JPH10277251A - Update system of recording media for lending playing media of amusement game - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce historical information to be managed by a computer and remarkably facilitate management works to prevent illegal acts, by issuing recording media for lending playing media, in which new discrimination information is recorded on the basis of update permission information of recording media for lending playing media, output by a host computer. SOLUTION: When a card is inserted, the card data to be recorded in the card are read in a reading part of a processing part 12 in a update device 10 and transmitted from the communication part 16 to a host computer 30. The controller 31 in the host computer 30 checks whether the identification data in the received card data stores the card data corresponding to a update card file of a memory device 32. And when the data are stored to coincide therewith, the controller 31 edits new card data on the basis of the card data in the file. Then, the newly issued data are temporarily registered in the memory device 32 and transmitted to the update device 10. The data are received in the communication part 12 and a new card is issued in a card-issuing part 15 by the controller 11.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a game medium lending system for managing and processing data relating to the lending of game media used in a game machine, and updates a game medium lending recording medium used when lending game media. To a system that performs

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art For example, in a game arcade such as a pachinko parlor, a pachinko ball, which is a game medium necessary for a game, is rented out. The lending of the game medium is performed, for example, through a game medium lending recording medium in which data such as a frequency corresponding to a predetermined amount is recorded. Here, the recording medium for renting a game medium is, for example, a prepaid card, in which information on the remaining available number of the game medium and unique identification information are recorded.

A first conventional prepaid card system used in a game arcade (game store), for example, a pachinko parlor, is a system using a prepaid card called a house card. In this system, a prepaid card issuing machine unique to each store provided at each store issues a prepaid card for ball lending that is valid only at the ball lending machine of that store and only on the day of issuance. A frequency corresponding to a predetermined amount is stored in the prepaid card. If the prepaid card still has counts after the user finishes the game,
You must redeem the cash on the day of purchase with a cashier.

A second conventional system used by pachinko parlors is a system using a prepaid card called a common card. In this system, a third party that issues a prepaid card, manages usage information, and makes payments, manufactures a prepaid card issuing machine, a ball rental machine and software corresponding to the prepaid card, and supplies them to each game store. . The prepaid card stores a sales amount, a frequency (remaining frequency), a store ID, and other history data.
The system between stores introducing this system is common, and a prepaid card purchased at one store can be used at another store. This prepaid card can be used in any store indefinitely as long as the number of usable cards remains.

A third conventional system used by pachinko parlors is a system combining the concept of a house card system and the concept of a common card system. In this system, a third party supplies the system to each game store. The prepaid card issuing machine supplied to each store issues a prepaid card in which the sales amount, the frequency (remaining frequency), the store ID, the date of issue, and other historical data are recorded. This prepaid card is valid only at the ball rental machine at the store that issued the card and only on the day of issuance. When the prepaid card has a usable frequency remaining and it is desired to use it again, the prepaid card is inspected by a receiving machine provided at the store that issued the prepaid card, and it is determined that the data stored in the prepaid card has not been tampered with. Then, the store can be used on the day of the test.

A fourth conventional system recently proposed for use in pachinko parlors stores a card ID in a prepaid card, and stores the card ID of the prepaid card, a store ID, a sales amount, and a frequency in a main computer. This is a system that stores remaining frequency data, issue date, and other history data. The ball lending machine is the card I recorded on the prepaid card
The main computer is accessed using D to search for the corresponding data. If the corresponding data exists, the main computer permits the ball lending machine to lend the ball, and rewrites the remaining frequency stored in the main computer after lending the ball. Since the system between stores that have introduced this system is common, a prepaid card purchased at one store can be used at another store. This prepaid card can be used at any store indefinitely as long as the frequency data in the history information corresponding to the prepaid card stored in the main computer is not zero.

[0007]

The prepaid card, which is a recording medium for renting a game medium in the first conventional system, is intended for exclusive use in a single store.
There is a drawback that it is difficult to use because there is no compatibility with the system of another store. Furthermore, if the prepaid card has a remaining number, it must be redeemed for cash on the day of the sale using a clearing machine, which is troublesome. Further, since this system is a closed system, the contents of data such as sales of the store cannot be inspected from the outside, and there is a disadvantage that fraud such as tampering of accounting data is easily performed.

[0008] The above-mentioned second conventional system can be used in any store indefinitely as long as the number of usable times remains, and the ball lending machine can use the ball lending machine based on the data recorded on the prepaid card. Make a loan. Therefore, there is a disadvantage that data recorded on the prepaid card is likely to be falsified and used. Further, even if the system is common, since the design printed on the surface of the prepaid card issued at each store differs for each store, it is difficult to find an unauthorized prepaid card by looking at the appearance of the prepaid card. There are drawbacks.

The prepaid card of the third conventional system has a drawback that a prepaid card issued at a certain store cannot be used at another store.

In the above fourth system, since the main computer stores, manages and processes all the history information of the prepaid card, the main computer needs to have a large storage device and a high-performance CPU. However, there is a disadvantage that the size becomes large and complicated. Further, since the amount of data to be managed increases, there is a disadvantage that the data processing speed and the data access speed are reduced.

In the second, third and fourth conventional systems, the user may hold the prepaid card for a long period of time or use it many times. As a result, the prepaid card may be damaged, There is a disadvantage that the recorded data is destroyed and cannot be read.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to set a renewal period of a predetermined period based on the issuance date of a game medium lending recording medium, and issue the game medium lending recording medium at any store during the renewal period. It is an object of the present invention to provide a game medium lending recording medium updating system that makes it possible to use the game medium lending recording medium by repeating the update as long as there is a remaining number.

Still another object of the present invention is to issue a game medium lending recording medium which can be used only in a game medium lending recording medium issuing store for a predetermined period after the game medium lending recording medium is issued. A game medium lending recording medium updating system for issuing a game medium lending recording medium that can be updated at an arbitrary store during a predetermined period thereafter and that can be used only at the arbitrary store by the update process It is to provide.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a renewable expiration date on a game medium lending recording medium, invalidate the renewable expiration date of the game medium lending recording medium, and store the renewable expiration date in the system memory. An object of the present invention is to provide a game medium lending recording medium update system that reduces the amount of storage data by deleting history data relating to a game medium lending recording medium.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a game medium lending recording medium having the same design as that of a game medium lending recording medium issued by a game medium lending recording medium issuing machine which sells a game medium lending recording medium. The present invention provides a recording medium update system for renting a game medium, which includes an update unit for issuing a game medium.

Another object of the present invention is to set a renewal period of a predetermined period based on the issuance date of a prepaid card, and in the renewal period, a new prepaid card can be issued and renewed at any store, and It is an object of the present invention to provide a prepaid card updating system which makes it possible to use the prepaid card by repeating the update as long as there is a.

Still another object of the present invention is to issue a prepaid card which can be used only in a prepaid card issuance store within a predetermined period after issuance of the prepaid card, and to update the prepaid card in an arbitrary store during a predetermined period thereafter. An object of the present invention is to provide a prepaid card updating system which can receive a process and issues a new prepaid card which can be used only in the arbitrary store by the updating process.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a renewable term for a prepaid card, invalidate the prepaid card after the renewable term expires, and delete history data relating to the prepaid card stored in a memory of the system. Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a prepaid card updating system for reducing the amount of stored data.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a prepaid card updating system including an updating machine for issuing a prepaid card having the same design as that of a prepaid card issued by a prepaid card issuing machine for selling a prepaid card. is there.

