JP2002239178A - Game parlor monitoring image information providing system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game parlor monitoring image information providing system capable of easily offering a monitoring image in a game parlor at a low cost to a user such as a manager (owner) of the game parlor and a person concerned by improving availability. SOLUTION: This game parlor monitoring image information providing system is provided with a photographing means 6 outputting the monitoring image of a predetermined area in the game parlor 2, an image recording means 9 recording the monitoring image, a monitoring image transmitting means 10 transmitting the monitoring image to a server computer 1 outside the game parlor 2, and the server computer 1 having a registered user database, collating user identification information on the basis of the registration information in the user database, requesting transmission of the monitoring image from the monitoring image transmitting means 10 fitting monitoring image transmitting means identification information matching the user identification information obtaining correspondence of the collation, and delivering the transmitted monitoring image to information terminals 3a, 3b, and 3c of users making access.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a game arcade in which a gaming machine is installed, in which a user such as a game arcade manager or a person related to the game arcade uses an information terminal such as a mobile phone or a personal computer owned by the user. The present invention relates to a game room monitoring image information providing system that enables a game room to be easily monitored even when going out.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a game arcade or the like, since a large amount of cash is collected per day, it is often the case that a thief invades a thief, or a suspicious person who commits illegal acts on a gaming machine invades. With the recent deterioration of the security situation, such concerns are only increasing. For this reason, in recent years, the number of amusement arcades which have contracted with a security company to perform security agency work for preventing the invasion of thieves or suspicious persons, the occurrence of fire, etc. beforehand has been rapidly increasing.

[0003] As a current security system, when a thief or a suspicious person intrudes into a game arcade where a predetermined abnormal sensor or the like is provided, a security officer of the security company notifies the security arcade by a reaction of the sensor and the security officer of the security company enters the game arcade. There are express systems.

[0004] However, in such a system using manpower, the personnel cost of security personnel accounts for an extremely high ratio, and in a game arcade, a thief or a suspicious person may be accompanied by violence. As a result, the subscription fee becomes enormous, and even though the security company responds in some way to the abnormal sensor, the situation is often not clear.

For this reason, communication lines (including wired and wireless)
To monitor the status of the amusement arcade frequently and intermittently, not only when it is necessary or worrisome, but also when the information terminal such as a mobile phone There is a demand for not being able to communicate the abnormality.

[0006]

However, in the current surveillance system and the like, there is no method of individually installing a special server or the like at each game arcade and transmitting an abnormality to a mobile phone or the like via a communication line. Although it is conceivable, a large-scale computer system including a server etc. must be introduced in each game hall, which requires a large amount of capital investment, and a computer system that can be used only by specific users such as game room owners Therefore, there is a problem that the operation rate becomes very low, and there is much waste.

Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems. By improving the operating rate, users such as amusement arcade managers (owners) and related parties can easily and inexpensively. It is an object of the present invention to provide a game room monitoring image information providing system capable of obtaining a monitoring image in a game room.

[0008]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a game room monitoring image information providing system according to the present invention is installed in a game room, images a predetermined area of the game room, and monitors the captured monitoring image. , An image recording unit that reproducibly records the output monitoring image, and a monitoring image that transmits the monitoring image to the server computer based on a request from a server computer installed outside the game arcade. Transmitting means, installed outside the game arcade, connected to the surveillance image transmitting means and an information terminal used by the user for data communication, and identifying a user who is permitted to obtain the surveillance image Possible user identification information and surveillance image transmission means identification information capable of identifying the surveillance image transmission means for transmitting the surveillance image are registered at least in association with each other. It has a user database, obtains user identification information from the accessing user, checks the obtained user identification information based on the registration information in the user database, and uses the user ID that matches the check. A request for transmission of a monitoring image to the monitoring image transmitting means corresponding to the identification information of the monitoring image transmitting means corresponding to the user identification information of the user, and the monitoring image transmitted by the monitoring image transmitting means in response to the transmission request And a server computer for delivering the information to the information terminal of the user who has accessed the information terminal. According to this feature, it becomes possible to access the same server computer and receive the distribution of the monitoring image of the own game hall without introducing a large-scale computer system to each game hall. Since the occupancy rate can be improved, it becomes possible for a user such as a manager (owner) or a related person of each game arcade to easily and inexpensively obtain a monitoring image at the game arcade.

[0009] A game arcade surveillance image information providing system according to the present invention comprises: a branching means for branching a surveillance image signal output from the imaging means to the image recording means and the surveillance image transmission means; Image data converting means for converting digital data into digital data and outputting the digital data to the monitoring image transmitting means. With this configuration, by providing the branching unit, the load in the monitoring image recording process and the processing load in the transmission to the server computer can be distributed, and the problem caused by the overlapping of both processes can be avoided.

[0010] In the game hall surveillance image information providing system according to the present invention, the image recording means may record the surveillance image as digital data, and may output the digital data to the surveillance image transmission means. This good. In this way, by recording the surveillance image in digital data and recording it, it is possible to reduce the deterioration of the recorded image and to record it on a recording medium such as an optical disk or a magnetic disk. In addition to the simple reproduction, when the branching unit is used, the monitoring image can be transmitted even if a problem occurs in the branching unit, so that the reliability of the system can be improved.

[0011] In a game center monitoring image information providing system according to the present invention, a plurality of the imaging units are provided, and the image recording unit is a composite monitoring image in which monitoring images output from the plurality of imaging units are arranged on the same screen. Is preferably generated, and the synthesized monitoring image is output to the monitoring image transmitting unit. In this way, by obtaining a composite monitoring image in which a plurality of monitoring images are arranged on the same screen, it is not necessary to individually receive each monitoring image, and it is possible to receive the distribution of the composite monitoring image. Thus, the user can quickly confirm the monitoring image.

