JP2005000591A - Game medium carrier and game system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game system for easily recognizing an illegal action while preventing the troublesome work of replenishment by the circulation of game media with simple constitution. <P>SOLUTION: Medals fed exceeding a storage limit are made to overflow from a first storage part 320 which stores the medals fed from the feeding hole of a game device 300 and puts out the medals in accordance with the executed result of a game and are recovered and stored in the storage hopper 510 of a circulation means 500 provided in an island structure 200 corresponding to the game device 300. When the circulation means 500 recognizes that the storage amount of the medal lending machine of a game medium lending device 400 pairing with the game device 300 and arranged side by side in the island structure 200 becomes a prescribed amount or less, the medals stored in the storage hopper 510 are returned to the medal lending machine and replenished. They are replenished without giving a player a bad impression and the illegal action can be monitored without using a special system. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a game medium transport device and a game system installed on an island structure in which a plurality of game devices and game medium lending devices are installed in parallel in a pair.
[0002]
[Background]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, for example, a spinning machine or a so-called slot machine generally called “pachi-slot” is widely known as an entertainment facility. Then, for example, a conventional gaming device is brought into a game-ready state when a coin is borrowed from a lending device that lends coins that are gaming media provided adjacent to the gaming device, and this coin is inserted through a coin insertion hole. When a predetermined button switch, joystick, or the like is operated in this game-ready state, a reel having various patterns on its outer peripheral surface rotates. Then, by operating a predetermined button switch, the rotating reel is stopped, and coins are appropriately paid out in a state where the patterns are arranged. In this gaming machine, a configuration is known in which a gaming medium such as coins used for gaming is appropriately transported to a lending machine (for example, Patent Literature 1 and Patent Literature 2).
[0003]
The thing of patent document 1 has the structure provided with the storage and replenishment part which arrange | positions a lending device between two game devices, collects the game medium which overflows from a game device suitably, and returns to a game device or a lending device. It is taken. In the configuration of the circulation system that circulates the game media between the two game devices and the lending device, the game device collects the game media that is thrown in for the game and appropriately stores the game media based on the execution result of the game. A storage hopper to be discharged is provided. The storage hopper is provided with a detector that detects the remaining amount of game media to be stored. In addition, the lending device is provided with a payout device that stores game media and discharges the game media when coins are inserted, and is provided with a counter that counts the game media thrown by the player through the slot. The payout device is provided with a detector that detects the remaining amount of game media to be stored.
[0004]
In addition, the storage and replenishment unit includes a storage tank that stores game media that overflows from the storage hopper of the gaming device and game media counted by a counter of the lending device. In addition, the storage and replenishment unit includes a supply path for appropriately returning the game medium stored in the storage tank to the storage hopper of the gaming apparatus and the payout apparatus of the lending apparatus. Then, based on the remaining amount detected by the detector, the circulation system appropriately returns the game medium stored in the storage tank of the storage and replenishment unit to the storage hopper of the gaming device and the payout device of the lending device through the supply path. In addition, the game medium is circulated by the two game devices and the lending device, and the complicated work of separately collecting or supplying the game media is prevented.
[0005]
However, the one described in Patent Document 1 uses the game medium lending machine to collect and collect the game medium paid out based on the game result with a game medium lending machine provided between the two game devices. Since the game media is circulated between the two gaming devices, for example, if the gaming media is paid out from the gaming device due to fraud, the paid-out gaming media is circulated. Without monitoring, fraud cannot be detected. This data monitoring requires the provision of a monitoring system such as arithmetic processing based on electronic control, and there is a problem that a great equipment cost is caused.
[0006]
On the other hand, the thing of patent document 2 has taken the structure of the single island which provided the game device and the game media rental machine integrally. This single island is provided with a replenisher for storing game media thrown into the game device for gaming. The replenishing machine is provided with a lifter for transporting the stored game media to the feeding machine. When the supply device detects the amount of the game medium stored in the game device and the game medium lending machine and recognizes that the amount is less than a predetermined amount, the game medium stored in the game device or the game medium lending machine A switching mechanism for switching between and supplying is provided.
[0007]
However, the one described in Patent Document 2 has a single island configuration in which it is relatively easy to secure an internal space, and is also applied to, for example, an island structure that is generally used in a swivel game machine. Although it is conceivable, it is difficult to apply as it is to an island structure in which a configuration for supplying power to a plurality of gaming devices is complicatedly arranged.
[0008]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-6-39138 (page 3, right column-page 6, left column)
[Patent Document 2]
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-76496 (right column on page 3-left column on page 6)
[0009]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
As described above, since the game medium disclosed in Patent Document 1 counts, collects, and circulates paid out game media, it is difficult to easily recognize fraudulent payout. Moreover, the thing of patent document 2 is the structure of a single island, and it is difficult to apply only to an island structure.
[0010]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of the above, the present invention has an object to provide a game medium transport device and a game system that can easily recognize fraud while preventing a complicated work of replenishment by circulation of game media with a simple configuration. To do.
[0011]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
According to the first aspect of the present invention, a plurality of game medium lending devices that lend game media and a plurality of game devices that are played using the game media and whose contents are visible on the front side are paired in parallel. A game medium transport device installed in an island structure that stores the game medium that is input for the execution of the game and appropriately discharges the game medium that is stored based on the execution result of the game A storage unit that collects and stores the game medium that overflows from the storage unit provided in the apparatus; and a transport unit that appropriately transports the game medium stored in the storage unit to the game medium lending device. This is a game medium transport device characterized by the above.
