JP2002085788A - Prize exchanging device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a prize exchanging device by which a game player can perform a game or other activities (e.g. having a meal or using telephone or the like) by utilizing a waiting time required for writing digital information on a specified recording medium, and the waiting period of time can be effectively used when the size of a valuable value acquired by the game player by a game using a game machine is exchanged with the selected digital information (digital content) such as music data as a prize. SOLUTION: This prize exchanging device is constituted in such a manner that the selection of digital information is received by a touch panel type display 15, and after receiving the selection, a process to store the received information, which can specify the reception is performed by a control section 12. At the same time, the completion planning of the writing of the digital information is notified by the touch panel type display 15. Then, the digital information is written on the specified recording medium by a recording medium writer 17, and the receiving information is received by a card reader 13. Then, the recording medium 1 on which the digital information has been written is provided by the prize exchanging device 10.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a scenery apparatus for exchanging the value of a value owned by a player by a game with a gaming machine with selected digital information (ie, digital contents). More specifically, the present invention relates to a prize exchange apparatus that can “notify” an end schedule for writing digital information to a predetermined recording medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Heretofore, for example, the following is known as a prize exchange system for exchanging the value of a value owned by a player by a game with a gaming machine for a prize. That is, for example, in a game hall such as a pachinko parlor, a prize ball or the like is given to a player by a game using a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine, and the number of prize balls acquired by the player (hereinafter referred to as “acquired balls”). Accordingly, the magnitude of the valuable value owned by the player is specified. The magnitude of the valuable value is specified, for example, by reading recorded information on a recording medium on which information capable of specifying the magnitude of the valuable value is recorded, and from the recorded information.

[0003] More specifically, in a pachinko parlor where a ball storage system that can carry over the ball obtained by a member player as a ball after the next day is introduced, if the player is the member, The counted number of obtained balls is stored in the hall management device as the number of stored coins in association with the member ID which is the record information, and the member ID read from the member card which is the recording medium and the input personal identification number are stored in the hall. By making an inquiry to the management device, the number of coins that are valuable is determined.

Alternatively, if the player is not the member, the counted number of obtained balls is used as the number of counted balls, which is the record information, as the card ID and the issue date / time of the card, which is also the record information. At the same time, refer to the hall management device for the record information (card ID, card issue date / issue date / time, and number of balls counted) that is recorded on the hole management device and the counting card and read from the counting card as a recording medium. Thus, the number of obtained balls, which is the magnitude of the value, is specified.

[0005] Here, the value of the value means the number of stored or obtained balls (hereinafter also referred to as "owned balls") or the amount of money obtained by converting the number of owned balls at a predetermined ratio. In addition, what is given to the player by the game with the gaming machine is not limited to the acquired ball, but may be an acquired medal, a score, or the like. The magnitude of the valuable value specified as described above is
At the prize counter in the pachinko parlor, prizes are exchanged for special prizes or general prizes selected by the player.

However, the conventional prize exchange system has the following problems. In other words, when exchanging the value of the valuables for general prizes, even if the player acquires a large amount of valuables, the pachinko parlors have a very limited range of goods and services purchased in advance. Since only the prize can be selected, the prize desired by the player often does not exist.

[0007] In addition, after exchanging the value of the valuable for a special prize, if there is a fraction of the value of the value (so-called end ball) which is less than the value of the special prize, the member is not a member. Since the player cannot carry over the valuable value after the next day, the player often has to exchange prizes for general prizes (for example, cigarettes and chocolates) that can be exchanged for fractional values.

On the other hand, as a system in which a pachinko parlor can exchange the value of valuables with a prize not purchased in advance, a player can use a terminal device installed inside or outside the pachinko parlor to a product maker or a cyber mall via the Internet. It is known that a prize is ordered to be delivered to a player's home at a later date.

[0009]

However, even in this system, there was no idea of providing digital information such as music data as a prize and exchanging the value of the value with the digital information as a prize.

[0010] Even in the case where a device capable of exchanging the value of valuables with the digital information is provided, it is necessary to write the selected digital information on a predetermined recording medium to provide the digital information. A waiting time occurs. During this waiting time, the player cannot perform a game or other work (for example, a meal or a telephone call) or the like, and the operation rate of the gaming machine decreases because the game is not performed. It is desired to construct a device that can effectively utilize the waiting time required for writing and is convenient for both the player and the game arcade.

The present invention has been made in view of such a background, and an object of the present invention is to determine the value of a value owned by a player by a game using a gaming machine by selecting music data or the like. When exchanging prizes for digital information (digital content), the player can use the waiting time required to write the digital information on a predetermined recording medium to allow the player to perform a game or other work (such as a meal or telephone call). ), Etc., and to provide a prize exchange device that can effectively utilize the waiting time.

[0012]

The present invention employs the following means in order to solve the above-mentioned problems.

First, the invention according to claim 1 reads the recording information of a recording medium on which information capable of specifying the value of the valuable value owned by the player by the game with the gaming machine is recorded, and the recorded information is read. A prize exchange apparatus that performs a process for exchanging the size of the valuable value specified with the selected digital information with a prize, wherein the prize exchange device receives the selection of the digital information, and, after receiving the selection, the reception While performing processing for storing identifiable reception information, notifying the end of writing of the digital information, writing the digital information to a predetermined recording medium, and receiving the reception information, the digital A prize exchange device for providing the recording medium on which information is written.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a prize exchange apparatus for performing a process for exchanging a value of a value owned by a player by a game with a gaming machine with selected digital information. Recording medium reading means for reading information recorded on a recording medium on which information capable of specifying the value of the value is recorded; selection receiving means for receiving selection of the digital information; and reception capable of specifying the reception Reception information storage means for performing a process for storing information, notification means for notifying a scheduled end of writing of the selected digital information, and a predetermined recording medium for writing the digital information; A prize exchange apparatus comprising: a recording medium writing unit that writes information to the recording medium; and a reception information receiving unit that receives the reception information. .

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the prize exchange apparatus according to the second aspect, the selection receiving means includes:
A prize exchange device comprising a display means for displaying a list of selectable digital information.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the prize exchange apparatus according to the second or third aspect, wherein the reception information storage means includes, as the reception information, holder identification information capable of identifying a holder. Performs a process for storing the holder identification information of the holder identification recording medium on which is recorded, and the reception information receiving unit is capable of reading the owner identification information of the holder identification recording medium. A prize exchange device characterized by the above feature.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the prize exchange device according to the second or third aspect, wherein reception specifying information capable of specifying reception of selection of the digital information is recorded. Recording medium issuing means for issuing a medium, the reception information storage means performs a process for storing the reception identification information as the reception information, and the reception information reception means comprises: A prize exchange device capable of reading the reception specifying information.

The invention according to claim 6 is the invention according to claims 2 to
5. A prize exchange apparatus according to any one of claims 5, further comprising a plurality of recording medium writing means capable of writing the selected digital information on a plurality of recording media. Device.

The invention according to claim 7 is based on claims 2 to
6. The prize exchange device according to any one of 6 above, further comprising a recording medium storage means capable of storing a plurality of the recording media.

The invention according to claim 8 is the invention according to claims 2 to
7. The prize exchange device according to any one of 7 above, wherein the prize exchange device includes a plurality of types of the recording medium writing means corresponding to the type of the recording medium.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided:
8. The prize exchange device according to any one of 8, wherein the prize exchange device is connected to calling means capable of calling the player, and is provided with a predetermined time after the end of the writing and after the scheduled end. A signal for making a call to the player is transmitted to the calling means when elapses.

The invention according to claim 10 is the first invention.
A prize exchange device according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
A prize exchange apparatus wherein the recording medium that has not been ejected is retained internally or forcibly ejected after a lapse of a predetermined time after the end of the writing and the scheduled end.

The invention according to claim 11 is the first invention.
10. The prize exchange apparatus according to any one of claims 10 to 10, wherein the value of the digital information is subtracted from the value of the valuable value after receiving the reception information and before providing the recording medium. And a prize exchange device for performing a process for performing the prize exchange.

[0024] The invention according to claim 12 is based on claim 1.
The prize exchange device according to any one of claims 10 to 10, wherein after receiving the selection and before receiving the reception information, the value of the digital information is subtracted from the magnitude of the valuable value. It is a prize exchange device that performs processing.

The invention according to claim 13 is based on claim 1.
12. The prize exchange device according to any one of items 1 to 12, wherein the selectable digital information includes digital information before the sale.

The invention according to claim 14 is the first invention.
13. The prize exchange device according to any one of to 13, wherein the prize exchange device is communicably connected to digital information distribution means provided outside the game arcade, and before the digital information is selected, Digital information storage means for receiving the distribution of the digital information from the digital information distribution means in advance and storing the digital information is provided.After the digital information is selected, the selected digital information is read from the digital information storage means. This is a prize exchange device characterized by reading.

The invention according to claim 15 is the first invention.
13. The prize exchange device according to any one of to 13, wherein the prize exchange device is communicably connected to digital information distribution means provided outside the game arcade, and after the digital information is selected, Each time transmitting a signal requesting distribution of the selected digital information to the digital information distribution means, and receiving the digital information distributed from the digital information distribution means based on the signal. It is an exchange device.

The invention according to claim 16 is based on claim 1.
15. The prize exchange device according to any one of items 15 to 15, wherein the digital information is information comprising at least one selected from digital music information, digital character information, and digital image information. It is a prize exchange device.

The invention according to claim 17 is based on claim 1.
6. The prize exchange device according to 6, wherein the prize exchange device further comprises a listening means for reproducing and listening to the digital music information when the digital information includes the digital music information. .

The invention according to claim 18 is based on claim 1.
The prize exchange apparatus according to any one of the above-mentioned items, further comprising issuing means for recording and issuing information related to the selected digital information.

[0031] Further, the invention according to claim 19 is the prize exchange apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the notification of the scheduled end is predetermined so that the player can see it. A prize exchange device which is performed by being recorded on a recording medium.

Specific examples of the means for solving the above problems will be described in correspondence with the embodiments of the invention and the notation in the drawings. Pachinko machines correspond to gaming machines. The number of accumulated or acquired balls (owned balls) corresponds to the value value. The member card 4 or the counting card 5 corresponds to the recording medium.
The record information corresponds to a member ID, the number of counted balls, and the like. Music data corresponds to digital information. The end schedule corresponds to the scheduled finish time, time, or date and time. An MD or the like corresponds to the predetermined recording medium 7.

The card reader 13 corresponds to the recording medium reading means. The touch panel display 15 (display 15a and keyboard 15b) corresponds to the selection receiving means. The control unit 12 corresponds to the reception information storage unit. The notification means corresponds to the touch panel display 15 (display 15a). The recording media writer 17 (17 ') corresponds to the recording media writing means. The card reader 13 corresponds to the reception information receiving means.

The display means corresponds to the touch panel display 15 (display 15a). The member card 4 corresponds to the holder specifying recording medium, and the member ID corresponds to the holder specifying information. The exchange card 6 corresponds to the reception specifying recording medium, and the card ID corresponds to the reception specifying information. The card reader 13 corresponds to the recording medium issuing means. The recording medium changer 18 corresponds to the recording medium storage means. The in-store broadcasting device 37 corresponds to the calling means. The music distribution server 40 corresponds to the digital information distribution means. Hard disk 1 for digital information storage means
6 corresponds. The headphones 19 correspond to the listening means. Lyrics, jacket pictures, and the like correspond to information related to digital information, and the printer 20 and the recording media writer 17 (17 ') correspond to issuing means. The exchange card 6 and the receipt 6 'for confirmation correspond to the predetermined recording medium.

[0035]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[1. Concept of premium exchange devices 10, 10 ']
First, the concept of the premium exchange devices 10, 10 'according to the present invention will be described. Here, FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram showing a first embodiment of the configuration of the premium exchange device 10, and FIG.
Is a functional block diagram showing a second embodiment of the configuration of the prize exchange device 10 ', and FIG.
It is a flowchart showing the operation pattern of 0 '.

The prize exchange device 1 according to the first embodiment
0 and the prize exchange device 10 'according to the second embodiment are almost the same in concept, and therefore, the prize exchange device 10 according to the first embodiment will be described below unless otherwise specified. The explanation will be omitted for the premium exchange apparatus 10 'according to the second embodiment.