[0020]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game medium lending recording medium update system coupled to a host computer and coupled to a game medium lending means in a game store. The store computer in the game based on the data contents read from the data stored in the game medium lending recording medium including the identification information unique to each game medium lending recording medium by the game medium lending means. In a game medium lending recording medium update system in a third-party management type game medium lending system that lends a medium, an update unit coupled to the host computer or coupled to the host computer via the store computer, Performing communication with the host computer when a game medium lending recording medium is inserted into the updating means, Comprises updating means for issuing a game media lending recording medium storing a new identification information based on the serial generated game media lending the recording medium for updating authorization information of the host computer.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for updating a recording medium for renting a game medium, wherein the recording medium for renting a game medium stores identification information unique to each of the recording medium for renting a game medium. And the identification information of the game medium lending recording medium arranged on the center side via a line,
The date of issue, a host computer storing history data including the remaining number of times related to the latest game media lending, and a game medium lending recording medium update system in a third-party management type game media lending system, Means for reading the identification information from the recording medium for use, and a means for updating the recording medium for renting a game medium provided on the store side for transmitting the identification information and the update request signal to the host computer; The stored issue date corresponding to the identification information described above, it is determined whether or not to update the game medium lending recording medium based on the remaining number of times related to the latest game medium lending, and it is determined that the update is appropriate. In this case, a host computer that transmits new identification information to the updating unit, and a host computer provided in the updating unit, based on the new identification information, Serial and a game media lending recording medium issuing means for issuing a game media lending recording medium storing a new identification information.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game medium lending recording medium updating system according to the second aspect, wherein the host computer is issued by the updating means. A means is provided for storing history data including identification information of the game medium lending recording medium, the issue date of the game medium lending recording medium, and the remaining number of lending of the game medium.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording medium updating system for renting a game medium according to the second or third aspect, wherein the host computer further rents the game medium. Transmitting the remaining number related to the update means, the updating means receiving the remaining number related to the lending of the game medium, and a store computer coupled to the host computer and the update means and arranged at the store side. Based on the new identification information transmitted from the updating means to the store computer and the data including the remaining number of lending of the game medium, the identification information of the issued game medium lending recording medium, the game medium lending A store computer that stores history data including the date of issuance of the storage medium for use and the remaining number of times related to the lending of game media.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game medium lending recording medium updating system, wherein the game medium lending game medium lending recording medium stores identification information unique to each game medium lending recording medium. And the identification information of the game medium lending recording medium arranged on the center side via a line,
A third-party management-type game comprising: a host computer that stores history data including the remaining number of times related to the latest game media lending, and a store computer that is arranged on the store side and coupled to the host computer. A recording medium updating system for renting a game medium in a medium renting system, wherein the identification information is read from the recording medium for renting a game medium, and a game medium provided at a store that transmits the identification information and an update request signal to the store computer. Update means for a recording medium for rent, first transmission means provided in the store computer for transmitting the transmitted identification information and update request signal to the host computer, and the transmitted update request signal and The issue date of the stored storage medium for renting the game medium corresponding to the transmitted identification information, Determining whether or not the recording medium for game media lending can be updated based on the remaining number of times, and when it is determined that the update is appropriate, updating the store computer with an update permission signal, new identification information and lending of the game medium. A host computer for transmitting new data including the remaining number of renewals, a second transmission unit provided in the store computer for transmitting the transmitted update permission signal and the new identification information to the update unit, and the update unit Game medium lending recording medium issuing means for issuing a game medium lending recording medium storing the new identification information based on the update permission signal from the store computer and the new identification information provided in the store computer; The new identification information and the lending of the gaming medium of the recording medium for lending the gaming medium issued by the issuing means provided in And a storage means for storing the new history data including the remaining power and issue date relates.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording medium updating system for renting a game medium, wherein the host computer is issued by the updating means. A means is provided for storing history data including identification information of the game medium lending recording medium, the issue date of the game medium lending recording medium, and the remaining number of lending of the game medium.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a game medium lending recording medium updating system includes identification information unique to each game medium lending recording medium, a date of issuance, and a remaining number relating to the latest game medium lending. Game medium lending recording medium storing history data, and the identification information, issue date, latest game medium lending of the game medium lending recording medium arranged on the center side via a line And a host computer storing the number of remaining times related to the game medium. In the game medium lending recording medium updating system in the third-party management type game medium lending system, the identification information is read from the inserted game medium lending recording medium. Means for updating the recording medium for renting a game medium provided at the store for transmitting the identification information and the update request signal to the host computer; The stored issuance date corresponding to the request signal and the transmitted identification information, a determination as to whether or not the recording medium for game media lending can be updated is made based on the remaining number relating to the lending of the game medium, and the update is appropriate. When it is determined that, the host computer transmits an update permission signal to the update means, provided in the update means, based on the update permission signal, new identification information, the issue date of the game medium lending recording medium, And a game medium lending recording medium issuing means for issuing a game medium lending recording medium storing new history data including the remaining number of times related to the lending of the game medium stored in the inserted game medium lending recording medium, and Is provided.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the system for updating a recording medium for renting a game medium, the system for updating a medium for renting a game medium according to the seventh aspect is combined with the host computer and the updating means; A store computer which is arranged at the store and stores history data including the identification information of the game medium lending recording medium issued by the updating means, the issuance date of the game medium lending recording medium, and the remaining number of game medium lending. Is provided.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, a system for updating a recording medium for renting a game medium includes identification information unique to each of the recording media for renting a game medium, an issue date, and a remaining number of times related to the latest game medium lending. Regarding a game medium lending recording medium storing history data, and the identification information, issue date, and latest game medium lending of the game medium lending recording medium arranged on the center side via a line. A recording medium for renting a game medium in a third-party management-type game medium renting system, comprising: a host computer storing history data including a residual number; and a store computer arranged on the store side and coupled to the host computer. In the update system, the identification information is read from the inserted game medium rental recording medium, and the identification information and the update A means for updating a game medium lending recording medium provided on the side of a store transmitting a signal, and a first means for transmitting the transmitted identification information and the update request signal provided to the store computer to the host computer. Transmission means, whether or not the storage medium for renting the game medium can be updated based on the stored issue date corresponding to the transmitted update request signal and the transmitted identification information, and the remaining number of times related to the rent of the game medium; And a host computer that transmits an update permission signal to the store computer when the update is appropriate, and a second computer that is provided in the store computer and transmits the update permission signal to the update unit. Transmitting means, provided on the updating means, based on the update permission signal, new identification information, the issuance date of the recording medium for renting a game medium, and A game medium lending recording medium issuing means for issuing a game medium lending recording medium storing new history data including the remaining number of times related to the lending of the game medium stored in the entered game medium lending recording medium; A storage means provided in a store computer for storing the new history data of the game medium lending recording medium issued by the issuing means.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game medium lending recording medium updating system according to the seventh aspect, wherein the updating means is issued by the updating means. Means for transmitting the identification information of the game medium lending recording medium to the host computer, wherein the host computer transmits the identification information and the game medium lending recording medium issued from the updating means, and the game medium There is provided means for storing history data including the remaining number of loans.

[0030] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the system for updating a recording medium for renting a game medium according to the eighth or ninth aspect, the updating means is issued by the updating means. Means for transmitting the identification information of the game medium lending recording medium to the host computer, wherein the host computer transmits the identification information and the game medium lending recording medium issued from the updating means, There is provided a means for storing history data including a residual count regarding the lending of a medium.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game medium lending recording medium updating system according to the eighth or ninth aspect, wherein the store computer is issued by the updating means. Means for transmitting the identification information of the game medium lending recording medium to the host computer, wherein the host computer transmits the identification information and the game medium lending recording medium issued from the store computer, There is provided a means for storing history data including a residual count regarding the lending of a medium.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording medium updating system for renting a game medium.
13. The game medium lending recording medium updating system according to 9, 11, or 12, wherein the shop computer manages history data of the game medium lending recording medium issued at the shop, and stores the game medium lending recording medium. During the usable period in which the game medium lending recording medium can be used only in the issuing store based on the issue date of the game media, the use of the game medium lending recording medium by the game medium lending means of the store is permitted, After the usable period has elapsed, there is provided a means for excluding the management of the history data relating to the game medium lending recording medium.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording medium updating system for renting a game medium according to any one of the second to thirteenth aspects, wherein the host computer comprises: The game media during the renewable period of the game medium lending recording medium, which is a predetermined period after the usable period in which the game medium lending recording medium can be used only at the issuing store based on the issue date of the lending recording medium Means for distinguishing and managing the history data of the lending recording medium, and updating permission in response to an update request from the update means installation store of the game medium lending recording medium enabled to be updated by the distinguishing and managing means. Providing means.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the game medium lending recording medium updating system according to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the host computer has passed the renewable period. Means for managing the history data relating to the game medium lending recording medium as invalid data.

A recording medium update system for renting a game medium according to claim 16 of the present invention is arranged as described in claim 8, 9, 11, or 1.
2. The recording medium update system according to claim 2, wherein the store computer or the updating means stores the game medium lending record based on the issue date or the remaining number stored in the game medium lending recording medium. A means for determining whether or not the medium can be updated; and means for rejecting the game medium lending recording medium when it is determined that the medium cannot be updated.

[0036] A game medium lending recording medium updating system according to claim 17 of the present invention is the game medium lending recording medium updating system according to claim 1 to 16, wherein the updating means is a new game medium lending. Issued using a recording medium.

