JP4646088B2 - Premium exchange device and premium exchange system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a prize exchange device and a prize exchange system employed in a game arcade such as a pachinko parlor. More specifically, premium exchanges that reduce information and communication costs when exchanging valuable value acquired by players such as pachinko balls and coins and premiums provided by premium exchange member stores outside the playground The present invention relates to an apparatus and a gift exchange system.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, in this kind of amusement hall, pachinko balls and coins acquired after playing with pachinko machines and slot machines are prohibited from being taken home, and all are counted except those that allow storage balls to be deposited in the amusement hall And it is supposed to be exchanged for the corresponding prize.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In order to exchange pachinko balls and coins (acquired valuable value) for prizes like this, it is necessary to bring a receipt with the number of pachinko balls and coins counted in the service counter to the service counter, and then select the prize and report it to the store clerk. However, in recent years, an electronic prize exchange device has been installed in the game hall, and the number of prize exchange devices that players can exchange for prizes has increased in recent years. ing.
[0004]
In this case, the player inserts a receipt or the like into the prize exchange device, and selects a prize that can be exchanged according to the number of acquisitions (pachinko balls or coins) specified from the information written on the receipt, etc. Some of them are in stock at the amusement hall, and some are provided by premium exchange member stores outside the amusement park with which they have contracted in recent years. And, when exchanging the valuable value provided by the merchant outside the amusement hall with the prize, a method of obtaining information on the prize from the merchant through the cyber mall on the Internet has been developed. Each time the premium information is obtained or an exchange order is sent to the affiliated store, there is a problem that the time required for selecting the premium is added, and the access time becomes long and the communication cost increases significantly. It was.
[0005]
The present invention has been made to solve the conventional technical problems, and provides a prize exchange device and a prize exchange system capable of reducing the information communication cost required for prize exchange outside a game hall. is there.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  Claim1The prize exchange system of the invention is a gameshopA prize exchange device for performing a process for exchanging the magnitude of the valuable value acquired by the player as a prize when the player plays a game;
  GameshopProvided outside,pluralProvided by member storesOutside the storeFree gift informationConcentrationIn a prize exchange system comprising a prize information management device to manage,
  The premium exchange device requests the premium information management device to distribute the premium information and is distributed from the premium information management device.Outside the store where prizes can be exchanged outside the amusement storeStore free gift informationIt comprises an out-of-store prize information storage means and an in-store prize information storage means for storing in-store prize information that can be exchanged in the amusement store.Storage means;
  Display means for displaying the stored prize information to the player;
  A prize selection means for allowing a player to operate, and for the player to select a prize within a range of the value of the acquired valuable value;
  Acquired value subtraction processing means for subtracting the value of the acquired value corresponding to the selected prize from the value of the acquired value;
  The prize selected by the prize selection meansIs an out-of-store gift according to the out-of-store gift information stored in the out-of-store gift information storage means,Order information transmission means for transmitting the order information to the premium information management device,
  The premium information management device responds to a request for distributing the premium information.eachProvided by member storesOutside the storeWhile delivering free gift information,
Receive order information for the prizeAnd centralized managementThe information indicating that the order information has been received is transmitted to the premium exchange device.
[0009]
  Claim1According to the invention of the gameshopA prize exchange device for performing a process for exchanging the magnitude of the valuable value possessed by the player for the prize when the player plays the game, and a gameshopProvided outside,pluralProvided by member storesOutside the storeFree gift informationConcentrationA prize exchange system including a prize information management apparatus for managing the prize information management apparatus, wherein the prize exchange apparatus requests the prize information management apparatus to deliver the prize information and is delivered from the prize information management apparatus.Outside the store where prizes can be exchanged outside the amusement storeStore free gift informationIt comprises an out-of-store prize information storage means and an in-store prize information storage means for storing in-store prize information that can be exchanged in the amusement store.Storage means, display means for displaying the stored prize information to the player, and the player can operate, and the player selects a prize within a range of the value of the acquired value. Premium selection means, acquired value subtraction processing means for subtracting the size of the acquired valuable value corresponding to the selected premium from the size of the acquired valuable value, and the premium selected by the premium selection meansIs an out-of-store gift according to the out-of-store gift information stored in the out-of-store gift information storage means,Order information transmission means for transmitting the order information to the premium information management device, the premium information management device in response to a request for distribution of the premium informationeachProvided by member storesOutside the storeDeliver premium information and receive order information for the premiumAnd centralized managementSince the information indicating that the order information has been received is transmitted to the prize exchange device,shopProvided by an outside member storeOutside the storeGet prize information and send order information for the selected prize at a minimum communication cost.shopThe communication cost required for exchanging prizes outside can be significantly reduced.In addition, the prize exchange device only needs to obtain the prize information provided from the member store outside the amusement store and transmit the order information of the selected prize to and from one place of the prize information management apparatus. Communication costs can be reduced.
[0010]
  Claim2InventionView ofThe exchange system is provided by the member store in the aboveOutside the storeIn the prize information, a prize and identification information for identifying the prize are registered in association with each other, and the order information includes at least the identification information.
[0011]
  Claim2According to the invention, in addition to the above, it is provided by the member storeOutside the storeIn the prize information, the prize and identification information for identifying the prize are registered in association with each other, and the order information includes at least the identification information. Therefore, the order information of the selected prize is reduced, and the order information is transmitted. The communication cost required for the communication can be further reduced.
[0014]
  Claim3InventionView ofThe product exchange system is characterized in that, in each of the above inventions, the order information is transmitted during the closing process.
[0015]
  Claim3According to the invention, in addition to each of the above inventions, the order information is transmitted at the time of the closing process. Therefore, it is possible to further reduce the communication cost by transmitting the order information collectively at the closing time. It will be.
[0016]
  Claim4InventionView ofIn the present invention, the gift exchange system is characterized in that the delivery of the prize information is performed when the prize exchange device is activated.
[0017]
  Claim4According to the invention of the present invention, in addition to the above inventions, the distribution of the prize information is performed when the prize exchange device is activated.shopThe premium information is acquired before the opening of the store, and the premium information can be surely provided to the customer when the store is opened.