[0012] In the game arcade monitoring image information providing system according to the present invention, server identification information capable of identifying the server computer is registered in advance in the surveillance image transmission means, and the server identification information is provided when a connection request is issued from the server computer. It is preferable to make a connection only when the information matches. With this configuration, the monitoring image is not transmitted unless the server identification information matches, so that it is possible to prevent the monitoring image from being obtained by a third party due to unauthorized access.

[0013] In the game monitor surveillance image information providing system according to the present invention, the surveillance image transmitting means and the server computer are connected via a public network, and the surveillance image transmitting means has a telephone of the server computer. Preferably, a number is registered in advance, and when a predetermined call is made, the monitoring image transmitting means calls the registered telephone number and makes a connection request to the server computer. With this configuration, based on a predetermined call, the monitoring image is transmitted by the callback that the monitoring image transmitting unit calls the telephone number of the server computer,
Since the destination of the monitoring image is always the server computer, it is possible to prevent the monitoring image from being obtained by a third party.

A game room monitoring image information providing system according to the present invention includes an abnormal state detecting means for detecting a predetermined abnormal state occurring in a game arcade, and the monitoring image transmitting means detects an abnormal state by the abnormal state detecting means. A monitoring image when the monitoring is performed is transmitted to the server computer. In the server computer, the user's e-mail address is registered in the user database, and the monitoring image transmitted when the abnormality is detected is transmitted. It is preferable to transmit an e-mail including a monitoring image at the time of detecting the abnormality to an e-mail address of a user corresponding to the image transmission means. In this way, a user such as a game arcade manager or a related person can quickly know the occurrence of the abnormal state.

[0015] In the game hall monitoring image information providing system according to the present invention, the abnormal state detecting means is capable of detecting a plurality of types of abnormal states, and the monitoring image transmitting means includes a type of abnormality together with the monitoring image at the time of detecting the abnormality. Preferably, the e-mail includes the detected abnormality type information while transmitting the abnormality type information that can specify the abnormality type. In this way, the user who is the recipient of the e-mail can grasp what kind of abnormality has occurred.

In the game hall monitoring image information providing system according to the present invention, the imaging means captures an image of an imaging area captured by the abnormality detection even after the abnormality is detected, and the e-mail includes the server computer which obtains the image. It is preferable to include a resource designation possible display (URL) that enables access to the monitoring image of the imaging unit after the abnormality detection. With this configuration, the user who is the recipient of the e-mail can quickly and easily access the monitoring image obtained by the server computer after the abnormality is detected, based on the resource designation display (URL). It is possible to check the status of the game arcade after the abnormality is detected.

[0017] In the game hall monitoring image information providing system according to the present invention, the imaging means includes an area changing means capable of changing an imaging area, and a drive control means for outputting a driving command to the area changing means. It is preferable that the server computer receives drive information for driving the area changing unit from the user and outputs the drive information to the drive control unit through the monitoring image transmitting unit. With this configuration, the user can remotely control the imaging unit of the game arcade from outside the game arcade using the information terminal.

[0018] In the game hall monitoring image information providing system according to the present invention, it is preferable that the information terminal is a mobile phone having a function of connecting to an Internet network, and the server computer is connected to the Internet network. In this way, the user can easily access the server computer using his / her mobile phone,
User convenience can be improved.

[0019]

Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

(Embodiment) As shown in FIG. 1, a game hall monitoring image information providing system according to the present embodiment is installed in a plurality of game halls 2, and pachinko machines, pachislot machines and the like installed in the game halls 2 are provided. A video camera 6 as an imaging means capable of imaging the gaming machine, a gaming island where the gaming machine is installed, other related facilities, and the like; a branch unit 7 provided corresponding to the video camera 6; Various sensors 8 as abnormality detecting means for detecting an abnormality occurring in the above, a video controller 9 as a recording means provided for each of the game arcades 2, and a router 10 as a monitoring image transmitting means
And a distribution server 1 as a server computer connected to a router 10 of each of the amusement arcades 2 via a communication line network 4 so as to be able to perform data communication, and a function of connecting to the Internet network 5. It mainly comprises an information terminal possessed by a user such as a personal computer 3a, a PDA 3b, or a mobile phone 3c, which is capable of performing data communication with the distribution server 1 via the terminal.

First, as the information terminals of the users constituting the game hall monitoring image information providing system of the present embodiment, the personal computer 3a, the PDA 3b, and the cellular phone 3c having the function of connecting to the Internet 5 as described above. By using a terminal connectable to the Internet network 5 as an information terminal in this way, data can be transmitted and received to and from the distribution server 1 at a fee up to an access point accessing the Internet network 5, Although it is preferable because the burden on the user can be reduced, the present invention is not limited to this.
Any information terminal capable of transmitting and receiving data to and from the distribution server 1 using a communication line or a dedicated line other than the Internet network and capable of displaying the received monitoring image can be used. A game machine that can be connected to the distribution server 1 via the communication line network 4 or the Internet network 5 or a stationary telephone having an Internet browsing function may be used.

Next, a description will be given of the configuration of each device installed in the game arcade 2 in the game arcade monitoring image information providing system of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. A plurality of video cameras 6 installed so as to be able to image the area, and various sensors 8 such as a heat / smoke detection sensor 8a installed at a predetermined location in the game hall 2 and an infrared sensor 8b capable of detecting infrared rays emitted by animals and the like; A branch unit 7 for distributing image data output from the video camera 6 to a video controller 9 and a router 10 described later.
A video controller 9 as image recording means for recording the image data distributed by the branch unit 7 and controlling the change of the image pickup area of each video camera 6, etc .; and each of the branch units 7 and the video controller 9, a router 10 for performing data communication between these devices and the distribution server 1 of the service provider connected via the communication network 4 is provided. They are connected as shown in FIG.

The video camera 6 used in this embodiment is
As shown in FIG. 3, a charge-coupled device (CCD) 61 which is an image sensor for converting a captured image into an image signal
A signal output unit 62 for outputting an image signal converted by the CCD 61; and a drive control signal input from the video controller 9 via a control signal cable.
An image-capturing area changing unit 63 as an area changing unit that drives the zoom motor 63a, the turning motor 63b, and the angle adjusting motor 63c to change the image-capturing area of the video camera 6.
And an image signal captured by the video camera 6 can be output, and the imaging area can be changed based on drive control from the video controller 9. .

Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the branching unit 7 used in the present embodiment is installed between the video camera 6 and the video controller 9, and inside thereof,
A distributor 70 serving as a branching unit that divides the image signal output from the corresponding video camera 6 into two, and an A / A that converts one of the image signals distributed by the distributor 70 into digital data.
A digital-to-analog converter 71, a DSP 72 for compressing the digitalized image data, a frame memory 73 for temporarily storing image data of a predetermined format compressed by the DSP 72, A communication unit 74 that performs transmission and reception, and an MPU 7 that controls these units
The branching unit 7 distributes the image signal output from the video camera 6, outputs one to the video controller 9, and converts the other image signal into compressed data of a predetermined format ( JPEG, GIF, etc.)
And temporarily store it in the frame memory 73.
The image data stored in the distribution server 1 is output via the “0”. The internal memory (non-volatile memory) of the MPU 75 of this embodiment includes the branch unit 7.
A unique IP address is assigned to each branching unit 7 and registered so that an output request from the distribution server 1 can be received, and based on an image output request transmitted from the distribution server 1 together with the IP address. , The series of processes described above are performed. The DSP 72 stores the converted image data in the frame memory 7.
3 and a process of erasing old image data, and the frame memory 73 always stores the latest image data.

As described above, in this embodiment, the image signal output from the video camera 6 is distributed by the branching unit 7 and one is output to the video controller 9 and the other is converted into digital data. The digitalized image data can be output based on the output request of (1). This is preferable because the processing load on the video controller 9 can be dispersed, but the present invention is not limited to this. It is not something to be done.

As shown in FIG. 4, the video controller 9 includes a CPU 31 for controlling each unit, a RAM 32 used as a work memory, a clock device (RTC) 33 for outputting date and time information, and a keyboard and the like. Input device 3
4, an image output interface 36 for performing display output to an external monitor (not shown), a communication interface 37 for transmitting and receiving data to and from the router 10, and a camera control unit 38 for performing drive control of each video camera 6. An image processing circuit 39 for converting image signals output from the video cameras 6 and distributed by the branching unit 7 into digital data.
And a sensor circuit 40 for detecting outputs from various sensors 8 installed in the game arcade 2, and a control program in which various processing contents executed by the CPU 31 are described. Storage device 35 composed of a magnetic disk (HDD) or the like for recording image data converted into digital data for each video camera 6 is substantially the same as a computer connected to a data bus 30 for transmitting and receiving data inside. The configuration is as follows.

The video controller 9 has a monitoring function of displaying the image captured by each video camera 6 on the external monitor, and records the captured image as digital data for each video camera 6 and records the recorded image. In addition to a recording / playback function for playing back images as needed, a unique IP address is also assigned and registered to the video controller 9, and based on an image output request transmitted from the distribution server 1 together with the IP address. Has a function of outputting requested image data or transmitting an image data corresponding to the abnormality detection to the distribution server 1 when an abnormality is detected in the various sensors 8. A process of generating composite image data having images of a plurality of regions captured by the camera 6 on the same screen; When the control content data of the video camera 6 is received from the distribution server, a drive control signal based on the control content data is output from the camera control unit 38 to the corresponding video camera 6 and the image of each video camera 6 is captured. The change control of the area can be performed.

As described above, in the video controller 9 of the present embodiment, the image data output from the video camera 6 is converted into digital data and recorded in the storage device 35. By doing so, it is preferable because deterioration of the recorded image data can be reduced and an arbitrary recorded image can be quickly reproduced at the time of reproduction, but the present invention is not limited to this.

In the video controller 9 of this embodiment, similarly to the branch unit 7, the image data output from the video camera 6 is converted into digital data, which can be output to the distribution server 1 via the router 10. And
This is preferable because, for example, even if one of the video controller 9 and the branch unit 7 has a problem, the other can output image data, and the reliability of the system can be improved. However, the present invention is not limited to this.

The router 10 used in this embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG.
And a communication unit 53 that is connected to each of the branch units 7 and the video controller 9 via a local area network (LAN) and performs bidirectional data communication with each of the branch units 7 and the video controller 9. In addition to performing data communication with the distribution server 1 via the ISDN line which is the communication network 4, the telephone number information (call ID) of the caller can be output to the MPU 54, which will be described later. And a storage unit 55 in which a processing program of the MPU 54 described later, a call ID (telephone number) of the distribution server 1 and the like are stored. Then, the data communication between each of the branch units 7 and the video controller 9 and the distribution server 1 can be performed. You have me.

The connection process with the distribution server 1 by the router 10 can be selected from two methods, a method based on a call from the distribution server 1 and a method of making a callback to the distribution server 1. These two types of connection processing can be selected in the initial setting of the router 10.

FIGS. 6A and 6B show the status of these connection processes.
It will be described based on. First, the connection process of the router 10 in which the former method (method based on the call from the distribution server 1) is set will be described. As shown in FIG. (Sa1). When a call is received in this state, a call is received and a line is opened (Sa2), and the call ID (telephone number) received with the call is received. Is compared with the call IDs stored in the storage unit 55 (Sa3). If these call IDs do not match, the line is disconnected (Sa7), and a state of waiting for an incoming call from the distribution server 1 is returned. The process returns to (Sa1). In addition, the Sa3
If the call IDs match, the communication with the distribution server 1 of the caller is permitted (Sa4). As a result, data transmission / reception between the distribution server 1 and each of the branch units 7 and the video controller 9 becomes possible using the IP address. Next, a state of waiting for data transmission / reception between the distribution server 1, each branch unit 7 and the video controller 9 is established (Sa5, Sa6). In this state, if data transmission / reception is not detected for a predetermined period or more, the line is disconnected (Sa7). ), And returns to the state of waiting for an incoming call from the distribution server 1 (Sa1).

In the router 10 to which the former connection processing is applied, when a call is made from the distribution server 1, the call ID (telephone number) received with the call and the storage unit 55
The communication between the distribution server 1 and each of the branch units 7 and the video controller 9 is permitted only when the call ID stored in advance in the
Since the image data is not transmitted unless the call IDs match, it is possible to prevent the image data from being obtained by a third party due to unauthorized access.

In the former connection processing, a call is received and a line is opened, then the call IDs are compared. If they do not match, the line is disconnected. At this time, the call IDs may be compared, and if they do not match, the incoming call may be rejected, and if they match, the incoming call may be implemented to permit communication.

Next, a description will be given of the connection process of the router 10 in which the latter method (a method of making a callback to the distribution server 1) is set. As shown in FIG. It is in a state of waiting for a call from the server 1 (Sb1), and when a call is received in this state, a call is received and a line is opened (Sb2). Next, the call ID (telephone number) received with the call is compared with the call ID stored in the storage unit 55 (Sb
3) If these call IDs do not match, the line is disconnected (Sb9), and the process returns to the state of waiting for an incoming call from the distribution server 1 (Sb1). In addition, the S
If the call IDs match in the comparison of b3, the line is disconnected (Sb4), and a call back (call) to the distribution server 1 (the stored call ID) of the caller is performed (Sb5). Is connected to the distribution server 1 so that data can be transmitted and received between the distribution server 1 and each of the branch units 7 and the video controller 9 (Sb6). Next, a state of waiting for data transmission / reception between the distribution server 1 and each of the branch units 7 and the video controller 9 is set (Sb7, Sb8). If data transmission / reception is not detected for a predetermined period in this state, the line is disconnected (Sb9). ),
It returns to the state of waiting for an incoming call from the distribution server 1 (Sb1).

In the router 10 to which the latter connection process is applied, when a call is made from the distribution server 1, the call ID (telephone number) received with the call and the storage unit 55
If the call ID stored in advance matches
The router 10 makes a callback to the distribution server 1 to permit communication between the distribution server 1 and each of the branch units 7 and the video controller 9, thereby transmitting image data. The transmission destination of the image data is always the distribution server 1, so that it is possible to prevent the image data from being obtained by a third party.

In the latter connection processing, a call is received once, a line is opened, a call ID is compared, and then the line is disconnected. The call IDs are compared without executing the incoming call. If they do not match, the call is terminated after waiting for the end of the call. If they match, the end of the call from the distribution server 1 is determined. The callback may be performed after waiting.

Next, a description will be given of the distribution server 1 constituting the game hall monitoring image information providing system of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the distribution server 1 transmits and receives data inside the server. A CPU 2 that executes various processes performed by the distribution server 1 on a data bus 21
2. Data from a RAM 23 used as a work memory or the like used for processing performed by the CPU 22, a clock device (RTC) 24 for outputting date and time information, and an information terminal held by the user via the Internet network 5. And a second communication unit 2 for transmitting and receiving data to and from each of the branch terminals 7 and the video controller 9 connected to the router 10 of the game arcade 2 via the communication network 4.
7 and a storage device 25 storing various data such as a user DB and a menu DB, which will be described later, for executing various types of processing performed by the CPU 22. The computer can be connected to the router 10 of each of the game arcades 2 via the communication network 4 and can be connected to the user's information terminal via the Internet 5. I have.

As shown in FIG. 8, an access ID is stored in the storage device 25 for each user code of each user.
, A password, a call ID (telephone number) of the router 10 of the game hall 2, a user's e-mail address, and a user database (DB) in which a request image ( A menu database (DB) (not shown) in which a selection menu for the imaging region is registered is stored.

The CPU 22 checks the user ID and password entered by the user with the registration information in the user database to determine whether the user is a legitimate user, An image distribution process of obtaining the selected image selected and input by the user via the router 10 of the corresponding game arcade 2 and distributing the selected image to the information terminal of the user;
Various processes, such as anomaly notification process of transmitting anomaly detection information received based on the anomaly detection at the amusement arcade 2 and image data captured at that time to an information terminal of a corresponding user as an e-mail, are performed. ing.

Hereinafter, the usage status of the game arcade monitoring image information providing system of this embodiment and the processing status of each unit will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

First, when a user who is a related person (owner, store manager, etc.) of the amusement arcade 2 obtains an image of the corresponding amusement arcade 2, a distribution server is provided by an information terminal possessed by the user, for example, the mobile phone 3c. Access 1 Based on this, the distribution server 1 distributes the login page shown in FIG. 10A to the user, and prompts the user to enter a user ID and a password on this login page.

Next, the user inputs his / her user ID and password on the log-in page displayed on the information terminal, and inputs "send". Thereby, the distribution server 1 authenticates the user by comparing the input user ID and password with the user ID and corresponding password registered in the user DB, and when the user is authenticated, A menu screen for extracting corresponding menu data from the menu DB and selecting an imaging region of an image to be obtained based on the extracted data;
For example, the area selection pages 1 to 10 shown in FIGS.
3 is generated and distributed to the user's information terminal.

Based on this, the user selects and inputs a desired imaging area on the area selection pages 1 to 3 displayed on the information terminal.

For example, as shown in FIGS. 10 (b) and 10 (c), the user selects and inputs "plural areas" on the area selection page 1 and displays the area selection page 2 based on this.
In the case where "1 to 4th island" is selected and input,
The distribution server 1 extracts the corresponding call ID from the user DB, and calls the router 10 of the corresponding game hall 2. Based on this, the above-described connection processing is performed in the router 10, and the distribution server 1 and the branch units 7 and the video controller 9 of the game arcade 2 can communicate with each other.

Next, the distribution server 1 requests the video controller 9 for composite images of the first to fourth islands. Based on the request, the video controller 9 extracts image data output from the video cameras 6 corresponding to the first to fourth islands and converted into digital data by the image processing circuit 39, and combines and arranges the extracted images. The composite image data is generated and transmitted to the distribution server 1.