The prize exchange device 10 is a device for performing a process for exchanging prizes with the selected digital information (digital contents) of the value of the value owned by the player by the game using the gaming machine. In particular, it is possible to “notify” the end schedule of writing the digital information to the predetermined recording medium 7. Therefore, after "acceptance" (see * 1 in FIG. 7) for accepting selection of digital information, "exchange" (* in FIG. 7) for providing the recording medium 7 on which the digital information is written based on "notification". 2), the player uses the waiting time required to write the digital information on the predetermined recording medium 7 and performs a game or other work (for example, a meal or a telephone call). And the waiting time can be effectively utilized.

That is, according to the prize exchange apparatus 10, a player selects digital information by estimating the time of handing, for example, during a game using a gaming machine, and then sets the scheduled time, time, Alternatively, the recording medium 7 on which digital information has been written is exchanged for a desired time, such as after the end of the game, based on the notification of the scheduled end, such as the date and time. 7 can be immediately received, and a game or other work (for example, a meal or a telephone call) can be performed using the waiting time required for writing digital information.

Here, the valuable value includes, for example, in addition to the acquired valuable value (for example, a prize ball) given to the player as a result of the game by the gaming machine, the lent value given to the player in exchange for money ( For example, ball lending) is also included. In the following, for example, a case will be described in which the gaming machine is a pachinko machine and the value of the value is the number of stored or acquired balls (owned balls). For example, the gaming machine may be a slot machine, etc. May be the number of stored medals or acquired medals.

The digital information is various kinds of information (contents) converted into digital data. For example, the digital information is distributed (downloaded) from a digital information distribution unit described later via a communication line, or a storage medium (described later). For example, read-only digital versatile disc (DVD-ROM)
Etc.) are stored in advance. This digital information is, for example, information composed of one or more types selected from digital music information, digital character information, and digital image information.

Specifically, digital music information includes music data such as popular songs and classical music, digital character information includes text data such as news articles, magazine articles, and novels, and digital image information includes news data. There are still image data such as photographs and paintings and moving image data such as silent movies, and also includes data such as karaoke and movies, which are combinations thereof. The digital information is not limited to the example, and further includes software such as personal computer software and game software, and a key for decrypting the encryption applied to the software.

Here, the present invention is particularly advantageous for both a player and a game arcade, for example, in a case where an original MD is created by selecting a plurality of music data or in a case where a feature-length movie is selected. According to the present invention, a game or other work (for example, a meal or a telephone call) is performed by using the waiting time in order to write them to the recording medium 7. This is because the operating rate of the gaming machine can be increased, and the waiting time required for writing can be effectively utilized.

In the following, the music distribution server 4 serving as digital information distribution means is used as the digital information.
A description will be given of music data of a song (hereinafter simply referred to as “music data”) distributed from 0 through a communication line such as the Internet 2. With such music data, the amount of data to be distributed is relatively small, on the order of several megabytes, so it can be downloaded in a relatively short time, and the price is relatively low, on the order of several hundred yen. Therefore, the present invention is suitable for exchanging prizes with the fractional value, and is suitable for exchanging prizes in a pachinko parlor.

This music data is encrypted as necessary to protect the copyright, and is distributed from the music distribution server 40. As the encryption method, for example, a public key method can be used. This is a method using two keys, a public key which is a key for encryption and a secret key which is a key for decrypting the encryption.

More specifically, two keys are created by the prize exchange device 10 described later, and the public key is sent to the music distribution server 40 that distributes the music data, while the secret key receives the distribution of the music data. Is stored in the prize exchange device 10 on the side,
The music data encrypted with the public key is transmitted to the music distribution server 40.
Is transmitted to the prize exchange device 10 and is recorded on a recording medium 7 described later together with the secret key. Music data encrypted with this public key can only be decrypted with the corresponding private key. Therefore, even if the music data encrypted with the public key is copied to another recording medium, the private key is stored in the original recording medium 7 and is not copied to another recording medium. The decrypted music data cannot be decrypted, and the copyright is protected.

Also, this music data can be
The data is compressed and coded to reduce the amount of data to be distributed, and is distributed from the music distribution server 40. As the compression encoding method, for example, MP3 method, registered trademark ATR
AC3 system, registered trademark TwinVQ system, registered trademark WM
Various methods such as the A method and the registered trademark AAC method can be used.

Further, the selectable digital information includes not only the digital information on sale but also the digital information before sale. That is, in the premium exchange apparatus 10, digital information before sale can be reserved.

The prize exchange device 10 receives a selection of digital information, and after receiving the selection, performs processing for storing reception information that can specify the reception.
The reception information includes, for example, information (for example, a member ID and a card ID) that can specify the player who made the selection, information that can specify the selected digital information (for example, music ID), and information on the date and time when the selection was received. , And / or information on whether or not the subtraction processing has been performed.

The information that can specify the reception includes, for example, holder identification information such as a member ID of the membership card 4 described later, reception identification information such as a card ID of the exchange card 6 described later, or an exchange number. After receiving the reception information, the prize exchange apparatus 10 provides (discharges) the predetermined recording medium 7 on which the selected digital information is written.

Further, the notification means notifying the end of the writing of the digital information, and is directly (or, for example, a salesclerk of a pachinko parlor) so that the player can recognize it through visual, auditory, tactile, or the like. Indirectly through such as)
To inform the player. Specifically, the end schedule is determined visually (ie, so that the player can see it) by a touch panel display 15 (display 15a), a redemption card 6, a confirmation receipt 6 ′, or the like, or a speaker, which will be described later. The notification is made to the player through the hearing by the headphones 19 or the like or by the tactile sense by the vibrator or the like.

Here, the end schedule is a time (for example, after □ minutes), a time (for example, □ hour and □ minute), or a date and time (for example, □ month and day) when the writing of digital information is completed and the recording medium 7 is finished. □ hour □ minute) etc. Here, for example, when the writing of the digital information is completed during the business hours of the day on which the selection of the digital information is received, the scheduled finish time and time are notified, and the sales on the day of the reception of the selection of the digital information are notified. If the processing does not end within the time (including the case where digital information before sale is reserved), a scheduled finish date and time is notified.

[2. Configuration of Premium Exchange Devices 10, 10 ']
Next, the configuration of the premium exchange system 1, 1 'including the premium exchange apparatuses 10, 10' according to the present invention will be described. Here, in addition to FIG. 1 and FIG. 3 described above, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of the appearance of the premium exchange device 10, and FIG.
FIG. 4A is a perspective view illustrating a second embodiment of the appearance of the premium exchange device 10 ′, and FIG. 4B is a front view illustrating an example of a recording media writer 17 ′, and FIG. (B)
(C) and (d) are front views showing an example of a membership card 4, a counting card 5, a redemption card 6, and a confirmation receipt 6 ', respectively. FIGS. 6 (a) and 6 (b) are lists of music data, respectively. 8 is a front view illustrating an example of a receipt 9.

The following description focuses on the prize exchange device 10 according to the first embodiment, and the prize exchange device 10 'according to the second embodiment is described with reference to the prize exchange device 10 according to the first embodiment. (First, a display 15a is used instead of the touch panel display 15)
And a keyboard 15b; second, a plurality of recording media writers 17 'in place of the recording media writer 17 and the recording media changer 18; and third, the appearance is different). , Other common points are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

In the prize exchange system 1, 1 ′ including the prize exchange devices 10, 10 ′, as shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 3, the player has a membership card 4, a counting card 5, and a predetermined recording medium 7. Etc., and for players,
An exchange card 6, a receipt 6 'for confirmation, a receipt 9 and the like are provided.

The member card 4 and the counting card 5 are examples of a recording medium, and record information capable of specifying the value of the value owned by the player by the game using the gaming machine. This recording medium is a recording medium (for example, a game recording medium such as a prepaid card, etc.) on which information (for example, amount data or the like) capable of specifying the value of valuables is recorded,
An exchange recording medium such as an exchange-only card may be used. Hereinafter, a case where the member card 4 and the counting card 5 are magnetic cards will be described as an example. Note that the attribute of the recording medium is not limited to the magnetic card.
A card or the like may be used, and the form is not limited to a card type. For example, a coin type or an accessory type may be used.

As shown in FIG. 5 (a), the membership card 4 is a recording medium on which recording information capable of specifying the value of the value given to the player is recorded. Is a recording medium for identifying the owner, in which the owner identification information capable of identifying the player is recorded. For example, a player who is a member who has registered registration information such as address, name, telephone number, date of birth, and gender in advance. This is a magnetic card issued to the user.
A member ID such as a card ID and a member number is recorded on the magnetic stripe portion 4a of the member card 4 as record information and holder identification information.

The member ID, which is the recorded information, is read by a card reader 13 to be described later, and is queried together with a personal identification number to a hall management device 30 to be described later. (Here, the number of savings) is specified. Also, by reading the member ID, which is the holder identification information, by the card reader 13 described later, the music ID of the music data stored in the hard disk 16 described later is specified, and the reception information is received. Become. The reception information may be recorded in the magnetic stripe section 4a for the purpose of backing up the premium exchange apparatuses 10, 10 '.

By using the membership card 4, the reception information is received by the prize exchange devices 10 and 10 ', and the recording medium 7 on which the selected music data is written can be provided. There is no need to separately issue a reception specifying recording medium to a player who is a member, and an economical prize exchange system 1, 1 ′ and a prize exchange device 10, 10 ′ can be configured. In addition, by collecting the music data selected by the player, the preference of the player can be grasped and utilized for the sales strategy.

As shown in FIG. 5 (b), the counting card 5 is a recording medium on which information capable of specifying the value of the valuable value given to the player is recorded. Magnetic card issued by In the magnetic stripe section 5a of the counting card 5, the number of counted balls, which is the number of acquired balls, is recorded as recording information, together with the card ID, the date of issuance of the card, and the issuance time. This record information is read by a card reader 13 described later,
By being referred to the hall management device 30 described later,
The size of the valuable value (here, the number of obtained balls) recorded on the counting card 5 is specified.

The magnetic stripe portion 5a may record the number of remaining balls obtained by subtracting the number of counted balls after prize exchange, instead of the number of counted balls. The number of balls counted (the number of remaining balls) is displayed on the central ball number display section 5b so that the player can see it. Further, the counting card 5 may be a receipt or the like on which recording information is printed as a barcode, instead of a magnetic card.

As shown in FIG. 5C, the exchange card 6 is a reception specifying recording medium on which reception specifying information capable of specifying reception of selection of digital information is recorded. It is a magnetic card issued to a non-member player, that is, a so-called voucher or reservation ticket. In addition,
The attribute of the exchange card 6 is not limited to a magnetic card, but may be, for example, a thermal card or an IC card. The form is not limited to a card type, and may be, for example, a coin type or an accessory type. Further, the reception specifying recording medium may be, for example, a receipt-shaped piece of paper on which the reception specifying information is printed as a barcode or an exchange number.

The magnetic stripe portion 6a of the exchange card 6
, A card ID is recorded as reception specifying information. When the card ID, which is the reception specifying information, is read by the card reader 13 described later, the music ID of the music data stored in the hard disk 16 described later
Is specified, and the reception information is received.
Note that the prize exchange device 10,
The reception information may be recorded for the purpose of backing up 10 '. In the center information display section 6b,
The scheduled end of the writing of the selected music data (here, the scheduled finish date and time) is recorded (displayed) so that the player can see it, and the end schedule is notified.

By using the exchange card 6, the reception information is received by the prize exchange devices 10 and 10 ', and the recording medium 7 on which the selected music data is written can be provided. A means for easily specifying the reception information can be given to a player who is not a member, and the prize exchange system 1, 1 ′ and the prize exchange device 10, 10 ′ that can be used even if they are not members can be configured.
Note that, without issuing the exchange card 6, the reception specific information such as the exchange number may be notified to the player by characters or voice. Further, the exchange card 6 may be issued to a player who is a member.