[0012]
In the present invention, the storage means provided in the gaming device stores the gaming media input for the execution of the game in the gaming device and appropriately discharges the gaming media stored based on the game execution result. The game medium thrown over the storage limit by the storage unit overflows, is collected and stored by the storage unit, and the game medium stored in the storage unit by the transport unit is appropriately transported to the game medium lending device. As a result, even if the rent amount from the game medium lending device for games increases and the storage amount decreases, the game medium overflowed from the storage means is transported and replenished by the transport means, and the game medium is replenished. When the amount of discharge from the storage means is increased and the storage means is replenished, it can be replenished without harming the player's identification, and it is possible to monitor abnormally discharged coins due to fraud Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a special configuration such as a monitoring system, and it is possible to prevent the game media from being extracted from the entire island due to fraud in the automated system for supplying game media.
[0013]
The invention according to claim 2 is the game medium transport device according to claim 1, wherein the island structure has the game device and the game medium lending device that are paired installed on the curved surface substantially in parallel. It is a curved structure.
[0014]
In this invention, an island structure is comprised in the curved surface structure which installs the game apparatus and game media rental apparatus which make a pair on a curved surface substantially in parallel. For this reason, for example, an island structure that is designed to have a wide distance between adjacent gaming devices, such as a curved surface at a corner or a curved wall, is used. Therefore, it is easy to install a configuration in which the collected game media are transported to the game media lending device and returned.
[0015]
A third aspect of the present invention is the game medium transport device according to the first or second aspect, wherein the storage portion is disposed below a storage means of the game device in the island structure. The transport means is a conveyor that transports game media stored in the storage section upward, and is disposed between the game medium lending device installed on the island structure and another adjacent game device. And a supply chute for supplying the game medium conveyed to the upper end to the game medium lending device.
[0016]
According to the present invention, the storage unit is disposed below the storage unit of the gaming device in the island structure, and a conveyor that transports the game medium stored in the storage unit upward is used as the transport unit, and is arranged on the island structure. The game medium lending device is disposed between the adjacent game device and another adjacent game device, and the game medium transported to the upper end is supplied to the game medium lending device by the replenishment chute. As a result, even in an island structure in which a plurality of gaming devices and gaming medium lending devices are installed, a configuration for returning and circulating the gaming media is easily installed by effectively using the space in the island structure. The
[0017]
A fourth aspect of the present invention is the game medium transport device according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the transport means is provided in the game medium lending device and is stored in an amount of the game medium. When the signal indicating that the amount of the game medium stored is equal to or less than a predetermined amount is recognized from the detection means for outputting a signal relating to the game medium, the game medium is transported.
[0018]
In the present invention, when a signal indicating that the amount of game media stored is equal to or less than a predetermined amount is detected from a detection signal that is provided in the game medium lending device and outputs a signal related to the amount of game media stored, the transport means recognizes the game medium. Transport. As a result, the game medium is returned according to the amount of game medium lent out for gaming from the game medium lending device, and the supply of the game medium can be performed in a state where the removal of the game medium due to fraud can be monitored. It is easily automated with a simple configuration, and it is possible to supply appropriate game media without harming the player's identification.
[0019]
The invention according to claim 5 is a game medium lending device that lends game media, a game device that is played using the game medium and the contents of the game can be visually recognized on the front side, the game medium lending device, and the game A game system comprising a plurality of pairs of island structures installed in parallel, wherein the game medium lending device includes a case body attached to the island structure, and a coin provided in the case body. A gaming machine, comprising: a money insertion hole to be inserted; and a lending storage unit that stores the game medium stored in the case body and discharges the game medium when the money is inserted from the money insertion hole. A housing attached to the island structure, a game unit in which the contents of the game are accommodated in the housing so as to be visible on the front side of the housing, and a game medium provided in the housing But An insertion hole to be inserted, a discharge port provided in the casing for discharging the game medium, and the game medium stored in the casing and input from the insertion hole are stored, and the game unit allows a game to be played. A storage unit that discharges the gaming medium stored based on the executed result from the discharge port, and a plurality of storage units are installed in the island structure corresponding to the gaming device, and overflow from the storage unit of the gaming device A game system comprising a game medium transport device that stores the game media to be stored and appropriately transports the stored game media to a lending storage unit of the game medium lending device.
[0020]
In this invention, the game medium lending device discharges the game medium stored in the lending storage unit when money is inserted from the money insertion hole. Then, a game medium is inserted from a game medium insertion hole installed in the island structure in parallel with the game medium lending device, and a game unit executes a game. As a result, the input game medium is stored. The game medium stored from the storage means is discharged from the discharge port. Then, the game medium thrown over the storage limit by the storage means overflows, and is collected and stored by each game medium transport device installed on the island structure corresponding to the game device, and the game medium lending device Appropriately transported to the lending storage section. As a result, even if the rent amount from the game medium lending device for gaming increases and the storage amount decreases, the game medium overflowed from the storage means is transported and replenished by the game medium transport device, and the game medium When the amount of discharge from the storage means increases and the storage means is replenished, it can be replenished without harming the player's evidence, and monitoring for abnormally discharging coins due to fraud Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a special configuration such as a monitoring system, and it is possible to prevent the game media from being extracted from the entire island due to fraud in an automated system for supplying game media.
[0021]
The invention according to claim 6 is a game medium lending device that lends game media, a game device that is played using the game medium and the contents of the game can be visually recognized on the front side, the game medium lending device, and the game 5. An island structure in which a plurality of devices are installed in parallel in a pair, and a plurality of game media transport devices according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of island structures are installed on the island structure corresponding to the gaming device. And a gaming system characterized by comprising:
[0022]
According to the present invention, the game medium transporting device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, corresponding to the game device, is provided on the island structure in which a plurality of game media lending devices and game devices are installed in parallel. Multiple installations. 5. The game according to claim 1, wherein fraud can be monitored without providing a special configuration, and a game medium replenishment operation can be performed and reduced without impairing the player's identification. Since the medium transport device is provided, the circulation of the game media in the game device and the game media lending device is configured, and both the player's gameability and the manager's manageability are obtained, and the game media of the entire island are illegally extracted. Can be prevented.
[0023]
A seventh aspect of the present invention is the gaming system according to the fifth or sixth aspect, wherein the gaming medium transport device discharges the gaming medium that overflows from the storing means beyond a storable amount. A plurality of recovery means for recovering the game medium that is disposed on the island structure and overflows from the discharge means of the game medium transport device; and the game media recovered by the recovery means. And an island recovery means provided with a recovery conveyor for transporting to one place of the island structure.
[0024]
In the present invention, the game medium transport device is provided with a discharge means for discharging game media that overflows from the storage means of the game device beyond the storable amount, and from the discharge means of each game medium transport device provided corresponding to the game device. The overflowing game medium is collected by each of the plurality of collection means of the island collection means installed in the island structure, and the game medium collected by each collection means is acquired by the collection conveyor to one place on the island structure. Transport. As a result, even if game media is brought in from other game devices and the game media is thrown in exceeding the storable amount, the island recovery means collects it at one place on the island structure, When the game media is collected and replenished without harming the mind, the game media collected at one place may be used, and the replenishment / collectibility of the game media is improved with a simple configuration capable of monitoring fraud.
[0025]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, a gaming system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, description will be given using a spinning-type gaming apparatus called a “pachi-slot”, but the present invention is not limited to the spinning-type gaming apparatus, for example, a slot machine or a commercial video game machine. It can also be applied to pachinko game machines.
[0026]
[Game system configuration]
FIG. 1 is a front view showing a gaming system with a part cut away in the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a front view with a part cut away showing a gaming system in which the gaming device is omitted. FIG. 3 is an end view showing the gaming system with a part cut away. FIG. 4 is a plan view with a part cut away showing a gaming system in which the gaming device is omitted. FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the island collection means.
[0027]
1 to 4, reference numeral 100 denotes a game system. The game system 100 includes an island structure 200, a game device 300, a game medium lending device 400, and a circulation means 500 as a game medium transport device. ing. In this gaming system 100, a plurality of gaming devices 300 and gaming medium lending devices 400 are integrally installed on a floor of a store called “Hall”, and are configured as an integrated independent structure.
[0028]
And the island structure 200 is comprised by the rectangular frame shape, for example with a timber, an aluminum alloy, etc. FIG. On both side surfaces of the island structure 200 with respect to the longitudinal direction, there are a gaming machine window portion 210 into which the gaming device 300 is inserted and closed, and a rental machine window portion 220 into which the gaming medium rental device 400 is inserted and closed. A plurality of openings are formed in pairs. In the present embodiment, the case where the number of gaming machine window portions 210 and the number of lending machine window portions 220 provided on both side surfaces of the island structure 200 is the same will be described. It is good also as a structure opened only to the one surface side provided in the wall. The island structure 200 is provided with a power supply device (not shown) that supplies power to the game device 300 and the game medium lending device 400. Further, in the island structure 200, island collection means 230 is provided.
[0029]
As shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the island recovery means 230 includes a plurality of recovery conveyors 231, a plurality of recovery ducts 232 as recovery means, a cleaning means (not shown), and the like.
[0030]
The collection conveyor 231 is, for example, a belt conveyor that guides and rotates an endless belt (not shown) with a conveyor base 231A and an adjustment rail 231B, and is configured in a longitudinal shape so that a coin (not shown) as a game medium can be conveyed. . The recovery conveyor 231 is provided with a driving means 231C such as a motor at one end in the longitudinal direction, and a recovery chute 231D for recovering coins falling from above at the other end. Arranged along the longitudinal direction. Specifically, the collection conveyor 231 is inclined such that one end portion on the conveyance direction side where the driving unit 231C is provided is at a high position, and the collection conveyor 231 whose end portion at this high position is adjacent to the conveyance direction side. The recovery chute portions 231D are connected to overlap with each other in a plurality of steps. The recovery conveyor 231 is in a state in which coins that are transported to one end side by driving of the driving means 231C and dropped are recovered by the recovery chute portion 231D of the next recovery conveyor 231 and sequentially transported.
[0031]
The collection ducts 232 are appropriately provided on the collection conveyor 231 in a number corresponding to the number of gaming devices 300 of the island structure 200, for example. The recovery duct 232 includes a recovery part 232A, a bellows connection part 232B, and an input part 232C.
