JP2006051391A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game machine capable of correctly acquiring management information of a game parlor. <P>SOLUTION: A game system comprises information collecting terminals 5 for collecting working information from game machines 6 and game-related devices 7, 8 and 9, a game management device 1 for collecting the working information collected by the information terminals, a data collecting device 3 operating independently from the game management device for collecting working information capable of being compared with the working information collected by the game management device, and a network for connecting the information collecting terminals, the game management device and the data collecting device to one another. Each information collecting terminal comprises an accumulated data generating means for calculating the collected working information to generate data accumulated during a prescribed period of time and an accumulated data transmitting means for transmitting the accumulated data to the network, and the data collecting device comprises an accumulated data storage means for storing the accumulated data transmitted by the information collecting terminals and an accumulated data output means for outputting the accumulated data. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a game system for processing management information in a game arcade where game machines such as pachinko machines and slot machines are installed.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in amusement halls, management information such as operating status, sales information, prize exchange information, etc. of installed gaming machines is tabulated and managed by a gaming management device (hall computer). The management of the amusement hall uses the management information obtained in this way for management of the amusement hall.

  In addition, in a large-scale company with a large number of stores, management information of each game hall is collected at the headquarters and used for business management.

  However, in the conventional game system, when the game halls are developed in many stores, the distance between the site manager and the manager placed at each game hall becomes large, and management of the site by the manager tends to be inadequate. . Still, if it is limited to a specific area, the person in charge at the headquarters can go around and manage each amusement park under its control. It is difficult to directly monitor the game hall under the control of the game hall headquarters developed in For this purpose, the headquarters collects management information collected by the game management device of each game hall, and strives to grasp the operational status of each game hall in detail.

  However, because there is a possibility that fraudulent acts may be performed by operating the game management device, the information collected by the game management device, or the site where the collected information is modified and a part of sales is taken In some cases, fraudulent acts by the responsible person are seen, and the credibility of the management information collected from the game hall under the control is questionable. In order to prevent such fraud, there is a need to build a system that can accurately collect management information collected by the game management device of the game hall that is controlled by the headquarters of the game hall that operates multiple stores. Yes.

  In addition to such cases of misconduct by individuals, there are also cases in which management information is falsified and income is reported underly.

  The purpose of the present invention is to construct a system for the game hall headquarters that develop the chain to accurately grasp the management information of the game hall under its control, and also to prevent tax evasion due to underreporting of income. And

  According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information collection terminal device that collects operation information from at least one of a gaming machine installed in a game hall and a device related to a balance of the game hall, and collects operation information collected by the information collection terminal device A game management device that operates separately from the game management device, and a data collection device that collects (for example, the same) operation information that can be compared with the operation information collected by the game management device, and the information A game system comprising: a collection terminal device; a game management device; and a network connecting the data collection device, wherein the information collection terminal device calculates the collected operation information and accumulates data for a predetermined period (For example, a cumulative data generation unit that generates a cumulative value when one unit of business is terminated) and a cumulative data transmission unit that transmits the cumulative data to the network. Data collection device comprises a cumulative data memory means for storing accumulated data by the information collecting terminal device transmits the cumulative data output means for outputting the accumulated data.

  The operation information in the first invention is information related to the balance of the game hall. For example, sales information (value information stored in cash and cards), amount information such as prize exchange information, prize ball (prize medal) information ( In a cash machine, there are information on the number of game media such as supply information), collected ball (out ball) (medal) information, and difference ball information (difference between prize ball information and collected ball information). It also includes stored ball information. Information output from a ticket machine, a safe, a gift POS, or the like may also be used.

  According to a second aspect, in the first aspect, the information collection terminal device stores the cumulative data as final cumulative data when the cumulative data is based on a cumulative value at the end of one unit of business. It is characterized by comprising final accumulated data confirmation means for confirming as follows.

  According to a third invention, in the first or second invention, when the final accumulated data is determined, the information collecting terminal device transmits the final accumulated data to the game management device, and also transmits the final accumulated data to the data collecting device. The final accumulated data is transmitted.

  In a fourth aspect based on the second or third aspect, the final cumulative data determining means determines final cumulative data based on a notice of the end of one unit of business from the game management device. Features.

  According to a fifth invention, in the second or third invention, the information collecting terminal device receives operation information from a device related to a balance of the gaming machine or the game hall or a signal from another information collecting terminal device. And an end-of-business determination means for determining the end of a unit of business depending on whether or not it has been received during a predetermined period, and the final cumulative data determination means is based on the determination result of the business end determination means. Is determined.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the second or third aspect, the data collection device is a device related to the balance of the gaming machine or the game field that the information collection terminal device transmits to the game management device. The operation end determination means for determining the end of one unit of business depending on whether or not the operation information from the business is received in a predetermined period, and the final accumulated data is determined based on the determination result of the business end determination means. And cumulative data determination means.

  In a seventh aspect based on the first to sixth aspects, the cumulative data transmitting means transmits first cumulative data transmitting means for transmitting the cumulative data to the game management device; And a second cumulative data transmitting means for transmitting to the collecting device.

  In an eighth aspect based on the seventh aspect, the first cumulative data transmitting means transmits the cumulative value to the gaming management device when the gaming management device requests transmission of the cumulative value. The second cumulative data transmission means transmits the cumulative value to the data collection device.

  In a ninth aspect based on the first to sixth aspects, the cumulative data transmission means includes first cumulative data transmission means for transmitting the cumulative data to the game management device, and the data collection device includes: The first accumulated data transmitting means acquires the accumulated data transmitted to the game management device.

  In a tenth aspect based on the first to sixth aspects, the data collection device requests the information collection terminal device to transmit the accumulated value.

  According to an eleventh aspect, in the first to tenth aspects, the data collection device includes an access restriction unit that restricts access to the cumulative data stored in the cumulative data storage unit.

  In a twelfth aspect based on the first to eleventh aspects, the data collection device is communicably connected to a game hall external management device provided outside the game hall via a communication line. The apparatus is characterized by comprising cumulative data external transmission means for transmitting the final cumulative data in order to store the final cumulative data in the game hall external management device.

  In a thirteenth aspect based on the twelfth aspect, the final cumulative data is based on a cumulative value at the end of one unit of business, and the cumulative data external transmission means Until the start of the next business unit, the final accumulated data is transmitted to the game hall external management device.

  In a fourteenth aspect based on the first to eleventh aspects, the final cumulative data is based on a cumulative value at the end of one unit of business, and the cumulative data transmitting means The final accumulated data is transmitted to the data collection device between the end and the start of the next business unit.

  A fifteenth aspect of the present invention is an information collection terminal device that collects operation information from at least one of a gaming machine installed in a game arcade and a device related to the balance of the game hall, and collects operation information collected by the information collection terminal device A data collection device connected to the game management device via a network, which operates separately from the game management device and collects the same operation information as the operation information collected by the information collection terminal device Collecting means, accumulating data storage means for acquiring the accumulating data generated based on the operation information transmitted from the information collecting terminal device to the gaming management apparatus, and storing the accumulating data, and the accumulating data And cumulative data output means for outputting.

  According to a sixteenth aspect, in the fifteenth aspect, operational information from the gaming machine or a device related to the balance of the game room, which is transmitted from the information collecting terminal device to the gaming management device, is stored in a predetermined period. Business end determination means for determining the end of one unit of business depending on whether or not it has been received, and final cumulative data determination means for determining final cumulative data based on the determination result of the business end determination means. It is characterized by.

  In a seventeenth aspect based on the fifteenth or sixteenth aspect, the present invention further comprises access restriction means for restricting access to the cumulative data stored in the cumulative data storage means.

  According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in the fifteenth to seventeenth aspects, the game room external management device includes communication means for communicating via a communication line with a game hall external management device provided outside the game hall. In order to store the final accumulated data, there is provided cumulative data external transmission means for transmitting the final accumulated data.

  In a nineteenth aspect based on the fifteenth to eighteenth aspects, the cumulative data is based on a cumulative value at the end of one unit of business, and the cumulative data external transmitting means The accumulated data is transmitted to the game hall external management device between the end time and the start of the next business unit.

  According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, game information is collected from at least one of a gaming machine installed in a game arcade and an apparatus related to the balance of the game arcade, and game data based on the operation information is collected in a game management apparatus that collects the operation information. Is an information collection terminal device that transmits information over a network, and calculates the collected operation information and generates accumulated data for a predetermined period (for example, accumulated value when one unit of business ends) And cumulative data transmission means for transmitting the cumulative data to the network, and final cumulative data determination for determining whether or not the cumulative data is final cumulative data based on a cumulative value when one unit of business ends. Means and whether or not operation information from a device related to the balance of the gaming machine or the game hall in a predetermined period or whether a signal from another information collection terminal device is received, And a sales end determination means for determining the end of a unit sales, the final accumulated data determining section is on the basis of the determination result of the operating end determining unit, wherein the determining the final cumulative data.

  According to a twenty-first aspect, in the twentieth aspect, the data collection device that operates separately from the game management device and collects operation information that can be compared with the operation information collected by the game management device, and the network When the final cumulative data is determined, the final cumulative data is transmitted to the game management device, and the final cumulative data is also transmitted to the data collection device.

  According to a twenty-second invention, in the twentieth to twenty-first inventions, a data collection device that operates separately from the game management device and collects operation information that can be compared with operation information collected by the game management device; When there is a request for transmission of the cumulative value from the game management device, which is communicably connected via the network, the cumulative value is transmitted to the game management device, and the cumulative value is also transmitted to the data collection device. A value is transmitted.

  According to a twenty-third aspect, in the twentieth to twenty-second aspects, the final accumulated data is based on a cumulative value at the end of one unit of business, and the information collecting terminal device transmits the accumulated data. The means is characterized in that the final accumulated data is transmitted to the data collection device between the end of the business unit and the start of the next business unit.

  The twenty-fourth invention is applied to a game system configured by connecting an information collection terminal device, a first data collection device, and a second data collection device via a network, and the information collection terminal device is installed in a game arcade A data collection method for collecting operation information from a game-related device or a game-related device related to a balance of a game hall and storing the operation information in the first data collection device and the second data collection device, the collected operation information To generate accumulated data for a predetermined period, transmit the accumulated data to the network, operate separately from the first data collection device and the second data collection device, and each of the information collection terminal devices Is stored, and the stored cumulative data is output.

  In the present invention, an information collection terminal device that collects operation information from at least one of a gaming machine installed in a game hall and a device related to the balance of the game hall, and a game that collects operation information collected by the information collection terminal device Management device and data management device that operates separately from the game management device and collects operation information that can be compared with the operation information collected by the information collection terminal device, the information collection terminal device, and the game management A game system comprising: a device; and a network connecting the data collection device, wherein the information collection terminal device calculates the collected operation information and generates accumulated data for a predetermined period; And cumulative data transmission means for transmitting the cumulative data to the network, wherein the data collection device receives the cumulative data transmitted by the information collection terminal device. A cumulative data storage means for storing and a cumulative data output means for outputting the cumulative data, so that the data collection device collects the operation information independently of the game management device, and the operation information collected by both devices is By comparison, it can be seen that the accumulated data collected by one of the devices has been altered, so if the accumulated data of the game hall operational information is altered illegally, the final accumulated value of the game management device and the data collecting device A contradiction arises with the stored final cumulative value, and it is possible to obtain a clue for unauthorized modification. In addition, since the information collection terminal device collects the accumulated value, even if there is an abnormality in the middle of the aggregation (for example, missing data), the final accumulated value of the game management device and the final accumulated value of the data collecting device Match. In addition, the communication load can be reduced due to the collection of accumulated values.

  In the present invention, the data collection device is communicably connected to a game hall external management device provided outside the game hall via a communication line, and the data collection device is connected to the game hall external management device. In addition, in order to store the final cumulative data, there is provided cumulative data external transmission means for transmitting the final cumulative data, so that a judgment material for judging the validity of the management information tabulated by the game hall management device is provided outside the game hall It is possible to manage, and it becomes possible to detect alteration of accumulated data of illegal operation information, and it is possible to suppress illegal data alteration.

  In the present invention, since the data collection device includes an access restriction unit that restricts access to the accumulated data stored in the accumulated data storage unit, the final accumulated value stored in the data collection device is invalid. Alteration can be prevented.

  Further, in the present invention, the information collection terminal device determines final cumulative data as final cumulative data when the cumulative data is based on a cumulative value when a unit of business ends. A final accumulating data, and the final accumulating data confirming means confirms the final accumulating data on the basis of a notification of the end of one unit of business from the gaming management device. The value and the final cumulative value collected by the data collection device can be reliably matched.

  Further, in the present invention, whether the information collection terminal device has received operation information from the gaming machine or a device related to the balance of the game hall or a signal from another information collection terminal device in a predetermined period. The end-of-business determination means for determining the end of one unit of business, and the final cumulative data determination means determines the final cumulative data based on the determination result of the business end determination means. Thus, since the final cumulative value is determined by the business end determination independent of the game management device, it is possible to prevent an abnormal determination of the final cumulative value based on an illegal business end instruction from the game management device.

  Further, in the present invention, the data collection device receives operation information transmitted from the information collection terminal device to the game management device from the game machine or a device related to the balance of the game hall in a predetermined period. Depending on whether or not it has been received, it is provided with a business end judging means for judging the end of one unit of business, and the final accumulated data is determined based on the judgment result of the business end judging means. Since the final cumulative value is determined by the business end determination independent of the management device for the game, an abnormal determination of the final cumulative value based on the illegal business end instruction from the game management device can be prevented.

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

  FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram showing the overall configuration of the gaming system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The game hall A is provided with an internal network which is a network inside the game hall, and a game management device (hall computer) 1, a data collection device 3, and a relay terminal 4 are connected to the internal network.

  The internal network provided in the amusement hall is configured by, for example, Ethernet (registered trademark), and an address is set for a device connected to the internal network, and communication between each device (for a specific device) Data transfer) and broadcast communication (for example, broadcast) to all devices.

  The game management device 1 collects operation information from the game machine 6 and game related devices (counter 7, ticket vending machine 8, safe 9 etc.) related to the balance of the game hall installed inside the game hall, and Monitor the operating status. Then, the operating information collected from each device is analyzed to analyze the business of the game hall, adjust the nails of the gaming machine 6 (pachinko machine), and find fraud with the gaming machine 6.

  The data collection device 3 operates independently of the game management device 1 and receives information from the devices (the game machine 6, the counter 7, the ticket vending machine 8, the safe 9, etc.) installed inside the game hall. Collected separately from the game management device 1.

  The relay terminal 4 is provided for each island facility in the amusement hall, relays information from the information collecting terminal device 5 installed in the island facility, and transmits the information to the internal network.

  A plurality of gaming machines 6 are installed in the island facility, and a ball rental unit 6b, a supply tank 6c, and an out tank 6d are added to the gaming machine body 6a. One information collection terminal device 5 is connected to each gaming machine 6 or a plurality (for example, two) of gaming machines 6, and the information collection terminal device 5 collects information output from the gaming machine 6. Specifically, a game-related signal is output from the external output terminal provided in the gaming machine 6 as operation information of the gaming machine 6. The operation information of the gaming machine 6 may be output via the communication port of the gaming function-added CPU instead of taking out the operation information of the gaming machine 6 from the external output terminal.

  The signal output from the gaming machine main body 6a indicates that there is a shortage of prize balls in the upper tank, and a “ball-out signal” that prompts replenishment of balls from the island facility, a predetermined number (for example, 10) ) “Prize ball signal” that is output each time a prize ball is discharged, “Ball signal” that is output each time a predetermined number (for example, 25) of game balls are lent, and the variable display device starts variable display "Start signal" that is output when the game is played, "Symbol confirmation signal" that is output when the fluctuation display of the fluctuation display device is stopped, "Hit signal" that is output during the special game state (big hit state), probability fluctuation There is a “probability change signal” and so on. In addition, a “sales signal” relating to sales at the time of ball lending is output from the ball lending unit (cash sand) 6b. The “sales signal” from the cash sand is used not only as information regarding the sales amount but also as information regarding the number of rents corresponding to the sales amount. In other words, the information collection terminal device 5 that has received these signals collects operation information from the gaming machine 6 and sends the operation information and accumulated data of the operation information to the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3. Send to the internal network.

  Further, the gaming machine 6 is provided with a replenishing tank 6 c that replenishes the gaming machine 6 with a game ball and an out tank 6 d that houses an out ball collected from the gaming machine 6. The replenishment tank 6c has a replenishment number counting unit for counting the number of replenished balls, and the out tank 6d has a recovery ball counting unit for counting the number of outballs. The replenishment tank 6c (replenishment number counting unit) outputs a “replenishment signal” using the counting result of the replenishing balls as operation information. The out tank 6d (collected ball counting unit) outputs a “collection signal” with the counting result of the out ball as operation information. The replenishment tank 6c and the out tank 6d are connected to the information collecting terminal device 5, and the information collecting terminal device 5 collects the operation information output from the replenishment tank 6c and the out tank 6d, and accumulates and accumulates the operation information. A value is generated, and the accumulated value is output as accumulated data to the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3.