As shown in FIG. 5D, the confirmation receipt 6 ′ is a confirmation recording medium on which a scheduled end is recorded.
It is a receipt-shaped paper piece issued for confirmation to the player as the member. The confirmation receipt 6 'records (displays) the end of the writing of the selected music data (here, the scheduled finish date and time) so that the player can view it, and notifies the end of the end of the writing. Is performed. Note that the end schedule may be notified to the player by text, voice, or the like without issuing the confirmation receipt 6 '.

The predetermined recording medium 7 is a medium for recording music data, in other words, a medium for recording digital information, which is owned in advance by a player or exchanged for a prize by a prize counter of a pachinko parlor. And so on.

It is to be noted that the recording medium 7 is the prize exchange device 1
0, 10 ', taken out of a recording media stocker (not shown), and a recording media writer 1 described later.
7, 17 'may be attached. In this case, the price of the recording medium 7 is deducted from the value of the valuable value together with the price of the music data.

The recording medium 7 includes, for example, a mini disk (MD), various nonvolatile memories (for example, a registered trademark multimedia card, a registered trademark smart media, a registered trademark memory stick, a registered trademark SD memory card, etc.), a flexible disk ( FD), write-once compact disc (CD-R), rewritable compact disc (CD-RW), rewritable digital versatile disc (DV
D-RAM, DVD-RW) and magneto-optical disk (M
O). The recording medium 7 is not limited to the illustrated one, and may be a built-in memory such as a mobile phone or a memory player.

The receipt 9 is, as shown in FIG.
Information related to the selected music data is recorded, and is a receipt-shaped piece of paper issued to the player who has been provided with the music data. This receipt 9
For example, in addition to information such as the date of issue, place of issue, recording media, and recording capacity, music such as the song title, singer name, lyrics (the portion indicated as No. 1 ...), and jacket photos (not shown) Information related to the data is recorded (displayed). Instead of issuing the receipt 9, information relating to the music data may be recorded as digital data on the recording medium 7 and provided to the player.

As shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 3, the prize exchange system 1, 1 'including the prize exchange devices 10, 10' is provided with a prize exchange device 10, a hall management device 30, and a pachinko store provided in a pachinko store. It comprises a music distribution server 40 provided outside.

Here, the communication section 11a of the premium exchange apparatuses 10, 10 'can communicate with the communication section 41 of the music distribution server 40 via the digital integrated circuit 3a and the Internet 2. The communication unit 11b of the prize exchange device 10, 10 'is connected to the hall management device 3 via the LAN 3b.
0 can communicate with the communication unit 31. Note that the Internet 2, the digital integrated circuit 3a, and the LAN 3b are examples of communication lines, and are not particularly limited as long as the respective communication units are communicably connected. A dedicated line such as a cable TV line or a satellite line may be used instead of 3a.

The prize exchange device 10 according to the first embodiment includes:
As shown in FIG. 1, a control unit 12 connected to the communication units 11a and 11b via a bus, a card reader 13 connected to the control unit 12 via a bus, and an exchange card stocker 1
4, a touch panel display 15, a hard disk 16, a recording media writer 17, a recording medium changer 18, a headphone 19, a printer 20, and the like.

The prize exchange device 10 'according to the second embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 12 is connected to the communication units 11a and 11b via a bus, the card reader 13, the exchange card stocker 14, the display 15a and the control unit 12 are connected to the control unit 12 via the bus. It includes a keyboard 15b, a hard disk 16, a plurality of recording media writers 17 ', headphones 19, a printer 20, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 3, the communication unit 11a communicates with the prize exchange device 10 and the music distribution server 4 via a digital integrated circuit 3a and a communication circuit such as the Internet 2.
0, and particularly has a function of receiving music data distribution from the music distribution server 40. Here, as a method of receiving distribution of music data from the music distribution server 40, for example, there are the following two methods.

As a first method, music data can be selected before music data is selected (for example, at an arbitrary timing such as before a pachinko parlor's business hours, at regular intervals during business hours, and / or after business hours). "Pre-distribution" in which all music data on sale is distributed in advance from the music distribution server 40
There is a method. The music data distributed in this manner is stored in a hard disk 16 described later, and is read from the hard disk 16 and written to the recording medium 7 before writing the music data.

Here, as a modification of the first method, before music data is similarly selected, selectable some music data on sale (for example, music data that is frequently selected)
Is distributed from the music distribution server 40 in advance. The music data distributed in this manner is also stored in a hard disk 16 described later, and is read from the hard disk 16 and written to the recording medium 7 before writing the music data. When music data that has not been distributed in advance from the music distribution server 40 (for example, music data that is selected infrequently) is selected, the music data is distributed each time as in the second method described below.

As a second method, each time music data is selected, a signal (distribution request signal) requesting distribution of the selected music data on sale is transmitted to the music distribution server 40 each time. There is a “distribution every time” method of receiving music data distributed from the music distribution server 40 based on a distribution request signal. The music data distributed in this manner is stored on a hard disk 16 described later, and is read from the hard disk 16 and written to the recording medium 7 before writing the music data, or is distributed without being stored on the hard disk 16. At the same time, the data is written to the recording medium 7.

When music data before release is reserved, the music data is distributed by one of the two methods after the music data is released. In addition, by distributing a music data list 8 described below to the premium exchange devices 10 and 10 ', the contents of the list 8 stored in the hard disk 16 described later are updated.

As shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 3, the communication section 11b communicates with the prize exchange device 1 via a communication line such as a LAN 3b.
It controls the communication between 0, 10 'and the hall management device 30.

As shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 3, the control unit 12 has a central processing unit (hereinafter referred to as a “CP”) having a calculation function.
U ". ), A random access memory (hereinafter referred to as "RAM") having a memory function, and a read-only memory (hereinafter referred to as "ROM") having a system program.
That. ) And the like are computers connected via a bus.

The ROM stores, for example, a prize exchange program for exchanging the size of valuables with music data, a program for making various judgments to be described later, and an end schedule (that is, a finish schedule) required for notification to be described later. Time, time, or date and time), a program for generating a call signal described later, and an encryption program for creating an encryption for encrypting the distributed music data as necessary. It is remembered.

The ROM stores a program for subtracting the price of the music data from the value. The control unit 12 operates as a means for subtracting the value of the music data from the value of the value by operating based on this program. Note that the control unit 12 may be configured as a subtraction processing unit that performs at least a process for subtracting the value of the selected digital information from the value of the valuable value (a process before the actual subtraction). In other words, the actual subtraction does not necessarily need to be performed in the prize exchange devices 10 and 10 ', and may be configured by any of the prize exchange systems 1 and 1' (for example, the control unit 32 of the hall management device 30 described later). It may be performed in.

Further, the ROM stores a program for storing reception information in a hard disk 16 described later. The hard disk 16 operates as a means for storing reception information by operating based on this program. The control unit 12 may be configured as a reception information storage unit that performs at least a process for storing the reception information (a process before the actual storage). In other words, the actual storage does not necessarily have to be performed in the prize exchange devices 10 and 10 ', and any one of the prize exchange systems 1 and 1' (for example, the prize exchange DB 36 of the hall management device 30 described later). It may be performed in.

The card reader 13 is an example of a recording medium reading means as shown in FIG. 1 or FIG.
And a function of reading recorded information from the counting card 5 and rewriting the recorded information. In this card reader 13, the record information (member ID, card I
By reading D), the magnitude of the value is specified.

The card reader 13 is also an example of the reception information receiving means, and has a function of receiving the reception information. Specifically, the card reader 13 has a member ID of the member card 4 (that is, the holder identification information) or the exchange card 6. And a function of writing the reception information to the member card 4 or the exchange card 6 for backup purposes, if necessary. The card reader 13 reads the member ID of the member card 4 or the card ID of the exchange card 6 to receive the reception information.

The card reader 13 has a recording medium receiving unit for receiving a recording medium. In this example, as shown in FIG. 2 or FIG.
It has a card insertion / ejection port 13a for inserting and ejecting the counting card 5 and the exchange card 6. If the recording medium reading means and the reception information receiving means have similar functions, for example, they can communicate with a recording medium near the recording medium receiving unit and read and write the recording information in a non-contact manner (for example, Bluetooth compatible), a barcode reader that reads a barcode printed on a receipt-shaped piece of paper, a touch-panel display 15 (keyboard 15b) that accepts input of reception specific information such as exchange numbers, and the like. good.

Further, the card reader 13 is also an example of a recording medium issuing means, and when a selection of music data by a non-member player is received, a card ID capable of specifying the selection of music data (that is, a card ID). It has a function of issuing the exchange card 6 (that is, the reception specifying recording medium) on which the reception specification information is recorded.

The card reader 13 is also for recording and notifying the end schedule on the exchange card 6 which is an example of a predetermined recording medium. By providing the card reader 13, the end schedule of the scheduled finish time and time (here, the scheduled finish date and time) is printed on the exchange card 6 shown in FIG. 5C so that the player can view it. The card is ejected from a card insertion / ejection port 13a, which will be described later, and provided to the player, thereby notifying the end of the game.

The exchange card stocker 14 corresponds to FIG. 1 or FIG.
As shown in (1), it has a function of storing the raw exchange card 6 before the reception information is recorded, and a function of taking out the exchange card 6 and attaching it to the card reader 13.

The touch-panel display 15 is shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 7, various kinds of information are displayed and various kinds of inputs are received. Specifically, a function as a selection receiving means for receiving selection of music data and a list 8 of selectable music data are displayed. It has a function as a display means for displaying. The selection receiving means and the display means may include, for example, a display for displaying various types of information, a keyboard, a voice recognition device, a barcode reader, a scanner, or an input terminal for receiving various types of input, as long as they have the above functions. And the like.

In the touch-panel display 15, various information is displayed on the screen as shown in FIGS. 15 to 18, which will be described later, and an operator such as a player or a clerk of a pachinko parlor can display appropriate information on the screen. By touching the part,
The transparent electrodes arranged on the screen are energized to receive various inputs. Specifically, when functioning as a selection receiving unit and a display unit, as shown in D711 of FIG.
The list 8 is displayed on the screen, and selection (reservation) of music data is accepted by an input from the operator.

Here, as shown in FIG. 6 (a), the list 8 is used for writing in the recording medium 7, the schedule of release, the possibility of trial listening, the title of the song, the name of the singer, the number of balls required for exchanging prizes, and the like. The required capacity is displayed for each selectable song. In addition, in addition to the music data currently on sale, this list 8 also shows music data before the sale whose scheduled release date is displayed as □ month □ date. Can also.

The touch panel display 15 is
It is also an example of a notifying unit, and has a function of notifying a scheduled end of writing of music data. For example, by displaying a scheduled finish time, time, or date and time so that a player can see it, The end schedule can be notified. Specifically, in the touch panel display 15, for example, D712 or D7 in FIG.
A screen is displayed as shown in FIG. 13 and characters for notifying the scheduled finish time are displayed.

The notifying means may be, for example, a speaker which emits a voice indicating the scheduled end or a headphone 19 which will be described later, as long as the notifying means has the same function, and issues the exchange card 6 which records characters indicating the scheduled end. The printer 20 may issue a confirmation receipt 6 ′ printed with characters (including Braille) indicating a scheduled end, and a printer 20 to be described later. Further, as shown in FIG. An information display unit 17b described later that displays the digital numbers of the segments may be used.

On the other hand, the prize exchange device 1 according to the second embodiment
0 'is different from the prize exchange device 10 according to the first embodiment in that a display 15a and a keyboard 15b are provided instead of the touch panel display 15, as shown in FIGS. Here, the display 15a has a function as a display unit for displaying a list 8 of selectable music data and a function as a notifying unit for notifying a scheduled end of writing of the music data. It has a function of accepting input of necessary items such as selection, and also has a function as a selection accepting means for accepting selection of music data together.

The display 15a and the keyboard 15
In b, the list 8 is displayed on the screen by the display 15a, and selection (reservation) of music data is accepted by an operator's input using the keyboard 15b (for example, input of a code number representing desired music data). Further, the display 15a informs the player of the finish time, time, or date and time so that the player can see it, thereby notifying of the end schedule.

As shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 3, the hard disk 16 is an example of a digital information storage unit in addition to the unit for storing the reception information as described above, and the "pre-distribution" method or the " It has a function of storing music data distributed according to the “delivery every time” method. The hard disk 16 stores a program for searching and reading stored music data in the hard disk 16, and also stores the list 8 for selecting music data. In addition, the digital information storage means,
Other large-capacity storage media may be used as long as they have similar functions.

In the prize exchange devices 10, 10 ', the music data stored in the hard disk 16 can be erased under certain conditions. For example, music data that is rarely selected,
Old music data that has passed for a certain period after the start of distribution is configured to be sequentially deleted. With this configuration, the storage capacity of the hard disk 16 can be effectively used, and music data with high needs can be preferentially provided by utilizing the free storage capacity.

On the contrary, the prize exchange device 1
At 0 and 10 ', the music data to be distributed may be stored on the hard disk 16 under certain conditions. For example, if music data that is frequently selected is distributed and the music data is stored, it is not necessary to receive the distribution of the music data the next time the music data is selected. Therefore, music data with high needs can be efficiently provided.

As shown in FIG. 1, the recording media writer 17 is an example of a recording media writing unit, and has a function of writing (rewriting) selected music data to a predetermined recording medium 7 and a function of free space of the recording medium 7. It has a function of reading the capacity. This recording media writer 17
Has a recording medium receiving unit for receiving the recording medium 7, and in this example, as shown in FIG. 2, a medium insertion / ejection port 1 for inserting and discharging the recording medium 7.
7a.

The recording medium writing means, if provided with a similar function, communicates with the recording medium 7 near the recording medium receiving unit and writes digital information in a non-contact manner (for example, Bluetooth). May be used). Further, the recording medium writing means may be such that a receiving unit for receiving the recording medium 7 and a writing unit for writing digital information to the recording medium 7 are separated from each other. Further, the recording medium writing means includes:
It may be composed of a single receiving unit and a plurality of writing units, and conversely, may be composed of a plurality of receiving units and a single writing unit.

Further, the recording media writer 17
The media insertion / ejection port 17a has a plurality of types (3 in the example shown in FIG.
Kind) is provided. However, a plurality of recording media 7 cannot be simultaneously received for one music data.

As shown in FIG. 1, the recording medium changer 18 is an example of recording medium storage means, and has a function of storing a plurality of recording media 7.
More specifically, the raw recording medium 7 before the music data is written or the recording medium 7 after the music data is written is taken out from the recording media writer 17 as if it were a disk change type karaoke apparatus. And make it possible to receive the next recording medium 7,
When the reception information is received (that is, in the case of exchange), the recording medium 7 on which the music data is written is ejected and can be provided.

By providing the recording medium changer 18, the recording medium 7 can be stored and the next recording medium 7 can be received, so that writing can be performed efficiently. In other words, with respect to a certain type of recording medium 7, one recording medium writer 17
A plurality of recording media 7 can be accepted.

On the other hand, a prize exchange device 1 according to the second embodiment
0 ', as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4A, the recording medium writer 17 and the recording medium changer 18
And a plurality of recording media writers 17 ′ in place of the premium exchange device 10 according to the first embodiment. Here, the recording media writer 17 ′ is an example of a recording medium writing unit similar to the above, and has a function of writing (rewriting) selected music data on a predetermined recording medium 7.
And a function of reading the free space of the recording medium 7.

The plurality of recording media writers 17 ′
As shown in FIG. 3, each is connected to the control unit 12 via a bus. As shown in FIG. 4 (b), each recording media writer 17 'has a character (here, "01") for identifying the recording media writer 17' displayed on the front surface thereof. Media insertion
A discharge port 17a, an information display section 17b for displaying and notifying a scheduled end time (here, a scheduled finish time) with 7-segment digital numbers, and an operating state of the recording media writer 17 ', for example, turning off or writing when the empty state is available. A lamp 17c that displays red in the middle and green after the writing is completed;
It has a takeout button 17d for taking out. further,
Each recording media writer 17 'is provided with an attached memory (not shown) for temporarily storing music data read from the hard disk 16 as necessary. As shown in FIG. 4 (a), the plurality of recording media writers 17 'are provided in two rows on the left and right, each of which has a total of 10 pieces.

Here, each recording media writer 1
At 7 ', when the selection of music data is received, when the recording medium 7 is received by the specific recording media writer 17' specified on the display 15a (or selected by the player), it is included in the reception information. Song ID
Music data read from the hard disk 16 is transmitted to the recording media writer 17 ', and the music data is temporarily stored in the attached memory as necessary, and the music data is read out by the recording media writer 17'. Data is written to the recording medium 7.

By providing the plurality of recording media writers 17 ′, digital information can be transferred to a plurality of recording media 7.
In particular, by providing the attached memory, digital information can be simultaneously written to a plurality of recording media 7, and writing is not performed even when a plurality of recording media 7 are received. Can be performed efficiently. Note that a plurality of types of recording media writers 17 'may be provided according to the types of the recording media 7 which are different from the above. Further, the recording medium changer 18 may be further provided.

As shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 3, the headphone 19 is an example of a trial listening means. Before exchanging the selected music data with valuables for a premium, the music data is reproduced and previewed. It is provided with a function that can perform. By providing the headphones 19, FIG.
When the user selects a song indicated as "OK" in the audition column in the list 8 shown in FIG. 8A, the song is played for a predetermined time (for example, one minute). You can listen to the song. Therefore, the player can exchange prizes after confirming the contents of the music.

As shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 3, the printer 20 is an example of an issuing unit, and has a function of recording and issuing information related to music data. By providing this printer 20, the receipt 9 shown in FIG. 6B, a label (not shown), etc., related to music data such as lyrics (a portion indicated as No. 1) and a jacket photograph (not shown). The information can be printed, discharged from the receipt discharge port 20a shown in FIG. 2 or FIG. 4A, and provided to the player.

The issuing means records information related to music data as digital data on the recording medium 7 (for example, the recording media writers 17 and 1).
7 ') may be used. The information recorded in this way is, for example, captured as digital data in a personal computer at the home of the player, printed lyrics and jacket photos with a printer, or displayed jacket photos as wallpaper on the desktop, It can be used in various ways. When the recording medium 7 is a mini disk (MD),
The song name data can be recorded as digital data.

The printer 20 also records and notifies the end schedule on a confirmation receipt 6 'which is an example of a predetermined recording medium. By providing this printer 20, the confirmation receipt 6 'shown in FIG.
The scheduled finish time and time (in this case, the finish scheduled date and time) are printed and recorded so that the player can see them, and the receipt discharge port 20 shown in FIG. 2 or FIG.
A is discharged from a and provided to the player, and the end schedule is notified.

The premium exchange device 10 according to the first embodiment is
As shown in FIG. 2, the communication units 11a and 11b, the control unit 12, and the card reader 1 are provided inside a rectangular casing.
3, exchange card stocker 14, hard disk 16, recording media writer 17, recording medium changer 18,
And a printer 20 (not shown here). Outside the card insertion / ejection port 13a, the touch panel display 15, and the three media insertion / ejection ports 1
7a, a headphone 19, and a receipt outlet 20a.

On the other hand, a prize exchange device 1 according to the second embodiment
At 0 ′, as shown in FIG. 4A, the appearance is different from the premium exchange device 10 according to the first embodiment. The prize exchange device 10 'according to the second embodiment includes a communication unit 11a, 11b and a control unit 1 inside a rectangular casing.
2, a card reader 13, an exchange card stocker 14, a hard disk 16, a recording media writer 17 ', and a printer 20 (not shown here), and outside the card insertion / ejection port 13a, display 15a,
Keyboard 15b, 10 media insertion / ejection ports 1
7a, a headphone 19, and a receipt outlet 20a.

The prize exchange devices 10 and 10 'are not limited to those having the appearance of a kiosk terminal, but may have the appearance of a personal computer, for example.

As shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 3, the hall management device 30 includes a control unit 32 connected to the communication unit 31 via a bus, and a member database (hereinafter, referred to as a member database) connected to the control unit 32 via the bus. 33, a savings database (hereinafter, referred to as a "savings DB") 34, a card database (hereinafter, referred to as a "card DB") 35, and a prize exchange database (hereinafter, referred to as a "prize exchange DB") 3.
6, and an in-store broadcasting device 37.

The communication section 31 communicates with the hall management apparatus 30 and the prize exchange apparatuses 10 and 1 via a communication line such as the LAN 3b.
It is responsible for communication with 0 '.

The control unit 32 includes a CPU having a calculation function,
A computer having a RAM having a memory function and a ROM having a system program are connected via a bus. In this ROM, for example, a program for inquiring the member ID and the personal identification number to the member DB 33, a program for reading ball storage data from the ball storage DB 34, a program for recording ball storage data in the ball storage DB 34, and recording information (cards) read from the counting card 5 A program for inquiring the ID, the date of issuance of the card, the issuance date / time of issuance, and the number of counted balls) to the card DB 35, a program for recording the number of remaining balls in the card DB 35, a program for recording prize exchange data described later in the prize exchange DB 36, In addition, a program for operating the in-store broadcasting device 37 based on a call signal described later is stored.

The member DB 33 stores the record information (member ID such as card ID and member number) recorded on the member card 4.
D), the PIN, and the address, name,
Registration information such as a telephone number, a date of birth, and gender is associated with each other and stored as member data. Note that the member data also includes information on the taste of the player, which is grasped by, for example, totalizing music data selected by the player. The accumulated ball DB 34 stores the number of acquired balls in association with the member ID as accumulated ball data.

The card DB 35 stores record information (card ID, date of card issuance,
Issue time and the number of balls counted). In the card DB 35, the prize exchange completed flag is set in the record information regarding the count card 5 whose prize exchange has been completed, and the fact that the prize exchange has been completed is recorded. The prize exchange DB 36 stores prizes (music data in this case) provided for the prize exchange and the number of balls for the prize as prize exchange data. The prize exchange data is used for billing later.

The in-store broadcasting device 37 is an example of a calling unit, and has a function of calling a player. The in-store broadcasting device 37 is connected to the prize exchange devices 10 and 10, and when a predetermined time has elapsed after the writing is completed and is scheduled to be completed (for example, immediately after the writing is completed or one hour after the writing is completed). Then, a signal (call signal) for calling a player is received from the premium exchange devices 10 and 10 ', and a call broadcast is played in the pachinko parlor to call the player.

By providing the in-store broadcasting device 37, the player can be called when the predetermined time has elapsed after the writing is completed and the scheduled end, and the exchange of the recording medium 7 can be prompted. Since it is convenient for the player and can prevent the recording medium 7 from staying, the operation rate of the premium exchange devices 10 and 10 'can be increased. Here, this call is performed when a predetermined time has elapsed after the writing is completed and after the end of the writing, and
Even if the writing is not completed due to a trouble or the like even after the scheduled completion, the writing is not performed.

The calling means is not limited to the one provided in the hall management device 30, but the prize exchange devices 10, 1
What is provided in 0 'itself may be used. If the calling means has the same function, for example, the membership card 4 or the exchange card 6 is configured with a communication function and a vibrator, and a game such as a mobile phone or a pager (registered trademark) is provided. A calling signal may be transmitted to the membership card 4 owned by the player or to the exchange card 6 given to the player to activate the vibrator and call the player by the vibration.

In the prize exchange devices 10 and 10 ', when a predetermined period of time has elapsed after the writing is completed and the end of the recording, the recording medium 7 which has not been exchanged / received and has not yet been ejected is removed. , Can be configured to be retained or forcibly discharged. For example, when the player does not come to receive the recording medium 7 even after repeating the call several times, or when the player does not come to receive the recording medium 7 after several days, the recording medium 7 is given as a free gift. Exchange device 10, 1
0 'is reserved in a predetermined place (different place different from the recording medium changer 18), or the recording medium 7 is forcibly ejected from the prize exchange devices 10 and 10' and stored by a pachinko parlor. To be configured.

With this configuration, the recording medium 7 that has not been discharged can be disposed of after a predetermined time has elapsed after the end of the writing and after the end of the writing, and the stagnation of the recording medium 7 can be prevented. The operating rate of the premium exchange devices 10, 10 'can be increased. Here, the internal reserve or forced ejection is also performed after a predetermined time has elapsed after the end of the writing and the end of the writing. Even if the end of the writing is expected, a trouble or the like may temporarily occur and the writing may be performed. If it is not completed, it is not performed.

As shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 3, the music distribution server 40 is an example of digital information distribution means, and includes a control unit 42 connected to the communication unit 41 via a bus, and a control unit 4.
2 and a hard disk 44 connected to the music database 2 via a bus (hereinafter referred to as “music DB”).
And the like, and has a function of distributing music data.

[0127] The music distribution server 40 is a predetermined institution provided outside the pachinko parlors.
A music distribution company operated by a provider or an Internet-related company. Thus, the music distribution server 40, which is a predetermined organization, distributes the music data, so that the music data can be distributed legally without causing a copyright infringement problem.

The communication section 41 controls communication between the music distribution server 40 and the prize exchange devices 10 and 10 ′ via the digital integrated circuit 3 a and the communication line such as the Internet 2. In the “distribution” method, before the music data is selected (for example, at an arbitrary timing such as before the pachinko parlor's business hours, at regular intervals during the business hours, and / or after the business hours), the prize exchange device 10 , 10 'and a "delivery-as-you-go" method, receiving a distribution request signal from the prize exchange device 10, 10', and converting the music data to the prize exchange device 10, 10 'based on the distribution request signal. It has a function of delivering to a user.

The control unit 42 includes a CPU having a calculation function,
A computer having a RAM having a memory function and a ROM having a system program are connected via a bus. The ROM stores a program for searching and reading stored music data in the music DB 43. The ROM also includes, as necessary, an encryption program for encrypting music data to be distributed, a compression encoding program for compressing and encoding music data to be distributed, and a charging program for charging the music data together with the distribution. Is stored.

The music DB 43 stores music data and, if necessary, data of information related to music data such as lyrics and jacket pictures. These data are compressed and encoded in advance and stored, but may not be compressed and encoded. The hard disk 44 stores a report of reading and writing of music data received from the premium exchange devices 10 and 10 '. The result of this report will be used for later billing.

[3. Action of prize exchange devices 10 and 10 ']
Next, the operation of the premium exchange devices 10 and 10 'according to the present invention will be described. The prize exchange device 10 according to the first embodiment and the prize exchange device 10 ′ according to the second embodiment
Since the operations are almost the same, the prize exchange device 10 according to the first embodiment will be described below, and the prize exchange device 10 ′ according to the second embodiment will be described below, unless otherwise specified. Is omitted.

First, an operation pattern of the premium exchange device 10 (and 10 ') will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 7, the premium exchange device 10
Through the "acceptance" process of * 1 and the "exchange" process of * 2, the value of the value is exchanged for the selected digital information as a prize. Here, the "acceptance" step of * 1 is "selection acceptance" for accepting selection of digital information such as music data.
Then, "storage processing" for performing processing for storing reception information capable of specifying selection reception, "notification" for notifying the end of writing of music data, and Writing consists of "writing". The "exchange" step of * 2 includes "reception information reception" for receiving reception information, and "providing" for providing the recording medium 7 on which music data is written thereafter.

Here, the prize exchange device 10 also performs a “subtraction process” for performing a process for subtracting the price of the music data from the value of the valuable, but the “subtraction process” is started after the selection is accepted. A pre-payment method performed during the “acceptance” process before receiving the reception information (flow chart on the left side of FIG. 7), or a post-payment method performed during the “exchange” process before providing the information after receiving the reception information (right side of FIG. 7) Flowchart)
The operation pattern of the premium exchange device 10 differs depending on the situation. However, the order of the subtraction process, the storage process, and the notification in the “acceptance” process of * 1 is arbitrary, and is not limited to the illustrated order.

The prize exchange device 10 may be a program in which a program for executing only one of the two patterns is installed in advance, or a program capable of executing either of the two patterns is installed. For example, a program that executes any one of the patterns may be selected according to the convenience of a game arcade or the needs of a player.

As for the music distribution system, the “preliminary distribution” system or the “each time distribution” system can be adopted in any of the above two patterns. Here, when the "pre-distribution" method is adopted, it is not necessary to receive distribution of music data each time, so that communication costs can be reduced and music data can be downloaded quickly. In addition, when the “as-needed distribution” method is adopted, the latest digital information (for example, news articles and news photos) can be provided. In the following, it is assumed that music data is distributed from the music distribution server 40 before “writing” and that the music data is stored in the hard disk 16 in any method.

Next, the operation of the premium exchange device 10 (and 10 ') will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 12, which are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the premium exchange device 10 (and 10'). 8 to 10 show the premium exchange device 10 (and 1).
0 ') represents the main routine of the operation shown in FIG.
1, FIG. 12 shows a subroutine of the operation of the premium exchange device 10 (and 10 ').

FIGS. 8 and 9 are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the premium exchange device 10 (and 10 ') relating to the "accepting" step (* 1).

[0139] The prize exchanging apparatus 10 performs the processing in S100 shown in FIG.
After starting in S101, it is determined whether or not the card reader 13 has accepted the membership card 4 in S101. If it is determined in step S101 that the member card 4 has been received (YES), that is, if the selection is made by a player who is a member, the member ID is read by the card reader 13 in step S102, and the touch panel display 15 (prize exchange) in step S103. In the device 10 ', the personal identification number is received by the keyboard 15b), the member ID and the personal identification number are transmitted to the hall management device 30 in S104, and after waiting, the stored ball data or the NG signal is received from the hall management device 30 in S105.
Proceed to 106.

In step S106, based on the result of the reception,
It is determined whether the member card 4 is valid. This S
When the NG signal is received from the hall management device 30 at 106, it is determined that the membership card 4 is not valid (NO),
In S107, the member card 4 is ejected from the card insertion / ejection port 13a. On the other hand, when the coin storage data is received from the hall management device 30 in S106, the membership card 4 is determined to be valid (YES), and the touch panel display 15 (prize exchange device) is determined based on the coin storage data received in S108. At 10 ', the number of accumulated balls is displayed on the display 15a), and the process proceeds to S109.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S101 that the member card 4 has not been received (NO), that is, if the selection is made by a player who is not a member, the process proceeds to S109.

In step S109, the recording medium 7 is received by the recording medium writer 17, and the flow advances to step S110. In the prize exchange apparatus 10 ', the recording medium 7 is received by a specific recording medium writer 17' specified on the display 15a (or selected by the player). The reception of the recording medium 7 is not limited to S110,
For example, before accepting membership card 4, counting card 5, etc.
It suffices that it is performed at least before writing the music data.

In S110, a list 8 of the music data read from the hard disk 16 is displayed on the touch panel display 15 (display 15a in the premium exchange device 10 '), and in S111, the keyboard is displayed in the touch panel display 15 (prize exchange device 10'). 15b)
Receives the selection of music data, and proceeds to S112.
In S111, selection of a plurality of music data and reservation of music data before release can also be accepted.

In S112, the control unit 12 determines whether or not the capacity required for writing music data to the recording medium 7 is less than the free space. If it is determined in S112 that the required capacity is not less than the free capacity (NO),
In step S113, the recording medium 7 is inserted into the medium insertion / ejection port 17.
Discharge from a. On the other hand, if it is determined in S112 that the required capacity is equal to or smaller than the free capacity (YES), the process proceeds to S114.

Here, if the prize exchange device 10 is a prepaid system, the process proceeds from S114 to S116 through a later-described "subtraction process" of S115, and if it is a postpaid system, the process proceeds from S114 to S116. In S116, reception information is generated, and the process proceeds to S117. This reception information is, for example, information (for example, membership card 4
The member ID of the exchange card 6 and the card ID of the exchange card 6, information that can identify the selected music data (for example, music ID), information of the date and time when the selection was accepted, information of whether or not the subtraction processing has been performed, etc. Generated in association with.

Referring to FIG. 9, in S117, the membership card 4
Is determined, that is, whether the member card 4 is accepted. If it is determined in step S117 that the member card 4 is present (YES), that is, it is determined that the member card 4 has been received, the reception information is stored in the hard disk 16 in association with the member ID in step S118, and the card is stored in step S119 for backup purposes. The reception information is recorded on the member card 4 by the reader 13, the member card 4 is ejected from the card insertion / ejection port 13a in S120, and the printer 2 is ejected in S121.
Then, the confirmation receipt 6 ′ printed according to “0” is discharged from the receipt discharge port 20a, and the process proceeds to S126.

On the other hand, in S117, there is no member card 4 (N
O), that is, if it is determined that the member card 4 has not been accepted, the raw exchange card 6 is taken out of the exchange card stocker 14 and attached to the card reader 13 in S122,
In step S123, the reception information is stored in the hard disk 16 in association with the card ID, and in step S124, the end schedule (in this case, the scheduled finish date and time) is recorded on the exchange card 6 by the card reader 13, and the reception information is exchanged for the purpose of backup. 6 and exchange card 6 at S125.
Is discharged from the card insertion / discharge port 13a, and the flow proceeds to S126.

In S126, the touch panel display 15 (display 15a in the prize exchange device 10 ') notifies the end of writing based on the reception information,
Proceed to 127. Specifically, based on the data amount (for example, X megabytes) of the selected music data specified by the reception information and the writing capability (for example, Y megabytes / minute) of the recording media writer 17, the control unit 12 writes the data. (For example, X / Y minutes), and based on the required time, the control unit 12 calculates an end schedule (scheduled finish time or time), and the touch panel display 15 (or the display 15a). With the display of characters such as the scheduled time or time,
A speaker (not shown) emits a sound such as a scheduled finish time or time to notify the end of the writing. In addition,
When the music data before the release is reserved, the date and time of the end of the writing of the music data after the release of the music data and the scheduled completion of the recording medium 7 are notified. The player who has received the notification of the end of the writing in S126 does not need to wait for the end of the writing on the spot, but plays the game or performs another operation (for example, a meal or a telephone call) until the scheduled finish time.
It can be performed.

In S127, the music data is read from the hard disk 16 based on the reception information, the music data is written to the recording medium 7 by the recording media writer 17 in S128, and the report of the reading and writing is made after the writing is completed in S129. S1 is transmitted to the distribution server 40, and after waiting, S1
At 30, a report of the completion of recording of reading and writing is received from the music distribution server 40, and the process proceeds to S131. As a result of this report,
Stored in the hard disk 44 of the music distribution server 40,
It will be used for later billing.

In S131, a write completion flag is set in association with the reception information stored in the hard disk 16, and
Go to 132. Here, in the premium exchange device 10 according to the first embodiment, the recording medium 7 on which the music data is written is taken out of the recording media writer 17 and stored by the recording media changer 18, and the premium according to the second embodiment is stored. In the exchange device 10 ', the recording media writer 1
7 'as it is.

In S132, after a write completion flag is set and a predetermined time has passed after the scheduled end (for example, immediately after the end of the write or one hour after the end of the write, etc.), the control unit 1
Then, a calling signal is generated by 2 and a calling signal is transmitted to the hall management device 30 in S133, the "acceptance" step ends, and after waiting, the process proceeds to the "exchange" step shown in FIG. Here, the hall management device 30 that has received the calling signal is the in-store broadcasting device 37.
To make a call broadcast in the pachinko parlor and call the player to urge the exchange.

Note that the prize exchange device 10 further waits for a predetermined period of time (for example, if the player does not come to receive the recording medium 7 even if the call is repeated several times, When the person does not come to receive the recording media 7)
Then, the recording medium 7 that has not been ejected is retained or forcibly ejected.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the prize exchange apparatus 10 (and 10 ') regarding the "exchange" step (* 2).

[0154] The prize exchanging apparatus 10 executes S20 shown in FIG.
In step 1, the card reader 13 accepts the membership card 4 in the case of a selection by a member player, or accepts the exchange card 6 in the case of a selection by a non-member player, and proceeds to S202.

In S202, it is determined whether or not the data has been written, that is, whether or not the written flag has been set in association with the reception information stored in the hard disk 16.
If it is determined in S202 that the data has not been written (NO), that is, it is determined that the writing flag is not set and writing is being performed, the membership card 4 or the exchange card 6 is inserted into the card insertion / ejection port 13a in S203. Discharged from On the other hand, if it is determined in S202 that the data has been written (YES), that is, if it is determined that the written flag has been set, the process proceeds to S204.