Based on this, the distribution server 1 distributes the received composite image data to the user's information terminal as the selected image page shown in FIG. 10E, and the distributed composite image data is provided to the user. Each situation of the first to fourth islands of the game hall 2 selected and input by the user can be confirmed in the image.

As described above, in this embodiment, the image data captured by the plurality of video cameras 6 is synthesized by the video controller 9 and the synthesized image data is distributed to the information terminal of the user. Thus, the user does not need to individually receive each image data, and can quickly confirm a plurality of images.

As shown in FIGS. 10B and 10D,
When the user selects and inputs “No. 1 island” on the area selection page 1 and selects and inputs “whole No. 1 island” on the area selection page 3 displayed based on the selection server, the distribution server 1 uses the user DB. Extract the corresponding call ID,
A call is made to the router 10 of the game arcade 2 concerned. Based on this, the above-described connection processing is performed in the router 10, and the distribution server 1 and the branch units 7 and the video controller 9 of the game arcade 2 can communicate with each other.

Next, the distribution server 1 requests an image from the corresponding branch unit 7 (the branch unit 7 corresponding to the video camera 6 for imaging the game island 1). Based on the request, the branch unit 7 transmits the image data output from the video camera 6 corresponding to the first island, converted into digital data by the DSP 72, and temporarily stored in the frame memory 73 to the distribution server 1. .

Based on this, the distribution server 1 distributes the received image data to the information terminal of the user as a selected image page shown in FIG. 10 (f), and the distributed image data is provided to the user and used. Of the game hall 2 selected by the player
The status of Banshima can be checked on the image.

As shown in FIGS. 10B and 10D,
When the user selects and inputs "No. 1 island" on the area selection page 1 and selects and inputs "No. 1" on the area selection page 3 displayed based thereon, the distribution server 1 corresponds to the user DB. The call ID is extracted, and a call is made to the router 10 of the game hall 2 concerned. Based on this, the above-described connection processing is performed in the router 10, and the distribution server 1 and the branch units 7 and the video controller 9 of the game arcade 2 can communicate with each other.

Next, the distribution server 1 requests the video controller 9 for the first image of the first island. Based on the request, the video controller 9 controls the drive of the video camera 6 corresponding to the first island so that the first camera is zoomed up, and is output from the video camera 6 and converted into digital data by the image processing circuit 39. The transmitted image data is transmitted to the distribution server 1.

Based on this, the distribution server 1 distributes the received image data to the information terminal of the user as a selected image page shown in FIG. 10 (g), and the distributed image data is provided to the user and used. The situation of the first platform on the first island in the game hall 2 selected and input by the player can be confirmed on the image.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the user selects and inputs an individual imaging region, and the distribution server 1 transmits a request for image data in the selected imaging region based on the user, whereby the video controller 9 is selected. , The drive control of the corresponding video camera 6 is performed, and the image data of the selected imaging area is obtained, so that the user can receive the distribution of the image data in more detail and over a wide range. It has become.

As shown in FIG. 11, when an abnormality is detected by a sensor 8, for example, an infrared sensor 8b, installed in the game arcade 2, and a predetermined signal indicating that an abnormality has occurred is output to the video controller 9, The video controller 9 controls the video camera 6 corresponding to the infrared sensor 8b that has detected the abnormality.
Is controlled to a predetermined state in which an area in which an abnormality is detected can be imaged, and image data output from the video camera 6 and converted into digital data by an image processing circuit 39, and a sensor 8 in which the abnormality is detected. Is transmitted to the IP address of the distribution server 1. The router 10 that has detected the transmission to the address of the distribution server 1 automatically calls the registered telephone number of the distribution server 1 and transmits the image data and the detection information from the video controller 9 to the distribution server 1. I do.

On the basis of this, the distribution server 1 converts the electronic mail (FIG. 12A) containing the received detection information, the image data, and the URL address where the latest image data can be obtained from the information terminal (FIG. 12A) of the corresponding user. The information is transmitted to the user's e-mail address extracted from the user DB) to notify the user that an abnormality has been detected.

When the user confirms the received e-mail and accesses the included URL address, the distribution server 1 distributes a login page shown in FIG. When the user inputs the ID and the password, the above-described authentication is performed, and when the user is authenticated, the video controller 9 is transmitted via the router 10.
The latest abnormal image page output from
(C)) can be accessed, and the user can obtain the latest image after that.

As described above, in this embodiment, when an abnormality is detected by the various sensors 8 installed in the game arcade 2, the image data of the corresponding area and the detection information are transmitted to the distribution server 1, and The distribution server 1 transmits an e-mail to the information terminal of the corresponding user on the basis of the above, so that the user who is related to the game arcade can quickly know the occurrence of the abnormality. Has become.

The transmitted e-mail includes, as detection information, the type and detection area of the sensor 8 for which the abnormality was detected, and the user who has received the e-mail determines which abnormality has occurred. Such abnormalities can be grasped.

The transmitted e-mail includes a URL for accessing the latest image in the area where the abnormality has occurred.
The user who has received the e-mail can quickly and easily obtain and check the latest image data in the area where the abnormality has been detected by accessing the URL address. It has become.

As described above, by applying the game hall monitoring image information providing system of the present embodiment, the owners of different game halls 2 can be installed without introducing a large-scale computer system into each game hall 2. Can access the same distribution server 1 and receive the distribution of the monitoring image (image data) of its own game hall 2,
Since the operation rate of the distribution server 1 can be improved, a user who is a person related to the game arcade such as the owner of each game arcade 2 can easily and inexpensively obtain a monitoring image of the game arcade 2. Becomes

Each element in the above embodiment corresponds to the present invention as follows.

Claim 1 of the present invention is an imaging means (video camera 6) installed in the game arcade 2 for imaging a predetermined area of the game arcade 2 and outputting the captured surveillance image;
An image recording means (video controller 9) for reproducibly recording the output monitoring image, and a server computer (distribution server 1) installed outside the game hall 2 for the monitoring image
Monitoring image transmitting means (router 10) for transmitting to the server computer (distribution server 1) based on a request from
It is installed outside the amusement arcade 2 and connected to the surveillance image transmitting means (router 10) and information terminals (personal computer 3a, PDA 3b, mobile phone 3c) used by the user for data communication, User identification information (access ID, password) capable of specifying a user who is permitted to obtain the monitoring image, and monitoring image transmitting means identification capable of identifying the monitoring image transmitting means (router 10) for transmitting the monitoring image. Has a user database in which information (call ID (telephone number)) is registered in association with at least the user, obtains user identification information (access ID, password) from the accessing user, and obtains the obtained user The collation of the identification information (call ID (telephone number)) is performed based on the registration information in the user database, and the collation is performed. The monitoring image transmitting means (router 10) corresponding to the monitoring image transmitting means identification information (call ID (telephone number)) corresponding to the user identification information (access ID and password) of the matched user. A server which makes a transmission request and distributes the monitoring image transmitted by the monitoring image transmitting means (router 10) to the information terminal (personal computer 3a, PDA 3b, mobile phone 3c) of the accessing user in response to the transmission request And a computer (distribution server 1).

A second aspect of the present invention is a branch for branching a surveillance image signal output from the imaging means (video camera 6) to the image recording means (video controller 9) and the surveillance image transmission means (router 10). Means (distributor 70)
And an image data conversion means (DSP72) for converting the divided surveillance image signal into digital data and outputting it to the surveillance image transmission means (router 10).

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the image recording means (video controller 9) records the surveillance image as digital data and can output the digital data to the surveillance image transmitting means (router 10). Have been.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of the image pickup means (video camera 6) are provided, and the image recording means (video controller 9) is a monitor image output from the plurality of image pickup means (video camera 6). Are generated on the same screen, and the synthesized monitoring image is output to the monitoring image transmitting means (router 10).

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, server identification information (call ID (telephone number)) capable of identifying the server computer (distribution server 1) is registered in advance in the monitoring image transmission means (router 10). Then, upon connection request from the server computer (distribution server 1), connection is made only when the server identification information (call ID (telephone number)) matches.

A sixth aspect of the present invention is that the surveillance image transmitting means (router 10) and the server computer (distribution server 1) are connected via a public network 4 and the surveillance image transmitting means (router 10). The telephone number of the server computer (distribution server 1) is registered in advance in the router 10), and the monitoring image transmitting means (router 10) calls the registered telephone number when a predetermined call is made. Then, a connection request is made to the server computer (distribution server 1).

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided an abnormal state detecting means (sensor 8; heat / smoke detection sensor 8a, infrared sensor 8b) for detecting a predetermined abnormal state occurring in the game arcade 2, wherein the monitoring image is provided. The transmitting means (router 10) transmits a monitoring image when an abnormality is detected by the abnormal state detecting means (sensor 8; heat / smoke detection sensor 8a, infrared sensor 8b) to the server computer (distribution server 1). In the server computer (distribution server 1), the user's e-mail address is registered in the user database, and corresponds to the monitoring image transmitting means (router 10) that has transmitted the monitoring image when the abnormality is detected. The e-mail including the monitoring image at the time of detecting the abnormality is transmitted to the e-mail address of the user who performs the abnormality.

In the present invention, the abnormal condition detecting means (sensor 8; heat / smoke detecting sensor 8a, infrared sensor 8)
b) is capable of detecting a plurality of types of abnormal conditions, the monitoring image transmitting means (router 10) transmits abnormality type information capable of specifying the type of abnormality together with the monitoring image at the time of detecting the abnormality, and The mail includes the detected abnormality type information.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the image capturing means (video camera 6) captures an image of an image capturing area captured by the abnormality detection even after the abnormality is detected, and the electronic mail includes the server computer ( And a resource designation display (URL) that enables the distribution server 1) to access the monitoring image of the imaging unit after the abnormality is detected.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the imaging means (video camera 6) includes an area changing means (imaging area changing section 63) capable of changing an imaging area and the area changing means (imaging area changing section 63). And a drive control unit (video controller 9) for outputting a drive command to the user. The server computer (distribution server 1) transmits drive information for driving an area change unit (imaging area change unit 63) to the user. And outputs the driving information to the driving control means (video controller 9) through the monitoring image transmitting means (router 10).

According to claim 11 of the present invention, the information terminal includes:
The mobile phone 3c has a function of connecting to the Internet network, and the server computer (distribution server 1) is connected to the Internet network.

The embodiments of the present invention have been described in the above embodiments with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and changes and additions may be made without departing from the gist of the present invention. Needless to say, the present invention is included in the present invention.

For example, in the above-described embodiment, the distribution server 1 can obtain an image captured by the video camera 6 from both the video controller 9 and the branch unit 7 via the router 10. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the distribution server 1 may obtain all the image data from the branching unit 7, whereby all the image data is stored in the distribution server 1 by the video controller. 9, the image data can be quickly obtained, and the processing load on the video controller 9 can be reduced. In addition, since there are differences in the number of video cameras 6 installed depending on the amusement arcade, when the processing load on the video controller 9 is not large, the distribution unit 1 is not provided and the distribution server 1
All the images from the video cameras 6 may be obtained via the video controller 9 and the branch unit 7 may not be provided for each video camera 6 so as to simplify the system.

In the above embodiment, when the distribution server 1 distributes the composite image data, the distribution server 1 obtains the composite image data of a plurality of regions generated by the video controller 9,
The composite image data is distributed to the user, which is preferable because the processing load on the distribution server 1 accompanying the generation of the composite image data can be reduced. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The server 1 may acquire a plurality of image data, generate composite image data based on the acquired image data, and distribute the generated composite image data to the user.