[0032]
The collection part 232A is formed of, for example, a steel plate and has a substantially square cylindrical part 232A1. At one end in the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 232A1, a collection cylindrical portion 232A2 formed in a substantially truncated square cylindrical shape that expands substantially along the axial direction is provided in series. Further, a mounting flange portion 232A4 having a tongue-like shape and having a screw hole 232A3 is bent outwardly at the opening edge of the collecting cylinder portion 232A2 on the expanding side. Further, an attachment claw 232A5 is provided at the opening edge of the cylindrical portion 232A1 opposite to the side where the recovery cylinder 232A2 is provided.
[0033]
The bellows connection part 232B is formed in a bellows cylindrical shape with rubber or synthetic resin, for example. The bellows connection portion 232B is connected to the cylindrical portion 232A1 of the recovery portion 232A at one end side by the attachment claw portion 232A5, and the inner peripheral surface is connected to the recovery portion 232A. At the other end of the bellows connection part 232B, a substantially square cylindrical attachment cylinder part 232B1 is provided.
[0034]
The input portion 232C includes a substantially frame-shaped substrate portion 232C1 and an input cylinder portion 232C2 whose inner surface is connected to and connected to the inner peripheral side of the substrate portion 232C1. The input cylinder portion 232C2 is formed in a substantially rectangular tube shape 232C, and has a connection claw portion 232C3 for attaching the attachment cylinder portion 232B1 of the bellows connection portion 232B to the upper end opening in a state where the inner surface communicates with the inner peripheral side of the bellows connection portion 232B. ing. The board portion 232C has an engagement hole 232C4 that engages with a locking claw portion 231C1 provided on a support member 231C that supports the adjustment rail 231B of the collection conveyor 231. The throwing portion 232C is attached so that the base plate portion 232C covers the endless belt guided by the adjustment rail 231B, and the throwing cylinder portion 232C2 faces above the endless belt. The support member 231C is attached with a lid member 231D that functions as a lid that covers the connection of the adjustment rail 231B and the endless belt at a position where the insertion portion 232C is not attached.
[0035]
The washing means is installed in a state of being arranged in parallel with one end of the island structure 200 in the longitudinal direction, and collects coins to be collected by the collection conveyor 231, washed and stored. The washing means may be provided with a counting means for counting the coins to be collected.
[0036]
The gaming apparatus 300 is, for example, a so-called “pachi-slot” spinning-type gaming apparatus. As shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 4, a casing 310 and a game (not shown) accommodated in the casing 310 are used. A spinning cylinder unit as a unit, a first storage unit 320 as storage means, and the like are provided.
[0037]
The housing 310 has a main body case 311 having an opening on the front side, and a lid body 312 attached to the main body case 311 with a hinge member or a hinge (not shown) so as to close the front side of the main body case 311 so that the front side can be opened and closed. ing. On the bottom surface of the main body case 311, a drop opening (not shown) that opens to communicate with the lower surface is formed. The lid 312 is provided with a window 312A, a charging hole 312B, an operation means 312C, a tray 312D, a discharge port 312E, and the like. The window 312A is provided so that the inside of the housing 310 can be visually recognized from the front side by a translucent member such as an acrylic plate or a glass plate. The insertion hole 312B is provided in the lid 312 so as to open upward so that coins can be inserted. The discharge port 213E is formed with an opening facing forward so that coins to be paid out or coins to be returned based on the game result can be discharged.
[0038]
The operation means 312C has a plurality of operation buttons 312C1 and operation knobs such as a joystick, which are disposed near the lower edge of the window portion 312A and used in the game. Then, the operation means 312C outputs a predetermined signal corresponding to the input operation of each operation button 312C1 or operation knob. The tray part 312D is configured in a dish shape that opens upward so as to substantially cover the discharge port 213E, and is provided at, for example, the lower part of the lid 312. The tray unit 213D stores coins that are returned in response to a request for returning inserted coins, or coins that are paid out based on game results.
[0039]
The rotating unit has a plurality of reels (not shown) each having a plurality of pictures drawn on the peripheral surface so as to be independently rotatable. In this spinning unit, a part of the outer peripheral surface of the reel is accommodated in the housing 310 so as to be visible through the window 312A of the lid 312. The spinning unit detects that a coin has been inserted from the insertion hole 312B and enters a game-ready state, and controls the operation means 312C to rotate and stop the reel as appropriate, corresponding to the stopped combination of patterns. To output a predetermined signal. Examples of the game-ready state include illuminating a reel image to a state where it floats with a backlight, or illuminating the operation button 312C1 of the operation means 312C.
[0040]
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the first storage unit 320 collects coins inserted into the insertion hole 312B and pays out coins stored based on the game result. It is located and accommodated in the housing 310. The first storage unit 320 includes a first storage hopper 321, a counting unit 322, a discharge unit 323, and a chute unit 324.
[0041]
The first storage hopper 321 is formed in a cylindrical shape that expands upward so that coins can be stored. The first storage hopper 321 is provided with an overflow chute 321A, and coins stored in a predetermined amount or more are discharged to the outside by the overflow chute 321A. The first storage hopper 321 is provided with first detection means including a sensor or a switch (not shown) that detects whether or not a predetermined amount or more of coins is stored.
[0042]
The counting means 322 is arranged below the first storage hopper 321 and counts coins stored in the first storage hopper 321 one by one. The counting means 322 discharges a predetermined number of sheets to the discharging means 323 based on a signal from the rotating drum unit.
[0043]
The discharge means 323 has a guide rail (not shown) and the like and is configured to be able to carry coins. Then, the discharging unit 323 conveys and discharges the coins discharged from the counting unit 322 to the tray unit 312D through the discharge port 312E.
[0044]
The chute part 324 is formed in a substantially rectangular tube shape, for example, with a steel plate. The chute portion opens with the upper end opening positioned below the first storage hopper 321, can collect coins overflowing from the overflow chute 321 </ b> A of the first storage hopper 321, and has a lower surface at the drop port of the housing 310. The opening 310 is disposed in the housing 310 so as to communicate therewith.
[0045]
The gaming apparatus 300 is inserted into the gaming machine window portion 210 of the island structure 200 in a desired state on the side surface in the longitudinal direction, which is the front of the island structure 200, and the housing 310 is attached to an attachment means (not shown). The island structure 200 is fixed and disposed.
[0046]
As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the game medium lending device 400 includes a case body 410, a currency discrimination acquisition unit (not shown), a coin lending machine as a lending storage unit (not shown), and a payout chute unit 420. is doing. The case body 410 has a replenishing port 412 that is opened and closed by a lid member 411 and opens to the front, a money insertion hole 413 that opens to the top of the front, a lending port that is not shown, a supply port that is not shown that is opened to the back, have.
[0047]
The payout chute portion 420 includes a dome portion 421 and a payout chute 422. The dome portion 421 is attached to the front surface of the case body 410 so as to cover the rental outlet. The payout chute 422 is provided in the vicinity of the top of the dome portion 421 and allows coins paid out from the lending outlet into the dome portion 421 to be inserted into the tray portion 312D of the gaming apparatus 410. The payout chute 422 is provided in the dome portion 421 so as to be able to be swung in a state where the lower end portion is separated from the tray portion 312D.
[0048]
As the currency discrimination acquisition means, for example, one having the same configuration as that normally used is used and accommodated in the case body 410. This money discrimination and acquisition means is configured to acquire money inserted from the money insertion hole 413, return defective money from the money insertion hole 413, and store regular money. When recognizing that money has been acquired, the money discrimination acquisition means outputs a predetermined signal to the coin lending machine. And the money discrimination | determination acquisition means is arrange | positioned in the case body 410 so that exchange and maintenance inspection are possible suitably, and the money to store can be taken out from the front. In addition, the money discrimination | determination acquisition means may have functions, such as a structure which can return a change suitably.
[0049]
The coin lending machine is accommodated in the case body 410 with the same configuration as the first storage unit 320. This coin lending machine has a coin hopper, a lending part, and a chute part (not shown).
[0050]
The coin hopper is formed in a cylindrical shape that expands upward. The coin hopper is disposed in the case body 410 so as to be located below the replenishment port 412 and the supply port of the case body 410, and the coin hopper can be stored in the case body 410 so as to be able to store coins with the inner surface of the case body 410 above the coin hopper. Are provided in a state of partitioning. The coin hopper is provided with a second detection means including a sensor or a switch (not shown) that detects whether or not a predetermined amount or more of coins is stored.
[0051]
The lending unit is provided below the coin hopper, and arranges, counts and discharges coins stored in the coin hopper one by one. The lending unit recognizes a signal from the currency discrimination and acquisition device, thereby discharging a predetermined number of coins and outputting a signal relating to the number of discharged coins.
[0052]
The chute unit guides coins discharged from the lending unit to the lending port of the case body 410. The coins guided to the rental outlet are inserted into the tray part 312D of the gaming apparatus 300 via the payout chute part 420.
[0053]
As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the circulation means 500 is located below the gaming device 300 in the island structure 200 and is accommodated in the same number corresponding to the number of gaming devices 300. These circulation means 500 are provided with a storage hopper 510 as a storage part and a transport means 520.
[0054]
The storage hopper 510 is formed in a cylindrical shape that opens up and down like the first storage hopper 321 and the coin hopper of the first storage section 320. That is, the storage hopper 510 is formed in a rectangular tube shape that expands upward with, for example, a steel plate or the like, and has a rectangular shape in plan view. The storage hopper 510 has a coin discharge port 511 as discharge means that opens sideways on the side surface in the longitudinal direction. The collection 232A of the recovery duct 232 of the island recovery means 230 is attached to the storage hopper 510 with screws 232A6 or the like so that the coin discharge port 511 is covered and the inner surface communicates with the coin discharge port 511. Further, a flange portion (not shown) that protrudes outward is provided at the periphery of the upper surface opening of the storage hopper 510. The storage hopper 510 is attached to a structure (not shown) of the island structure 200 at a flange portion in a state in which the dropping port of the gaming apparatus 300 is covered from below and the recovery duct 232 is attached.
[0055]
The transport means 520 transports coins stored in the storage hopper to the game medium lending device 400. The transport unit 520 includes a storage tray unit 521, an alignment unit 522, a delivery unit 523, and a supply chute unit 524.
[0056]
The storage tray portion 521 is formed of, for example, hard rubber or synthetic resin, and is formed so as to be able to store coins in a rectangular tube shape that is substantially the same shape as the storage hopper 510 in plan view. The lower end portion of the storage hopper 510 is fitted into the upper end opening of the storage tray portion 521.
[0057]
The alignment unit 522 aligns and discharges coins stored in the storage hopper 510 and the storage tray unit 521 one by one, for example, like the counting unit 322 of the first storage unit 320 and the lending unit of the coin lending machine. When the alignment means 522 recognizes a predetermined signal output from the second detection means of the coin lending machine of the game medium lending device 400, that is, a signal indicating that the number of coins to be stored is equal to or less than a predetermined amount, the alignment means 522 Coins are discharged until a predetermined signal to be output, that is, a signal indicating that the number of stored coins is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount is recognized.
[0058]
The delivery unit 523 is configured by, for example, a conveyor that conveys coins upward in the vertical direction. The delivery unit 523 is disposed on the outer side surface side of the game medium lending device 400, that is, is transported in a state of being positioned between other adjacent game devices 300 that are not paired with the game medium lending device 400. The plane of the coin to be played is arranged so as to face the side surface of the game medium lending device 400. Then, the sending-out unit 523 acquires the coins discharged from the aligning means 522 at the substantially lower end, conveys the coins upward, and discharges them from the upper end.
[0059]
The replenishment chute part 524 is formed in a chute shape and is provided at the upper end part of the delivery part 523. The replenishment chute 524 receives coins discharged from the sending-out unit 523 and puts them into a supply port that opens at the back of the case body 410 of the game medium lending device 400. In other words, the replenishment chute 524 is formed in a curved shape that receives coins that are fed out from the upper end toward the rear by the feeding portion 523 and guides the coin from the side surface of the game medium lending device 400 to the back side.
[0060]
[Game system operation]
Next, the operation of the installed gaming system will be described.
[0061]
First, preparations are made before opening the store. That is, coins are inserted from the replenishment port of the game medium lending device 400 and the coin hopper is almost fully stored, and the coins are almost fully stored in the first storage hopper 321 of the first storage unit 320 of the game device 300. Store.
[0062]
Then, the player inserts predetermined money, for example, banknote, from the money insertion hole 413 of the game medium lending device 400. By inserting the banknote, the banknote inserted by the currency discrimination acquisition unit of the game medium lending device 400 is acquired, and it is determined whether or not the banknote is defective. When the currency discrimination acquisition unit determines that the banknote is a defective banknote, it returns the defective banknote inserted through the money insertion hole 413 again. On the other hand, when it is determined that the currency discrimination acquisition means is not a defective banknote, that is, it is a regular banknote, the acquired banknote is stored inside and outputs a signal indicating that the banknote has been acquired. In addition, as money, not only a banknote but a coin etc. may be sufficient.
[0063]
Then, when the coin lending machine of the game medium lending device 400 recognizes that the signal indicating that the banknote has been acquired is output from the money determination / determination means, the coins as a predetermined number of game media are dispensed one by one. Through the tray 312D of the gaming device 300. The player inserts the paid-out coin from the insertion hole 312B of the gaming apparatus 300. The inserted coins are guided by guide means (not shown) and dropped onto the first storage hopper 321 of the first storage unit 320. When the coin is inserted, the spinning unit detects that the coin has been inserted, for example, a switch provided in the guide means, and enters a game-ready state. When the inserted coin is a defective coin, for example, the defective coin is returned to the tray unit 312D without being able to play.
[0064]
A player who recognizes this game-enabled state appropriately operates each operation button 312C1 of the operation means 312C to rotate the reel and stop it appropriately. By this operation, the spinning unit outputs a signal for paying out a predetermined number of coins to the first storage unit 320 according to the state of the stopped reel, that is, the state of the picture facing the window 312A. Recognizing this payout request signal, the first storage unit 320 operates the counting unit 322 as appropriate to discharge a predetermined number of coins to the tray unit 312D via the discharge unit 323. This coin insertion and operation of the operation means 312C are repeated and the game is continued.
[0065]
Here, in the situation where the game is continued by receiving the coin lending from the game medium lending device 400, the number of coins lent out is larger than the amount of coins stored in the first storage unit 320. In this state, the quantity to be stored is large. For this reason, the coins inserted for the game cannot be stored in the first storage hopper 321 of the first storage unit 320 and overflow from the overflow chute 321A to the chute unit 324. Further, the coins inserted into the chute unit 324 are discharged out of the gaming device 300 through the drop opening, collected into the storage hopper 510 of the circulation means 500, and in a space defined by the storage hopper 510 and the storage tray unit 521. Stored.
[0066]
When the game progresses and coins are lent out from the game medium lending device 400 to a certain degree or more, the number of coins stored in the game medium lending device 400 decreases, and the number of coins stored by the second detection means becomes less than a predetermined amount. And a signal indicating that the amount is equal to or less than a predetermined amount is output. When the alignment means 522 of the circulation means 500 recognizes this signal, the coins stored in the storage hopper 510 and the storage tray part 521 due to overflow are sent to the sending part 523, and the number of coins stored from the second detection means is a predetermined amount or more. Send out until a signal to that effect is recognized. As a result, the game by the player is continued without the store clerk supplying the coins to the game medium lending device 400.
[0067]
On the other hand, if the payout based on the game content is continued from the beginning of the game, the number of coins paid out from the first storage unit 320 becomes larger than the number of coins inserted, and the number of coins stored in the first storage unit 320 is reduced. Decrease. And it detects that the coin which the 1st detection means of the 1st storage part 320 stored became below predetermined amount, and outputs the signal to the effect that it is below predetermined amount. From this signal, a store clerk recognizes that the coins stored in the predetermined gaming device 300 are reduced by a not-shown notifying means provided separately. Note that the store clerk may recognize that the amount of coins to be stored is reduced based on a call request from the player. Then, the store clerk opens the lid 312 of the gaming device 300 to supply the first storage unit 320.
[0068]
In addition, when a player who has played a game on another gaming device 300 brings in a coin and plays a game, in a situation where the number of coins to be paid out based on the game result is less than the number of coins to be inserted, it overflows and circulates. It is sequentially stored in the storage hopper 510 and the storage tray part 521 of the means 500. The coins that have overflowed more than the storable quantity in the storage hopper 510 and the storage tray portion 521 further overflow from the coin discharge port 511 of the storage hopper 510 and are recovered by the recovery hopper 232 of the island recovery means 230. Then, the coins collected in the collection hopper 232 are dropped on the collection conveyor 231, transported to the cleaning means by the collection conveyor 231, washed and stored.
[0069]
[Operation effect of game system]
As described above, in the above-described embodiment, the coins inserted for the execution of the game are stored, and the coins stored according to the execution result of the game are appropriately discharged from the first storage unit 320 of the gaming apparatus 300. The coins to be collected are collected and stored in the storage hopper 510, and the coins stored in the storage hopper 510 are transported to the coin hopper of the game medium lending device 400 by the transport means 520. For this reason, for example, even if coin lending for gaming continues and the remaining amount of coins stored in the game medium lending device 400 decreases, it is possible to save the trouble of refilling the game medium lending device 400. At this time, it is possible to omit the replenishment work by the store clerk who hurts the proof that the player has spent the game for the replenishment, and the labor of the store clerk can be reduced. In addition, when the remaining amount of coins stored by paying out from the gaming device 300 decreases, the clerk can continue the game by replenishing the coins, and at this time, the player has acquired a lot of coins, so the game by replenishment Even if interrupted, there is no harm to my heart. Furthermore, in the state where coins are abnormally paid out due to fraud, the number of replenishment of coins by the store clerk increases, so it is possible to monitor fraud without providing a monitoring system for monitoring fraud. The system that automatically supplies coins from the entire island can be prevented from being extracted by fraud.
[0070]
In particular, the game device 300 and the game medium lending device 400 that make a pair are installed on a curved surface substantially in parallel, installed on a curved surface at a corner of a hole that is a corner, or installed along a curved wall surface, etc. It is used for the island structure 200 having a curved structure. For this reason, since the island structure is designed so that the distance between the adjacent gaming device 300 and the gaming medium lending device 400 is relatively wide, the design for installing the storage hopper 510 and the transporting means 520, particularly the delivery The arrangement of the part 523 is easy, and for example, it is possible to easily install the circulation means 500 by efficiently using the empty area of the island structure 200 corresponding to the player's feet.
[0071]
Then, the storage hopper 510 is disposed in the island structure 200 below the first storage unit 320 of the gaming apparatus 300, and a conveyor for transferring coins stored in the storage hopper 510 upward is used as the transfer means 520. The coins disposed between the gaming medium lending device 400 disposed on the island structure 200 and another adjacent gaming device 300 and transported to the upper end are guided from the side of the gaming medium lending device 400 to the back. The replenishment chute unit 524 supplies it. For this reason, even in the island structure 200 in which the plurality of game devices 300 and the game medium lending device 400 are installed, a configuration for returning and circulating coins can be installed using the space in the island structure 200 effectively. . In particular, the internal space can be used effectively in a substantially rectangular structure in which the installation interval of the game device 300 and the game medium lending device 400 is relatively narrow.
[0072]
When a signal indicating that the amount of coins to be stored is equal to or less than a predetermined amount is recognized from the second detection signal that is provided in the game medium lending device 400 and outputs a signal related to the amount of coins to be stored, the aligning unit of the transport unit 520 522 carries a coin. For this reason, coins are returned in accordance with the amount of coins lent out for gaming from the game medium lending device 400, and coins can be supplied in a state where it is possible to monitor the removal of coins due to fraud. It can be easily automated, and appropriate coins can be supplied without harming the player's identification.
[0073]
Further, the coins overflowing from the first storage hopper 321 of the first storage unit 320 exceeding the storable amount are overflowed from the coin discharge port 511 of the storage hopper 510, and each circulation in the island recovery means 230 installed in the island structure 200 is performed. The coins collected by the respective collecting ducts 232 provided corresponding to the means 500, and the coins collected by the respective collecting ducts 232 are acquired by the collecting conveyor 231, and one place on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the island structure 200 The island structure 200 is provided with island recovery means 230 for transporting to the island structure. For this reason, even if coins are brought in from other gaming devices 300 and coins are inserted exceeding the storable amount, the island collecting means 320 collects coins at one place on the island structure 200, so that the player's Coins can be collected without harming the mind, and when replenishing, it is only necessary to use coins that have been transported to one place and collected by the cleaning means. Can be improved.
[0074]
[Other Embodiments]
It should be noted that the gaming system 100 of the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
[0075]
For example, although the game system 100 has been described with the island recovery means 230 provided with the recovery conveyor 231 and the recovery duct 232, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. Further, the island collection means 230 may not be provided. In the configuration in which the island collection unit 230 is not provided, the coin discharge port 511 may not be provided.
[0076]
The game apparatus 300 and the game medium lending device 400 are installed on both side surfaces in the longitudinal direction of the island structure 200. However, for example, in a store where the game apparatus 300 and the game medium lending device 400 are installed only on one side. An island structure 610 installed along the wall surface 601 is also applicable.
[0077]
In addition, as described above, the gaming device 300 is not limited to the spinning-type gaming device, but can be applied to, for example, a slot machine, a commercial video game machine, a pachinko-type gaming device, and the like. It is not limited to. In the pachinko game machine, the pachinko ball is the game medium.
[0078]
The game medium transport device is not limited to the configuration of the storage unit 510 and the transport unit 520, and collects and stores game media overflowing from the first storage unit 320 of the game device 300, and appropriately plays the game medium lending device 400. Any configuration can be used which is appropriately conveyed and replenished.
[0079]
In addition, the specific structure and procedure for carrying out the present invention may be changed to other configurations as long as the object of the present invention can be achieved.
[0080]
【The invention's effect】
According to the present invention, the game medium that is thrown over the storage limit by the storage means that stores the game medium thrown in for the execution of the game and appropriately discharges the game medium to be stored based on the execution result of the game is provided. Lending amount from the game medium lending device for gaming to overflow, collect and store in another storage unit, and transport the game medium stored in this storage unit to the game medium lending device as appropriate by the transport means Even if the storage amount decreases and the storage amount decreases, the game medium overflowed from the storage means is transported and replenished by the transport means, so that the trouble of replenishing the game medium is omitted, and the discharge amount from the storage means increases. When replenishing the storage means, it can be replenished without harming the player's identification, and it becomes possible to monitor abnormally discharged coins due to fraud, and a special configuration such as a monitoring system is established. It is not necessary that, withdrawal of fraud by the entire island of game media in an automated system for supplying game media can be prevented.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a partially cutaway front view showing a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a partially cutaway front view showing a gaming system in which the gaming device in the embodiment is omitted.
FIG. 3 is an end view showing a gaming system with a part cut away in the embodiment;
FIG. 4 is a plan view with a part cut away showing a gaming system in which the gaming device in the embodiment is omitted;
FIG. 5 is a side view showing island recovery means in the embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
100 gaming system
200 island structure
230 Island recovery means
231 Recovery conveyor
232 Recovery duct as recovery means
300 gaming device
310 housing
312B input hole
312E outlet
320 1st storage part as storage means
400 game media lending device
410 Case body
413 Bill insertion hole as money insertion hole
500 Circulation means as a game medium transport device
510 Storage hopper as storage section
511 Coin outlet as a discharging means
520 conveying means
524 Supply chute

Claims (7)

A game installed on an island structure in which a plurality of game media lending devices that lend game media and a game device that is played using the game media and the contents of the game are visible on the front side are installed in parallel. A medium conveying device,
The game medium that is thrown in for execution of the game is stored, and the game medium that overflows from the storage means provided in the game device that appropriately discharges the game medium to be stored based on the execution result of the game is recovered. And a storage part for storing
Transport means for transporting the game medium stored in the storage unit to the game medium lending device as appropriate;
A game medium conveying device comprising: The game medium transport device according to claim 1,
The game medium transporting apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the island structure is a curved structure in which the gaming device and the gaming medium lending device that make a pair are installed on the curved surface in approximately parallel. The game medium conveying device according to claim 1 or 2,
The storage portion is disposed below the storage means of the gaming device in the island structure,
The transport means is a conveyor that transports game media stored in the storage section upward, and is disposed between the game media lending device installed on the island structure and another adjacent game device, and has an upper end. A game medium transport device comprising a supply chute for supplying the game media transported to the game device to the game medium lending device. The game medium carrying device according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
When the conveying means recognizes a signal indicating that the amount stored in the game medium is equal to or less than a predetermined amount from a detection means that outputs a signal relating to the amount of the game medium stored in the game medium lending device, the game medium A game medium transporting device characterized by transporting a game. A game medium lending device that lends game media, a game device that is played using the game media and whose contents can be visually recognized on the front side, and a plurality of pairs of the game medium lending device and the game device are installed substantially in parallel. A gaming system comprising an island structure,
The game medium lending device includes a case body attached to the island structure, a money insertion hole provided in the case body and into which money is inserted, and storing the game medium housed in the case body to store the money insertion hole. A lending storage unit for discharging the game medium when the money is inserted from,
The gaming device includes a housing attached to the island structure, a gaming unit in which the contents of the game are visibly accommodated in the housing on the front side of the housing, and a game is executed. The game medium inserted into the housing, a discharge port provided in the housing for discharging the game media, the game medium stored in the housing and inserted from the insertion hole, and A storage means for discharging the game medium stored based on a result of the game executed by the game unit from the discharge port;
A plurality of game machines are installed in the island structure corresponding to the game devices, and the game media overflowing from the storage means of the game devices are stored, and the game media to be stored are appropriately stored in a rental storage unit of the game media rental device. A gaming system comprising a game medium conveying device for conveying. A game media lending device for lending game media;
A game device that is played using the game medium, and the content of the game is visible on the front side;
An island structure in which a plurality of the game medium lending device and the game device are installed in parallel in a pair;
The game medium transport device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a plurality of the island structures are installed corresponding to the game devices,
A gaming system characterized by comprising: The gaming system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein
The game medium transport device has discharge means for discharging the game medium that overflows from the storage means beyond the storable amount;
A plurality of recovery means for recovering the game medium that is installed in the island structure and overflows from the discharge means of the game medium transport device, and the game media recovered by the recovery means are acquired to obtain the island structure A game system comprising island recovery means including a recovery conveyor for transporting to one place.

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