At S204, it is determined whether or not the member card 4 has been accepted. If it is determined in step S204 that the member card 4 has been accepted (YES), that is, if the member card 4 has been exchanged, the card reader 13 is determined in step S205.
, The member ID and the reception information are read, the member ID and the reception information are compared with the reception information stored in the hard disk 16 in S206, and the process proceeds to S209. On the other hand, S20
If it is determined that the member card 4 has not been received at 4 (NO), that is, if the redemption card 6 has been received and redeemed by a non-member player, the card ID and the reception information are read by the card reader 13 at S207. S20
In step 8, the card ID and the reception information are compared with the reception information stored in the hard disk 16, and the process proceeds to S209.

In S209, it is determined whether or not the membership card 4 or the exchange card 6 is valid, that is, whether or not the reception information has been received, based on the result of the comparison. This S2
09, the membership card 4 or the exchange card 6 is valid (Y
ES), that is, when it is determined that the reception information has been received, the process proceeds to S211. On the other hand, in S209, the membership card 4
Alternatively, if it is determined that the exchange card 6 is not valid (NO), that is, the reception information has not been received, S210
Then, the member card 4 or the exchange card 6 is ejected from the card insertion / ejection port 13a.

If the prize exchange apparatus 10 is of a prepaid system, that is, if the subtraction processing has been completed, the processing from S211 to S21 is performed.
If the postpayment method is used, that is, if the subtraction processing has not been completed, the processing proceeds to S213 via “subtraction processing” described later from S211 to S212.

In S213, it is determined whether or not the member card 4 is present.
That is, it is determined whether or not the member card 4 has been accepted. If it is determined in step S213 that the member card 4 is present (YES), that is, it is determined that the member card 4 is accepted,
In step S214, the member card 4 from which the reception information has been erased by the card reader 13 is discharged from the card insertion / discharge port 13a.
Proceed to S216. On the other hand, if it is determined in S213 that there is no member card 4 (NO), that is, it is determined that the member card 4 has not been received and the exchange card 6 has been received, the process proceeds to S215.
To take the exchange card 6 into the premium exchange device 10,
Proceed to S216.

In S216, the recording medium 7 on which the music data is written is ejected (provided) from the media insertion / ejection port 17a, and the flow advances to S217. Here, the recording medium 7
In the prize exchange device 10 according to the first embodiment, the prize is taken out from the recording medium changer 18 and discharged from the recording media writer 17, and in the prize exchange device 10 ′ according to the second embodiment, the Is discharged. In step S217, the receipt 9 printed by the printer 20 is discharged from the receipt discharge port 20a.
At 8 the end is reached and the "exchange" step ends.

FIG. 11 shows a prize exchange device 10 (and 1) relating to “subtraction processing” when the member card 4 is used.
It is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of 0 ').

The prize exchanging apparatus 10 executes S30 shown in FIG.
After starting with 0, it is determined in S301 whether or not there is stored ball data. If it is determined in S301 that there is accumulated coin data (YES), that is, the S in the “accepting” step
If it is determined in S105 that the ball storage data has already been received, S3
Go to 09.

On the other hand, in S301, there is no ball storage data (N
O), that is, in the case where the ball storage data has not yet been received in the "acceptance" step, the member ID is read by the card reader 13 in S302, and the touch panel display 15 (the keyboard 15 in the premium exchange device 10 ') is read in S303.
b), the member ID and the password are transmitted to the hall management device 30 in S304.
At S305, the ball storage data or the NG signal is transferred to the hall management device 3
0, and the process proceeds to S306.

In S306, based on the result of the reception,
It is determined whether the member card 4 is valid. This S
When the NG signal is received from the hall management device 30 in 306, it is determined that the membership card 4 is not valid (NO),
In S307, the member card 4 is ejected from the card insertion / ejection port 13a. On the other hand, when the coin storage data is received from the hall management device 30 in S306, the member card 4 is determined to be valid (YES), and the touch panel display 15 (prize exchange device) is determined based on the coin storage data received in S308. At 10 ', the number of accumulated balls is displayed on the display 15a), and the process proceeds to S309.

In S309, based on the reception information, the control section 12 determines whether or not the number of balls required for exchanging prizes with music data is equal to or less than the number of stored balls. If it is determined in step S309 that the required number of balls is not less than the number of stored coins (NO), the member card 4 is inserted into the card insertion / ejection port 13 in step S310.
Discharge from a. On the other hand, if it is determined in S309 that the required number of balls is equal to or less than the number of stored coins (YES), the control unit 12 subtracts the value of the music data from the number of stored coins in S311, based on the reception information, and proceeds to S312.

In S312, the prize exchange data (the music data provided for the prize exchange and the number of balls for the price) and the subtracted ball storage data (the number of balls stored) are transmitted to the hall management device 30.
After the standby, a report of the completion of the recording of the prize exchange data and the coin storage data is received from the hall management device 30 in S313, and in S3
In step 14, the subtraction processing completed flag is set in association with the reception information stored in the hard disk 16, and the process ends in S315, where the "subtraction processing" ends.

The operation of the hall management device 30 regarding the “subtraction process” when the member card 4 is used is performed as shown in FIG. 13 which is a flowchart showing one example.

[0168] The hall management device 30 executes the processing of S5 shown in FIG.
After the start at 00, the member ID and the password are received from the premium exchange device 10 at S501, and the member I is
D and the password are referred to the member DB 33, and the process proceeds to S503.

In S503, based on the result of the inquiry,
It is determined whether the member card 4 is valid. This S
If it is determined in 503 that the membership card 4 is not valid (NO), an NG signal is transmitted to the premium exchange device 10 in S504. On the other hand, if it is determined in S503 that the member card 4 is valid, the stored ball data recorded in association with the member ID is read from the stored ball DB 34 in S505.
In step S506, the ball storage data is transmitted to the prize exchange device 10, and after waiting, in step S507, the prize exchange data (the music data provided for the prize exchange and the number of balls for the price) and the subtracted ball storage data (the number of balls) are provided as a prize. S5 received from the switching device 10
Proceed to 08.

In S508, the prize exchange data is exchanged for the prize exchange D.
In addition to the recording in B36, in S509, the subtracted ball storage data is recorded in the ball storage DB34.
0, and reaches the end in S511.

FIG. 12 shows a prize exchange apparatus 10 (and 1) relating to “subtraction processing” when the counting card 5 is used.
It is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of 0 ').

The prize exchanging apparatus 10 executes S40 shown in FIG.
After starting at 0, the counting card 5 is received by the card reader 13 at S401, and the record information (card ID, card issue date / issue date / issue time, and the number of counted balls) is read by the card reader 13 at S402, and S403. To transmit the record information to the hall management device 30, and after waiting, in S4
At 04, an OK signal or an NG signal is received from the hall management device 30, and the process proceeds to S405.

In S405, based on the result of the reception,
It is determined whether the counting card 5 is valid. This S
When an NG signal is received from the hall management device 30 at 405, it is determined that the counting card 5 is not valid (NO),
In S406, the counting card 5 is ejected from the card insertion / ejection port 13a. On the other hand, if the OK signal is received from the hall management device 30 in S405, it is determined that the counting card 5 is valid (YES), and the touch panel display 15 (prize exchange device 1) is determined based on the recorded information in S407.
In the case of 0 ', the number of obtained balls is displayed on the display 15a), and the process proceeds to S408.

At S408, based on the reception information, the control section 12 determines whether or not the number of balls required for exchanging prizes with music data is equal to or less than the number of obtained balls. This S408
If it is determined that the required number of balls is not less than the acquired number of balls (NO), the counting card 5 is discharged from the card insertion / discharge port 13a in S409. On the other hand, when it is determined in S408 that the required number of balls is equal to or less than the acquired number of balls (YES), S41 is performed.
At 0, the controller 12 subtracts the value of the music data from the acquired number of balls based on the reception information, and proceeds to S411.

In S411, it is determined whether or not the number of remaining balls subtracted is equal to or more than a predetermined number. Here, the “predetermined number” means the number of balls required to exchange prizes with the lowest-priced general prizes in the pachinko parlor. This determination is made because if the number of remaining balls is less than a predetermined number, the prize cannot be exchanged with the general prize having the lowest price.

If it is determined in S411 that the number of remaining balls subtracted is equal to or greater than the predetermined number (YES), the number of remaining balls subtracted in S412 is recorded on the counting card 5, and in S413, prize exchange data (prize exchange) Is transmitted to the hall management device 30 and the number of remaining balls subtracted from the music data is sent to the hall management device 30. After waiting, the prize exchange data and the report of the completion of recording of the number of remaining balls are sent to the hall management device in S414. 30 received from
In step S415, the counting card 5 is ejected from the card insertion / ejection port 13a, and the flow advances to step S420.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S411 that the number of remaining balls subtracted is not equal to or greater than the predetermined number (NO), a prize exchange completed signal (a signal reporting that the prize exchange has been completed for the counting card 5) in S416. Is generated and the prize exchange data (the music data provided for the prize exchange and the number of balls for the prize exchange), the subtracted remaining number, and the prize exchange completed signal are transmitted to the hall management device 30 in S417. In S418, the prize exchange data, the number of remaining balls, and the report of the completion of the recording of the exchange of the prize are received from the hall management device 30, and in S419, the counting card 5
Is taken into the premium exchange device 10, and the process proceeds to S420.

In S420, a subtraction process completed flag is set in association with the reception information stored in the hard disk 16, and the process ends in S421, where the "subtraction process" ends.

The operation of the hall management device 30 relating to the “subtraction process” when the counting card 5 is used is performed as shown in FIG. 14 which is a flowchart showing one example thereof.

[0180] The hall management device 30 executes the processing in S6 shown in FIG.
After starting at 00, record information (card ID, card issue date, issue time, and number of balls counted) at S601
Is received from the premium exchange device 10, the recording information is referred to the card DB 35 in S602, and the process proceeds to S603.

In S603, based on the result of the inquiry,
It is determined whether the counting card 5 is valid. This S
If it is determined in 603 that the counting card 5 is not valid (NO), an NG signal is transmitted to the premium exchange device 10 in S604. On the other hand, if the count card 5 is determined to be valid in S603, an OK signal is transmitted to the prize exchange device 10 in S605, and after waiting, the prize exchange data (the music data and The prize exchange device 10 receives the prize exchange signal (the number of balls for the price), the number of remaining balls subtracted, and a prize exchange completed signal (a signal reporting that the prize exchange has been completed for the counting card 5), as the case may be, and S60.
At 7, the prize exchange data is recorded in the prize exchange DB 36, and at S 6
Proceed to 08.

In S608, it is determined whether or not a prize exchange completed signal has been received. If it is determined in S608 that the prize exchange completed signal has not been received (NO), the number of remaining balls subtracted in S609 is recorded in the card DB 35, and S610
Transmits the prize exchange data and the report of the completion of the recording of the remaining number of balls to the prize exchange device 10, and the end is reached in S613.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S608 that the prize exchange completed signal has been received (YES), the number of remaining balls subtracted in S611 is recorded in the card DB 35 and the prize exchange information is recorded in the record information on the counting card 5. The prize exchange flag is set to record that the prize has been exchanged, and the prize exchange data, the number of remaining balls, and a report of the completion of the recording of the prize exchange are transmitted to the prize exchange apparatus 10 in S612, and the process ends in S613.

In the above, charging and settlement are performed, for example, in the following procedure. First, the music distribution server 40 requests the pachinko parlor to pay for the music data based on the read and write report results stored in the hard disk 44. Next, the pachinko parlor requested to make payment confirms based on the prize exchange data stored in the prize exchange DB 36, and pays the price of the music data to the music distribution server 40.

Note that the procedure of charging and settlement is not limited to this example. The payment may be an online real-time payment other than the ex post payment as in this example. Further, the settlement may be not only direct settlement between the pachinko parlor and the music distribution server 40 but also indirect settlement in which a settlement company intervenes between them.

Next, the operation of the premium exchange device 10 (and 10 ') as viewed from the operator will be described with reference to FIGS. In the following, the pattern of the prepaid method will be described. Also, the premium exchange device 10 (and 1)
The case where the operator operating 0 ′) is a player will be described as an example, but the operator may be, for example, a clerk of a pachinko parlor.