A recording medium updating system for renting a game medium according to a eighteenth aspect of the present invention is the system for updating a recording medium for renting a game medium according to the seventeenth aspect, wherein the updating means comprises a game installed in the same store. A means for issuing a game medium lending recording medium having the same design as the game medium lending recording medium issued at the time of sale by the medium lending recording medium issuing machine is provided.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a game medium lending recording medium updating system according to the seventeenth or eighteenth aspect of the present invention, wherein the updating means comprises: A means for collecting the game medium rental recording medium is provided.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for updating a recording medium for renting a game medium, wherein the updating means is provided for updating the original medium for renting a game medium. Issuance is performed using a recording medium for use.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for managing a recording medium for renting a game medium, comprising: identification information unique to the recording medium for renting a game medium; With a host computer provided on the center side that stores the remaining number of media lending,
In a management system for a game medium lending recording medium using a game medium lending recording medium for a store limited type of game medium lending, a predetermined system is provided based on an issue date of the game medium lending recording medium provided in the host computer. Determine the period of
Means for identifying the game medium lending recording medium having the remaining number of times after the predetermined period has elapsed, and the game medium lending recording medium identified by the identifying means is other than a game medium lending recording medium issuing store. An update permission / inhibition determining means for permitting the update in the store based on the remaining number; a determination of the update permission from the update permission / inhibition means provided in the store; and the game medium based on the new data including the remaining number. Updating means for updating the rental recording medium as a store-limited game medium rental recording medium.

According to a method for updating a recording medium for renting a game medium according to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, the store computer in the game store coupled to the host computer and to the means for renting the game medium in the game store comprises: Third party management that lends a game medium based on data contents read from data stored in the game medium lending recording medium including identification information unique to each game medium lending recording medium by the game medium lending means. Game medium lending recording medium updating system in a game medium lending system, comprising updating means coupled to the host computer, or coupled to the host computer via the store computer. Communication with the host computer when the storage medium for recording is inserted, and the host computer Comprising the step of issuing game media lending recording medium storing a new identification information based on the generated game media lending recording medium update permission information.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording medium updating system for renting a game medium according to any one of the first to twentieth aspects.
The game medium is a pachinko ball, the recording medium for renting a game medium is a prepaid card used to rent a pachinko ball, the identification information is a card ID of the prepaid card,
The game media lending system is a prepaid card system.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, in the management system for a recording medium for renting a game medium according to the twenty-first aspect, the game medium is a pachinko ball. The medium lending recording medium is a prepaid card used for lending pachinko balls, and the identification information is the card ID of the prepaid card.
In the method for updating a recording medium for renting a game medium according to claim 22, the game medium is a pachinko ball, the recording medium for renting a game medium is a prepaid card used for renting a pachinko ball, and the identification information is a prepaid card. Card ID
And the game media lending system is a prepaid card system.

[0044]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An update system for a recording medium for renting a game medium according to the present invention will be described below as an embodiment of a prepaid card update system used in a pachinko parlor. In the present embodiment, the game is a pachinko machine, the game medium is a pachinko ball, the game store is a pachinko store, and the recording medium for renting a game medium is a prepaid card. In the following description, the prepaid card is simply called a card.

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the update system of the present invention. In the figure, reference numeral 10 denotes an updating machine, which is a recording medium updating means for renting a game medium installed in a pachinko parlor, and a control unit 1
1, card processing unit 12, display unit 13, card collection unit 1
4, a card issuing unit 15 (recording medium issuing means for renting a game medium), and a communication unit 16 for communication with the store computer 20 and the host computer 30.

Reference numeral 20 denotes a store computer installed in a pachinko parlor, which includes a control unit 21, a storage device 22, and an update machine 20.
And a communication unit 24 for communication with the host computer. The storage device 22 includes a card issuance file that stores data of issued usable cards.

Reference numeral 30 denotes a host computer installed outside the pachinko parlor, which includes a control unit 31, a storage device 32, and a communication unit 33 for communication with the store computer 20 and the update machine 10. The storage device 32 includes a card issue file for storing issued usable card data and an updated card file for storing card data during an updatable period.

Reference numeral 40 denotes the store computer 20 and the update machine 1
Numeral 41 denotes a communication line connecting the host computer 30 to the host computer 30, and reference numeral 41 denotes a communication path for the update machine 10 and the host computer 30 to communicate data via the communication line 40.

A card issuing machine (not shown) installed in a pachinko parlor has a roll-shaped magnetic medium (card paper) having a unique design on the surface thereof inside the card issuing machine. This is because the use of different cards (illegal cards) can be visually confirmed by unifying the designs of the cards that can be used in the store. When the user puts cash into the card issuing machine and presses a card selection button for selecting a card of a desired amount, the card issuing machine cuts the roll-shaped card paper from the leading end to create a card. Next, card data (history information) including a card number, a store number, an issue amount, a frequency corresponding to the issue amount (remaining frequency), an issue date, and the like are stored as magnetic data on the card, and the same card data is stored. Print visually on the card surface. When the recording of the card data is completed, the card issuing machine sends out the card from the card outlet. The card data of the issued card is also stored in the card issue file of the storage device 22 of the store computer 20 and the card issue file of the storage device 32 of the host computer 30. The issued card can be used only in the store where the card data of the card is stored in the store computer 20 (that is, only in the store that issued the card) and only for a predetermined usable period.

When a user uses a card to borrow pachinko balls from a ball rental machine (not shown), which is a means for renting game media, data communication is performed between the ball rental machine and the store computer 20. Here, the lending means includes not only a ball lending machine but also a device that also uses a game medium payout function of a gaming machine such as a CR machine or a CR pachislot machine. The store computer 20 receives the card data from the ball lending machine and uses the card identification data (card ID), which is the identification information in the card data, for example, the card number, to store the card data in the card issuance file of the storage device 22. It is checked whether the card data of the card to be stored is stored. When the corresponding data is stored in the card issuance file, the contents of the card data stored in the card and the contents of the corresponding card data stored in the card issuance file (for example, the remaining frequency and the issue date) Etc.). 2
If two card data match, store computer 2
0 permits the ball lending machine to lend pachinko balls. The ball lending machine, which has received the lending permission, lends pachinko balls in response to the user's input, rewrites the frequency data (remaining frequency) in the card data stored in the card, and writes the remaining amount calculated from the remaining frequency on the card. Print. The data recorded on the card by the ball lending machine is transmitted to the store computer 20. Further, the card data (including the remaining frequency) of the card on which the data processing has been performed is transmitted from the store computer 20 to the host computer 30 every predetermined period. The store computer 20 and the host computer 30 rewrite the corresponding card data in each card issuance file based on the received data.

After the pachinko parlor business has been closed for one day and all data has been tabulated and processed, the store computer 20 checks the remaining frequency of the card data stored in the card issuance file and determines that the remaining frequency is zero. Delete the card data of the card from the card issuance file. Further, the store computer 20 calculates the expiration date of the usable period based on the issuance date of the card data stored in the card issuance file, and deletes the card data of the expired card from the card issuance file.

On the other hand, the host computer 30 checks the remaining frequency of the card data stored in the card issuing file, and deletes the card data of the card having the remaining frequency of 0 from the card issuing file. Further, the host computer 30
Calculates the expiration date of the usable period based on the issuance date of the card data stored in the card issuance file, stores the card data of the expired card in the updated card file, and deletes it from the card issuance file. Further, the host computer 30 calculates the expiration date of the renewable period based on the issuance date of the card data stored in the renewal card file, and stores the card data of the expired card in another accounting file. Also, it is deleted from the updated card file.

One feature of the present invention is that a usable period and an updatable period of the card are provided, and the card data of the card during the usable period is stored in the storage device 32 of the host computer 30.
, And the card data of the card during the updatable period is stored in the updated card file, and the cards in the two states are managed separately. The usable period is a period (for example, 8 days from the date of issuance) that can be used for a game at the store that issued the card, and a card after this period cannot be used until an update process is performed. The renewable period is a period (for example, three months from the end of the usable period) during which the card after the usable period can be subjected to the updating process. Cards that have not been updated during this renewable period are invalidated and completely unusable. The renewable period is set longer than the usable period.

The card during the renewal period can be subjected to renewal processing by the renewal machine 10 installed in any store. When an update process is performed, the current card is collected and a new card is issued. The new card includes the new card number, new store number (store number of the store that has been updated),
Issuance amount indicating the amount calculated from the remaining number of original cards, remaining number of original cards, new card issue date (update date)
And card data including the same. For a new card, the same usable period and renewable period as for a newly issued card are set based on the renewal date.