[0018]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prize exchange machine 2 constituting a prize exchange system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the prize exchange system 1. The prize exchange 2 according to the embodiment is installed on each gaming machine installation island or service counter configured in a game hall where a plurality of pachinko machines and slot machines are installed. On the upper left side of the front surface is provided a display unit 4 constituting display means constituted by a liquid crystal display, and on the right side of the display unit 4 is a member card that accepts a membership card and counting card composed of an IC card or the like. There are provided an insertion slot 6 and a counting card insertion slot 7 and an exchange card outlet 8 through which an exchange card or the like as a receipt is issued.
[0019]
In FIG. 2, the prize exchange system 1 according to the embodiment includes the prize exchange 2, a prize exchange management apparatus 11 that is provided separately from the prize exchange 2 in the game hall, and constitutes a prize exchange apparatus together with the prize exchange 2. This is also composed of a counter 12 provided in the game hall separately from the prize exchange 2 and a prize information management device 9 constituting a prize information distribution means provided outside the game hall.
[0020]
The gift exchange 2 includes a CPU 14 serving as control means, a ROM 16 in which a control program is written, a RAM 17 that functions as data storage and work memory, the display unit 4, and a display that drives the display unit 4. A member 25, a touch switch 18 disposed on the surface of the display unit 4, and a member card processing unit 19 for executing reading of data of the member card inserted from the member card insertion slot 6 and writing of data to the card. A counting card processing unit 21 that executes reading of data of the counting card inserted from the counting card insertion slot 7 and writing of data to the card, and an exchange certificate that issues an exchange certificate to the exchange card outlet 8 For example, data is transmitted / received between the issuing unit 22 and the prize exchange management device 11 by serial communication, for example. And it includes a communication unit 24 for.
[0021]
The ROM 16, RAM 17, display driver 25, touch switch 18, member card processing unit 19, counting card processing unit 21, exchange certificate issuing unit 22 and communication unit 24 are all connected to the CPU 14 and controlled according to a program.
[0022]
The prize exchange management device 11 is installed, for example, in a game room management room together with the member management device, etc., and includes a CPU 26 as a control means, a ROM 27 in which a control program is written, and a work memory. A functioning RAM 28, a printer (color printer) 29 for printing out data, a display 31 such as a CRT or a liquid crystal display, and a pachinko as an acquired valuable value transmitted from the counter 12 as will be described later. Count data storage unit 32 as a memory having a count history database, which will be described later, for storing data relating to the counting of balls, and prizes such as names of various prizes and the number of balls necessary for exchange (or earned valuable value such as the number of coins). The master data and the master data to be described later are stored. A prize data storage unit 33 as a storage means in which a file is stored, an exchange history storage unit 34 having a later-described prize exchange history database for storing data relating to a history of exchange of each prize, and prizes are exchanged; Alternatively, a stock information storage unit 36 having a stock information file, which will be described later, in which data relating to replenishment storage / receipt, that is, data relating to the stock status of each premium, is stored, the premium exchange machine 2, the counter 12, the member management device ( An internal communication unit 37 for transmitting / receiving data to / from the member management computer) and an external communication unit 23 for transmitting / receiving data to / from the premium information management device 9 via the Internet. ing.
[0023]
The ROM 27, RAM 28, printer 29, display 31, count data storage unit 32, premium data storage unit 33, replacement history storage unit 34, inventory information storage unit 36, internal communication unit 37, and external communication unit 23 are all CPU 26. And is controlled according to the program.
[0024]
The counter 12 is a so-called jet counter installed in the amusement hall, and includes a CPU 38 serving as control means, a ROM 39 in which a control program is written, and a RAM 41 functioning as data storage and work memory. A counting unit 42 that counts the inserted pachinko balls (or coins, which will be described below using a pachinko ball paid out from the pachinko machine as an example), an issue switch 43 for issuing a counting card, and a counting In order to display a card issuing unit 44 for writing and issuing data related to counting on the card, a member card processing unit 46 for executing processing for reading the data of the inserted member card and writing data to the card, and counting results Communication counter for transmitting and receiving data between the counting display unit 47 and the gift exchange management device 11. Department has a such as 48.
[0025]
The ROM 39, RAM 41, counting unit 42, issuing switch 43, card issuing unit 44, member card processing unit 46, counting display unit 47, and communication unit 48 are all connected to the CPU 38 and controlled according to the program.
[0026]
When the player inserts a pachinko ball (acquired valuable value) acquired by the player into the counting machine 12, the counting unit 42 counts the number of pachinko balls. The CPU 38 displays the counted value (acquired number of balls) on the count display unit 47. When the issuing switch 43 is operated by the player, the counting card issuing unit 44 writes and issues a predetermined ticket issuing ID and counting information regarding the count value to the counting card. This ticket issuing ID is identification information unique to the counting card.
[0027]
Further, the ticket issuing ID and the count information are associated with each other and transmitted from the communication unit 48 to the internal communication unit 37 of the prize exchange management device 11 as ticket issuing information. When a membership card is inserted in the membership card processing unit 46, the recorded information of the membership card (ID unique to the membership) is also associated with the ticket issue information and transmitted to the prize exchange management device 11. Can do.
[0028]
The prize information management device 9 stores a later-described prize information database for storing data relating to prize information transmitted from a plurality of member exchanges M for exchanging prizes contracted with a game hall as will be described later. As a memory having a provided prize information storage unit 52 as a memory having data, and data relating to order information sent from the prize exchange management device 11, and having an order history database to be described later for storing information relating to order history. Order information storage unit 53 and a communication unit 54 for transmitting / receiving data to / from the premium information management device 9 or member store M via the Internet, and centrally manages premium information and order information. .
[0029]
Next, operations of the free gift exchange management device 11, the free gift information management device 9, and the free gift exchange 2 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 3 to 7 show the control operation of the CPU 26 of the gift exchange management apparatus 11, FIG. 8 shows the control operation of the CPU 51 of the gift information management apparatus 9, and FIGS. 9 to 11 show the CPU 14 of the gift exchange machine 2. The control operation is shown.