FIGS. 15 to 17 are front views showing an example of a screen display of the prepaid prize exchange apparatus 10 (and 10 ') relating to the "accepting" step (* 1).

In the prize exchange apparatus 10, a list 8 of a new song of the month, a promotion video, etc., which attracts the player's interest, together with the characters "acceptance" and "exchange" on the touch panel display 15 at D701 shown in FIG. Is displayed, and when the player touches the “reception” part,
Proceed to D702. In the prize exchange device 10 ', the following necessary items are displayed on the display 15a. Input of necessary items is performed by the keyboard 15b.

In D702, a character for instructing insertion (acceptance) of the member card 4 or the counting card 5 is displayed. When the player inserts the member card 4 into the card insertion / ejection slot 13a, the process proceeds to D703. In D703, a character instructing input (reception) of the personal identification number is displayed, and the player enters the “numeric keypad”.
When the player touches the appropriate part and enters the PIN, the PIN is displayed in a flat face like "****". When the player touches the "confirm" part, the membership card 4 or the PIN is valid. Is determined.

If it is determined in D703 that the membership card 4 or the password is not valid, the fact is displayed in D704 and the membership card 4 is ejected from the card insertion / ejection port 13a. On the other hand, if it is determined in D703 that the membership card 4 and the password are valid,
At 706, the number of coins stored is displayed based on the received coin data together with the member number and member name, and the player clicks "Next".
When the premium exchange device 10 touches the part, the process proceeds to D707, and in the premium exchange device 10 ', the process proceeds to D708.

When the player inserts the counting card 5 into the card insertion / ejection slot 13a in D702, the counting card 5
Is determined to be valid. If it is determined in D702 that the counting card 5 is not valid, D7
At 04, the effect is displayed, and the counting card 5 is ejected from the card insertion / ejection port 13a. On the other hand, D702
If the counting card 5 is determined to be valid in
At 705, the acquired number of balls is displayed based on the record information of the counting card 5, and when the player touches the "next" part, the process proceeds to D707 in the prize exchange device 10 and to D708 in the prize exchange device 10 '.

Referring to FIG. 16, at D707, a character for instructing insertion (acceptance) of the recording medium 7 is displayed, and when the player inserts the recording medium 7 (here, MD) into a predetermined medium insertion / ejection port 17a, Proceed to D709. on the other hand,
In D708, the recording media 7 to the designated or empty recording media writer 17 '(here designated designated No.)
Is displayed, and the player inserts the recording medium 7 (here, MD) into the designated medium.
When inserted into the outlet 17a, the process proceeds to D709.

At D709, a character is displayed asking the player how to select the desired music data. In D709, when the player touches the part of “select from new record of this month”, D7
Proceed to 11. On the other hand, when the player touches the part of “select from song name” or “select from singer name” in D709, D71
When 0 is displayed, the character asking the initial of the desired song or singer is displayed,
When the player touches an appropriate part of the "syllabary key" and inputs an initial, the process proceeds to D711.

In D711, characters indicating the selection (reservation) of desired music data (songs) to the player are displayed together with the number of accumulated balls (acquired number of balls) owned by the player and the list 8.
As shown in FIG. 6 (a), this list 8 includes a schedule for release, the possibility of trial listening, the title of the song, the name of the singer, the number of balls required for exchanging prizes, and the information necessary for writing to the recording medium 7. The capacity is displayed for each selectable song.

In this D711, the player considers that the required number of balls of the desired music is equal to or less than the number of accumulated balls (the number of acquired balls) and that the required capacity of the desired music is equal to or less than the free space. Touch an appropriate part on the list 8 (or operate the keyboard 15b) to select one or a plurality of desired songs,
If the user touches the “determined” part, the process proceeds to D712. In this D711, when the user selects a song whose scheduled release date is displayed as “□ month □ day”, the player can reserve the song before the release. When a desired song is selected and a “listening” portion is touched, the player wearing the headphones 19 can listen to the song.

In D712, a character for confirming the correctness of the selection is displayed to the player along with the name of the selected song and the name of the singer, and when the player touches the "Yes" portion and answers that the selection is valid. Then, it is determined whether the required number of balls is equal to or less than the number of accumulated balls (the number of acquired balls) and whether the required capacity is equal to or less than the free space. If any of them is determined to be NO in D712, that is displayed in D713, and the member card 4 or the counting card 5 is ejected from the card insertion / ejection port 13a, or the recording medium 7 is It is ejected from the media insertion / ejection port 17a. On the other hand, if both of them are determined to be YES in D712, the process proceeds to D714. When the player touches the “No” part in D712 and replies that the selection is not valid, the screen returns to the selection screen of D711 (or D709).

Turning to FIG. 17, in D714, the number of balls saved (the number of acquired balls) used for the exchange of prizes and the number of remaining balls after subtraction are displayed. When the player touches the “next” part, the member card is displayed. If 4 has been accepted, the process proceeds to D716, and if the counting card 5 has been accepted, the process proceeds to D718.

If the counting card 5 is accepted and the number of remaining balls after the subtraction is equal to or less than a predetermined number (the number of balls required for exchanging prizes with the lowest general prize in the pachinko parlor), The process proceeds from D713 to D715. At D715, a message indicating that the counting card 5 is to be taken in is displayed together with the number of obtained balls used in the prize exchange and the number of remaining balls after subtraction, and the counting card 5 is taken into the inside of the prize exchange device 10. When the player touches the “next” part, the process proceeds to D719.

In D716, a character instructing removal of the membership card 4 is displayed. When the player removes the membership card 4 from the card insertion / ejection port 13a, in D717, a character instructing removal of the confirmation receipt 6 ', and Characters notifying the end of the writing (in this case, the expected finish time) are displayed, and the player inserts the confirmation receipt 6 ′ into the receipt outlet 2.
When the character is taken out from 0a, the character indicating the expiration date of the reception is displayed in D720, and the “acceptance” process ends.

On the other hand, at D718, a character instructing removal of the counting card 5 is displayed. When the player removes the counting card 5 from the card insertion / ejection slot 13a, a character instructing removal of the exchange card 6 at D719, and Characters indicating the end of the writing (here, the scheduled finish time) are displayed, and the player inserts the exchange card 6 into the card insertion / ejection port 13.
When the character is taken out from a, the character indicating the expiration date of the reception is displayed in D720, and the “acceptance” process ends.

Here, the player who has received the membership card 4 and the confirmation receipt 6 ′ or the exchange card 6 becomes D 71
Since the end of writing is notified at 7 or D719, there is no need to wait for the end of writing on the spot, and a game or other work (for example, a meal or a telephone call) is performed until the scheduled finish time. Can be.

FIG. 18 is a front view showing an example of a screen display of the prepaid prize exchange apparatus 10 (and 10 ') relating to the "exchange" step (* 2).

In the prize exchange apparatus 10, when the player touches the "exchange" site at D701 shown in FIG.
Move to 8 and proceed to D802.

In D802, a character for instructing insertion (acceptance) of the membership card 4 or the exchange card 6 is displayed, and the player inserts the membership card 4 or the exchange card 6 into the card insertion / ejection slot 1.
3a, whether or not the writing has been completed (ie, whether or not the written flag has been set in association with the reception information) and whether or not the membership card 4 or the exchange card 6 is valid ( That is, it is determined whether or not the reception information has been received.

If it is determined in D802 that the writing has not been completed or that the membership card 4 or the exchange card 6 is not valid, the fact is displayed in D803, and
Member card 4 or exchange card 6 is card insertion / ejection slot 1
It is discharged from 3a. On the other hand, if the writing has been completed in D803 and it is determined that the member card 4 or the exchange card 6 is valid, the process proceeds to D804.

In D804, a character for confirming the correctness of the selection is displayed to the player along with the song name and the singer name of the selected song, and when the player touches the "Yes" part and answers that the selection is valid. If the member card 4 has been accepted, the process proceeds to D805. If the member card 4 has not been accepted and the exchange card 6 has been accepted, the process proceeds to D806 in the premium exchange device 10, and the premium exchange device 1
If it is 0 ', the process proceeds to D807. In D805, a character for instructing removal of the membership card 4 is displayed, and the player
Is removed from the card insertion / ejection port 13a, the process proceeds to D806 in the prize exchange device 10, and proceeds to D807 in the prize exchange device 10 '.

At D806, the recording medium 7 after the writing is completed
The characters indicating the removal of the recording medium 7 from the predetermined recording medium writer 17 are displayed together with the free space of the recording medium 7, and the player inserts the recording medium 7 (here, MD) into the medium.
When the sheet is taken out from the outlet 17a, the process proceeds to D808. on the other hand,
Also in D807, together with the free space of the recording medium 7 after the writing is completed, a predetermined recording medium writer 17 '(in this case,
When the player takes out the recording medium 7 (here, MD) from the medium insertion / ejection port 17a, the process proceeds to D808. In D808, a character instructing to take out the receipt 9 is displayed, and when the player takes out the receipt 9 from the receipt outlet 20a, the "exchange" process ends.

According to the prize exchange devices 10 and 10 'described above, for example, when an original MD is created by selecting a plurality of music data, or when a feature-length movie is selected,
Alternatively, the music data distributed by the “distribution every time” method is not stored in the hard disk 16 but is stored in the recording medium 7.
For example, when writing directly to the storage medium, a certain amount of waiting time is required to write them to the recording medium 7, and using the waiting time to perform a game or other work (for example, a meal or a telephone call). And the operating rate of the gaming machine can be increased, so that the waiting time required for writing can be effectively utilized, and there is a great merit for both the player and the game arcade.

[4. Modification of Premium Exchange Devices 10, 10 '] Finally, a modification of the premium exchange devices 10, 10' according to the present invention will be described.

First, the music data is transmitted to the music distribution server 40.
Is not limited to those distributed from a storage medium (such as a read-only digital versatile disk (DVD-ROM), etc.) as if it were a karaoke device of a disc change type.
May be provided as a prize by being read from a storage medium attached to the prize exchange device 10, 10 ′, and the content of the music data may be updated by replacing the storage medium. That is, the music data is not necessarily limited to the data distributed from the music distribution server 40.

Further, the music data is not limited to the music data selected from the list 8 displayed on the touch panel display 15 (display 15a), but is described in a song book distributed in advance, such as selecting a music in a karaoke box. May be selected by inputting the entered code number.

[0212] Further, the music data is not necessarily limited to the data provided for a fee, but may be provided free of charge by, for example, a tie-up between a pachinko parlor and the music distribution server 40 or for the purpose of advertising. In this case, the price of the music data is calculated as zero.

[0213] The valuable value is not limited to pachinko balls paid out as acquired balls in pachinko machines. For example, medals and scores in slot machines, and images in pachinko machines and slot machines of image type to be described later are used. Pachinko balls or medals formed by
The form of the game is not particularly limited as long as the game is worthy of being owned by the player through the game using the gaming machine.

Further, the gaming machine is not limited to a normal pachinko machine in which pachinko balls are paid out, and for example, a pachinko machine in which the pachinko balls are sealed so as not to be touched,
A credit-type slot machine that can be played without paying medals to the outside, a gaming machine that can be played with data without pachinko balls, medals, etc., a gaming board and pachinko balls are displayed in images An image-type pachinko machine, an image-type slot machine in which reels are displayed as images, or the like may be used, and the form is not particularly limited.

[0215] Further, the place to which the prize exchange apparatus 10, 10 'is applied is not limited to a pachinko parlor, but may be a game center such as a game center or a bowling alley.

[0216]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the prize exchange apparatus performs each of the following processes: "selection reception", "storage processing", "reporting", "writing", "reception information reception", and "providing". Therefore, when exchanging the value of the value owned by the player due to the game with the gaming machine with the digital information such as music data as a prize, the waiting time required for writing the digital information on a predetermined recording medium is required. By using the time, the player can perform a game or other work (for example, a meal or a telephone call) and the like, and it is possible to provide a prize exchange device that can effectively utilize the waiting time.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the prize exchange device includes a recording medium reading unit, a selection receiving unit, a reception information storage unit, a notification unit, a recording medium writing unit, and a reception information reception unit. Means, it is necessary to write the digital information to a predetermined recording medium when exchanging the value of the value owned by the player by the game with the gaming machine with the digital information such as music data. By using the waiting time, the player can perform a game or other work (for example, a meal or a telephone call) and the like, and it is possible to provide a prize exchange device that can effectively utilize the waiting time. .