The card data of the card newly issued by the update processing is the same as when a new card is issued by the card issuing machine, the card issuance file in the storage device 22 of the store computer 20 and the host computer 30.
Is stored in the card issuance file of the storage device 32. Therefore, the card newly issued by the updating process can be used only at the store that has performed the updating process and only during the newly set usable period. That is, the same effect as when a new card is purchased from a card issuing machine can be obtained by the updating process.

FIGS. 2 to 5 are flow charts showing a series of update processing operations of the prepaid card updating system according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein "a" in the flowchart of FIG. 2 is replaced with "a" in the flowchart of FIG. Subsequently, “b” in the flowchart of FIG. 3 is continued from “b” in the flowchart of FIG.
"C" in the flowchart of FIG. 4 follows "c" in the flowchart of FIG. The operation of the prepaid card updating system will be described with reference to these drawings.

First, reference is made to the flowchart of FIG.
Under the control of the control unit 11, the update machine 10 in the standby state monitors whether a card has been inserted into the card loading unit of the card processing unit 12 (step 100). When the card is inserted, the updating machine 10 reads the card data stored in the card by the reading unit of the processing unit 12, and decrypts the read card data (Step 102). If the decrypted card data cannot be identified, an error display indicating that the card cannot be accepted is displayed on the display unit 13 and the card is ejected (step 104,
106, 108). If the decrypted card data is identifiable, the card data is transmitted from the communication unit 16 to the host computer 30 via the communication path 41 and the line 40 (steps 104 and 110). The flowchart of the update processing operation follows “a” in FIG.

The host computer 30 receives the card data through the communication section 33 (step 112). Control unit 31
Is stored in the storage device 32 by using card identification data (card ID) in the received card data, for example, the card number.
It is checked whether the card data of the corresponding card is stored in the updated card file (step 11).
4). If the corresponding data is stored, the contents of the card data stored in the card are compared with the contents of the corresponding card data stored in the updated card file (step 116). If the received card data and the card data in the file match, a sign indicating that the card data in the file is being processed is attached to prevent the other card data from being accessed (step 11).
8). In the present embodiment, the host computer uses the card identification data (for example, card number) received to check whether or not the card data of the corresponding card is stored in the updated card file. The data may be narrowed down by information such as a date and a store number included in the received information, and then card data corresponding to the identification data may be searched for.

Next, the controller 31 edits new card data (newly issued card data) based on the card data in the file. The newly issued card data includes a new card number, a new store number (store number of the store whose update has been accepted), an issue amount calculated from the remaining number, a remaining number, a new issuance date (update date), and the like (step 120). .

The control unit 31 temporarily registers the newly issued card data in the storage device 32 (step 122), and transmits it from the communication unit 33 to the update machine 10 via the communication line 40 and the communication path 41 (step 126). .

If it is determined in step 114 that the data corresponding to the updated card file is not stored, and if it is determined in step 116 that the received card data does not match the file card data, the control unit 31 edits error content data indicating what kind of error has occurred (step 124);
The edited error data is transmitted from the communication unit 33 to the update machine 10 via the communication line 40 and the communication path 41 (step 126). The flowchart of the update processing operation follows "b" in FIG.

The updating machine 10 receives the data transmitted from the host computer 30 by the communication section 16 (step 1).
28). The control unit 11 checks whether the received data is error data or newly issued card data (step 130). If it is determined that the data is error data, an error display indicating that the card cannot be accepted is displayed on the display unit 13 and the card is ejected (steps 132 and 134).

If it is determined in step 130 that the received data is newly issued card data,
The control unit 21 rewrites the frequency of the card data stored in the card to 0 using the writing unit of the card processing unit 12 (step 136), and collects the card in the collection box of the collection unit 14 (step 138). Alternatively, the card may be returned in a state where the card cannot be reused without collecting the card.

Next, the updating machine 10 issues a new card in the card issuing section 15. The update machine 10 includes inside the update machine 10 a roll-shaped magnetic card sheet having the same design as the roll-shaped magnetic card sheet provided in the card issuing machine. Therefore, the design of the surface of the card that can be used in the store is unified, and the use of a different card (illegal card) can be visually confirmed. The updating machine 10 cuts the roll-shaped card paper from the leading end to create a card. Next, the card has a new card number, a new store number (the number of the store that has been updated), a new issue amount (the remaining amount calculated from the remaining number of the original card), and a new amount (the remaining amount of the original card). The received new issued card data including the frequency, the new issue date (update date), and the like are stored as magnetic data, and the same card data is visually printed on the card surface (step 140). When the recording of the card data on the card is completed, the update machine 10 sends out the card from the card outlet. For the new card, a new usable period and a renewable period based on a new issue date (renewal date) are set. Steps to be described later (step 15 in FIG. 5)
In 4), the card data of the new card is registered in the store computer 20 of the store where the old card was updated, and the new card is usable only at the store where the old card was updated and only for a predetermined usable period. Become.

Next, the update machine 10 checks whether or not the update processing has been correctly performed (step 142). If it is determined that the update processing has been performed correctly, the normal end message is edited (step 144). When it is determined that the update processing has not been performed correctly, for example, when the update machine 10 has mechanically failed and the new card has not been ejected from the ejection unit of the card processing unit 12, or when data cannot be stored in the new card For example, the mechanical operation of the updating machine 10 is stopped, only the data processing operation of the updating machine 10 is performed, the type of the error is checked, and the content of the error is edited to create error data (step 146).

After the creation of the normal end message or the error data is completed, the updating machine 10 transmits the normal end message and the newly issued card data or the error data from the communication section 16 to the store computer 20 (step 148).
The flowchart of the update processing operation follows “c” in FIG.

The store computer 20 receives the data transmitted from the update machine 10 by the communication unit 23 (step 15).
0). The control unit 21 checks whether the received data is error data, or a normal end message and newly issued card data (step 152). If it is determined that the data is a normal end message and newly issued card data, the newly issued card data is registered in the card issuing file of the storage device 22 (step 154), and data indicating that registration has been completed is transmitted to the communication unit. 24 to 40
(Step 156). If it is determined in step 152 that the received data is error data, the error data is transmitted from the communication unit 24 to the host computer 30 via the line 40 (step 156).

The host computer 30 receives the data transmitted from the store computer 20 by the communication section 33 (step 158). The control unit 31 checks whether the received data is error data or data indicating completion of registration in the store computer 20 (step 16).
0). If it is determined that the data indicates registration completion, the processing signature of the card data of the updated card file to which the processing signature has been added in step 118 is changed to the processed signature, and the card data is updated. The file is deleted from the file (step 162), and the newly issued card data provisionally registered in step 122 is formally registered in the card issue file of the storage device 32 (step 16).
4).

If it is determined in step 160 that the received data is error data, an error sign is added to the card data of the updated card file that has been signed in process in step 118, and the card data End the update process without changing the contents of
66). The error data is created in step 146, and at this time, the update machine 10 is stopped while holding the card inside. Therefore, in order to operate the update machine 10 again, it is necessary to eliminate the cause of the error (mechanical failure or electrical failure) and to make the operable state.

For the card corresponding to the card data with the error sign, the updating process of the card is performed again from the beginning after the updating machine 10 is made operable. Update process. However, if an error occurs after a predetermined number of retries (for example, two retries), an invalid sign is added to the card data with the error sign, and the card and the card data are invalid. Is done. The card data with the invalid signature is deleted from the updated card file after a predetermined period.

Thus, the updating process of the card by the updating machine 10 is completed.

The storage device 2 of the store computer 20
Card ID, which is used for retrieving card data in the card issuance file stored in the storage card 2 and the card data in the card issuance file and the updated card file stored in the storage device 32 of the host computer 30. May be a combination of a card number, a store number, an issue date, and other data. Further, the identification information of the recording medium for renting a game medium includes an issue serial number generated when the recording medium for renting a game medium is issued, a store number of the store that issued the game medium, and a date and time of issue (date, time, Minutes,
Seconds) or any data that can identify the recording medium for renting a game medium, such as the number of an update machine or a card issuing machine. Further, a plurality of data may be used in combination.

In the system of the embodiment shown in FIG.
Instead of editing the newly issued card data by the host computer 30, the updating machine 10 may be provided with means for editing the newly issued card data and edited by the updating machine 10. The operation of the system configured as described above will be briefly described below with reference to FIGS. Note that a description of steps for performing the same processing as the steps of the above-described embodiment will be omitted, and steps for performing different processing and related steps will be described.

In step 100 of FIG.
When a card is inserted into the device, the same operation as in the above embodiment is performed until step 118 in FIG. Host computer 3
0 means steps 120 and 122 following step 118
Is performed, a new card issuance permission signal is generated as a step subsequent to step 118, and the card issuance permission signal is transmitted in step 126. The update machine 10 receives the card issuance permission signal in step 128 of FIG.
In the new issuance card data editing means, the new issuance card data including the new card number, store number, issuance amount, frequency, issue date, etc. is edited based on the card data read from the inserted card, and Issue a card. If the processing has been performed correctly, step 144
Edits the normal end message and attaches the newly issued card data to the message. Next, step 14
At step 8, a normal end message and the newly issued card data are transmitted to the store computer 20. Store computer 20
Receives the normal end message and the newly issued card data in step 150 of FIG. 5, registers the newly issued card data in the card issuing file of the storage device 22 in step 154, and in step 156, the data indicating the registration completion and the newly issued card. The data is transmitted to the host computer 30.
The host computer 30 receives the data indicating the registration completion and the newly issued card data in step 158, and registers the newly issued card data in the card issuing file of the storage device 32 in step 164.

With the above, the operation of the embodiment of the system in which the updating machine 10 is provided with the means for editing the newly issued card data is completed.

Further, a further communication path from the update machine 10 to the host computer 30 is provided. In step 148, the data is transmitted to the store computer 20 and the data is transmitted directly to the host computer 30 through the communication path. You may make it.

Further, in the above embodiment, the updating machine 10
The store side (for example, an updating machine) is provided with a means for checking the issue date and remaining frequency of the card data of the card inserted in the store,
The store may reject acceptance of a card inappropriate for updating. That is, the card data of the card determined to be inappropriate for updating by the store is stored in the host computer 30.
It may be configured not to be transmitted to. To do so, for example, first, the issue date and the remaining frequency are extracted from the card data determined to be identifiable in step 104. Next, whether or not the card is within the renewable period is checked based on the issue date, and whether or not the remaining frequency is 0 is checked. If the card is not within the renewable period or if the remaining frequency of the card is 0, the process does not proceed to step 110, proceeds to step 106, displays an error, and ejects the card at step 108. In this way, the store does not transmit the card data of the card that is not within the renewable period or the card whose remaining frequency is 0 to the host computer 30.

Next, still another embodiment of the update system of the present invention is shown in FIG. 6, the same numbers as those in FIG. 1 indicate the same elements as those in FIG. The system shown in FIG. 6 is similar to the system shown in FIG. 1 except that the system shown in FIG. 6 does not include a path (path 41 shown in FIG. 1) for directly connecting the update machine 10 and the host computer 30.

FIGS. 7 to 11 are flowcharts showing a series of update processing operations of the system of the embodiment of FIG.
"A" in the flowchart of FIG. 8 follows "A" in the flowchart of FIG. 8, "B" in the flowchart of FIG. 8 follows "B" in the flowchart of FIG. 9, and "C" in FIG. 9 is a flowchart of FIG. Following "C" in Figure 1,
"D" in the flowchart of FIG. 0 follows "D" in the flowchart of FIG.

The operation of the embodiment of the prepaid card updating system will be described with reference to these drawings.

First, reference is made to the flowchart of FIG.
Under the control of the control unit 11, the update machine 10 in a standby state monitors whether a card has been inserted into the card loading unit of the card processing unit 12 (step 200). When the card is inserted, the updating machine 10 reads the card data stored in the card by the reading unit of the processing unit 12, and decrypts the read card data (Step 202). If the decrypted card data cannot be identified, the display unit 1 displays an error display indicating that the card cannot be accepted.
3 and eject the card (steps 204 and 2).
06, 208). If the decrypted card data is identifiable, the card data is transmitted from the communication unit 16 to the store computer 20 (steps 204 and 21).
0).

Under the control of the control unit 21, the store computer 20 receives the card data transmitted from the updating machine 10 by the communication unit 23, and transmits the received card data from the communication unit 24 to the host computer 30 (step). 21
2, 214). Communication between the store computer 20 and the host computer 30 is performed via the communication line 40. The flowchart of the update processing operation follows “A” in FIG.

The host computer 30 receives the card data through the communication section 33 (step 216). Control unit 31
Is stored in the storage device 32 by using card identification data (card ID) in the received card data, for example, the card number.
It is checked whether or not the card data of the corresponding card is stored in the updated card file (step 21).
8). If the corresponding data is stored, the contents of the card data stored on the card are compared with the contents of the corresponding card data stored in the updated card file (step 220). If the received card data matches the card data in the file, a sign indicating that the card data in the file is being processed is attached to prevent the other card data from being accessed (step 22).
2).

Next, the controller 31 edits new card data (newly issued card data) based on the card data in the file. The newly issued card data includes the new card number, new store number (store number of the store that accepted the update), new issued amount (remaining amount calculated from remaining frequency), new frequency (remaining frequency of original card), new An issue date (update date) is included (step 224).

The control unit 31 temporarily registers the newly issued card data in the storage device 32 (step 226), and transmits the newly issued card data from the communication unit 33 to the store computer 20 via the communication line 40.
(Step 230).

If it is determined in step 218 that the corresponding data is not stored in the updated card file, and if it is determined in step 220 that the received card data does not match the file card data, The unit 31 edits error content data indicating what kind of error has occurred (step 22).
8) The edited error data is transmitted from the communication unit 33 to the store computer 20 via the communication line 40 (step 230). The flowchart of the update processing operation follows "B" in FIG.

The store computer 20 receives the data transmitted from the host computer 30 by the communication unit 24 (step 232). The control unit 21 checks whether the received data is error data or newly issued card data (step 234). If it is determined that the card data is newly issued card data, the control unit 21 temporarily registers the card data in the storage device 22 (step 236),
The card data is transmitted from the communication unit 23 to the update machine 10 (step 238). If it is determined in step 234 that the received data is error data, the error data is transmitted from the communication unit 23 to the update machine 10 (step 238). The flowchart of the update processing operation follows "C" in FIG.

The updating machine 10 receives the data transmitted from the store computer 20 by the communication section 16 (step 24).
0). The control unit 11 checks whether the received data is error data or newly issued card data (Step 242). If it is determined that the data is error data, an error display indicating that the card cannot be accepted is displayed on the display unit 13 and the card is ejected (steps 244 and 246).

If it is determined in step 242 that the received data is newly issued card data,
The control unit 21 rewrites the frequency of the card data stored in the card to 0 using the writing unit of the card processing unit 12 (step 248), and collects the card in the collection box of the collection unit 14 (step 250). Alternatively, the card may be returned in a state where the card cannot be reused without collecting the card.

Next, the update machine 10 issues a new card in the card issuing section 15. The update machine 10 includes a roll-shaped magnetic card paper having the same design as the roll-shaped card paper provided in the card issuing machine, inside the update machine 10. Therefore, the design of the surface of the card that can be used in the store is unified, and the use of a different card (illegal card) can be visually confirmed. The updating machine 10 cuts the roll-shaped card paper from the leading end to create a card. Next, the card has a new card number, a new store number (the number of the store that has been updated), a new issuance amount (the amount calculated from the remaining frequency of the original card data), and a new frequency (the original card data The received new issued card data including the remaining frequency, the new issued date (updated date) and the like are stored as magnetic data, and the same card data is visually printed on the card surface (step 252). When the recording of the card data on the card is completed, the update machine 10 sends out the card from the card outlet. For the new card, a new usable period and a renewable period based on a new issue date (renewal date) are set. The new card can be used only for a predetermined usable period and only at the store where the old card has been updated. In a later-described step (step 266 in FIG. 11),
The card data of the new card, which has been temporarily registered in the store computer 20, is officially registered in the store computer 20, and the new card can be used only in the store, that is, the store in which the old card has been updated, and can be used in a predetermined manner. Only available for a period.

Next, the update machine 10 checks whether or not the update processing has been correctly performed (step 254). If it is determined that the update processing has been correctly performed, the normal end message is edited (step 256). If it is determined that the update process has not been performed correctly, for example,
When the new card is not ejected from the ejection unit of the card processing unit 12 due to a mechanical failure or when data cannot be stored in the new card, the mechanical operation of the updating machine 10 is stopped, Only the data processing operation of No. 10 is performed to check the type of error and edit the error content to create error data (step 258).

After the creation of the normal end message or the error data is completed, the updating machine 10 transmits the normal end message or the error data from the communication section 16 to the store computer 20 (step 260). The flowchart of the update processing operation follows "D" in FIG.

The store computer 20 receives the data transmitted from the update machine 10 by the communication section 23 (step 26).
2). The control unit 21 checks whether the received data is error data or a normal end message (step 264). If it is determined that the message is a normal end message, the newly issued card data that has been temporarily registered is formally registered in the card issuance file of the storage device 22 (step 266), and data indicating that registration has been completed is transmitted. The data is transmitted from the unit 24 to the host computer 30 via the line 40 (step 268). If it is determined in step 264 that the received data is error data, the error data is transmitted from the communication unit 24 to the line 40.
(Step 268).

The host computer 30 receives the data transmitted from the store computer 20 by the communication unit 33 (step 270). The control unit 31 checks whether the received data is error data or data indicating completion of registration in the store computer 20 (step 27).
2). If it is determined that the data indicates that the registration has been completed, the processing signature of the card data of the updated card file with the processing signature attached in step 222 is changed to the processed signature, and the card data is updated. The file is deleted from the file (step 274), and the newly issued card data provisionally registered in step 226 is formally registered in the card issue file of the storage device 32 (step 27).
6).

If it is determined in step 272 that the received data is error data, an error sign is added to the card data of the updated card file to which the in-process sign was added in step 222, and the card data The update process is terminated without changing the contents of. (Step 278). The error data is created in step 258, and at this time, the update machine 10 is still stopped while holding the card inside. Therefore, the updating machine 10
In order to operate again, it is necessary to eliminate the cause of the error (mechanical failure or electrical failure) and make it operable.

For the card corresponding to the card data with the error sign, the update processing of the card is performed again from the beginning after the updater 10 is in an operable state. If no error occurs, the card is processed as usual. Update process. However, if an error occurs after a predetermined number of retries (for example, two retries), an invalid sign is added to the card data with the error sign, and the card and the card data are invalid. Is done. The card data with the invalid signature is deleted from the updated card file after a predetermined period.

Thus, the updating process of the card by the updating machine 10 is completed.

The storage device 2 of the store computer 20
Card ID, which is used for retrieving card data in the card issuance file stored in the storage card 2 and the card data in the card issuance file and the updated card file stored in the storage device 32 of the host computer 30. May be a combination of a card number, a store number, an issue date, and other data. Further, the identification information of the recording medium for renting a game medium includes an issue serial number generated when the recording medium for renting a game medium is issued, a store number of the store that issued the game medium, and a date and time of issue (date, time, Minutes,
Seconds) or any data that can identify the recording medium for renting a game medium, such as the number of an update machine or a card issuing machine. Further, a plurality of data may be used in combination.

In the system of the embodiment shown in FIG.
Instead of editing the newly issued card data by the host computer 30, the updating machine 10 may be provided with means for editing the newly issued card data. Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 7 to 11,
The operation of the system configured as described above will be briefly described.
Note that a description of steps for performing the same processing as the steps of the above-described embodiment will be omitted, and steps for performing different processing and related steps will be described.

At step 200 in FIG.
When a card is inserted into the device, the same operation as in the above embodiment is performed until step 222 in FIG. Host computer 3
0 represents steps 224 and 226 following step 222
Is performed, a new card issuance permission signal is generated as a step subsequent to step 222, and the card issuance permission signal is transmitted in step 230. The store computer 20 is shown in FIG.
In step 232, the card issuance permission signal is received, and in step 236, the card issuance permission signal is transmitted to the update machine 10 in step 238. The updating machine 10 receives the card issuance permission signal in step 240 of FIG. 10, and in step 252, uses the newly issued card data editing means, and based on the card data read from the inserted card, a new card number and store number. Edit new issuance card data, including issuance amount, frequency, issuance date, etc., and issue a new card. If the processing has been performed correctly, the normal end message is edited in step 256 and the newly issued card data is appended to the message. Next, in step 260, the normal completion message and the newly issued card data are transmitted to the store computer 20. The store computer 20 receives the normal end message and the newly issued card data in step 262 of FIG. 11, registers the newly issued card data in the card issuing file of the storage device 22 in step 266, and stores data indicating the registration completion in step 268. The newly issued card data is transmitted to the host computer 30. The host computer 30 receives the data indicating registration completion and the newly issued card data in step 270,
In step 276, the newly issued card data is stored in the storage device 32.
Register in the card issuance file.

Thus, the operation of the embodiment of the system in which the updating machine 10 is provided with the means for editing newly issued card data is completed.

Further, a further communication path from the update machine 10 to the host computer 30 is provided. In step 260, the data is transmitted to the store computer 20 and the data is transmitted directly to the host computer 30 through the communication path. You may make it.

Further, in the above embodiment, the updating machine 10
The store (for example, an update machine or a store computer) may be provided with means for checking the issue date and remaining frequency of the card data of the card inserted in the store, and the store may refuse to accept a card inappropriate for updating. Good. That is, the card data of the card determined to be inappropriate for updating by the store may not be transmitted to the host computer 30. To do so, for example, first, the issue date and the remaining frequency are extracted from the card data determined to be identifiable in step 204. Next, whether or not the card is within the renewable period is checked based on the issue date, and whether or not the remaining frequency is 0 is checked. If the card is not within the renewable period or if the remaining frequency of the card is 0, the process does not proceed to step 210, proceeds to step 206, displays an error, and ejects the card in step 208. In this way, the store does not transmit the card data of the card that is not within the renewable period or the card whose remaining frequency is 0 to the host computer 30. Further, for example, the step of checking the above-mentioned issue date and remaining frequency is performed by the store computer 2.
It may be performed between step 212 and step 214 performed within 0. In this case, the store computer 20 that has detected the inappropriate card data transmits a signal indicating this to the update machine 10, and the update machine 10 that has received the signal may perform the steps after step 206. .

In the above embodiment, the issue date of the card (recording medium for renting a game medium) is not limited to a calendar date, but may be any data that can specify the date of issue.
In addition, the day referred to here may be defined in units of a predetermined period, such as two days or one week.

In the above embodiment, the system in which the game is a pachinko machine, the game medium is a pachinko ball, the game store is a pachinko store, and the recording medium for renting a game medium is a prepaid card has been described. However, the present invention is applicable to managing and updating a game medium lending recording medium in a game facility that performs a game using valuables other than pachinko balls as game media.

The recording medium for renting a game medium is not limited to a prepaid card which is a magnetic card, but may be an IC card, a card with a bar code, or any other recording medium.

The game is not limited to the pachinko machine, but may be a slot machine, a pachislot, a game (for example, a television game) performed by displaying an image on a display device, or any other game.

The gaming machine is not limited to a pachinko machine, but may be a slot machine, a pachislo machine, a device for playing a game by displaying an image on a display device (for example, a television / game device), or any other gaming machine.

The game media is not limited to pachinko balls, but may include medals (for example, medals used in slot machines, pachislots, and the like), valuable information (for example, points (electronic information) used in games in which images are displayed on a display device. )) Any other game media may be used.

The game medium lending means is not limited to a ball lending machine, but may be a device for lending medals, a device for providing valuable information, or any other lending means.

The line used for communication with the host computer may be a digital line or an analog line.

In the updating system according to the above embodiment, at the time of updating, the original recording medium for renting out game media is collected, and new data is recorded on the new recording medium for renting out game media.
Although the recording medium for renting the game medium is issued, as another embodiment, new data is recorded on the recording medium for renting the original game medium (that is, the old data of the recording medium for renting the original game medium is deleted). A new medium may be rewritten), and a game medium rental recording medium may be issued.

In the updating system of the above embodiment, the issue date (update date) in the history data relating to the game medium lending recording medium is determined in order to determine whether or not the game medium lending recording medium (prepaid card) can be updated. Although it is configured to check the data and the remaining frequency data, if it is not necessary to determine the renewable period (period), the remaining frequency data (remaining frequency related to game media lending) is inspected and the remaining frequency is appropriate. Update may be permitted for a certain item.

[0114]

According to the present invention, the identification information and the history information of the game medium lending recording medium are stored in the host computer and the store computer, and the game medium lending recording medium is recorded on the basis of the information stored in the computer. In the system that permits use, the system for updating a recording medium for renting a game medium of the present invention is configured to set a usable period and an updatable period based on a game medium renting recording medium issue date and an update date. Features.

Therefore, the management of the recording medium for renting the game medium during the use period is performed by using data such as the file issued by the recording medium for renting the game medium, and the management of the recording medium for renting the game medium during the update period is performed by the update game medium lending. Can be performed using data such as a file on a storage medium for renting out game media, compared to a case where information on each of the recording media for renting out game media is individually managed as in the conventional system. The amount of history information on the recording medium is reduced, and management of fraud prevention is significantly facilitated.

Further, the game medium lending recording medium updating system of the present invention collects the game medium lending recording medium that has been updated within the renewable period and issues a new game medium lending recording medium. The game medium lending recording medium becomes new at regular intervals, so that the card data stored in the game medium lending recording medium is not destroyed and becomes unreadable. Even if is used, the recording medium for renting a game medium is prevented from being damaged, and the user can hold and use the recording medium for renting a game medium with confidence.

Further, the game medium lending recording medium updating system of the present invention provides the game medium lending recording medium data and the game medium lending recording medium stored in the host computer when an update process is performed within the renewable period. The data is collated with the stored game medium lending recording medium data. Therefore, the update process can be performed at any store within the renewable period, and the game medium lending recording medium can be used at the store that has been subjected to the update process. The recording medium for renting a game medium can be used, the range of stores used by the user can be expanded, and the value of the recording medium for renting a game medium can be improved.

Further, the updating means of the game medium lending recording medium updating system of the present invention uses the game medium lending recording medium of the same design as the game medium lending recording medium provided in the game medium lending recording medium issuing machine. Prepare. As a result, the design of the game medium lending recording medium that can be used in one store is all the same, so that the other game medium lending recording medium (for the game medium lending that may contain improper data may be stored). Recording medium) can be easily and visually found, and fraud prevention becomes easy.

Further, the game medium lending recording medium updating system of the present invention invalidates a game medium lending recording medium that has not been updated within the renewable period, so that system switching or changing is performed at a certain timing. It is possible to do with. Further, by switching or changing the system, unauthorized access to data or tampering with data is prevented.

Further, the present invention relates to a system for storing a prepaid card ID and history information in a host computer and a store computer, and permitting use of the prepaid card based on the information stored in the computer. The prepaid card renewal system is characterized in that the usable period and the renewable period are set based on the prepaid card issue date and the renewal date.

Therefore, the management of the prepaid card during the use period can be performed by using data such as a card issuance file, and the management of the prepaid card during the update period can be performed by using data such as an updated card file. In comparison with the case where the information of each prepaid card is individually managed, the amount of history information of the prepaid card to be managed by the computer is reduced, and the management work for preventing fraud is remarkably facilitated.

Further, since the prepaid card updating system of the present invention collects a prepaid card that has been updated within the renewable period and issues a new prepaid card, the prepaid card becomes new every predetermined period, and The card data stored on the card is not destroyed and becomes unreadable, and the card is prevented from being damaged even if paper is used for the prepaid card. Can be retained and used.

Further, the prepaid card updating system of the present invention collates the card data stored in the host computer with the card data stored in the card when receiving the update processing within the renewable period. Therefore, during the renewable period, the prepaid card can be used at any store and the prepaid card can be used at the store that has undergone the renewal process. As a result, the range of stores where the user can use is expanded, and the use value of the prepaid card can be improved.

Further, the renewal machine of the prepaid card renewal system of the present invention includes a card medium having the same design as the card medium provided in the card issuing machine. As a result, all prepaid cards that can be used in one store have the same design, so that other prepaid cards (prepared cards that may have stored illegal data) can be easily visually detected, Fraud prevention becomes easier.

Further, the prepaid card updating system of the present invention invalidates a prepaid card that has not been updated within the renewable period, so that the system can be switched or changed at a constant timing. Further, by switching or changing the system, unauthorized access to data or tampering with data is prevented.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a prepaid card updating system according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the operation of the system of the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a flowchart following FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 shows a flowchart following FIG.

FIG. 5 shows a flowchart following FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of the prepaid card updating system of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the system of the embodiment in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 shows a flowchart following FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 shows a flowchart following FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 shows a flowchart following FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 shows a flowchart following FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

Reference Signs List 10 Updater: 11 Control unit: 12 Card processing unit: 13 Display unit: 14 Card collection unit: 15 Card issuing unit: 16 Communication unit: 20 Store computer: 21 Control unit: 22 Storage device: 23 Communication unit: 24 Communication unit : 30 Host computer:
31 control unit: 32 storage device: 33 communication unit:
40 communication lines: 41 communication paths

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Takaaki Kono 2-6-6 Moto Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo Inside Nissan Taito Building Nazca Corporation (72) Inventor Yuya Ogawa 3-1-1 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo # 4 100th Life Mei Shibuya Building Japan Information Industry Co., Ltd. (72) Inventor Hiroshi Takeda 3-1-1 Shibuya Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 100th Life Mei Shibuya Building Japan Information Industry Co., Ltd.

Claims (25)

[Claims] 1. A store computer in a game store coupled to a host computer and coupled to a game medium lending unit in the game store, wherein the game medium lending unit is unique to each game medium lending recording medium. A game medium lending recording medium update system in a third-party management type game medium lending system that lends a game medium based on data content read from data stored in the game medium lending recording medium including the identification information of Updating means coupled to the host computer, or coupled to the host computer via the store computer, wherein the updating means communicates with the host computer when a game medium lending recording medium is inserted. Based on the game medium lending recording medium update permission information generated by the host computer. Correct game media lending the recording medium for updating system comprising updating means for issuing a game media lending recording medium that stores identification information. 2. A game medium lending recording medium for renting a game medium storing identification information unique to each game medium lending recording medium, and the game medium lending arranged on a center side via a line. Storage medium storing history data including the identification information of the storage medium, the date of issuance, and the remaining number of times related to the latest game medium lending, and a game medium lending recording medium in a third party management type game medium lending system comprising: In the updating system, the identification information is read from the game medium lending recording medium, and the game medium lending recording medium updating means provided at the store that transmits the identification information and the update request signal to the host computer; Based on the stored update request signal and the stored issue date corresponding to the transmitted identification information, the remaining number of times related to the latest game media lending A host computer for determining whether or not the update of the recording medium for game media lending is possible and transmitting new identification information to the updating means when it is determined that the updating is appropriate; and providing the new identification information provided in the updating means. A game medium lending recording medium issuing means for issuing a game medium lending recording medium storing the new identification information based on the information, and a game medium lending recording medium update system. 3. The system for updating a recording medium for renting a game medium according to claim 2, wherein the host computer includes identification information of the recording medium for renting a game medium issued by the updating means, A recording medium update system for renting a game medium, comprising: means for storing history data including an issue date and a remaining number of times related to the rent of a game medium. 4. The system according to claim 2, wherein the host computer further transmits a remaining number of the game media to the updating unit, and the updating unit performs the game. A store computer coupled to the host computer and the updating means and arranged at the store side, wherein the new identification information transmitted to the store computer from the updating means; Based on the data including the remaining number of the game media lending, the identification information of the issued game medium lending recording medium, the issue date of the game medium lending recording medium, and the remaining number of the game medium lending are included. A recording medium updating system for renting a game medium, comprising a store computer for storing history data. 5. A game medium lending recording medium for renting a game medium storing identification information unique to each game medium lending recording medium, and the game medium lending arranged on the center side via a line. A host computer storing history data including the remaining information on the identification information of the recording medium, the date of issue, and the latest game media lending, and a store computer arranged on the store side and coupled to the host computer. In the recording medium update system for renting a game medium in a third-party management type game medium renting system, the identification information is read from the game medium renting recording medium, and the identification information and an update request signal are transmitted to the store computer. Means for updating a game medium lending recording medium provided on the store side; and the transmitted identification provided on the store computer. First transmission means for transmitting an update request signal and an update request signal to the host computer; and an issuance date of the stored game medium lending recording medium corresponding to the transmitted update request signal and the transmitted identification information. Determining whether or not the recording medium for game media lending can be updated based on the remaining number of game media lending, and determining that the update is appropriate, if the update is appropriate, the store computer sends an update permission signal, new identification information and A host computer for transmitting new data including the remaining number relating to the lending of the game medium; and a second transmitting means provided in the store computer for transmitting the transmitted update permission signal and new identification information to the updating means. And writing the new identification information based on the update permission signal from the store computer and the new identification information provided in the updating means. Game medium lending recording medium issuing means for issuing the recorded game medium lending recording medium, and the new identification information and the game of the game medium lending recording medium issued by the issuing means provided in the store computer. Storage means for storing new history data including the remaining number of media lending and the date of issuance; 6. The game medium lending recording medium update system according to claim 5, wherein the host computer is configured to output the game medium lending recording medium identification information issued by the updating unit and the game medium lending recording medium. A recording medium update system for renting a game medium, comprising: means for storing history data including an issue date and a remaining number of times related to the rent of a game medium. 7. A game medium lending recording medium for storing game data lending, which stores history data including identification information unique to each game medium lending recording medium, an issue date, and a remaining number of times related to the latest game medium lending. A host computer which is disposed on the center side via a line and stores the identification information of the game medium lending recording medium, the date of issuance, and the remaining number of times related to the latest lending of the game medium. A game medium lending recording medium updating system in a game medium lending system, wherein the store reads the identification information from the inserted game medium lending recording medium and transmits the identification information and an update request signal to the host computer. Means for updating a game medium lending recording medium provided in the storage medium, and the storage means corresponding to the transmitted update request signal and the transmitted identification information. Issue date, and determine whether to update the recreation medium renting recording medium based on the remaining power related lending game media, if an update is determined to be proper,
A host computer for transmitting an update permission signal to the update unit; and a new identification information, an issue date of a game medium lending recording medium, and the inserted game, based on the update permission signal, provided in the update unit. Game medium lending recording medium issuing means for issuing a game medium lending recording medium storing new history data including the remaining number of times related to the lending of the game medium stored in the medium lending recording medium. Recording medium update system. 8. The game medium lending recording medium updating system according to claim 7, wherein the game medium lending is provided by the host computer and the updating means, arranged at a store side, and issued by the updating means. A game medium lending recording medium update system, comprising: a store computer storing history data including recording medium identification information, a game medium lending recording medium issuance date, and a remaining number of game media lending. 9. A game medium lending recording medium for renting a game medium which stores history data including identification information unique to each game medium lending recording medium, an issue date, and a remaining number of times related to the latest game medium lending. A host computer, which is arranged on the center side via a line and stores history data including the identification information of the game medium lending recording medium, the date of issue, and the remaining number of times related to the latest game medium lending; And a store computer coupled to the host computer.In a game medium lending recording medium update system in a third-party management type game medium lending system comprising: the inserted game medium lending recording medium A recording medium for renting a game medium provided at a store that reads the identification information and transmits the identification information and an update request signal to the store computer. Update means provided in the shop computer, first transmission means for transmitting the transmitted identification information and update request signal to the host computer, and the transmitted update request signal and the transmitted The stored issuance date corresponding to the identification information, it is determined whether or not the update of the recording medium for game media lending based on the remaining number of lending of the game media, if it is determined that the update is appropriate, A host computer that transmits an update permission signal to a store computer; a second transmission unit provided in the store computer that transmits the update permission signal to the update unit; and the update permission provided in the update unit. Based on the signal, the new identification information, the issue date of the game medium lending recording medium, and the game information stored in the inserted game medium lending recording medium are stored. A game medium lending recording medium issuing means for issuing a game medium lending recording medium storing new history data including a remaining number of times related to medium lending; and a game issued by the issuing means provided in the store computer. Storage means for storing the new history data of the medium lending recording medium; and a game medium lending recording medium update system. 10. The system for updating a recording medium for renting a game medium according to claim 7, wherein the updating unit transmits identification information of the recording medium for renting a game medium issued by the updating unit to the host computer. The host computer, the identification information transmitted from the update means and the issue date of the game medium lending recording medium,
And a means for storing history data including remaining counts relating to the lending of game media, the system for updating a recording medium for renting game media. 11. The system for updating a recording medium for renting a game medium according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the updating unit transmits identification information of the recording medium for renting a game medium issued by the updating unit to the host computer. The host computer, the identification information transmitted from the updating means and the issue date of the game medium lending recording medium,
And a means for storing history data including remaining counts relating to the lending of game media, the system for updating a recording medium for renting game media. 12. The game medium lending recording medium updating system according to claim 8, wherein the shop computer transmits to the host computer identification information of the game medium lending recording medium issued by the updating unit. The host computer comprises: means for storing history data including the identification information transmitted from the store computer and the issue date of the recording medium for game media lending, and the remaining number of loans related to the lending of game media. A recording medium update system for renting game media. 13. The game medium lending recording medium updating system according to claim 4, 5, 6, 6, 8, 9, 11, or 12, wherein the store computer is a game medium lending recording medium issued at the store. During the usable period in which the game medium lending recording medium can be used only in the issuing store based on the issue date of the game medium lending recording medium, A game medium lending recording medium update system, comprising means for permitting use of the game medium lending recording medium in the above, and for excluding the history data relating to the game medium lending recording medium from being managed after the usable period has elapsed. 14. The game medium lending recording medium updating system according to claim 2, wherein the host computer is configured to record the game medium lending record based on an issue date of the game medium lending recording medium. Means for separately managing the history data of the game medium lending recording medium during the game medium lending recording medium renewable period, which is a predetermined period after the usable period in which the medium can be used only at the issuing store, Means for granting an update permission in response to an update request from a store where the update means is installed on a game medium lending recording medium which is made updatable by the means for separately managing the game medium lending recording medium. 15. The game medium lending recording medium update system according to claim 14, wherein the host computer manages history data relating to the game medium lending recording medium that has passed the renewable period as invalid data. A recording medium update system for renting game media. 16. The game medium lending recording medium updating system according to claim 8, 9 or 11, wherein the issuance stored in the game medium lending recording medium in the store computer or the updating means. Means for determining whether or not the game medium lending recording medium can be updated based on the number of days or the remaining number; and means for rejecting the game medium lending recording medium when the update is determined to be impossible. Game media lending recording medium update system. 17. The game medium lending recording medium updating system according to claim 1, wherein said updating means issues using a new game medium lending recording medium. . 18. The recording medium updating system according to claim 17, wherein the updating unit is a game medium renting medium issued at the time of sale by a game medium renting recording medium issuing machine installed in the same store. A storage medium updating system for renting a game medium, comprising: means for issuing a storage medium for renting a game medium having the same design as the recording medium. 19. The game medium lending recording medium updating system according to claim 17, wherein the updating means includes means for collecting the original game medium lending recording medium that has been inserted. Recording media update system. 20. The recording medium updating system according to claim 1, wherein the updating unit issues the game medium using the original recording medium for renting a game medium. system. 21. A host computer provided at the center side for storing identification information unique to the game medium lending recording medium, the date of issue and the remaining number of lending of the current game medium lending for each game medium lending recording medium. In a management system for a game medium lending recording medium using a game medium lending recording medium for a store limited type of game medium lending, the host computer provided with the game medium lending recording medium issuance date Means for identifying a game medium lending recording medium having the remaining number of times after the elapse of the predetermined period; and the game medium lending recording medium identified by the identifying means is a game An update permission / inhibition determining means for permitting an update at a store other than the medium lending recording medium issuing store based on the remaining frequency; Management system of the discrimination and, game media lending recording medium and an updating means for updating the store-limited game media lending recording medium the recreation medium renting recording medium on the basis of the new data including the remaining frequencies. 22. A store computer in the game store coupled to the host computer and coupled to the game medium lending means in the game store, wherein the game medium lending means is unique to each game medium lending recording medium. In a third-party management type game medium lending system for renting a game medium based on the data content read from the data stored in the game medium lending recording medium including the identification information of the game medium lending recording medium update system, An update unit coupled to the host computer, or coupled to the host computer via the store computer, and communicates with the host computer when a game medium lending recording medium is inserted into the update unit, Based on the game medium lending recording medium update permission information generated by the host computer, Game media lending recording medium updating method comprising the step of issuing game media lending recording medium that stores identification information are. 23. The recording medium updating system according to claim 1, wherein the game medium is a pachinko ball, and the game medium renting recording medium is a prepaid card used for renting a pachinko ball. A card, the identification information is a card ID of a prepaid card, and the game medium lending system is a prepaid card system. 24. The management system for a game medium lending recording medium according to claim 21, wherein the game medium is a pachinko ball, and the game medium lending recording medium is a prepaid card used for lending a pachinko ball. The identification information is a card ID of a prepaid card. 25. The method according to claim 22, wherein the game medium is a pachinko ball, and the game medium lending recording medium is a prepaid card used for renting a pachinko ball. The information is a card ID of a prepaid card, and the game medium lending system is a prepaid card system.