[0030]
FIG. 3 shows a main program executed by the CPU 26 of the gift exchange management apparatus 11, and the CPU 26 first executes a pre-opening process in step S1 at the start-up after the power is turned on in preparation for the opening of the store. FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the pre-opening process. In step S4, the CPU 26 of the gift exchange management device 11 uses the external communication unit 23 to transmit a gift information acquisition request (provided gift information distribution request) to the gift information management device 9 via the Internet. In step S5, data reception from the premium information management device 9 is awaited.
[0031]
On the other hand, the prize information management device 9 determines whether or not the prize information from the member store has been transmitted in step S60 of FIG. 8, and when the prize information from the member store is received by the communication unit 54 via the Internet. Goes to step S63 and stores it in the premium information database in the provided premium information storage unit 52. FIG. 12 shows an example of the file structure of the prize information database.
[0032]
In this premium information database, based on premium information sent from a plurality of member stores M, a premium ID and a premium name as identification information for identifying a premium that can be provided at each member store M on the day are exchanged for the premium. Are registered in association with the number of balls required (the number of valuable value), the number of stocks, and the name of the member store.
[0033]
Also, the prize information management device 9 determines whether or not there has been a prize information acquisition request from the prize exchange management device 11 at the game hall via the Internet, and at the aforementioned step S4, the prize exchange management device at the game hall. 11 sends a free gift information acquisition request to the free gift information management device 9, and when receiving the free gift information acquisition request via the communication unit 54, the CPU 51 proceeds from step S61 to step S64 to receive free gift information in the free gift information database. The data is transmitted to the gift exchange management device 11 via the Internet, and a transmission completion notification is transmitted in step S65.
[0034]
Returning to FIG. 4, when the CPU 26 of the prize exchange management device 11 receives the prize information data from the prize information management apparatus 9 via the Internet by the external communication unit 23, the CPU 26 proceeds from step S5 to step S6 and proceeds to the prize information data. When the transmission completion notification is received in step S7, the process proceeds to step S8 to create free gift information that can be provided on the day from the received information, and in step S9, the member store free gift database in the free gift data storage unit 33 is updated. To do. This member store free gift database has substantially the same contents as the free gift information database.
[0035]
In this way, the prize exchange management device 11 acquires the prize information of each member store M that can be exchanged on the day from the prize information management apparatus 9 and stores it in the prize data storage unit 33. Thus, the pre-opening process of the gift exchange management device 11 is completed. Thereafter, the CPU 26 of the gift exchange management device 11 proceeds to step S2 in FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the business process. The CPU 26 determines whether or not the count information from the counter 12 has been received in step S10 of FIG.
[0036]
When ticketing information is transmitted from the counter 12 and received by the internal communication unit 37 as described above, the CPU 26 associates the ticketing ID specified from the ticketing information with the counting information in step S10 and counts the counting data in the counting data storage unit 32. Register in the database (FIG. 13). Further, the CPU 26 determines whether or not the member verification information is transmitted from the gift exchange 2 in step S11. If it is transmitted as will be described later, the CPU 26 proceeds to step S15 and uses the transmitted member ID and personal identification number as a member. Check with the management device. Then, in the case of collation OK, the process proceeds from step S16 to step S17, and a collation completion notification and stored ball number information are returned to the free gift exchange 2. In the case of collation NG, the process proceeds to step S18 and collation error information is transmitted. Further, it is determined in step S12 whether or not premium exchange information, which will be described later, has been transmitted from the premium exchange 2, and if it has been transmitted, the process proceeds to step S14 to execute a premium exchange registration process, which will be described later.
[0037]
On the other hand, the CPU 14 of the gift exchange 2 determines whether or not a membership card is inserted in step S71 of FIG. When the player owns the membership card and inserts the membership card through the membership card insertion slot 6, the CPU 14 executes a membership card authentication process in step S87.
[0038]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart relating to the authentication process of the member card. In step S129, the CPU 14 reads the recorded information related to the member written on the member card by the member card processing unit 19. Next, in step S130, the password input screen shown in FIG. On the password input screen, a numeric keypad, a correction key, and a confirmation key are displayed together with a message “Please enter the password”.
[0039]
The player operates the numeric keypad (touches the touch panel) and enters, for example, a four-digit password (operates the correction key if the input is incorrect, erases the input digit and inputs the correction), and presses the enter key When operated, the CPU 14 transmits the recorded information and the input personal identification number to the premium exchange management device 11 from the communication unit 24 in step S131. Then, as described above, the prize exchange management device 11 collates the information, and if the authentication is OK, the collation completion notice and the number of stored balls information are sent to the prize exchange 2 if it is NG. Is done. CPU14 judges whether the collation result which concerns in step S132 was received, and waits until it receives.
[0040]
When the verification result is received, the CPU 14 determines whether or not the authentication result is OK from the verification result received in step S88 of FIG. 9. If the authentication result is OK, the process proceeds to step S72. If not, the CPU 14 displays in step S91. The authentication error display as shown in FIG. On this authentication error display screen, the message “Member authentication error. Please insert the membership card again” is displayed. In step S92, the member card processing unit 19 returns the member card to the member card insertion slot 6.
[0041]
On the other hand, if the authentication of the membership card is OK, the CPU 14 determines in step S72 whether or not a counting card is inserted, and waits until it is inserted. When the player inserts the counting card issued by the counting machine 12 into the counting card insertion slot 7 as described above, the CPU 14 uses the counting card processing unit 21 to record information (ticketing ID and ID) written on the counting card in step S73. Counting information) is read, and a message “Reading now. Please wait” is displayed on the display unit 4 as shown in FIG. In step S74, the record information is transmitted to the gift exchange management device 11.
[0042]
Here, the CPU 26 of the gift exchange management device 11 determines whether or not the record information of the counting card from the gift exchange 2 has been received. In step S74, the record information is transmitted from the gift exchange 2 and the internal communication unit When received by 37, the CPU 26 searches the count database (FIG. 13) of the count data storage unit 32 for the information received by the CPU 26. Then, it is determined whether or not the information received from the gift exchange 2 matches the information (ticketing ID and counting information) recorded in the counting database. If they match, a verification completion notification is transmitted to the gift exchange 2. . If they do not match, a verification error notification is transmitted to the gift exchange 2.
[0043]
Returning to FIG. 9, the gift exchange 2 waits until receiving a notification regarding the collation result from the prize exchange management device 11 in step S75, and if received, the CPU 14 determines whether or not the collation result is OK in step S76. Judge. As described above, when the ticket issue ID and count information sent from the counter 12 in the gift exchange management device 11 cannot be compared with the information transmitted from the gift exchanger 2, a verification error notification is transmitted to the gift exchanger 2. In step S89, the CPU 14 displays a count information error as shown in FIG. On this counting information error display screen, the message “Counting information error. Please insert the counting card again” is displayed. In step S94, the counting card processing unit 21 returns the counting card to the counting card insertion slot 7.
[0044]
On the other hand, the ticket exchange ID and the count information sent from the counter 12 in the gift exchange management device 11 are collated with the information transmitted from the gift exchange 2, and a collation completion notice is transmitted to the prize exchanger 2 to confirm the collation result OK. If it is, the CPU 14 proceeds from step S76 to step S77 to determine whether or not the number of counting balls specified from the counting information is greater than or equal to the minimum number of prizes required for exchanging the prize. If the number is less than the number, the process proceeds to step S93 to display the shortage of the number of balls as shown in FIG. On this shortage screen, the message “There are not enough balls. Please insert the card with a lot of balls first. The counting card will be returned from the counting card slot.” Is displayed. The In step S94, the counting card is returned in the same manner.
[0045]
On the other hand, if the number of counted balls is equal to or greater than the minimum number of prizes, the process proceeds to step S78 to display the number of counted balls on the display unit 4, and then a prize replacement request display as shown in FIG. Perform to 4. In this gift exchange request display screen, the number of balls (acquired valuable value) is displayed in the upper right corner of the display unit 4 as the number of balls acquired (2400 in the embodiment), and below that, “Please insert the next card. If you want to exchange prizes, press the exchange button. "And the exchange key will be displayed. If the exchange key is not pressed at this time and the next counting card is inserted, the CPU 14 returns to step S72 and repeats steps S72 to S79. Then, the number of possessed balls specified from the counting card inserted next is added to the number of acquired balls in FIG. 19 and displayed.
[0046]
When the player presses (touches) the exchange key on the display screen of FIG. 19, the CPU 14 proceeds to step S80 and displays a main menu as shown in FIG. In this main menu, in addition to the number of balls acquired, a message “Please select from the following buttons” is displayed, and a special prize key, a general prize key, and a storage key are displayed side by side below. When the player desires a special prize as a prize to be exchanged and presses (touches) a special prize key on the screen of FIG. 20, the CPU 14 proceeds from step S81 to step S82 to execute a special prize allocation process.
[0047]
In this special prize allocating process, the number of obtained balls is divided by assuming that one special prize (large) is 1000 balls and one special prize (small) is 400 balls. That is, in this case, it is first determined how many special prizes (large) can be exchanged from the number of acquired 2,400 balls. Here, the number of special prizes (small) from the remaining 400 balls is set to 2000. It is judged whether it can be exchanged, and here is 400 balls per piece. As a result of such special prize allocation, special prize contents are displayed to indicate that two special prizes (large) (2,000 balls) and one special prize (small) (400 balls) are paid out (FIG. 21).
[0048]
Next, the CPU 14 calculates the number of remaining balls generated when the special prize split is performed in step S83 (in this case, the number of remaining balls is 0). If there is no remaining ball number, the process proceeds from step S84 to step S85. Set free gift information. If there is a remaining number of balls, the process proceeds from step S84 to step S102. If the special prize information is set in step S85, the process proceeds to step S117, where the special prize information (special prize information set in step S85) is transmitted to the prize exchange management apparatus 11 as prize exchange information, and received in step S118. Wait until a completion notification is returned from the gift exchange management device 11.
[0049]
If the number of remaining balls is present in step S84, for example, if the number of acquired balls is 2450, the CPU 14 proceeds to step S102 and displays a special prize content screen as shown in FIG. . On this special prize content screen, 2450 special prizes (large), 2000 special prizes, 1 special prize (small) (400 balls), and 50 extra balls (remaining balls) are displayed in addition to 2,450 acquired balls. , A message key and a general gift key are displayed together with a message “Please select the button for the extra ball processing”.
[0050]
Then, when the storage ball key is pressed on the display screen of FIG. 22 and when the player desires to store the ball and the storage ball key is pressed and the storage ball is selected on the display screen of FIG. The process proceeds from step S102 to step S103, and it is determined whether or not a member card is inserted. If the membership card is inserted into the membership card slot 6, the process proceeds to step S108. If the membership card is not inserted, the process proceeds to step S104 to display the above-described membership card request screen of FIG. Part 4 is displayed. In step S105, the process waits for the insertion of the membership card. If the membership card is inserted from the membership card insertion slot 6, the CPU 14 executes the same membership card authentication process as described above in step S106. If it is NG, the process proceeds to step S111, the same error display as described above is performed, and the membership card is returned in step S112.
[0051]
On the other hand, if the membership card authentication is OK, the CPU 14 sets the stored ball information in step S108, sets the stored ball flag in step S109, and then proceeds to step S117, and the stored ball information set in step S108 is used as the gift exchange management device 11. And waits until a reception completion notification is returned from the gift exchange management device 11 in step S118.
[0052]
When the prize exchange management device 11 receives the stored ball information, it adds and updates the number of stored balls corresponding to the member specified from the member card, and holds it. When the stored ball addition update process is completed, a reception completion notification is transmitted from the gift exchange management device 11 to the gift exchange 2. When receiving the reception completion notification from the member management apparatus in step S118, the CPU 14 of the gift exchange 2 determines whether or not the reception has been completed normally in step S119. If not, the process returns to step S117. Proceeding to S120, the count value is updated. Next, in step S121, it is determined whether or not a storage ball flag is set. Since it is set here, the process proceeds to step S122, and a storage result display as shown in FIG.
[0053]
In the storage result display screen of FIG. 24, a message ("Previous number of stored balls of 525 balls", "Current number of stored balls of 50", "Total number of stored balls of 575") indicates that the number of stored balls after addition is a player (member) Is displayed. In step S128, all are cleared.