That is, according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, the player selects digital information by estimating the time of handing, for example, during a game using a gaming machine, and then selects the digital information. , The time, or the date and time, the user exchanges the recording medium on which the digital information has been written by exchanging the recording medium with the desired time such as after the end of the game. It is possible to receive the information immediately, and to use the waiting time required for writing the digital information to perform a game or other work (for example, a meal or a telephone call).

According to the invention of claim 3, in addition to the effect of the invention of claim 2, since the selection receiving means has a display means, the digital information can be viewed while looking at the list of selectable digital information. Can be easily selected.

According to the invention of claim 4, in addition to the effect of the invention of claim 2 or 3, the reception information storage means receives the holder identification information recorded on the holder identification recording medium. A process for storing as information is performed, and the reception information is received by the reception information receiving means reading the owner identification information. For example, a reception identification recording medium is separately issued to a player who is a member. There is no need to provide an economical prize exchange device.

According to the invention of claim 5, in addition to the effect of the invention of claim 2 or 3, the prize exchange device comprises a recording medium issuing means, and the reception information storage means comprises a reception specifying recording medium. The reception information is received by reading the reception identification information by the reception information receiving means by performing processing for storing the reception identification information recorded in the reception information as reception information. It is possible to provide an easily identifiable means, and it is possible to configure a prize exchange device that can be used even if it is not a member.

According to the invention of claim 6, in addition to the effect of the invention of any one of claims 2 to 5, the prize exchange apparatus includes a plurality of recording medium writing means, so The written digital information can be written to a plurality of recording media. Therefore, even when a plurality of recording media are received, there is no need to wait for writing, so that writing can be performed efficiently.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effect of any one of the second to sixth aspects, since the prize exchange device includes the recording medium storing means, a plurality of recording media can be stored. Can be stored. Therefore, since the next recording medium can be received by storing the recording medium, writing can be efficiently performed.

According to the invention of claim 8, in addition to the effect of the invention of any one of claims 2 to 7, the prize exchange device includes a plurality of types of recording medium writing means. It is possible to receive various types of recording media and to write digital information on the recording media.

According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effect of the first aspect of the present invention, since the prize exchange device is connected to the calling means, writing can be performed. If a predetermined time has passed after the end and the scheduled end,
Players can be called. Therefore, the exchange of the recording media can be promoted, which is convenient for the player, and can prevent the recording media from staying, so that the operation rate of the prize exchange device can be increased.

According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effects of the invention of any one of the first to ninth aspects,
Since the recording medium is retained internally or forcibly ejected, it is possible to dispose of the recording medium that has not been ejected after a lapse of a predetermined time after the end of the writing and the scheduled end. Therefore, since the stagnation of the recording medium can be prevented, the operation rate of the prize exchange device can be increased.

According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effect of the invention of any one of the first to tenth aspects, in addition to the prize exchange device having received the reception information, the recording medium Before providing the information, a process of subtracting the value of the digital information from the value of the valuable value is performed, so that it is possible to provide a prize exchange device of a postpay system in which the subtraction process is performed when exchanging the digital information. This has the effect.

According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effects of the first aspect, the prize exchange apparatus receives the reception information after the selection is received. Since the processing for subtracting the value of the digital information from the value of the valuable information is performed before, it is possible to provide a prepaid prize exchange apparatus in which the subtraction processing is performed when the selection of the digital information is received. Therefore, when the digital information is exchanged, the subtraction process has already been performed, so that the selected digital information can be received even if the value of the value possessed by the player is lost due to the game by the gaming machine. This has the effect.

According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effects of the invention according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the digital information before release is also included as selectable digital information. It is convenient for the player, and since the player comes to the store at least twice for reception and exchange, the number of opportunities to play a game with the gaming machine increases, and thus the game machine is also advantageous.

According to the invention of claim 14, in addition to the effect of the invention of any one of claims 1 to 13, digital information is pre-distributed. You do n’t have to get it,
The digital information can be quickly downloaded.

According to the invention of claim 15, in addition to the effect of the invention of any one of claims 1 to 13, digital information is distributed each time, so that the latest digital information (for example, News articles, news photos, etc.).

According to the sixteenth aspect, in addition to the effects of the first aspect, the digital information can be digital music information, digital character information, and digital image information. Since the information is composed of one or more types selected from the group consisting of, various digital information can be provided according to various situations.

According to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effect of the sixteenth aspect, since the prize exchange device includes a listening means, when the digital information includes digital music information, the digital The effect is that the prize can be exchanged after confirming the contents of the music information.

According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effect of the first aspect of the present invention, since the prize exchange device is provided with issuing means, it is possible to store lyrics, jacket photos, and the like. There is an effect that information related to the selected digital information can be provided, for example, by printing it on a receipt or recording it as digital data on a recording medium.

Further, according to the nineteenth aspect,
In addition to the effect of the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 18, the notification of the scheduled end is recorded on a predetermined recording medium (for example, an exchange card or a receipt for confirmation) so that the player can see it. Therefore, there is an effect that the player can easily confirm the finish date and time and the like.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating a first embodiment of a configuration of a premium exchange device.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a first embodiment of the external appearance of the premium exchange device.

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram illustrating a second embodiment of the configuration of the premium exchange device.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view illustrating a second embodiment of the appearance of the premium exchange device, and FIG. 4B is a front view illustrating an example of a recording media writer.

5A is a front view illustrating an example of a membership card, FIG. 5B is a front view illustrating an example of a counting card, and FIG. 5C is a front view of an exchange card. FIG. 5D is a front view illustrating an example of a confirmation receipt, and FIG.

FIG. 6A is a front view illustrating an example of a music data list, and FIG. 6B is a front view illustrating an example of a receipt.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation pattern of the premium exchange device.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the premium exchange apparatus regarding the “accepting” step (* 1).

FIG. 9 is a diagram following FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the premium exchange apparatus relating to the “exchange” step (* 2).

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the premium exchange apparatus regarding “subtraction processing” when a membership card is used.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the premium exchange apparatus regarding “subtraction processing” when a counting card is used.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the hall management apparatus regarding “subtraction processing” when a member card is used.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the hall management device regarding “subtraction processing” when a counting card is used.

FIG. 15 is a front view showing an example of a screen display of the prepaid prize exchange apparatus relating to the “accepting” step (* 1).

FIG. 16 is a diagram following FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a diagram following FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a front view showing an example of a screen display of the prepaid prize exchange device relating to the “exchange” step (* 2).

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Premium exchange system 2 ... Internet 3a ... Digital integrated circuit 3b ... LAN 4 ... Member card 4a ... Magnetic stripe part 5 ... Counter card 5a ... Magnetic stripe part 5b ... Number of balls display part 6 ... Exchange card 6a ... Magnetic stripe part 6b ... Information display section 6 '... Confirmation receipt 7 ... Recording medium 8 ... List 9 ... Receipt 10 ... Premium exchange device 11a ... Communication section 11b ... Communication section 12 ... Control section 13 ... Card reader 13a ... Card insertion / ejection port 14 ... Exchange card stocker 15 ... Touch panel display 15a ... Display 15b ... Keyboard 16 ... Hard disk 17 ... Recording media writer 17a ... Media insertion / ejection opening 17b ... Information display section 17c ... Lamp 17d ... Eject button 18 ... Recording media changer 19 ... Headphones 20 ... Puri 20a ... Receipt outlet 30 ... Hall management device 31a ... Communication unit 31b ... Communication unit 32 ... Control unit 33 ... Member DB 34 ... Sales DB 35 ... Card DB 36 ... Premium exchange DB 37 ... In-store broadcasting device 40 ... Music distribution server 41 communication unit 42 control unit 43 music DB 44 hard disk

Claims (19)

[Claims] An information processing apparatus reads information recorded on a recording medium on which information capable of specifying a value of a value owned by a player by a game with a game machine is recorded, and the value of the value specified from the record information is read. A prize exchange apparatus for performing a process for exchanging a size with a selected digital information, wherein the prize exchange device receives a selection of the digital information, and after receiving the selection, stores reception information capable of specifying the reception. The digital information is written to a predetermined recording medium, and after receiving the reception information, the recording medium on which the digital information is written. A prize exchange device characterized by providing: 2. A prize exchange device for performing a process for exchanging a value of a value owned by a player by a game with a gaming machine with a selected digital information as a prize, wherein the value of the value Recording medium reading means for reading recording information of a recording medium on which information capable of specifying the information is recorded; selection receiving means for receiving selection of the digital information; and processing for storing reception information capable of specifying the reception. Receiving information storage means for performing; a notifying means for notifying a completion schedule of writing of the selected digital information; and a recording medium for receiving a predetermined recording medium for writing the digital information and writing the digital information to the recording medium. A prize exchange device comprising: a media writing unit; and a reception information receiving unit that receives the reception information. 3. A prize exchange apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said selection receiving means has a display means for displaying a list of selectable digital information. 4. A prize exchange apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said reception information storage means stores said owner identification information as owner information for identifying said owner. Performing a process for storing the owner identification information on a recording medium, wherein the reception information accepting means is capable of reading the owner identification information on the owner identification recording medium; . 5. A prize exchange device according to claim 2, wherein a reception medium for recording reception specifying information on which reception specification information capable of specifying reception of the selection of the digital information is recorded. The reception information storage means performs a process for storing the reception specification information as the reception information, and the reception information reception means can read the reception specification information of the reception specification recording medium. A prize exchange device, which is provided. 6. A prize exchange device according to claim 2, wherein said selected digital information can be written on a plurality of said recording media. A prize exchange device comprising: 7. A prize exchange apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a recording medium storage means capable of storing a plurality of said recording media. 8. A prize exchange apparatus according to claim 2, comprising a plurality of types of said recording media writing means corresponding to the type of said recording medium. Exchange equipment. 9. The prize exchange device according to claim 1, wherein the prize exchange device is connected to calling means capable of calling the player, and after the writing is completed. And transmitting a signal for calling the player to the calling means when a predetermined time has elapsed after the scheduled end. 10. The prize exchange device according to claim 1, wherein the prize is not discharged when a predetermined time has elapsed after the writing is completed and after the end of the writing. A prize exchange device wherein the recording medium is retained or forcibly ejected. 11. A prize exchange apparatus according to claim 1, wherein after receiving the reception information and before providing the recording medium, the price of the digital information is reduced. A prize exchange apparatus for performing a process for subtracting the value from the value. 12. The prize exchange device according to claim 1, wherein after the selection is received and before the reception information is received, the value of the digital information is changed to the value value. A prize exchange device for performing a process for subtracting from a size of a prize. 13. A prize exchange apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the selectable digital information includes digital information before the sale. 14. A prize exchange device according to claim 1, wherein said prize exchange device is communicably connected to digital information distribution means provided outside a game arcade, and Before the information is selected, the digital information is provided from the digital information distribution means in advance, and the digital information storage means for storing the digital information, after the digital information is selected, the digital information storage means A prize exchange device for reading the selected digital information from the device. 15. The prize exchange device according to claim 1, wherein the prize exchange device is communicably connected to digital information distribution means provided outside a game arcade, and After each time the information is selected, a signal requesting the distribution of the selected digital information is transmitted to the digital information distribution means, and the digital information distributed from the digital information distribution means is transmitted based on the signal. A prize exchange device for receiving. 16. The prize exchange apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the digital information is at least one selected from digital music information, digital text information, and digital image information. A prize exchange device, which is information. 17. The prize exchange device according to claim 16, further comprising: a listening means for reproducing and listening to the digital music information when the digital information includes the digital music information. And a prize exchange device. 18. A prize exchange apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising issuing means for recording and issuing information related to said selected digital information. Premium exchange device. 19. The prize exchange device according to claim 1, wherein the notification of the end schedule is recorded on a predetermined recording medium so that the player can view the notification. A prize exchange device characterized by being performed by: