gaming machine 5 to play (T4). The game ball supply card issuing / accounting machine 3 obtains the ID of the admission card 20 inserted by the card information reading unit 56 and transfers it to the ticket issuing / adjusting management computer 7, and the ticket issuing / adjusting management computer 7 reads the contents of the admission card file 93. The legitimacy is confirmed with reference (T5, T6).
[0118]
For example, when the admission card 20 has no issuance record, or when a predetermined time (for example, 2 hours) has elapsed from the date and time of issuance of the admission card 20 (including cases where it is issued prior to the previous day). Therefore, the ticket settlement management computer 7 determines that it is not valid.
[0119]
If it is not valid, the ticket issuance management computer 7 transmits a message indicating that the ticket is not valid to the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 or the system management computer 8 (not shown in FIG. 16). 3 displays an abnormality (when a buzzer or the like is provided, not only a visual display but also an audible notification is performed), and an image is captured by the digital camera 52, and the ticket settlement management computer 7 is built-in. The abnormality occurrence data is stored in the storage unit 91 and the data is added to the photo data file 97 (T7, T8).
[0120]
In the system management computer 8 notified of the fact that it is not valid, the illustration of the processing is omitted in FIG. 16, but the abnormality notification processing is executed and it is determined whether or not the photo data needs to be searched. For example, if the unreasonable reason is that a predetermined time (for example, 2 hours) has passed since the date of issuance of the admission card 20, the photo data at the time of issuance of the admission card 20 is automatically retrieved from the photo data file 97. Is done. Since the entrance card 20 has no monetary value, it is not necessary to provide an automatic photo data search function.
[0121]
If the admission card 20 is valid, the ticket issuance management computer 7 returns a message to that effect to the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3, and the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 displays a message prompting payment ( T9).
[0122]
In response to this, the non-member player inserts a bill into the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 and designates a prepaid amount (a balance that can be supplied; may be a frequency) by using the select button 39 ( T10, T11).
[0123]
Although omitted in FIG. 16, even when the inserted banknote is a fake bill, the digital camera 52 captures the image and adds data to the photo data file 97 of the ticket issuing settlement management computer 7. Abnormality notification is performed by the system management computer 8. The game hall operator causes the printing unit 105 of the system management computer 8 to print the photo data as necessary. It should be noted that photo data obtained by imaging when an abnormality has occurred may be automatically printed.
[0124]
The game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 performs a display for re-designation when a supplyable balance greater than the amount of money inserted is designated (T12, T13).
[0125]
The game ball supply card issuing / accounting machine 3 obtains the ID of the game ball supply card 35 to be ejected by the card information reading unit 56 when a supplyable balance equal to or less than the amount of money inserted is designated. The ticket issuance management computer 7 is transferred together with information such as the date of issue and the balance, and the ticket issuance management computer 7 updates the contents of the game ball supply card file 94 and the like accordingly (T14, T15). At this time, the inserted entrance card 20 is also collected into the entrance card collection unit 57.
[0126]
Further, the game ball supply card issuing / accounting machine 3 discharges the stored game ball supply card 35 and, if necessary, discharges change (T16), and the non-member player obtains this ( T17). When the game ball supply card issuing / accounting machine 3 is ejected, the game ball supply / accounting machine 3 takes an image by the digital camera 52 and transfers the photograph data to the ticket issuing / adjusting management computer 7. Data is added to the photo data file 97 (T18, T19).
[0127]
The member player can obtain the game ball supply card 35 from the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 using the member card 70 instead of the admission card 20 without obtaining the admission card 20. .
[0128]
(A-2-2) Increase operation of player's supplyable balance
Next, an operation for increasing the supplyable balance will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG.
[0129]
When the available balance decreases (or becomes 0) and the balance increases, the player inserts the gaming ball supply card 35 into the gaming ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 (T20). The game ball supply card issuing and adjusting machine 3 obtains the ID of the inserted game ball supplying card 35 by the card information reading unit 56 and transfers the ticket issuing and adjusting computer 7 (T21). The validity is confirmed with reference to the contents of the game ball supply card file 94 (T22).
[0130]
For example, when the game ball supply card 35 has no registration record left, when the game ball supply card 35 has been issued in the past instead of the current day, or any of the game ball supply command devices 4 and other games In the case where the ID is the same as the ID of the game ball supply card 35 that is installed in the ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 at that time, it is determined that the card is not valid.
[0131]
If it is not valid, the ticket issuance management computer 7 sends a message to the gaming ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 and the system management computer 8 (not shown in FIG. 17) to indicate that it is not valid. 3 displays a notice of abnormality and performs imaging by the digital camera 52, and the ticket settlement management computer 7 stores the abnormality occurrence data in the built-in storage unit 91 and adds data to the photo data file 97 ( T23, T24).
[0132]
In the system management computer 7 that is notified that the information is not valid, the process is omitted in FIG. 16, but the abnormality notification process is executed, and it is determined whether or not the retrieval of the photo data is necessary. For example, when the reason is not valid is the same ID as the ID of the game ball supply card 35 that is currently installed in any of the game ball supply command device 5 or other game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 If it is, all the photographic data having the ID of the game ball supply card 35 is automatically retrieved from the photo data file 97, and the game ball in which the game ball supply card 35 having the same ID is inserted. Imaging is performed by the supply command device 5 and other game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3.
[0133]
Thereby, a supervisor such as an operator or a manager of the amusement hall can recognize the illegitimate person or the illegal act by checking the retrieved photographic data or the photographic data captured this time one after another. If necessary, photo data can be printed.
[0134]
If the inserted gaming ball supply card 35 is valid, the ticket settlement management computer 7 returns a message to that effect and the balance so far (which may be an additional amount) to the gaming ball supply card issuing settlement machine 3. (T24), the game ball supply card issuance / accounting machine 3 displays a message prompting the payment or payment indicating the balance and / or the amount that can be added (T25).
[0135]
In response to this, the player inserts banknotes into the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3, and designates the supplyable balance to be added using the selector button 39 (T26, T27). The process when a counterfeit bill is inserted is the same as described above.
[0136]
The game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 displays a display for redoing the designation when an additional amount greater than the amount of money inserted is designated, or when an additional amount exceeding the amount that can be added is designated. Perform (T28, T29).
[0137]
When a legitimate additional amount is specified, the game ball supply card settlement machine 3 issues information such as the ID of the inserted game ball supply card 35 and the updated balance (or additional amount). The settlement management computer 7 is transferred (T30), and the ticket settlement management computer 7 updates the contents (particularly the balance) of the game ball supply card file 94 and the like accordingly (T31).
[0138]
Further, the game ball supply card issuing / accounting machine 3 discharges the inserted game ball supply card 30 and, if necessary, discharges change (T32), and the player receives it (T33). .
[0139]
When the game ball supply card issuing / accounting machine 3 is ejected, the game ball supply / accounting machine 3 takes an image by the digital camera 52 and transfers the photograph data to the ticket issuing / adjusting management computer 7. Data is added to the photo data file 97 (T34, T35).
[0140]
(A-2-3) Game ball supply operation
Next, the operation when supplying (ball lending) game balls will be described with reference to the sequence diagrams of FIGS.
[0141]
When starting the game of the pachinko gaming machine 5, the player inserts the game ball supply card 35 into the game ball supply command device 4 (T40). The game ball supply commanding device 4 reads the ID of the inserted game ball supply card 35 and transmits it to the ticket issue settlement management computer 7 to confirm the validity of the game ball supply card 35 (T41, T42).
[0142]
Here, for example, when the game ball supply card 35 has no issue record remaining, when the game ball supply card 35 is in the past instead of the current day, or any other game ball supply command device 4 or In the case where the ID is the same as the ID of the game ball supply card 35 already attached to the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3, it is determined that the game ball supply card is not valid.
[0143]
If it is not valid, the ticket settlement management computer 7 sends a message to the effect that it is not valid to the game ball supply command device 4 or the system management computer 7 (not shown in FIG. 18), and the game ball supply command device 4 is inserted. The game ball supply card 35 is locked to make it impossible to carry it, the abnormality is displayed, and an image is taken by the digital camera 81. The ticket settlement management computer 7 stores the abnormality occurrence data in the built-in storage unit 91. Is stored, and data is added to the photo data file 97 (T43 to T45).
[0144]
In this case as well, the system management computer 7 that has been notified that it is not valid omits the processing in FIG. 18, but performs abnormality notification processing and determines whether or not photo data search or the like is necessary. . For example, when the reason for the invalidity is the same ID as the ID of the game ball supply card 35 that is currently installed in another game ball supply command device 4 or any one of the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machines 3 If it is, all the photographic data having the ID of the game ball supply card 35 is automatically retrieved from the photo data file 97, and the game ball in which the game ball supply card 35 having the same ID is inserted. Imaging is performed by the supply command device 4 and the game ball supply card issuing / accounting machine 3.
[0145]
Thereby, a supervisor such as an operator or a manager of the amusement hall can recognize the illegitimate person or the illegal act by checking the retrieved photographic data or the photographic data captured this time one after another. If necessary, photo data can be printed.
[0146]
If the game ball supply card 35 is valid, the ticket issuance management computer 7 returns a message to that effect to the game ball supply command device 4 (T46). When there is a prize ball number associated with the inserted gaming ball supply card 35, the gaming ball supply command device 4 discharges the inserted gaming ball supply card 35 (T47 to T49).
[0147]
In recent years, there are an increasing number of game halls that require that all prize balls are processed for prizes in order to finish a game of a single pachinko gaming machine 5. In this embodiment, description will be made on the assumption that it is a game hall that requires the prize processing to be performed on all prize balls obtained by the game of one pachinko gaming machine 5. For this reason, the process for determining the presence / absence of the number of prize balls as described above is performed. When the game ball supply card 35 is ejected due to the number of prize balls, it is notified by a notifying lamp (not shown) or a message to that effect is displayed. Anyway.
[0148]
When the number of prize balls is not recorded in association with the inserted game ball supply card 35, the game ball supply command device 4 determines whether or not the balance relating to the inserted game ball supply card 35 is zero. If the balance is 0, the gaming ball supply commanding device 4 ejects the inserted gaming ball supply card 35 (T51, T52), and if the balance is not 0, the pachinko game The balance is displayed on the machine 5 (T53).
[0149]
Note that when the validity of the game ball supply card 35 is confirmed, the game ball supply command device 4 may take an image of the player. By taking an image before the start of the game in this way, it is possible to identify the player even when the imaging window 81a is covered and fraud (crest) is executed.
[0150]
The player confirms the balance and operates the ball lending button 78 (T54). At this time, the pachinko gaming machine 5 supplies (lends a ball) game balls for each unit, reduces the balance display every time the supply of game balls for each unit is completed, and operates the return button 79. Until the game balls for the unit set in the game ball supply command device 4 are paid out, the game balls are supplied (T55 to T58).
[0151]
When the supply of game balls is stopped, the game ball supply command device 4 transmits the updated balance together with the ID of the inserted game ball supply card 35 to the ticket issue settlement management computer 7, and the ticket issue settlement management computer 7 The balance of the game ball supply card file 94 is updated (T59, T60).
[0152]
Thereafter, the player will enjoy a pachinko game (T61, T62). Although omitted in FIGS. 18 and 19, the system management computer 8 performs the ball management when a pachinko ball is supplied, when a prize is awarded, or when a game ball is launched. That is, if there is a number of prize balls, the number of prize balls can be captured.
[0153]
In the middle of the game, the player may instruct the supply of pachinko balls, but the processing at this time is omitted in FIGS.
[0154]
When the player stops the game of the pachinko gaming machine 5 that has been playing, the player operates the card return button 80 (T63). At this time, the game ball supply command device 4 notifies the ticket issue settlement management computer 7 of that fact (T64). Although the illustration of the process is omitted, the ticket settlement management computer 7 notifies the system management computer 8 that the process has been completed, and the system management computer 8 manages the number of issued balls if there is a prize ball in this game. Returned to the computer 7, the ticket settlement management computer 7 records the prize ball in the prize ball number field 94n in the game ball supply card file 94 and sets the card insertion device field 94j blank (T65) to issue the ticket settlement management. The completion of the end-time process in the computer 7 is returned to the game ball supply command device 4 (T66).
[0155]
The game ball supply command device 4 determines whether or not the processing completion notification of the ticket settlement management computer 7 includes information indicating that the number of prize balls has been recorded (T67), and records that the number of prize balls has been recorded. If the information to be included is included, the digital camera 52 is imaged, and the photograph data is transmitted to the ticket issuance management computer 7 for recording (T68, T69), and then the number of prize balls is recorded. If the information to be represented is not included, the game ball supply card 35 is immediately discharged, and the player receives it (T70, T71).
[0156]
It should be noted that imaging for a player who has acquired a prize ball in this game may be performed when a movement knob from a tray to a so-called dollar box is operated in addition to a card ejection command. If the pachinko gaming machine 5 has pachinko balls circulated by a single machine and has a manipulator or the like for moving a prize ball in a tray or the like into the pachinko gaming machine 5, the operation thereof Imaging may be performed at this time (the number of prize balls is also counted at this time).
[0157]
In any case, the photograph data of the player who has acquired the prize ball is stored in the ticket issuance management computer 7 in association with the game ball supply card 35 possessed by the player.
[0158]
(A-2-4) Checkout operation
Next, the operation when the balance that can be supplied according to the game ball supply card 35 is settled will be described with reference to the sequence diagram of FIG.
[0159]
The operation at the time of settlement is the same as the operation at the time of increasing the supplyable balance until the middle (until the process of step T25 in FIG. 17), and hence the subsequent operation will be described.
[0160]
In the case where the ticket issuance management computer 7 displays a message asking the player whether to ask for an increase in the supplyable amount of game balls or for payment in the above-described step T25, the player can use the game ball supply card. When it is desired to settle the balance available for supply 35, for example, settlement is instructed by the settlement button 40 (T80). At this time, the game ball supply card issuing / accounting machine 3 first determines whether or not the balance that can be supplied is 0 (T81).
[0161]
If the supplyable balance is 0, the game ball supply card issuing / accounting machine 3 determines whether or not a valid number of prize balls has been recorded for the inserted game ball supply card 35 with respect to the ticket settlement management computer 7. In response to this, the ticket issuance management computer 7 returns the information (T82, T83), and in response to this, the process proceeds to the processing after step T88 described later. Here, the effective number of prize spheres means the number of the smallest prize spheres that can be exchanged for prizes.
[0162]
When there is a valid supplyable balance for the inserted game ball supply card 35, the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 pays out banknotes and coins for the amount of the supplyable balance, and the player receives this. (T84, T85). The game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 transmits to the ticket settlement management computer 7 that the monetary settlement has been completed, and the ticket settlement management computer 7 stores the balance field 94g of the game ball supply card file 94. In addition to resetting, information on whether or not a valid number of prize balls is recorded for the game ball supply card 35 is returned to the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 (T86, T87).
[0163]
As described above, when the payment is unnecessary or when the payment of the balance that can be supplied is completed, the game ball supply card issuance machine 3 has an effective number of premium balls for the game ball supply card 35. It is determined whether or not it is recorded (T88).
[0164]
If an effective number of prize balls is not recorded, the game ball supply card issuing / accounting machine 3 collects the inserted game ball supply card 35 and notifies the ticket issuing / adjustment management computer 7 that the card has been collected. (T89, T90).
[0165]
On the other hand, if an effective number of prize balls are recorded, the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 will discharge the inserted game ball supply card 35 and complete the game even if the settlement is completed. The person receives this (T91, T92).
[0166]
(A-2-5) Gift exchange operation
Next, an operation for exchanging a prize ball acquired by a player for a prize for a prize will be described with reference to the sequence diagrams of FIGS.
[0167]
A prize exchange person or a player puts a prize sphere into the introduction hopper of the prize sphere counting apparatus 111 related to the prize exchange processing computer 6, and causes the prize sphere counting apparatus 111 to count the number of prize spheres (T100, T101). At the start of the counting operation, the prize exchange processing computer 6 executes imaging by the digital camera 115, transmits the obtained photographic data to the ticket issue settlement management computer 7 and stores it in a file (102, T103). The photo data at this time includes both a freebie exchanger (employee) and a player who is seeking a freebie exchange.
[0168]
In the system that manages the number of prize balls only by managing the number of prize balls, the prize ball counting device 111 can be omitted. Even in a system in which the pachinko gaming machine 5 itself has a premium ball counting function, the premium ball counting device 111 can be omitted.
[0169]
Thereafter, the prize exchange processing computer 6 displays a message requesting insertion of the game ball supply card 35, and in response to this, the prize exchange person or the player plays the game ball supply card 35 carried by the player. Is inserted into the gift exchange processing computer 6 (T104, T105).
[0170]
Thereby, the prize exchange processing computer 6 obtains the ID of the inserted game ball supply card 35 by the card information reading unit 114, and issues the ID and the number of prize balls counted by the prize ball counting device 111. Then, the ticket issuance management computer 7 confirms the validity based on the arrived information (T106, T107).
[0171]
The confirmation of legitimacy here is not only the general confirmation as described above based on the card ID, but also the value of the prize ball number field 94n of the card file for game ball supply 94 (in the game during the game process) This is also performed based on whether or not the counted number of prizes is appropriate in view of the number of prize balls). For example, when the number of prizes counted by the prize ball counting device 111 is considerably larger than the value of the prize ball number field 94n (when the error is large), there is a high possibility that someone else has stolen the prize balls, which is not valid. Judge. Further, even when the game ball supply card 35 is inserted into the game ball supply command device 4 when the upside sensor or the like is activated during the game with respect to the pachinko gaming machine 5, it is determined that the game ball supply card 35 is not valid.
[0172]
If it is not valid, the ticket issuance management computer 7 sends a message to the prize exchange processing computer 6 or the system management computer 8 (not shown in FIGS. 21 and 22) to the effect that it is not valid. If the information relates to a past abnormality, the information may include photograph data taken at that time. The prize exchange processing computer 6 locks the inserted game ball supply card 35 so that it cannot be carried, displays an abnormality (may include photographic data), and takes an image by the digital camera 115. And the obtained photograph data is transmitted to the ticket settlement management computer 7, and the ticket settlement management computer 7 stores the abnormality occurrence data and the photograph data in the built-in storage unit 91 (T108, T109).
[0173]
The system management computer 8 that has been notified that the information is not valid performs the abnormality notification process although the process is not shown in FIGS. 21 and 22.
[0174]
The ticket issuance management computer 7 that has been determined to be valid in the determination in step T107 described above indicates that the player receives a prize ball with the pachinko gaming machine 5 in which the supplyable balance and the game ball supply card 35 are inserted. Information such as photograph data taken when the income is obtained is returned to the premium exchange processing computer 6 (T110).
[0175]
The prize exchange processing computer 6 displays the received photographic data, and asks the prize exchange staff whether or not it is a valid prize ball acquirer (player) (T111, T112).
[0176]
If the player shown in the displayed photo data is different from the player who is requesting a prize exchange, the prize exchange staff will take measures such as asking the player who is requesting a prize exchange. If the player cannot be determined to be a legitimate player even after hearing the circumstances, the fact is input to the prize exchange processing computer 6 (T113), and the prize exchange processing computer 6 performs an abnormal process (T114). As an abnormal process at this time, for example, the system management computer 8 can transfer and store the number of prize balls and the card ID so that a player who has stolen the prize balls appears later. After this, the present prize exchange process of the prize exchange processing computer 6 can be reset.
[0177]
On the other hand, if the player shown in the displayed photo data matches the player who is requesting the prize exchange, the prize exchange person inputs that fact to the prize exchange processing computer 6 (T115). The prize exchange processing computer 6 performs a general prize exchange process similar to the conventional one (T116), and at the end of the prize exchange, notifies the ticket settlement management computer 7 to give a prize ball in the card file 94 for supplying game balls. The value of the number field 94n is cleared (T117). In the exchange process, the prize exchange processing computer 6 causes the digital camera 115 to pick up an image every time the exchange prize code is read or the number of the same exchange prize is keyed. Photo data showing a player seeking exchange may be transmitted to the ticket settlement management computer 7 for storage.
[0178]
Thereafter, the prize exchange processing computer 6 determines whether or not the supplyable balance relating to the inserted game ball supply card 35 is 0 (T118).
[0179]
If the supplyable balance is not 0, the prize exchange processing computer 6 ejects the inserted game ball supply card 35, and the prize exchange person or player receives it (T119, T120).
[0180]
On the other hand, if the balance that can be supplied is 0, the prize exchange processing computer 6 displays a message asking whether or not to continue playing the game, and the prize exchange person asks the player's intention and responds to it. Then, the prize exchange processing computer 6 determines the response content (T121 to T123).
[0181]
If the game is not performed, the prize exchange processing computer 6 collects the inserted game ball supply card 35 in the game ball supply card collection unit 119 and notifies the ticket issue settlement management computer 7 to that effect. Then, the ticket settlement management computer 7 appropriately updates the contents of the game ball supply card file 94 related to the collected game ball supply card 35 (T124, T125).
[0182]
On the other hand, in the case of playing a game, the prize exchange processing computer 6 ejects the inserted game ball supply card 35, and the prize exchange person or player receives it (T126, T127). .
[0183]
(A-3) Effects of the embodiment
According to the above embodiment, at the time of prize exchange, based on the photograph data of the player imaged when the prize ball is acquired, the player who requested the prize exchange is confirmed to exchange the prize. Since it did in this way, the system which can guarantee only prize exchange about the player who acquired the prize ball | bowl legitimately by game is realizable.
[0184]
In addition, according to the above embodiment, since the photograph data of both the prize exchanger and the player who are used for the prize exchange are obtained and stored, the prize exchanger and the player work together to prevent fraud. It can be expected to prevent it, and it can be expected to pursue the cause when fraud about the exchange of prizes is discovered later.
[0185]
(B) Other embodiments
Also in the above description, various modified embodiments are mentioned, but further modified embodiments as exemplified below can be cited.
[0186]
In the above embodiment, the photograph data used for the player's legitimacy confirmation at the time of the prize exchange is the photograph data obtained when the prize ball is acquired, but in addition to this, the player owns the photograph data. Other photographic data relating to the game ball supply card 35 may be used for confirmation. The photograph data taken when issuing the game ball supply card 35, the photograph data taken when issuing the admission card 20 that is the premise for issuing the game ball supply card 35, or the prize ball could not be acquired. Photo data taken at the time of other pachinko gaming machines may be used for confirmation. That is, when a player shown in a plurality of types of photo data related to a certain game ball supply card 35 (excluding photo data resulting from an abnormality) matches in all the photo data, prize exchange is permitted. It may be considered as a player.
[0187]
Further, in the above embodiment, when both the prize ball and the balance that can be supplied remain regarding the game ball supply card 35, either the prize exchange process or the settlement process of the balance that can be supplied is executed first. The processing order may be determined. In this case, if a prize ball is acquired when a game of a single pachinko gaming machine is completed, the prize exchange process is a process to be performed first if it is a game hall that requires prize exchange.
[0188]
Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the balance of the supplyable balance relating to the game ball supply card 35 is shown to be performed by the game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3, but it may be a dedicated function of the prize exchange processing computer 6. . In such a case, the condition for the settlement of the match between the player shown in the photograph data (excluding the photograph data due to the occurrence of abnormality) taken at the time of issuing the game ball supply card 35 and the player who requested settlement You may make it. Also, at the time of the settlement, the photograph data of the group of the settlement processing employee and the player who requested settlement may be obtained and stored.
[0189]
Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the processing for the prize sphere is shown only for prize exchange. However, in addition to this, the present invention can be applied to a system having a storage processing. That is, the player may be confirmed based on the photographic data when the prize ball is converted into a storage ball to be accumulated for future games or prize exchange. The photographic data used for this confirmation may be photographic data taken at the time of acquiring the prize sphere. In addition, in practice, the game hall adopting a membership system allows only member players to save money. Therefore, you may make it use the photograph data obtained by imaging at the time of member registration for the player confirmation at the time of conversion to a prize ball storage.
[0190]
Furthermore, the player may be confirmed based on the photo data when the stored ball is reconverted into a game ball or converted into a prize. In this case, the photograph data used for the player confirmation when the stored ball is requested may be stored and used for confirmation at the time of conversion from the stored ball. Photo data in which both a member and a player are shown may be used for confirmation at this time.
[0191]
In the above embodiment, the members also use the game ball supply card 35. However, for the members, the member card 70 may be used in the same manner as the game ball supply card 35. .
[0192]
Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the number of prize balls, the balance that can be supplied, and the like are shown to be stored in the ticket settlement management computer 7 in association with the game ball supply card 35. In addition to the above, the number of prize balls, the balance that can be supplied, and the like may be stored in the game ball supply card 35. Furthermore, photographic data may also be stored in the game ball supply card 35.
[0193]
Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the photo data used for confirmation when exchanging the prize is taken out using the card ID as a key. However, instead of or in addition to this, another method is applied. You may do it. For example, when the game ball supply card 35 is issued, fingerprint reading, password input, or the like may be performed, and this information may also be used for taking out photo data (for identity verification other than taking out photo data). Also). Further, if the pachinko gaming machine itself has a function for issuing a form in which the number of prize balls is printed, the photo number may be taken out by printing the reference number on the form.
[0194]
Furthermore, the ticket issue settlement management computer 7 and the system management computer 8 may be constituted by a single computer.
[0195]
Moreover, although the case where the gaming machine is a pachinko gaming machine is shown in the above embodiment, it is a matter of course that other gaming machines such as a slot machine may be used, and the cards are common to the pachinko gaming machine and the slot machine. It may be anything.
[0196]
Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, a system in which all the components are provided in the game hall has been shown. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, the prize exchange processing computer 6 cooperates with prize exchange outside the game hall. It may be provided in a store or the like.