[0054]
On the other hand, when the special prize key and the storage key are not pressed in the main menu of FIG. 20 and the player desires a general prize and the general prize key is pressed and selected, the CPU 14 proceeds from step S81 to step S102, and further to step S113. Then, the process proceeds from step S113 to step S114 to execute the general free gift process.
[0055]
FIG. 11 shows a flowchart of this general prize process. In step S136 in FIG. 11, the CPU 14 first displays the premium menu (MENU) in FIG. In the embodiment, as shown in FIG. 25, the number of balls acquired is 2400, and the cigarette, beverage, precious metal, CD, lighter, clothes, confectionery, game, furniture, food, bag, home appliance, daily necessities, and clocks are finished together with keys. The key is displayed on the display unit 4. In step S137, the CPU 14 waits for a key touch on this screen. For example, when the end key is pressed, the process returns from step S137 to step S152, and further returns from step S152 to step S80 to display the main menu on the display unit 4.
[0056]
When any prize group is selected on the prize menu screen of FIG. 25 and a key related thereto is pressed, the CPU 14 obtains the prize information of the prize group selected in step S138 and the required information on the number of stocks of the prize exchange management device. 11 to send. The CPU 26 of the gift exchange management device 11 determines whether or not the gift / stock quantity request information from the prize exchange 2 has been received, and if it has been received, the CPU 26 has associated information such as the number of stocks of prizes in the received prize group. Is sent to the gift exchange 2. In addition to the presence / absence of inventory, this related information includes information on whether or not to accept a reservation, and information on partner affiliated stores M outside the store.
[0057]
The CPU 14 of the free gift exchange 2 determines whether or not the information related to the free gift / stock quantity from the free gift exchange management device 11 is received in step S139 in FIG. 11, and if so, the free gift group selected in step S140 is selected. The prize is displayed on the display unit 4 in association with the quantity in stock. 26 and 27 show examples of screens displayed on the display unit 4 in this case. FIG. 26 shows a case where a player selects a bag as a prize group, and FIG. 27 shows an example where a CD is selected. On each screen, the bag name and the title name of the CD are displayed corresponding to the illustration and image imitating the bag and CD, and the number of balls necessary for replacement is further displayed. In addition, the presence / absence of stock and the number of stocks are displayed, and in the case of a bag (bag GUC, out-of-store gift) that needs to be exchanged at a member store M outside the store, the member store name is also displayed. Further, a reservation acceptance display is made for a CD that has no inventory quantity and can be reserved (CD of title ABCD). Each screen also displays a next page key and a main (return) key.
[0058]
When the player presses the next page key on the screen of FIG. 26 or 27, the CPU 14 proceeds from step S141 to step S153, and further proceeds from step S153 to step S154 to display the bag or CD as shown in FIG. 28 or FIG. Displays the next page of the prize group. In FIG. 28 and FIG. 29, the previous page key is additionally displayed. When the previous page key is pressed, the process proceeds from step S156 to step S157, and the previous page (FIG. 26 or FIG. 27) is displayed on the display unit 4. To do.
[0059]
When the player selects a bag or CD on any bag or CD display screen and touches the position, the CPU 14 proceeds from step S141 to step S142, and the number of balls (acquired balls) is the bag or CD (prize). ) To determine if there are more than the number of prizes required for exchange. If the number of balls is insufficient, it is determined whether or not a membership card is inserted in step S158. If not, the process proceeds to step S155 to display a shortage screen as shown in FIG. The process returns to step S136. When the membership card is inserted, the process proceeds to step S159, where it is determined whether or not the number of counted balls + the number of stored balls is equal to or greater than the number of prize balls. If not, the process proceeds to step S155. Set and go to step S143.
[0060]
On the other hand, when the number of counted balls (the number of acquired balls) is equal to or larger than the number of prize balls, the process proceeds from step S142 to step S143 to determine whether or not the selected prize is an out-of-store prize. When the player selects the outside gift bag GUC, the CPU 14 proceeds from step S143 to step S144, sets the outside flag, and proceeds to step S145. If the prize selected in step S143 is not an out-of-store prize, the process proceeds to step S145 to determine whether or not the prize is in stock. If there is no stock, a reservation flag is set in step S146, and the process proceeds to step S147. If there is a stock, the process proceeds to step S147 to set general premium information.
[0061]
Next, the number of remaining balls after replacement is calculated in step S148, and in step S149, it is determined whether or not the number of remaining balls is equal to or greater than the minimum number of prizes. If there are more than the minimum number of prizes, the process proceeds to step S80 to return to the main menu, and if the number is not less than the minimum number of prizes, the process proceeds to step S150 to confirm the stored balls on the display unit 4. If the player wishes to save the ball by the key operation as described above, the process proceeds to step S103, and thereafter the same ball storing process as described above is executed. If not, the process proceeds to RET.
[0062]
When the general prize processing is completed, the CPU 14 proceeds from step S114 to step S117, and transmits general prize information (general prize information set in step S147) to the prize exchange management device 111 as prize exchange information, and in step S118. It waits until a reception completion notification is returned from the gift exchange management device 111.
[0063]
The CPU 26 of the giveaway exchange management apparatus 11 determines whether or not the giveaway exchange information including the special giveaway information / general giveaway information as described above is sent from the giveaway exchange 2 in step S12 of FIG. 5, and if it is sent, the process proceeds to step S14. A gift exchange registration process is executed. FIG. 6 shows a flowchart of a prize exchange registration process by the CPU 26 of the prize exchange management apparatus 11. First, the CPU 26 determines whether or not to use a counting ball in step S20. If the above-described storage ball use flag is not set and the counting ball is used, the process proceeds to step S21 and the counting in the counting data storage unit 32 is performed. If it is collated with the database and the collation is OK, the process proceeds from step S22 to step S23. If it is NG, the process proceeds to step S34 and the count collation error information is transmitted to the gift exchange 2.
[0064]
In step S23, it is determined whether or not the number of balls to be counted is equal to or greater than the number of prize balls. If so, the process proceeds to step S24 to register the prize exchange information related to the prize exchange database as shown in FIG. To do. Next, it progresses to step S25, a reception completion notification is transmitted to the prize exchange 2, and it progresses to step S26. On the other hand, if the number of counting balls is insufficient in step S23, the process proceeds to step S35 to determine whether or not the member is a member. If there is, the process proceeds to step S24, and if not, the process proceeds to step S37 to transmit the counting ball shortage information to the gift exchange 2.
[0065]
On the other hand, when the above-described storage ball use flag is set, the CPU 26 proceeds from step S20 to step S28 and further proceeds to step S29 to collate with the member database of the member management device. If collation is OK, the process proceeds from step S30 to step S31. Judge whether the number of stored balls is more than the number of prizes. If yes, the process proceeds to step S24. If not, the shortage information is transmitted to the gift exchange 2 in step S32. Further, in the case of verification NG in step S30, member verification error information is transmitted to the gift exchange 2 in step S33.
[0066]
Next, when the process proceeds from step S25 to step S26, the CPU 26 determines whether or not the selected (ordered) prize is an out-of-store prize, and when it is not an out-of-store prize, the CPU 26 proceeds to step S27 and proceeds to FIG. The inventory information in the in-store premium database in the inventory information storage unit 36 as shown is updated.
[0067]
On the other hand, if the above-mentioned store outside flag is set and it is an out-of-store prize, the process proceeds to step S38 and is compared with the above-mentioned member store prize database in the prize data storage unit 33, and the prize ID of the outside-shop prize is concerned. Order information including the ticket ID of the outside store exchange certificate, which will be described later, and the like, and the member store free gift database is updated in step S40, and the order information is stored in the order database (order history shown in FIG. 33 described later) in step S41. The configuration is almost the same as that of the database, but only the data for the current day exists).
[0068]
Returning to FIG. 9, when the CPU 14 of the gift exchange 2 receives the reception completion notification from the gift exchange management device 11 in step S118, it determines whether or not it has been received normally in step S119, and if not, returns to step S118. If it is normal, the process proceeds to step S120 to update the count value. In step S121, it is determined whether the storage ball flag is set. If it is reset, the process proceeds to step S123, where it is determined whether the out-of-store flag is set. If this is also reset, the process proceeds to step S125, where the reservation flag is set. In step S127, the exchange certificate issuing unit 22 issues an exchange certificate (free gift exchange certificate) to the exchange certificate take-out port. In step S128, all are cleared.
[0069]
In step S127, the CPU 14 displays a premium exchange certificate issuance screen as shown in FIG. On this screen, in addition to “special prize large two, special prize small one” as a prize name, a message “Present exchange certificate will be issued. Please check the exit.” Is displayed. FIG. 35 shows the exchange certificate C1 (medium) in this case. In the exchange certificate C1, the date of issue (special prize large, special prize small) and the number (two, one) and the delivery date (issue date only) are described. A bar code for identifying the exchange certificate is written at the bottom. The player brings the exchange certificate C1 to the service counter and exchanges it for a special prize. In the case of general prizes that can be exchanged in the store, a prize exchange certificate C2 as shown in FIG. 36 is issued, and the player brings this to the service counter and exchanges it for a general prize.
[0070]
On the other hand, if the player selects an out-of-store gift and the out-of-store flag is set, the CPU 14 proceeds from step S123 to step S124 to set out-of-store information, and proceeds to step S125 to set the reservation flag. If it has been reset, in step S127 the exchange certificate issuing unit 22 issues an external store exchange certificate C3 as shown in FIG. In step S128, all are cleared. The player brings the external store exchange certificate C3 as described above to the designated member store. At the member store, as will be described later, the exchange certificate C3 is checked based on the order information transmitted from the premium information management device 9, and if it is authentic, it is exchanged for a general premium (such as a bag).
[0071]
On the other hand, if the player selects a reservation-enabled prize and the reservation flag is set, the CPU 14 proceeds from step S125 to step S126, and the exchange certificate issuing unit 22 causes the exchange certificate exit 8 to give a prize as shown in FIG. A booking certificate C4 is issued. In step S128, all are cleared. The player brings the prize reservation certificate C4 to the service counter at the game hall on the designated delivery date and exchanges it for a prize (such as a CD). If a general prize is not selected in step S113, if a predetermined end operation is performed, the process proceeds from step S115 to step S116 to determine whether there is prize acquisition information, and if there is, the process proceeds to step S117.
[0072]
The above is the state of processing during business in the amusement hall. Next, processing after closing will be described. After the store closes, the gift exchange management device 11 executes the post-store close processing in step S3. FIG. 7 shows a flowchart of the post-closing process. The CPU 26 determines whether or not there is registration information in the order database when the store is closed. If there is registration information, the CPU 26 proceeds to step S43 and sends the order information to the premium information management device via the external communication unit 23 via the Internet. 9 to send. This order information includes the above-mentioned premium ID, ticket issuing ID, member store name (identified by ID), and the like, and is addressed to the mail box of each member store in the order information storage unit 53 of the gift information management device 9. Sent by In step S44, the process waits until data is received.
[0073]
When the order information is transmitted from the prize exchange management apparatus 11 of the amusement hall, the CPU 51 of the prize information management apparatus 9 proceeds from step S62 to step S66 in FIG. 8, and each mail of the member store M identified from the order information. Register in the box. In step S67, a reception completion notification is returned to the free gift exchange management apparatus 11. Next, in step S68, order information is distributed to each member store M via the Internet, and in step S69, it is registered in the order history database. Thus, each member store M receives an order for a prize outside the store from the prize information management device 9 via the Internet.
[0074]
Returning to FIG. 7, when the CPU 26 of the gift exchange management device 11 receives the reception completion notification from the gift information management device 9, it proceeds to step S44, step S45 and further to step S46, and registers the contents of the order database in the transmitted database. Delete the order database. Next, in step S47, the above-described counting database and free gift exchange database are collated, and in step S48, it is determined whether there is a mismatched collation. If there is, the difference is output to the display 31 or the printer 29 in step S53 and the process proceeds to step S49. If not, the inventory check process is executed in step S49. In step S50, it is determined whether or not there is an unstocked premium. If there is, the unstocked premium is output to the display 31 in step S54, and the process proceeds to step S51. If there is no free gift, the process proceeds to step S51, where the daily exchange information is output to the display 31 and the daily information is cleared in step S42.
[0075]
As described in detail above, the prize exchange management device 11 and the prize exchange 2 that are provided in the game hall and perform processing for exchanging the magnitude of the player's earned valuable value (the number of balls acquired) with the selected prize, A display unit 4 provided outside the amusement hall, managing the prize information provided by the prize exchange member store M, receiving the distribution and storing the prize information, and displaying the prize information to the player; The prize exchange management device 11 performs a process for exchanging the acquired valuable value for the selected prize, requests the prize information management apparatus 9 to deliver the prize information before the player selects the prize, and also manages the prize information management. A prize data storage unit 33 for storing the prize information distributed from the device 9 is provided, and the prize exchange 2 displays the prize information to the player on the display unit 4. The prize exchange management device 11 transmits the order information of the selected prize to the prize information management apparatus 9, and the prize information management apparatus 9 receives the prize provided from the member store M in response to a request for the delivery of the prize information. Since the information is distributed, the order information of the prize is received, and the information indicating that the order information has been received is transmitted to the prize exchange device 11, the acquisition of the prize information provided from the member store M outside the playground, In addition, transmission of the order information of the selected prize can be achieved with the minimum necessary communication cost, and the communication cost required for exchanging the prize outside the game hall can be significantly reduced.
[0076]
In particular, the prize information provided from the member store M is registered in association with a prize and a prize ID for identifying the prize, and the order information of the selected prize includes at least the prize ID. The amount of order information can be reduced, and the communication cost required for transmitting the order information can be further reduced.
[0077]
Also, the prize information management device 9 manages the prize information of each member store M and centrally manages the prize information and order information provided from each member store M, so the prize exchange management device 11 is a game. It is only necessary to obtain the prize information provided from the off-site member store M and transmit the order information of the selected prize to one place of the prize information management device 9, thereby further reducing the communication cost. It becomes possible.
[0078]
Further, since the order information is transmitted at the time of closing the store, it is possible to further reduce the communication cost by transmitting the order information collectively when the store is closed. Further, since the acceptance or distribution request for the prize information is performed when the prize exchange management device 11 is activated, the prize information can be acquired before the game hall is opened, and the prize information can be surely provided to the customer when the shop is opened. become.
[0079]
FIG. 39 shows a front view when a prize exchange machine according to the present invention (in this case, indicated by 102) is installed in correspondence with a plurality of pachinko machines 143 arranged in parallel on the gaming machine installation island of the game hall. . The gift exchange machine 102 in this case is configured as an interbank ball lending machine arranged corresponding to the left side of the pachinko machine 143 (may be a slot machine or the like). Also have. A display unit (in this case, indicated by 104) that constitutes display means similarly configured by a liquid crystal display is provided on the front surface of a substantially rectangular casing 101 that is elongated vertically above and below the gift exchange 102. A money insertion port 110 is provided on the upper side of 104, and a ball lending nozzle 105 is provided on the lower side.
[0080]
In this case, the function of the gift exchange machine 102 as an interbank ball lending machine is the same as that of an ordinary interbank ball lending machine, and the ball lending nozzle 105 is operated by an unillustrated ball dispensing device in accordance with the insertion of money into the money insertion slot 110. Pachinko balls are lent out in the upper plate 146 of the pachinko machine 143.
[0081]
Here, the pachinko machine 143 drives the pachinko balls lent in this way into the game area 144 by operating the handle 107, and a game is played. By the pachinko ball winning in a predetermined winning area of the game area 144, A predetermined number of pachinko balls are paid out. Under each pachinko machine 143, each counter called a jet counter (in this case, indicated by 112) is arranged, and the acquired balls (acquired valuable value) are operated by lever operation. The system enters the counter 112 as it is and is counted. In addition, a predetermined game screen is displayed on the display unit 104 during a normal game. Reference numeral 103 denotes a call display device provided above each pachinko machine 143.
[0082]
A member card insertion slot (in this case, denoted by 106) for receiving a member card is provided on the right side of the lower part of the gift exchange 102, and an exchange certificate (including a reservation certificate) as a medium is issued on the left side thereof. A voucher exit (in this case indicated by 108) is provided. In this case, the counting machine 112 transmits the counting information directly to the free gift exchange 102, so that no counting card is required. In addition, the functional operation as a gift exchange is the same as described above. In this way, the present invention is effective even if a gift exchange is installed as a pedestal machine, and in this case, even when a remaining ball is generated, it can be returned to the upper plate 146.
[0083]
In addition, in this embodiment, it is necessary to insert a member card in order to perform the savings processing. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the member ID and the password may be input using the numeric keypad displayed on the screen. Often, this method can be applied as long as it is a method for identifying a member. In the embodiment, the pachinko machine has been described as an example of a gaming machine. However, the present invention is also effective for a slot machine for playing with coins, an enclosed ball type gaming machine, and the like. That is, the acquired valuable value includes a coin and a score.
[0085]
【The invention's effect】
  Claim1According to the invention of the gameshopA prize exchange device for performing a process for exchanging the magnitude of the valuable value possessed by the player for the prize when the player plays the game, and a gameshopProvided outside,pluralProvided by member storesOutside the storeFree gift informationConcentrationA prize exchange system including a prize information management apparatus for managing the prize information management apparatus, wherein the prize exchange apparatus requests the prize information management apparatus to deliver the prize information and is delivered from the prize information management apparatus.Outside the store where prizes can be exchanged outside the amusement storeStore free gift informationIt comprises an out-of-store prize information storage means and an in-store prize information storage means for storing in-store prize information that can be exchanged in the amusement store.Storage means, display means for displaying the stored prize information to the player, and the player can operate, and the player selects a prize within a range of the value of the acquired value. Premium selection means, acquired value subtraction processing means for subtracting the size of the acquired valuable value corresponding to the selected premium from the size of the acquired valuable value, and the premium selected by the premium selection meansIs an out-of-store gift according to the out-of-store gift information stored in the out-of-store gift information storage means,Order information transmission means for transmitting the order information to the premium information management device, the premium information management device in response to a request for distribution of the premium informationeachProvided by member storesOutside the storeDeliver premium information and receive order information for the premiumAnd centralized managementSince the information indicating that the order information has been received is transmitted to the prize exchange device,shopProvided by an outside member storeOutside the storeGet prize information and send order information for the selected prize at a minimum communication cost.shopThe communication cost required for exchanging prizes outside can be significantly reduced.In addition, the prize exchange device only needs to obtain the prize information provided from the member store outside the amusement store and transmit the order information of the selected prize to and from one place of the prize information management apparatus. Communication costs can be reduced.