Further, in the above embodiment, the distribution server 1 and the router 10 of each game arcade 2 can be connected via the communication network 4, and the distribution server 1 and the information terminal of the user are connected to the Internet network 5. Although the connection can be made through the distribution server 1, the present invention is not limited to this.
And the router 10 of each game arcade 2 and the information terminal of the user may be connectable via the communication network 4 or the Internet network 5, respectively. Further, the distribution server 1 and the router 10 may be always connected by a dedicated line.

Further, in the router 10 of the above-described embodiment, the connection process with the distribution server 1 is performed based on the call ID collation based on the call from the distribution server 1 and the call from the distribution server 1 based on the call from the distribution server 1. There are two methods of applying a callback to the distribution server 1,
The present invention is not limited to this, and the connection processing may be performed by other methods. If the router 10 and the distribution server 1 are always connected by a dedicated line, the connection processing need not be performed.

Further, in the above embodiment, when an abnormality is detected by the various sensors 8 installed in the game arcade 2, the video controller 9 sends the image data and the detection information of the abnormality detection area to the distribution server 1 to the distribution server 1. Is output, and the distribution server 1 outputs the image data of the abnormality detection area to the user, the type and the detection area of the sensor 8 in which the abnormality is detected, and the latest image of the abnormality detection area. An e-mail containing a URL that can access data is transmitted and notified, but the present invention is not limited to this, and at least a message indicating that abnormality has been detected in this e-mail And the image data of the abnormality detection area may be included. In the present invention, it is sufficient that the image data captured by the video camera 6 of the game arcade 2 can be obtained from at least the user's information terminal. May not be provided.

In the above embodiment, the abnormality detection in the game hall 2 is performed by the heat / smoke detection sensor 8a or the infrared sensor 8b. However, the present invention is not limited to this. A motion detection function that compares an image of a predetermined area output from the video camera 6 with a normal image of the predetermined area registered in advance, and determines that the area is abnormal when the comparison of these images does not match for a predetermined time or more. May be provided in the video controller 9 so that an abnormality is detected based on this function. Furthermore,
A door open / close sensor that detects the opening / closing of a game machine door after a store closes,
Abnormality detection may be performed by a sensor or the like that detects breakage of the glass door.

In the above embodiment, when the user selects and inputs an individual imaging area, for example, the 1st island of the 1st island, the information is output from the distribution server 1 to the video controller 9, whereby The video controller 9 controls the driving of the corresponding video camera 6 so as to be the selected imaging region, and obtains the image data of the selected imaging region. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the user can change the direction of the video camera 6 that is outputting the image data or change the zoom magnification while watching the image data distributed to the information terminal in real time. Is also good.

The video camera 6 as the image pickup means used in the above embodiment outputs the picked-up image data to the branch unit 7 and the video controller 9 as they are (analog data). The invention is not limited to this.
P may be provided and digital data may be output to each of these devices. Alternatively, the captured image data may be digitally converted once by the video camera 6 to perform image correction, and then output to each device.

In the above embodiment, a personal computer 3a, a PDA 3b, and a mobile phone 3c are used as information terminals for the user to access the distribution server 1. In particular, the present invention is applied to the mobile phone 3c which is usually carried. It is preferable from the viewpoint of convenience for the user to be able to use the example game hall monitoring image information providing system, but the present invention is not limited to this, as long as the information terminal can access at least the distribution server 1. good.

In the above-described embodiment, the user ID and the password are used as the user identification information. However, the present invention is not limited to this. May be registered in the user database and used for user collation.

[0086]

The present invention has the following effects.

(A) According to the first aspect of the present invention, the same server computer is accessed to receive the distribution of the monitor image of its own game hall without introducing a large-scale computer system to each game hall. To be able to
Since the operating rates of these server computers can be improved, it becomes possible for users such as managers (owners) and related parties of each game arcade to easily and inexpensively obtain monitoring images at the game arcade. .

(B) According to the second aspect of the present invention, the provision of the branching means makes it possible to disperse the load in the monitoring image recording processing and the processing load in the transmission to the server computer, and both of these processings overlap. Problems associated with doing so.

(C) According to the third aspect of the invention, the monitoring image is converted into digital data and recorded, whereby the deterioration of the recorded image can be reduced and the recording can be performed on a recording medium such as an optical disk or a magnetic disk. As a result, not only is it possible to quickly reproduce an arbitrary recorded monitoring image, but also in the case where the branching means is used, it is possible to transmit a monitoring image even if a problem occurs in the branching means. Performance can be improved.

(D) According to the invention of claim 4, by obtaining a composite monitoring image in which a plurality of monitoring images are arranged on the same screen, it is not necessary to receive distribution of each monitoring image individually. By receiving the distribution of the composite monitoring image, the user can quickly check the monitoring image.

(E) According to the invention of claim 5, since the monitoring image is not transmitted unless the server specifying information matches, the monitoring image is obtained by an unauthorized access by a third party. Can be prevented.

(F) According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the monitoring image is transmitted by a callback that the monitoring image transmitting means calls the telephone number of the server computer based on a predetermined call. Since the destination of the image is always the server computer, it is possible to prevent the monitoring image from being obtained by a third party.

(G) According to the invention of claim 7, a user such as a game arcade manager or a related person can quickly know the occurrence of the abnormal state.

(H) According to the invention of claim 8, the user who is the recipient of the electronic mail can grasp what kind of abnormality has occurred.

(I) According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the user who is the recipient of the e-mail can display the monitor image obtained by the server computer based on the resource designation display (URL) after the abnormality is detected. Access can be made quickly and easily, and the status of the game arcade after the abnormality is detected can be confirmed.

(J) According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to remotely control the imaging means of the game arcade from outside the game arcade using the information terminal.

(K) According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the user can easily access the server computer by using the portable telephone carried by the user, and the convenience of the user can be improved.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a game hall monitoring image information providing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of a device installed in a game arcade according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a video camera and a branch unit installed in a game arcade in an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a video-video controller installed in a game arcade according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a router installed in a game arcade in an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 6A and 6B are flowcharts showing the status of connection processing performed by a router installed in a game arcade in an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a distribution server according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a registration status of a user DB stored in a distribution server according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a use state of the game hall monitoring image information providing system and a processing state of each device in the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a distribution state of an image in the game hall monitoring image information providing system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a processing status (when an abnormality is detected) of each device in the game hall monitoring image information providing system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an image distribution status in the game hall monitoring image information providing system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Distribution server (server computer) 2 Amusement arcade 3a Personal computer (information terminal) 3b PDA (information terminal) 3c Mobile telephone (information terminal) 4 Communication line network 5 Internet network 6 Video camera (imaging means) 7 Branch unit 8 Sensor ( Abnormality detecting means) 8a Heat / smoke detecting sensor (abnormality detecting means) 8b Infrared sensor (abnormality detecting means) 9 Video controller (image recording means) 10 Router (monitoring image transmitting means) 21 Data bus 22 CPU 23 RAM 24 Clock device 25 Storage device 26 First communication unit 27 Second communication unit 30 Data bus 31 CPU 32 RAM 33 Clock device 34 Input device 35 Storage device 36 Image output interface 37 Communication interface 38 Camera control unit 39 Image processing circuit 40 Sensor circuit 51 Terminal Dapter unit 53 Communication unit 54 MPU 55 Storage unit 61 Charge-coupled device (CCD) 62 Signal output unit 63 Imaging area change unit (area change unit) 63a Zoom motor 63b Rotation motor 63c Angle adjustment motor 70 Distributor (branch unit) 71A / D converter 72 DSP (image data conversion means) 73 Frame memory 74 Communication unit 75 MPU

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2C088 CA04 CA21 CA35 EA49 5C054 AA02 CF05 CG07 DA01 DA09 EB05 EG01 FE18 GA01 GA04 GB01 5C087 AA02 AA03 AA22 AA24 AA25 BB03 BB12 BB18 BB73 DD05 FF19 FF19 FF19 FF19 FF20FF GG02 GG12 GG18 GG24 GG30 GG32 GG66

Claims (11)

[Claims] 1. An image pickup device installed in a game arcade, which picks up an image of a predetermined area of the game arcade and outputs the captured monitor image, and an image recording device which records the output monitor image in a reproducible manner. A surveillance image transmitting means for transmitting the surveillance image to the server computer based on a request from a server computer installed outside the game hall; and a surveillance image transmission means installed outside the game room and used when the user accesses A user identification information capable of identifying a user who is allowed to obtain the monitoring image and a monitoring image capable of identifying the monitoring image transmitting means for transmitting the monitoring image. It has a user database registered with at least transmission means identification information, and obtains user identification information from the accessing user and obtains the While performing the collation of the user identification information based on the registration information of the user database,
A request for transmission of a monitoring image is sent to the monitoring image transmitting means corresponding to the identification information of the monitoring image transmitting means corresponding to the user identification information of the user who has matched the collation, and the monitoring image transmitting means is transmitted in response to the transmission request. And a server computer that distributes the monitoring image transmitted by the server to the information terminal of the user who has accessed the game image. 2. A branching unit for branching a monitoring image signal output from the imaging unit to the image recording unit and the monitoring image transmitting unit, and converting the branched monitoring image signal into digital data to convert the monitoring image signal into a monitoring image transmitting unit. The game hall monitoring image information providing system according to claim 1, further comprising: an image data conversion unit that outputs the image data to the game room. 3. The game room monitoring image according to claim 1, wherein the image recording unit records the monitoring image as digital data and can output the digital data to the monitoring image transmitting unit. Information system. 4. A plurality of image pickup means, wherein the image recording means generates a composite monitor image in which monitor images output from the plural image pickup means are arranged on the same screen, and generates the composite monitor image. 4. The game hall monitoring image information providing system according to claim 3, wherein the system outputs the monitoring image transmitting means. 5. A server specifying information capable of specifying the server computer is registered in advance in the monitoring image transmitting means, and when a connection request is issued from the server computer,
5. The system according to claim 1, wherein connection is made only when the server identification information matches. 6. The surveillance image transmitting means and the server computer are connected via a public network, and a telephone number of the server computer is registered in the surveillance image transmitting means in advance. 5. The game hall monitoring image information providing system according to claim 1, wherein the means calls the registered telephone number and issues a connection request to the server computer when a predetermined call is made. 7. An abnormal state detecting means for detecting a predetermined abnormal state occurring in a game arcade, wherein the monitoring image transmitting means transmits a monitoring image when an abnormality is detected by the abnormal state detecting means to the server. The server computer has the user's e-mail address registered in the user database, and the electronic mail of the user corresponding to the surveillance image transmitting means that has transmitted the surveillance image at the time of the abnormality detection. 7. The game room monitoring image information providing system according to claim 1, wherein an electronic mail including a monitoring image at the time of detecting the abnormality is transmitted to a mail address. 8. The abnormal state detecting means is capable of detecting a plurality of types of abnormal states, and the monitoring image transmitting means transmits abnormality type information capable of specifying the type of abnormality together with the monitoring image at the time of detecting the abnormality. 8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the electronic mail includes information on a detected abnormality type. 9. The imaging means captures an imaging area captured by the abnormality detection even after the abnormality is detected, and the electronic mail includes an image of the imaging means obtained after the abnormality is detected by the server computer. 9. The game hall monitoring image information providing system according to claim 7, further comprising a resource designation enabling display (URL) for enabling access to the monitoring image. 10. The image pickup means includes an area change means capable of changing an image pickup area and a drive control means for outputting a drive command to the area change means, and the server computer drives the area change means. And receiving drive information for the drive from the user and outputting the drive information to the drive control means through the monitoring image transmitting means.
10. A game hall monitoring image information providing system according to any one of claims 9 to 9. 11. The information terminal is a mobile phone having a function of connecting to the Internet network, and the server computer is connected to the Internet network.
A game arcade monitoring image information providing system according to any one of claims 10 to 10.