  Further, in the game hall, a counter 7, a ticket vending machine 8, and a safe 9 are provided as game-related devices related to the balance of the game hall, and each is connected to the information collecting terminal device 5. The counter 7 is a device such as a jet counter that counts game media (game balls, medals, etc.) obtained by the game by the player for exchange with prizes. Is output. The ticket vending machine 8 issues a prepaid card or the like used for a game, and outputs a “sales signal” relating to the sales at the time of ticketing. The safe 9 receives the cash received by the ticket vending machine 8 and the cash sand. A “deposit signal” relating to the deposit amount to the safe 9 is output. These “counting signal”, “sales signal”, and “payment signal” as operation information from the counter 7, the ticket vending machine 8, and the safe 9 are input to the information collecting terminal device 5. The information collecting terminal device 5 adds and calculates the count value, sales amount, and deposit amount of game media for a predetermined time to generate a cumulative value of operating information, and uses the cumulative value as cumulative data of the operating information. And output to the data collection device 3.

  The information collection terminal device 5 is connected to devices (such as six games) installed in the game hall, collects operation information output from these devices, and stores and stores the operation information. Then, based on the operation information, a cumulative value of the operation information for a predetermined period (for example, a cumulative value of the number of prize balls calculated based on the prize ball signal) is generated, and the cumulative value is used as cumulative data of the operation information. The data is transmitted to the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3. The cumulative value (cumulative data) of the operation information for a predetermined period generated by the information collection terminal device 5 is normally calculated for each business unit, but is configured to be calculated in units of weeks or months. Also good.

  Here, the business unit means from the start of the day to the end of the business, which starts earlier than the opening time and ends later than the closing time. The business hours of the day may be divided into morning and afternoon, and the business unit may be set for each hour. In addition, the business unit may be a plurality of days (for example, one week).

  In addition, the information collection terminal device 5 may be configured to be provided with an information disclosure device, a calling lamp, and the like that display the past operation status (the number of starts, the number of jackpots, etc.) of the gaming machine 6.

  In the present embodiment, the relay terminal 4 that relays information from the information collection terminal device 5 is provided for each island facility, but the information collection terminal device 5 is directly connected to the internal network without providing the relay terminal 4. You may comprise. Moreover, you may comprise so that the game machine 6 and an internal network may be directly connected not via the information collection terminal device 5 or the relay terminal 4. FIG.

  The data collection device 3 receives the accumulated data (cumulative value) of the operation information transmitted from the information collection terminal device 5, stores the accumulated value, and accumulates the operation information at the end of business at a predetermined timing. To the game hall external management device 2. The data collection device 3 may have a system clock function for transmitting information (for example, time information) necessary for operation of each device connected to the gaming system. This system clock provides time information to each device constituting the gaming system, so that operation information from each device can be collected according to the same time.

  As described above, if the data collection device 3 has a function necessary for the operation of the game system, the data collection device 3 fails or the data collection device 3 is removed. In a state where the collection device 3 does not collect the accumulated value (cumulative data) of the operation information, the gaming system does not operate, and the collection value of the operation information (cumulative data) is not collected by the data collection device 3. .

  The game hall external management device 2 is provided in a headquarters or an external organization that manages a game hall chain, and is connected to the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 via a network. The device 3 receives the cumulative value (cumulative data) of the operation information collected from the device installed in the game hall, stores and accumulates this data, and manages it.

  The communication port of the game management device 1 is connected to an external network (for example, an intranet, the Internet) outside the game hall via a telephone line network (for example, ISDN) or a regional IP network. It communicates with devices such as the game hall external management device 2 provided at the headquarters. When a device other than the game management device 1 such as the data collection device 3 communicates with a device provided outside the game hall, the game hall external management device 2 and the like via the communication port of the game management device 1 Communicate with devices provided outside the game hall.

  If the network between the game management device 1 and the game hall external management device 2 is a network used by an unspecified majority such as the Internet and is not connected by a dedicated line, the game management device When a virtual closed network (VPN) is set between 1 and the game hall external management device 2, data transferred between the game management device 1 and the game hall external management device 2 is not leaked to the outside. , The confidentiality of the management information of the amusement hall can be maintained.

  As described above, the game hall A has been mainly described. However, the same facilities are provided in the game hall B and the game hall C, and the game hall external management device 2 and the game management device provided in each game hall, It is configured to be able to transmit a cumulative value (cumulative data) of operation information to the game hall external management device 2 by communicating with the data collection device.

  FIG. 2 is a system configuration diagram showing another overall configuration of the gaming system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  The gaming system shown in FIG. 2 is configured not to connect to an external network through the communication port of the game management device 1 but to connect to the external network through the communication port of the data collection device 3.

  The communication port of the data collection device 3 is connected to an external network (for example, an intranet, the Internet) outside the game hall via a telephone line network (for example, ISDN) or a regional IP network. It communicates with devices, such as the game hall external management device 2 provided in. When a device other than the data collection device 3 such as the game management device 1 communicates with a device provided outside the game hall, the game hall external management device 2 or the like via the communication port of the data collection device 3 Communicate with devices provided outside the amusement hall. Thus, when the data collection device 3 is directly connected to an external network outside the game hall, information transmitted from the data collection device 3 to the game hall external management device 2 does not pass through the game management device 1. There is no possibility that information transmitted from the data collection device 3 to the game hall external management device 2 will be altered by the game management device 1.

  In the game system shown in FIG. 2, a virtual closed network (VPN) is set between the data collection device 3 and the game hall external management device 2 so as to keep the management information of the game hall confidential. .

In addition, you may comprise so that both the communication port of the management device 1 for games and the communication port of the data collection device 3 may be connected to an external network.
Next, the configuration of the information collection terminal device 5 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  The information collecting terminal device 5 is provided with a microprocessor 50, a power supply circuit, and a data input / output terminal. The configuration of the microprocessor 50 is shown in FIG.

  The microprocessor 50 is a one-chip type processor incorporating three CPUs 501 to 503, and incorporates three CPUs: a media access control CPU (MAC CPU) 501, a network CPU 502, and an application CPU 503. In addition, a common bus 504 for addresses and data to which these CPUs 501 to 503 are commonly connected has a memory used as a work area when a program is executed by the CPU as a memory used in common to each CPU. Are connected to a RAM 505, an EEPROM 507, which is a non-volatile memory, and a ROM 509 that stores programs in advance.

  The common bus 504 is also connected to a network communication port 510 and an I / O port 512 that control input / output with the outside. The network communication port 510 is a port for performing data communication according to a predetermined communication protocol, and the I / O port 512 is a parallel or serial input / output port.

  The EEPROM 507 is a non-volatile memory and stores information set in the information collection terminal device 5 such as network configuration and address designation information, identification code (48 bits), a control program, and the like. Except for the identification code, it can be rewritten by a program. The identification code is written in an unchangeable manner in the manufacturing process of the EEPROM 507, and a different code can be written for each chip. Since this identification code can be read from the outside via a network, it can be used for identification of the information collecting terminal device 5. That is, it is possible to know which information is output by which processor 50 (which information collection terminal device 5). A part of the EEPROM 507 that can be rewritten by the program and the ROM 509 store a program used for collecting operation information.

  The processor also includes a control circuit 514 that outputs control signals such as clocks and resets for the CPUs 501 to 503.

  The network communication port 510 of the microprocessor 50 is connected to a network connection terminal via a driver, and the relay terminal 4 is connected to the network connection terminal, and signals from the game hall management device 1 and the data collection device 3 are connected. (Data signals, command signals) are transmitted and received. The I / O port 512 is connected to an external input / output terminal via a driver, and data output from a device installed in a game room such as the gaming machine 6 and the counter 7 is connected to the external input / output terminal. Is entered.

  When operation information is input from a device installed in a game arcade such as the gaming machine 6 and the counter 7, the application CPU 503 calculates the accumulated value of the operation information, generates accumulated data of the operation information, and accumulates data generation means. Is formed. Further, the accumulated data of the generated operation information is output from the network communication port 510, and the MAC CPU 501, the network CPU 502, and the network communication port 510 use the accumulated data transmitting means (first accumulated data for transmitting data to the game management device). Transmitting means, second accumulated data transmitting means for transmitting data to the data collecting device 3).

  Next, the configuration of the data collection device 3 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the data collection device 3.

  The data collection device 3 includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302 that stores programs in advance, a RAM 303 that is a memory used as a work area when the CPU operates, a hard disk that stores various data, a non-volatile memory (flash memory, etc.) 304 is provided. The RAM 303 accumulates and stores the accumulated value (accumulated data) of the operation information transmitted by the information collecting terminal device 5, and constitutes accumulated data storage means. These CPU 301, ROM 302, RAM 303 and storage device 304 are connected by a bus 308. The bus 308 includes an address bus and a data bus that the CPU 302 uses for reading and writing data.

  The ROM 302 and RAM 303 store encryption keys for encrypted communication, and the CPU 301 constitutes encryption means.

  The bus 308 is connected to a communication interface 305 that controls input / output with the outside, an input interface 306, and an output interface 307. The communication interface 305 is a data input / output unit for performing data communication according to a predetermined communication protocol, and is connected to an internal network. The input interface 306 and the output interface 307 directly input / output data to / from the data collection device 3 and are connected to a maintenance input device (keyboard) and a display device (display).