[0086]
  Claim2According to the invention, in addition to the above, the prize information provided by the member store is registered in association with the prize and the identification information for identifying the prize, and the order information includes at least the identification information. It is possible to reduce the amount of information on the order information of the prizes and further reduce the communication cost required for transmitting the order information.
[0088]
  Claim3According to the invention, in addition to each of the above inventions, the order information is transmitted at the time of the closing process. Therefore, it is possible to further reduce the communication cost by transmitting the order information collectively at the closing time. It will be.
[0089]
  Claim4According to the invention of the present invention, in addition to the above inventions, the distribution of the prize information is performed when the prize exchange device is activated.shopThe premium information is acquired before the opening of the store, and the premium information can be surely provided to the customer when the store is opened.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prize exchange constituting a prize exchange system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a prize exchange system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a main program of the prize exchange management device 11 of FIG. 2;
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a pre-opening processing program of the gift exchange management device 11 of FIG.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a business process program of the prize exchange management device 11 of FIG. 2;
6 is a flowchart showing a gift exchange registration processing program of the gift exchange management device 11 of FIG.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a post-closing process program of the gift exchange management device 11 of FIG. 2;
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation program of the premium information management device 9 of FIG. 2;
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation program of the gift exchange 2 in FIG. 2;
10 is a flowchart showing a member authentication processing operation program of the gift exchange 2 of FIG.
11 is a flow chart showing a general prize processing operation program of the prize exchange 2 of FIG.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a file structure of a premium information database.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a file structure of a counting database.
14 is a diagram showing a personal identification number input display screen displayed on the display unit of the gift exchange in FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a member authentication error display screen displayed on the display unit of the gift exchange in FIG. 1;
16 is a diagram showing a reading display screen of the counting card displayed on the display unit of the gift exchange in FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 17 is a view showing a count information error display screen displayed on the display unit of the gift exchange in FIG. 1;
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a shortage display screen displayed on the display unit of the gift exchange shown in FIG. 1;
19 is a diagram showing a gift exchange request display screen displayed on the display unit of the gift exchange in FIG. 1. FIG.
20 is a diagram showing a main menu display screen displayed on the display unit of the gift exchange in FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a special prize content display screen displayed on the display unit of the prize exchange in FIG. 1;
22 is a diagram showing a special prize content display screen displayed on the display unit of the prize exchange in FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a member card request display screen displayed on the display unit of the free gift exchange in FIG. 1;
24 is a diagram showing a storage result display screen displayed on the display unit of the gift exchange in FIG. 1. FIG.
25 is a diagram showing a premium menu display screen displayed on the display unit of the premium exchange in FIG. 1; FIG.
FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a free gift list display screen displayed on the display unit of the free gift exchange in FIG. 1;
FIG. 27 is a diagram showing another premium list display screen displayed on the display unit of the free gift exchange in FIG. 1;
FIG. 28 is a view showing a free gift list display screen displayed on the display unit of the free gift exchange in FIG. 1;
FIG. 29 is a view showing another premium list display screen displayed on the display unit of the free gift exchange of FIG. 1;
30 is a diagram showing a shortage screen displayed on the display unit of the gift exchange in FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 31 is a diagram showing a file structure of a free gift exchange database.
FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a file structure of inventory information in a store premium database.
FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a file structure of an order history database.
FIG. 34 is a diagram showing a special gift giveaway certificate issuance display screen displayed on the display unit of the gift exchange in FIG. 1;
FIG. 35 is a diagram showing a gift exchange certificate for a special gift issued from the gift exchange in FIG. 1;
FIG. 36 is a diagram showing a free gift exchange certificate for a general gift issued from the free gift exchange in FIG. 1;
FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an outside store exchange certificate issued from the prize exchange in FIG. 1;
38 is a view showing a free gift reservation certificate issued from the free gift exchange in FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 39 is a front view of a pachinko machine and a gift exchange showing an example when a prize exchange is provided corresponding to the pachinko machine.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Premium exchange system
2,102 Freebie exchange machine (Premium exchange device)
4,104 Display section
9 Premium information management device
11 Premium exchange management device (Premium exchange device)
12, 112 counter
M member stores

Claims (4)

A prize exchange device that is provided in a game store and performs processing for exchanging the magnitude of the valuable value acquired by the player when the player plays a game;
Provided outside the gaming facility, in a prize exchange system comprising the prize information management apparatus that centrally manages the out-of-store prize information provided from a plurality of merchants,
The premium exchange device requests the premium information management device to distribute the premium information, and stores out-of- store premium information that can be exchanged outside the amusement store that is distributed from the premium information management device. Storage means comprising information storage means and in-store prize information storage means for storing in-store prize information that can be exchanged in the amusement store ;
Display means for displaying the stored prize information to the player;
A prize selection means for allowing a player to operate, and for the player to select a prize within a range of the value of the acquired valuable value;
Acquired value subtraction processing means for subtracting the value of the acquired value corresponding to the selected prize from the value of the acquired value;
When the prize selected by the prize selection means is an outside shop prize according to the outside shop information stored in the outside shop information information storage means, the order information of the outside shop gift is sent to the prize information management device. An order information transmitting means for transmitting,
The premium information management device distributes out-of- store premium information provided by each member store in response to a request for distribution of the premium information,
A prize exchange system characterized in that the prize order information is received and centrally managed , and information indicating that the order information has been received is transmitted to the prize exchange apparatus. In- store prize information provided by the member store is registered in association with a prize and identification information for identifying the prize,
The premium exchange system according to claim 1, wherein the order information includes at least the identification information. Claim 1 or claim 2 in prize exchange system wherein the order information is characterized in that is sent during the closing process. Claim 1, claim 2, prize exchange system according to claim 3 in which the distribution of the off-premises prize information is characterized in that it is carried out at the start of the prize exchange device.

Images