[0197]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the gaming hall monitoring system of the first aspect of the present invention, the player imaging means (81) capable of imaging the player who has acquired the game reward ball is provided. To the corresponding game ball supply command device (4) that commands the supply of the own device or game ball. A plurality of gaming machines (5) and a player image data storage means (7) for storing image data of the player who has acquired the game reward ball obtained by imaging by the player imaging means. And a game reward ball conversion process such as exchanging the game reward ball for a prize or converting it into a storage ball, which is stored in the player image data storage means as a confirmation process in the previous stage , Imaged by the player imaging means A game reward ball processing device (6) for displaying image data of a predetermined player; Each of the gaming machines activates the imaging of the player imaging means when there is a reward ball presence / absence determining means for determining whether or not there is a game reward ball at the end of the game and a game reward ball at the end of the game. Imaging start-up means Therefore, the legitimacy of the player who has requested the game reward ball conversion process can be determined, and the game reward ball conversion process can be performed only for an authorized player.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an overall configuration of a game hall monitoring system 1 according to an embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating an appearance image of an entrance card issuing machine 2 according to the embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of an entrance card issuing machine 2 according to the embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an appearance image of the card issuing and adjusting machine 3 for supplying game balls according to the embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of a game ball supply card issuing / settlement machine 3 according to the embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing appearance images of the game ball supply command device 4 and the pachinko gaming machine 5 of the embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the game ball supply command device 4 of the embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a prize exchange processing computer 6 according to the embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a ticket issue settlement management computer 7 according to the embodiment.
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a record configuration of an admission card file 93 according to the embodiment.
FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing a record configuration of a game ball supply card file 94 according to the embodiment.
FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a record configuration of a member card file 95 according to the embodiment.
FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a record configuration of an employee card file 96 according to the embodiment.
FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a record configuration of a photo data file 97 of the embodiment.
FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a system management computer 8 according to the embodiment.
FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation when a non-member player enters the store according to the embodiment.
FIG. 17 is a sequence diagram showing an operation of increasing the suppliable balance of the player according to the embodiment.
FIG. 18 is a sequence diagram (1) illustrating an operation at the time of game ball supply according to the embodiment.
FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram (2) showing an operation at the time of supply of the game ball of the embodiment.
FIG. 20 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation at the time of payment according to the embodiment.
FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram (1) illustrating an operation at the time of prize exchange according to the embodiment.
FIG. 22 is a sequence diagram (2) illustrating an operation at the time of prize exchange according to the embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Game hall monitoring system, 2 ... Admission card issuing machine, 3 ... Game ball supply card issuing and settlement machine, 4 ... Game ball supply command device, 5 ... Pachinko gaming machine, 6 ... Premium exchange processing computer, 7 ... Ticket settlement Management computer, 8 ... System management computer, 35 ... Game ball supply card, 115 ... Digital camera.

Claims (3)

A plurality of gaming machines in which a player imaging means capable of imaging a player who has acquired a gaming reward ball is provided in the own device or a corresponding gaming ball supply commanding device that commands the supply of the gaming ball ;
Player image data storage means for storing image data of a player who has acquired a game reward ball obtained by imaging by the player imaging means;
Game reward ball conversion processing such as exchanging game reward balls for prizes or conversion into storage balls, etc. is performed, and is stored in the player image data storage means as confirmation processing in the previous stage , possess a game reward ball processing apparatus in which the player imaging means for displaying the image data of a predetermined player captured,
Each of the above gaming machines
Reward ball presence / absence determining means for determining whether or not there is a game reward ball at the end of the game;
An amusement hall monitoring system comprising: an imaging activation means for activating imaging of the player imaging means when there is a game reward ball at the end of the game . Each of the above gaming machines is supplied with a game ball on the condition that a card to which unique identification information is given is inserted into the own game machine or a corresponding game ball supply command device that commands the supply of the game ball. And
The remuneration ball presence / absence discriminating means possessed by each gaming device recognizes that the card has been ejected as the end of the game and confirms the presence / absence of a game remuneration ball,
The player image data storage means stores player image data in association with at least the card identification information,
The gaming reward ball processing apparatus includes an insertion slot for the card, and provides identification information of the inserted card to the player image data storage means, and image data of the player imaged by the player imaging means. The game hall monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the game hall monitoring system is extracted and displayed. Imaging opening of the upper Symbol player imaging means is a is laterally of the opening of the lid for opening and closing the swinging of the corresponding game device side, and being provided at a position higher than the upper edge of the lid The game hall monitoring system according to claim 1 or 2.

Images