  Note that the data collection device 3 sends data from another device to the data collection device 3 so as not to modify the cumulative value (cumulative data) of the operation information stored in the RAM 303 (cumulative data storage means). A key (password or the like) for accessing information stored in the collection device 3 is transmitted, and if the key does not match, the port of the data collection device 3 is not opened, and the data collection device 3 ( There is an access restriction means for restricting access to information (cumulative value, accumulated data) stored in the cumulative data storage means) and preventing alteration of the information. Also, the input interface 306 and the output interface 307 are configured to operate only when a special input / output device is connected, the input interface 306 is not provided with a terminal for connecting the input device, or data is input to the CPU. The access restriction means may be configured by setting so that the port for output cannot be used.

  Also, the accumulated data of the operation information collected by the data collection device 3 is transmitted to the game hall external management device 2 through the communication interface 305, and the accumulated data external transmission means is configured by the CPU 301 and the communication interface 305.

  The data collection device of the present embodiment stores the accumulated value of the operation information and outputs it to the game hall external management device via the network, but stores it in the RAM 303 (cumulative data storage means) via the output interface 307. A data output means for outputting the accumulated value (accumulated data) of the operation information is provided, and the data reading device connected to the output interface 307 can read the accumulated value of the operation information stored in the RAM 303. May be. Further, the accumulated value of the stored operation information may be taken out by a storage medium (flash memory, magnetic recording medium, etc.) to output data to the outside.

  Next, the configuration of the game management apparatus 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. The game management device 1 has the same configuration as the block diagram shown in FIG. However, it differs from the configuration of the data collection device 3 described above in the following points.

  First, an input device (keyboard, mouse, etc.) for operating the game management device 1 is connected to the input interface 306. The output interface 307 is connected to a display device (display) that displays data collected from the gaming machine 6 and the like, and an operating state of the gaming management device 1.

  The communication interface 305 is connected not only to the internal network but also to an external network outside the game arcade. Therefore, each device installed in the game arcade and connected by the network can communicate with a device connected to the external network via the game management device 1.

  Next, the configuration of the game hall external management device 2 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. The game hall external management device 2 has the same configuration as the block diagram shown in FIG. However, it differs from the configuration of the data collection device 3 described above in the following points.

  First, an input device (keyboard, mouse, etc.) for operating the game hall external management device 2 is connected to the input interface 306. A display device (display) that displays data collected from the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 is connected to the output interface 307.

  The communication interface 305 is connected to an external network outside the game arcade. Therefore, it is possible to communicate with the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 installed in each game hall.

  FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing processing when event information is generated in the gaming system according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  During the business time period, the gaming machine 6 is in operation, and a prize ball signal or the like in which a predetermined number (for example, 10) of prize balls has been discharged is output from the gaming machine 6 as operation information. Further, the counter 7 is also operating, a count signal is output from the counter 7, a sales signal is output from the ticket vending machine 8, and a deposit signal is output from the safe 9. These signals are input to the information collecting terminal device 5 as operation information.

  For example, from the gaming machine 6 that is the information source, a “prize ball signal” related to the discharge of a predetermined number (for example, 10) of prize balls, or the gaming machine 6 enters a special gaming state (big hit state). A “hit signal” related to the event is output. The operation information (prize ball signal) is input to the information collecting terminal device 5. The information collection terminal 5 determines whether or not the received operation information is information (event information) that should be immediately transmitted to the game management apparatus 1.

  That is, among the information output from the gaming machine 6, “ball break signal”, “symbol confirmation signal”, “hit signal”, “probability change signal”, “door opening signal” associated with the opening of the front frame of the gaming machine, The “call signal” accompanying the operation of the button is event information and is immediately transmitted to the game management apparatus 1. On the other hand, among the information output from the gaming machine 6, “prize ball signal”, “ball lending signal”, and “start signal” are not event information but accumulated information is collected by the information collection terminal device 5. Further, in an apparatus other than the gaming machine, an “error signal” indicating an abnormality of the apparatus is event information and is immediately transmitted to the gaming management apparatus 1. On the other hand, “counting signal”, “sales signal”, and “payment signal” are not event information, but accumulated values are totaled by the information collection terminal device 5. Note that whether or not it is event information may be set for each game hall depending on whether or not it is information required in real time in the operation of the game hall.

  When it is determined that the operation information collected by the information collection terminal device 5 is event information, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits the event information (for example, a ball break signal) to the game management device 1. Further, a part of event information (for example, big hit signal) adds up and sums up the operation information, generates a cumulative value as cumulative data based on the operation information, and stores the cumulative data.

  On the other hand, for operation information that is not event information, an accumulated value is generated as accumulated data based on the operation information, and the accumulated value is stored. Specifically, the number of game media discharged as a prize (prize ball discharge number), the number of game media discharged for lending (number of balls lent) for a predetermined time, and the cumulative value of the number of starts are added and calculated. Data is generated. The cumulative data of the operation information may be, for example, the cumulative added value of the number of prize balls, but is data obtained by processing the cumulative added value (for example, divided by a predetermined number or encoded). There may be.

  The accumulated data is output to the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 at a predetermined timing (every predetermined time, at the end of business) as will be described later with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram showing a process from business to business end of the gaming system according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  During the business hours, operation information such as a predetermined number (for example, 10) of prize balls being discharged in the gaming machine 6 is generated. When a prize ball signal is transmitted from the gaming machine 6, the operation information (prize ball signal) is input to the information collecting terminal device 5. The information collecting terminal device 5 receives a prize ball signal or the like, collects operating information, and calculates a cumulative value of the received and collected operating information. For example, the number of prize balls corresponding to the prize ball signal is added to the cumulative number of prize balls discharged to calculate the cumulative value of prize balls discharged. Then, the information collection terminal device 5 stores the accumulated value.

  The gaming management device 1 performs polling by transmitting a cumulative value request signal for requesting transmission of a cumulative value to the information collecting terminal device 5 every predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes). In response to this accumulated value transmission request, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits the accumulated value calculated and stored as accumulated data of operation information. The accumulated data transmitted from the information collecting terminal device 5 is transmitted with time information indicating its output time or sequence information (serial number) indicating its output order. As described above, when time information is added to the accumulated data and output, the accumulated data transfer error (transmission omission, reception error) omission can be detected from the time information interval of the transmitted accumulated data. Also, when order information is added to the accumulated data and output, it is determined whether or not the serial number of the accumulated data transmitted is continuous, thereby detecting a transfer error (transmission omission, reception error) of the accumulated data. be able to.

  When the game management device 1 receives the cumulative value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the game management device 1 performs a process of accumulating the cumulative value and manages the transition of the business state.

  At the end of the business, when the game machine 6 and the game-related devices (counter 7, ticket vending machine 8, safe 9 etc.) installed in the game hall are finished, the attendant of the game hall operates with the game management device 1. End operation. When this business end operation is performed, the game management apparatus 1 performs polling by transmitting a cumulative value request signal for requesting transmission of the cumulative value to the information collecting terminal device 5. The cumulative value request signal transmitted after the end of business is transmitted with a flag indicating that it is a final cumulative value transmission request.

  In response to this cumulative value transmission request, the information collecting terminal device 5 sends the calculated and stored cumulative value as final cumulative value and transmits it to the game management device 1 as cumulative data of operation information.

  The cumulative value transmission request accompanying the end of business may be a method of polling the information collection terminal device 5 in order from the game management device 1 to each device connected to the internal network from the game management device 1. Alternatively, a business end signal may be broadcast (broadcast). In addition, in order to prevent duplication of the transmission timing of the accumulated value from each information collection terminal device 5 when the business end signal is broadcast from the game management device 1, the information collection terminal device 5 uses a random number to It may be configured to determine a time from reception of the end signal to transmission of the accumulated value.

  When the game management device 1 receives the accumulated value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the game management device 1 performs a process of accumulating the accumulated value and performs a counting process for each business unit (for example, every business day). After receiving the accumulated value of the operation information from the information collecting terminal device 5, the game management device 1 transmits the final accumulated value at the end of business as accumulated data of the operation information to the game hall external management device 2.

  At the end of business, the information collecting terminal device 5 determines by itself the business end of the game hall (the business end determination by the information collecting terminal device 5 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8). Then, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits the final cumulative value determined based on the signal from the game management device 1 to the data collection device 3. If the final accumulated value is determined and transmitted as accumulated data in this way, it can be assured that the accumulated data transmitted to the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 are the same data.

  When the data collection device 3 receives the cumulative value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the data collection device 3 adds the cumulative value, classifies the cumulative value received from the plurality of information collection terminal devices 5 by type, and the cumulative value The total value for each type is obtained, the final cumulative value is determined, and stored in the storage means. Then, the data collection device 3 transmits the final cumulative value at the end of business as cumulative data of operation information to the game hall external management device 2. This final cumulative value may be a total value for each island instead of a total value at the game hall, or a cumulative value for each collection terminal device 5 unit may be the final cumulative value.

  As described above, the microprocessor 50 of the information collecting terminal device 5 determines the end of business based on the signal from the game management device 1 or determines the end of business itself, thereby configuring the final accumulated data determination means.

  The final accumulated value of the operation information at the end of business transmitted from the data collection terminal 3 to the game hall external management device 2 is encrypted and transmitted via the game management device 1. That is, the data collection device 3 is provided with an encryption means for encrypting the cumulative value of the operation information, and the game hall external management device 2 decrypts the cumulative value of the encrypted operation information transmitted by the data collection device 3. A decoding means is provided. This encryption can be realized by using a method such as public key encryption for encryption / decryption keys in the encryption means of the data collection device 3 and the decryption means of the game hall external management device 2.

  In addition to the final accumulated value transmitted from the data collection terminal 3 to the game hall external management device 2, a hash value of the transmission data (final accumulated value) is obtained and transmitted to the game hall external management device 2. By comparing the two, it can be confirmed whether the final cumulative value data has been altered in the middle. As described above, when the accumulated value of the operation information at the end of business transmitted from the information collecting terminal device 5 to the game hall external management device 2 is encrypted and transmitted, or the alteration prevention method is used, the game management device 1 It is possible to prevent the final accumulated value of the operation information at the end of business transmitted from the information collecting terminal device 5 to the game hall external management device 2 from being altered.

  Also, without sending the final cumulative value of the operation information at the end of business from the data collection terminal 3 to the game hall external management device 2, the operation information at the time of business end is sent from the data collection terminal 3 to the game hall external management device 2. Only the hash value obtained from the final accumulated value of the game is sent, and the hash value obtained from the final accumulated value of the operation information at the time of closing of business stored in the game management device 1 is compared with the hash value obtained later You may comprise so that it may verify whether the last accumulation value of the operation information at the time of the business completion memorize | stored in the management apparatus 1 has been changed.

  In the first embodiment, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits to the game management device 1 an accumulated value of operation information at the end of business based on polling from the game management device 1, and data The collection device 3 is configured to determine the end of the game hall itself and transmit the cumulative value of the operation information at the end of the operation, but as in a second embodiment (FIG. 9) to be described later. In addition, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits the accumulated value of the operation information at the end of business to the game management device 1 based on the polling from the game management device 1, and based on the polling from the data collection device 3. The accumulated value of the operation information at the end of business may be transmitted to the data collection device 3, and the information collection terminal device 5 may be configured as in a third embodiment (FIG. 10) to be described later. Based on polling from the game management device 1 It may be configured to transmit the cumulative value of the operational information at the close of business for both gaming management apparatus 1 and the data collection system 3.

  In addition, the information collection terminal device 5 is configured to determine the end of the game hall itself and transmit the cumulative value of the operation information at the end of the operation to both the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3. As in a second embodiment (FIG. 9) to be described later, the information collection terminal device 5 may receive the game management device 1 and data collection based on the business end notification from the game management device 1. The cumulative value of the operation information at the time of closing of business may be transmitted to both of the devices 3, and the data collection device 3 can play a game as in a third embodiment (FIG. 10) to be described later. The information collection terminal device 5 determines the business end of the place by itself and informs the information collection terminal device 5 of the business end, and the information collection terminal device 5 provides the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 with the operation information at the time of the business end. The cumulative value may be transmitted.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing signals transmitted during business in the gaming system according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  In the gaming machine 6 that is the information source, when a predetermined number (for example, 10) of winning balls is discharged, a “prize ball signal” is output, or when the gaming machine 6 enters a special gaming state (a big hit state), When the “hit signal” is output, these signals are input to the information collecting terminal device 5 as operation information ((1) in the figure).

  When the information collection terminal device 5 receives the operation information from the information source (the gaming machine 6), it broadcasts the operating signal within the internal network ((2) in the figure). If this operating signal is a short signal, even if broadcast transmission is performed, the load on the network is not increased to the extent that the network is affected.

  Then, this operating signal is received by another information collecting terminal device 5 ((3) in the figure). The information collection terminal device 5 that has received the in-operation signal knows that the other information collection terminal device 5 is in operation and the game system is in operation, and knows that the game store is in operation. it can.

  Further, as will be described later (FIG. 8), the information collecting terminal device 5 transmits an operating signal after a predetermined transmission waiting time while the information source (the gaming machine 6) is operating. When the operating signal transmitted by the other information collecting terminal device 5 is received, the operating signal is transmitted after a predetermined transmission waiting time. As will be described later, the predetermined transmission waiting time is determined by a random number so that operating signals from a plurality of information collecting terminal devices 5 collide with each other so that an unnecessary load is not given to the network.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the business determination process executed in the information collection terminal device 5 of the gaming system according to the first embodiment of this invention.

  In the business determination process shown in the drawing, the monitoring process (S101 to S104) of the operating state of the apparatus connected to the information collecting terminal apparatus 5 is performed.

  The information collection terminal device 5 is a signal (award ball signal, count signal, sales signal) output from a device (game machine 6, counter 7, ticket vending machine 8, safe 9) connected to the information collection terminal device 5. Etc.) to determine whether or not these devices are in operation (S101). When a signal (operation information) associated with the operation is output from these devices and it is determined that the device is operating, an operation flag is set (set to 1), and the connected device is in an operating state. (S102), the monitoring timer is initialized (reset), and a new monitoring time is set (S103). Then, the process proceeds to an operation signal reception process (S105 to S108).

  On the other hand, if these devices are not in the operating state, the monitoring timer reaches a predetermined time and times out, and it is determined whether or not the predetermined monitoring time has elapsed (S104). If the monitoring timer has not reached the predetermined time, the monitoring of the operating state of the device connected to the information collecting terminal device 5 has not been completed. The process proceeds to reception processing (S105 to S108) of the operating signal from the collection terminal device 5.

  On the other hand, if the monitoring timer reaches a predetermined time and times out, the device connected to the information collecting terminal device 5 does not enter the operating state during the predetermined monitoring time, and the other information collecting terminal device 5 Since no operating signal has been received, it is determined that none of the devices installed in the game arcade is in an operational state and that the game hall has been closed (S115).

  Next, an operation signal reception process (S105 to S108) from another information collecting terminal device 5 is performed.

  First, it is determined whether or not a working signal broadcast from another information collecting terminal device 5 has been received (S105). When the operating signal broadcast from the other information collecting terminal device 5 is received, the monitoring timer is initialized (reset), and a new monitoring time is set (S106). Then, a transmission timer for determining the timing for transmitting the next operating signal is initialized (reset). Thereafter, since a new signal waiting time during operation starts, the operation flag is initialized (cleared to 0) (S108). Then, the process proceeds to the operation signal transmission process (S109 to S113).

  In this step S107, the time set in the transmission timer is determined by a random number, and a different time is set for each information collection terminal device 5. That is, when a certain information collection terminal device 5 transmits an operating signal, the information collection terminal device 5 that has received this signal initializes the transmission timer almost simultaneously, so that when the time set in the transmission timer is the same, Since the transmission timer of the information collection terminal device 5 times out almost simultaneously, the operating signals are transmitted from the plurality of information collection terminal devices 5 almost simultaneously, and there arises a problem that the unnecessary load of the network increases due to the collision. The time set in the transmission timer is determined by a random number so that the transmission timing of the active signal from each information collecting terminal device 5 is shifted.

  On the other hand, if the operating signal broadcast from the other information collecting terminal device 5 is not received, the process proceeds to the operating signal transmission process (S109 to S113) without performing any process.

  Next, an operation signal transmission process (S109 to S113) is performed.

  First, it is determined whether the transmission timer for determining the transmission timing of the operating signal has timed out and a predetermined transmission waiting time has elapsed (S109). If the transmission waiting time set in the transmission timer has elapsed, it is determined whether or not the operation flag is set (set to 1) (S110).

  If the operation flag is set (set to 1), the apparatus connected to the information collecting terminal apparatus 5 is in an operating state during the transmission waiting time, so that an operating signal is broadcast (S115). ). Then, in order to determine the transmission timing of the next active signal, a transmission timer is initialized using a random number (S112). Then, since a new operating signal transmission waiting time starts, the operating flag is initialized (cleared to 0) (S117), and this business determination process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the transmission waiting time set in the transmission timer has not elapsed or the operation flag is not set, this business determination process is terminated without performing any process.

  In this manner, the business end determination unit is configured by executing the above-described business determination processing in the microprocessor 50 of the information collection terminal device 5.

  It should be noted that the information collection terminal device 5 determines the end of business also by a method such as inferring the business end time from preset business hours information or the past business end time, regardless of the business determination process described above. You can also

  As described above, in the first embodiment, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits the cumulative value (cumulative data) of the operation information at the end of business to the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3. Then, the game management device 1 transmits the final cumulative value of the operation information at the time of the business end to the game hall external management device 2 based on the business end operation, and the data collection device 3 determines the business end by itself and plays the game. Since the final cumulative value of the operation information at the end of business is transmitted to the outside management device 2, the data collection device 3 transmits the final cumulative value of the operation information regardless of the operation of the game management device 1. Then, in the game hall external management device 2, the final cumulative value transmitted from the game management device 1 is compared with the final cumulative value transmitted from the data collection device 3 to be accumulated in the game management device 1. It is possible to confirm the validity of the accumulated value of the operation information, and to confirm the presence or absence of fraud by operating the game management apparatus 1.

  FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing processing from during business to the end of business of the gaming system according to the second embodiment of this invention.

  During the business time period, the gaming machine 6 is in operation, and a prize ball signal or the like in which a predetermined number (for example, 10) of prize balls has been discharged is output from the gaming machine 6 as operation information. Further, the counter 7 is also operating, a count signal is output from the counter 7, a sales signal is output from the ticket vending machine 8, and a deposit signal is output from the safe 9. These signals are input to the information collecting terminal device 5 as operation information.

  When operation information such as a prize ball signal from the gaming machine 6 and a count signal from the ticket vending machine 8 is output, the operation information (award ball signal, rental signal, count signal, sales signal, deposit signal) is collected. Input to the terminal device 5. The information collecting terminal device 5 collects operation information by receiving a prize ball signal or the like. If the received and collected operation information is event information, the event information is immediately transmitted to the game management apparatus 1. The processing related to the transmission of the event information is the same as that in the first embodiment (FIG. 5).

  Moreover, if the received operation information requires calculation of a cumulative value, the information collection terminal device 5 calculates the cumulative value of the operation information. For example, the cumulative number of game media is calculated by adding the number of game media counted from the counter 7 to the cumulative number of game media stored. Then, the information collection terminal device 5 stores the accumulated value.

  The gaming management device 1 performs polling by transmitting a cumulative value request signal for requesting transmission of a cumulative value to the information collecting terminal device 5 every predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes). In response to this accumulated value transmission request, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits the accumulated value calculated and stored as accumulated data of operation information. When the game management device 1 receives the cumulative value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the game management device 1 performs a process of accumulating the cumulative value and manages the transition of the business state.

  Further, the data collection device 3 also performs polling by transmitting a cumulative value request signal for requesting transmission of the cumulative value to the information collection terminal device 5 every predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes). In response to this accumulated value transmission request, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits the accumulated value calculated and stored as accumulated data of operation information. And the data collection device 3 will perform the process which accumulate | stores a cumulative value, if the cumulative value of operation information is received from the information collection terminal device 5. FIG.

  At the end of the business, when the gaming machine 6 and game-related devices (counter 7, ticket vending machine 8, safe 9 etc.) installed in the game hall are finished, the attendant at the game hall operates the game management device 1. End operation. When this business end operation is performed, the game management device 1 broadcasts a business end signal to each device (including the information collection terminal device 5) connected to the internal network. In response to this business end notification signal, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits the same data to the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 as the accumulated data of the calculated and stored operation data. The transmission timing of the accumulated value from the information collecting terminal device 5 is determined by a random number in the information collecting terminal device 5 in order to prevent duplication of accumulated values transmitted from different information collecting terminal devices 5. The time from reception to transmission of the cumulative value is determined.

  The business end notification signal may be transmitted by broadcasting the game management apparatus 1 or may be notified by a method of transmitting the information from the game management apparatus 1 to each information collection terminal device 5 in order.

  In addition, the information collection terminal device 5 does not transmit the cumulative value (cumulative data) of the operation information to the data collection device 3 separately from the data for the game management device 1, but the data collection device 3 plays the game. The cumulative value of the operation information addressed to the management apparatus 1 may be acquired. Specifically, the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 are connected to different ports of the switching hub, and the port to which the data collection device 3 is connected is a mirror port of the port to which the game management device 1 is connected. Since all packet signals such as data transmitted to the game management device 1 are also output to the port to which the data collection device 3 is connected, the data collection device 3 is connected to the game management device 1. The addressed data can be acquired.

  In addition, the information collection terminal device 5 does not transmit the accumulated value (cumulative data) of the operation information to the data collection device 3 separately from the data for the game management device 1, but the game management device 1 The accumulated value of the received operation information is transmitted to the data collection device 3, or the accumulated value of the operation information received by the data collection device 3 is transmitted to the game management device 1, so that the data collection device 3 manages the game. A cumulative value of the same operation information as that of the device 1 may be collected.

  Then, when the game management device 1 receives the cumulative value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the game management device 1 performs a process of accumulating the cumulative value and performs count management of business units (for example, every business day). When the data collection device 3 receives the cumulative value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the data collection device 3 accumulates the received cumulative value until there is a cumulative value transmission request from the game hall external management device 2.

  Furthermore, after receiving the cumulative value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the game management device 1 transmits the final cumulative value at the end of business as cumulative data of the operation information to the game hall external management device 2. To do. When the game hall external management device 2 receives the cumulative value of the operation information at the end of business from the game management device 1, it accumulates the received cumulative value. Then, a cumulative value transmission request for requesting transmission of the cumulative value is transmitted to the data collection device 3.

  When the data collection device 3 receives the cumulative value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the data collection device 3 adds the cumulative value, classifies the cumulative value received from the plurality of information collection terminal devices 5 by type, and the cumulative value The total value for each type is obtained, the final cumulative value is determined, and stored in the storage means. When the cumulative value transmission request from the game hall external management device 2 is received, the final cumulative value at the end of business is transmitted to the game hall external management device 2 as cumulative data of operation information. The accumulated value of the operation information transmitted from the information collecting terminal device 5 to the game hall external management device 2 at the end of the business is encrypted, or the management value for the game is transmitted by a method of separately transmitting the hash value of the transmission data. It is possible to prevent modification of the final accumulated value of the operation information at the end of business transmitted from the data collection device 3 to the game hall external management device 2 in the device 1.

  Then, when the game hall external management device 2 receives the final cumulative value of the operation information from the data collection device 3, it accumulates the received final cumulative value.

  In the present embodiment, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits the final cumulative value of the operation information at the end of business to the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 based on polling from the game management device 1. However, the information collecting terminal device 5 determines the end of the game hall itself and transmits the accumulated value of the operation information at the end of the operation to the game management device 1 and the data collecting device 3. You may comprise as follows.

  In the second embodiment, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits the accumulated value of the operation information at the time of business closing to the game management device 1 based on the polling from the game management device 1, and the data collection device 3 is configured to transmit the accumulated value of the operation information at the end of business to the data collection device 3 based on the polling from 3, but the information collection as in the above-described first embodiment (FIG. 6) The terminal device 5 transmits to the game management device 1 the accumulated value of the operation information at the end of business based on the polling from the game management device 1, and to the data collection device 3 the game room It may be configured to determine the end of the operation by itself and transmit the cumulative value of the operation information at the end of the operation, and the information collection terminal device 5 may be configured as in a third embodiment (FIG. 10) described later. Based on polling from the game management device 1 It may be configured to transmit the cumulative value of the operational information at the close of business for both gaming management apparatus 1 and the data collection system 3.

  Further, in the second embodiment, the information collection terminal device 5 is informed of both the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 at the time of business termination based on the business end notification from the game management device 1. The accumulated value of the operation information is transmitted, but the information collecting terminal device 5 determines that the game hall is closed by itself, and when both the game management device 1 and the data collecting device 3 are closed. It may be configured to transmit the accumulated value of the operation information of the game, and as in a third embodiment (FIG. 10) to be described later, the data collection device 3 determines the end of business at the game hall by itself and determines the information. The collection terminal device 5 is notified of the end of business, and the information collection terminal device 5 is configured to transmit the accumulated value of the operation information at the time of business end to both the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3. Also good.

  As described above, in the second embodiment, the information collection terminal device 5 notifies the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 at the time of the business end based on the business end notification signal from the game management device 1. The cumulative value (cumulative data) of operation information is transmitted. Since the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 separately transmit the final accumulated value of the operation information at the end of business to the game hall external management device 2, the game hall external management device 2 The validity of the cumulative value of the operation information accumulated in the game management device 1 is confirmed by comparing the final cumulative value transmitted from the management device 1 with the final cumulative value transmitted from the data collection device 3 can do.

  FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing processing from business to business end of the gaming system according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

  During the business time period, the gaming machine 6 is in operation, and a prize ball signal or the like in which a predetermined number (for example, 10) of prize balls has been discharged is output from the gaming machine 6 as operation information. Further, the counter 7 is also operating, a count signal is output from the counter 7, a sales signal is output from the ticket vending machine 8, and a deposit signal is output from the safe 9. These signals are input to the information collecting terminal device 5 as operation information.

  When operation information such as a prize ball signal from the gaming machine 6 and a count signal from the ticket vending machine 8 is output, the operation information (award ball signal, rental signal, count signal, sales signal, deposit signal) is collected. Input to the terminal device 5. The information collecting terminal device 5 collects operation information by receiving a prize ball signal or the like. If the received and collected operation information is event information, the event information is immediately transmitted to the game management apparatus 1. The processing related to the transmission of the event information is the same as that in the first embodiment (FIG. 5).

  Moreover, if the received operation information requires calculation of a cumulative value, the information collection terminal device 5 calculates the cumulative value of the operation information. For example, the cumulative value of the sales is calculated by adding the sales of the prepaid card output from the ticket vending machine 8 to the cumulative sales. Then, the information collection terminal device 5 stores the accumulated value.

  The gaming management device 1 performs polling by transmitting a cumulative value request signal for requesting transmission of a cumulative value to the information collecting terminal device 5 every predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes). In response to this accumulated value transmission request, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits the accumulated value calculated and stored as accumulated data of operation information. When the game management device 1 receives the cumulative value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the game management device 1 performs a process of accumulating the cumulative value and manages the transition of the business state.

  Further, in response to the cumulative value request signal from the game management device 1, the information collection terminal device 5 uses the calculated and stored cumulative value (the same data as that transmitted to the game management device 1) as cumulative data of operation information. The data is also transmitted to the data collection device 3. And the data collection device 3 will perform the process which accumulate | stores a cumulative value, if the cumulative value of operation information is received from the information collection terminal device 5. FIG. The information collection terminal device 5 does not transmit the accumulated value of the operation information separately from the data for the game management device 1 to the data collection device 3, but the data collection device 3 does not transmit the accumulated value of the operation information. You may comprise so that the accumulation value of operation information addressed may be acquired. Specifically, as described above, the data collection device 3 is addressed to the game management device 1 by connecting the data collection device 3 to the mirror port of the port of the switching hub to which the game management device 1 is connected. Data can be obtained.

  When the game machine 6 and game-related devices (counter 7, ticket vending machine 8, safe 9 etc.) installed in the game hall are finished at the end of the business, the data collection device 3 Judge yourself. The business end determination by the data collection device 3 is performed by monitoring whether the accumulated value of the operation information is transmitted using a timer in the same manner as the determination by the information collection terminal device 5. That is, by connecting the data collection device 3 to the mirror port of the switching hub to which the game management device 1 is connected, the data transmitted from the information collection terminal device 5 to the game management device 1 can be transmitted. It can be acquired, and it can be determined whether or not the cumulative value of the operation information is transmitted from the information collecting terminal device 5 to the game management device 1. If the accumulated value of the operation information is not transmitted from the information collection terminal device 5 to the game management device 1 for a predetermined time, none of the devices installed in the game hall is in an operational state, and the game hall business is ended. It is determined that

  As described above, the CPU 301 of the data collection device 3 determines the end of business based on the frequency at which the cumulative value data is transmitted to the game management device 1, or determines the final cumulative data determination means by determining the end of business itself. Composed.

  When the data collection device 3 determines the end of business, the data collection device 3 broadcasts a business end signal to each device connected to the internal network to notify the end of business. The information collecting terminal device 5 that has received the business end signal determines the final accumulated value and transmits the accumulated value as accumulated data to the game management device 1 and the data collecting device 3. At this time, in order to prevent duplication of the transmission timing of the accumulated value from each information collecting terminal device 5, the information collecting terminal device 5 determines the time from reception of the business end signal to transmission of the accumulated value by a random number. It may be configured as follows.

  Then, when the game management device 1 receives the cumulative value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the game management device 1 performs a process of accumulating the cumulative value and performs count management of business units (for example, every business day). When the data collection device 3 receives the cumulative value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the data collection device 3 accumulates the received cumulative value until there is a cumulative value transmission request from the game hall external management device 2.

  Furthermore, after receiving the cumulative value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the game management device 1 transmits the final cumulative value at the end of business as cumulative data of the operation information to the game hall external management device 2. To do. When the game hall external management device 2 receives the cumulative value of the operation information at the end of business from the game management device 1, it accumulates the received cumulative value. Then, a cumulative value transmission request for requesting transmission of the cumulative value is transmitted to the data collection device 3.

  When the data collection device 3 receives the cumulative value of the operation information from the information collection terminal device 5, the data collection device 3 adds the cumulative value, classifies the cumulative value received from the plurality of information collection terminal devices 5 by type, and the cumulative value The total value for each type is obtained, the final cumulative value is determined, and stored in the storage means. When the cumulative value transmission request from the game hall external management device 2 is received, the final cumulative value at the end of business is transmitted to the game hall external management device 2 as cumulative data of operation information. The accumulated value of the operation information transmitted from the information collecting terminal device 5 to the game hall external management device 2 at the end of the business is encrypted, or the management value for the game is transmitted by a method of separately transmitting the hash value of the transmission data. It is possible to prevent modification of the final accumulated value of the operation information at the end of business transmitted from the data collection device 3 to the game hall external management device 2 in the device 1.

  Then, when the game hall external management device 2 receives the final cumulative value of the operation information from the data collection device 3, it accumulates the received final cumulative value.

  In the present embodiment, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits the final cumulative value of the operation information at the end of business to the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 based on polling from the game management device 1. However, the information collecting terminal device 5 determines the end of the game hall itself and transmits the accumulated value of the operation information at the end of the operation to the game management device 1 and the data collecting device 3. You may comprise as follows.

  In the third embodiment, the information collection terminal device 5 accumulates operation information at the end of business for both the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 based on polling from the game management device 1. Although the configuration is such that the value is transmitted, as in the first embodiment (FIG. 6) described above, the information collection terminal device 5 sends the game management device 1 from the game management device 1. Based on the polling, the cumulative value of the operation information at the end of business is transmitted, and the data collection device 3 determines itself that the game hall is closed and transmits the cumulative value of the operation information at the end of business. As in the second embodiment (FIG. 9) described above, the information collecting terminal device 5 is closed with respect to the game management device 1 based on the polling from the game management device 1. Data collection device that sends the cumulative value of operating information at the time It may be configured to transmit the cumulative value of the operational information at the close of business to the data collection system 3 based on the polling from.

  In the third embodiment, the data collection device 3 itself determines the end of business at the game hall, notifies the information collection terminal device 5 of the end of business, and the information collection terminal device 5 manages the game management device 1. The cumulative value of the operation information at the end of business is transmitted to both the data collection device 3 and the data collection device 3. However, as in the second embodiment (FIG. 9) described above, the information collection terminal device 5 Based on the business end notification from the game management device 1, the cumulative value of the operation information at the time of business end may be transmitted to both the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3, The information collecting terminal device 5 is configured to determine by itself the end of the game hall business and transmit the cumulative value of the operation information at the time of business end to both the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3. Also good.

  As described above, in the third embodiment, the information collection terminal device 5 sends the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 at the time of business termination based on the cumulative value request signal from the game management device 1. The cumulative value (cumulative data) of operation information is transmitted. Since this accumulated value request signal is the same as the accumulated value request signal transmitted from the game management device 1 during business, the processing in the information collection terminal device 5 and the game management device 1 can be simplified.

  Since the game management device 1 and the data collection device 3 separately transmit the final accumulated value of the operation information at the end of business to the game hall external management device 2, the game hall external management device 2 The validity of the cumulative value of the operation information accumulated in the game management device 1 is confirmed by comparing the final cumulative value transmitted from the management device 1 with the final cumulative value transmitted from the data collection device 3 can do.

  FIG. 11 is a timing chart of the game system according to the embodiment of this invention. In this figure, T2 indicates the opening time, and T3 indicates the closing time. The information collection time is set as a time including business hours, and the staff of the game hall starts collecting information by instructing the game management device 1 to start business prior to opening the store (T1). In addition, when all the players leave after closing the store and the operation of the gaming machine 6 and game-related equipment (counter 7, ticket vending machine, safe 9 etc.) stops, the attendant of the gaming hall is closed to the game management device 1 Information collection is terminated (T4). One business unit is from the start of business (T1) to the end of business (T4) of the day, starting earlier than the opening time (T2) and later than the closing time (T3).

  In addition, by setting the business start time (T1) and the business end time (T4) as appropriate, it is possible to count in multiple business units such as a week or a month, or in a predetermined time unit (for example, one hour unit). It can also be configured to aggregate.

  When the game management device 1 performs a business start operation (input of business start), the information collection terminal device 5 is notified of a business start notification signal from the game management device 1 to the information collection terminal device 5. The information collection terminal device 5 clears the accumulated value accumulated in the previous business unit by this business start notification signal, and performs an initialization process for collecting information in the business unit to be started from now. The initialization of the accumulated value of the operation information accumulated in the previous business unit may be performed from the transmission of the accumulated value to the game hall external management device 2 until the start of the collection of the operation information of the next business unit.

  Then, collection of sales information is started. During business hours, the information collection terminal device 5 collects operation information from the gaming machine 6, counter 7, ticket vending machine 8, safe 9, etc., calculates the operation information, calculates a cumulative value, and operates. Generate cumulative information.

  When a business end instruction is given to the game management apparatus 1, a business end instruction is sent from the game management apparatus 1 to the information collection terminal device 5. The information collection terminal 5 ends the information collection time and the collection of the operation information by this business end notification. Then, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits a cumulative value (cumulative data of operation information) to the game management device 1. The game management device 1 stores the received cumulative value. Further, the information collection terminal device 5 transmits a cumulative value (cumulative data of operation information) to the data collection device 3. The data collection device 3 stores the received cumulative value.

  Then, the game management device 1 transmits the final cumulative value (cumulative data of operation information) to the game hall external management device 2. The data collection device 3 also transmits the final cumulative value (cumulative data of operation information) to the game hall external management device 2.

  The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and non-restrictive in every respect. The scope of the present invention is defined not by the above description of the invention but by the scope of the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the scope of the claims.

1 is a system configuration diagram of a gaming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is another system block diagram of the game system of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the microprocessor used for the information collection terminal device 5 of embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the data collection device 3 of embodiment of this invention. It is a sequence diagram at the time of event information generation of the game system of a 1st embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram from during business to the end of business of the gaming system according to the first embodiment of this invention. It is the block diagram which showed the signal transmitted during business of the game system of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart of the business determination process of the game system of the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a sequence diagram from during business to the end of business of the gaming system of the second embodiment of the present invention. It is a sequence diagram from during business to the end of business of the gaming system of the third embodiment of the present invention. It is a timing diagram of the game system of the embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game management device 2 Game hall external management device 3 Data collection device 4 Relay terminal 5 Information collection terminal device 6 Game machine 7 Counter 8 Ticket vending machine 9 Safe

Claims (24)

An information collection terminal device that collects operation information from at least one of a gaming machine installed in the game hall and a device related to the balance of the game hall;
A game management device for collecting operation information collected by the information collection terminal device;
A data collection device that operates separately from the game management device and collects operation information that can be compared with the operation information collected by the game management device;
A game system comprising: the information collection terminal device, the game management device, and a network connecting the data collection device,
The information collection terminal device includes a cumulative data generation unit that calculates the collected operation information and generates cumulative data for a predetermined period, and a cumulative data transmission unit that transmits the cumulative data to the network.
The game system, wherein the data collection device comprises cumulative data storage means for storing cumulative data transmitted by the information collection terminal device, and cumulative data output means for outputting the cumulative data.   The information collection terminal device includes a final cumulative data determination unit that determines the cumulative data as final cumulative data when the cumulative data is based on a cumulative value at the end of one unit of business. The game system according to claim 1, wherein the game system is characterized.   2. The information collecting terminal device according to claim 1, wherein when the final accumulated data is determined, the information collecting terminal device transmits the final accumulated data to the game management device and also transmits the final accumulated data to the data collecting device. Or the game system of 2.   4. The gaming system according to claim 2, wherein the final accumulated data determining means determines final accumulated data based on a notification of the end of one unit of business from the gaming management device. The information collection terminal device is a unit of business depending on whether operation information from the gaming machine or a device related to the balance of the game hall or a signal from another information collection terminal device is received in a predetermined period. Business end determination means for determining the end of
The game system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the final cumulative data determination unit determines final cumulative data based on a determination result of the business end determination unit. The data collection device depends on whether or not the operation information from the game machine or the device related to the balance of the game hall transmitted from the information collection terminal device to the game management device is received in a predetermined period. , An end of business determination means for determining the end of a unit of business,
Based on the determination result of the business end determination means, final cumulative data determination means for determining final cumulative data;
The game system according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising:   The cumulative data transmission means includes first cumulative data transmission means for transmitting the cumulative data to the game management apparatus, and second cumulative data transmission means for transmitting the cumulative data to the data collection apparatus. The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising:   When there is a request for transmission of the cumulative value from the game management device, the first cumulative data transmission unit transmits the cumulative value to the game management device, and the second cumulative data transmission unit performs the data collection. The game system according to claim 7, wherein the cumulative value is transmitted to a device. The cumulative data transmission means includes first cumulative data transmission means for transmitting the cumulative data to the game management device,
The game system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the data collection device acquires the accumulated data transmitted by the first accumulated data transmission unit to the game management device.   The game system according to claim 1, wherein the data collection device requests the information collection terminal device to transmit the cumulative value.   The game system according to claim 1, wherein the data collection device includes an access restriction unit that restricts access to the accumulated data stored in the accumulated data storage unit. The data collection device is communicably connected to a game hall external management device provided outside the game hall via a communication line,
The game system according to claim 1, wherein the data collection device includes a cumulative data external transmission unit that transmits the final cumulative data to the game hall external management device. The final cumulative data is based on cumulative values at the end of one unit of business,
The cumulative data external transmission means transmits the final cumulative data to the game hall external management device between the end of the business unit and the start of the next business unit. 12. The gaming system according to 12. The final cumulative data is based on cumulative values at the end of one unit of business,
12. The cumulative data transmission unit transmits the final cumulative data to the data collection device between the end of the business unit and the start of the next business unit. The gaming system according to any one of the above. An information collection terminal device that collects operation information from at least one of a gaming machine installed in a game hall and a device related to the balance of the game hall, and a game management device that collects operation information collected by the information collection terminal device, A data collection device connected via a network,
Information collecting means that operates separately from the game management device and collects the same operation information as the operation information collected by the information collection terminal device;
Acquire cumulative data generated based on operation information transmitted from the information collection terminal device to the game management device;
A data collection device comprising: cumulative data storage means for storing the cumulative data; and cumulative data output means for outputting the cumulative data. Depending on whether or not the operation information from the gaming machine or the device related to the balance of the game hall transmitted to the gaming management device by the information collecting terminal device has been received in a predetermined period, An end-of-business determining means for determining the end;
16. The data collection device according to claim 15, further comprising final cumulative data determination means for determining final cumulative data based on a determination result of the business end determination means.   17. The data collection device according to claim 15, further comprising an access restriction unit that restricts access to the accumulated data stored in the accumulated data storage unit. Having a communication means for communicating with a game hall external management device provided outside the game hall through a communication line;
18. The accumulated external data transmission means for transmitting the final cumulative data in order to store the final cumulative data in the game hall external management device, according to claim 15. Data collection device. The cumulative data is based on the cumulative value at the end of one unit of business,
The cumulative data external transmission means transmits the cumulative data to the game hall external management device between the end of the business unit and the start of the next business unit. The data collection device according to any one of 15 to 18. Collects operation information from at least one of gaming machines installed in the game hall and devices related to the balance of the game hall, and transmits game data based on the operation information to the game management device that collects the operation information via the network An information collecting terminal device,
A cumulative data generating means for calculating the collected operation information and generating cumulative data for a predetermined period; a cumulative data transmitting means for transmitting the cumulative data to the network;
Final cumulative data determination means for determining whether or not the cumulative data is final cumulative data based on a cumulative value when one unit of business ends.
Business end determination means for determining the end of one unit of business depending on whether operation information or a signal from another information collection terminal device is received from the gaming machine or a device related to the balance of the game hall in a predetermined period. And
The final accumulated data determining means determines final accumulated data based on a determination result of the business end determining means. Operated separately from the game management device, connected to the data collection device that collects operation information that can be compared with the operation information collected by the game management device, and communicably connected via the network,
21. The information collecting terminal device according to claim 20, wherein when the final accumulated data is determined, the final accumulated data is transmitted to the game management device, and the final accumulated data is also transmitted to the data collecting device. . Operated separately from the game management device, connected to the data collection device that collects operation information that can be compared with the operation information collected by the game management device, and communicably connected via the network,
The cumulative value is transmitted to the game management device and the cumulative value is also transmitted to the data collection device when a request for transmission of the cumulative value is received from the game management device. The information collection terminal device according to any one of 20 to 21. The final cumulative data is based on cumulative values at the end of one unit of business,
The information collection terminal device transmits the final cumulative data to the data collection device between the end of the business unit and the start of the next business unit by the cumulative data transmission means. The information collection terminal device according to any one of claims 20 to 22. Applied to a gaming system configured by connecting an information collection terminal device, a first data collection device and a second data collection device via a network,
The information collection terminal device collects operation information from a gaming machine installed in a game hall or a game-related device related to the balance of the game hall, and stores it in the first data collection device and the second data collection device A data collection method,
Calculate the collected operation information to generate accumulated data for a predetermined period, send the accumulated data to the network,
The first data collecting device and the second data collecting device operate separately, each storing accumulated data transmitted by the information collecting terminal device, and outputting the stored accumulated data. Data collection method.