JP2007215851A - Premium management system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To offer a premium management system that can integrally manage the special prize circulation status, inventory status and the ship-out status. <P>SOLUTION: The premium management device 100 is connected through the network 50 to the premium pay-out device 200, the premium read-out device 300 and to the premium inspection device 400, and by registering and managing the processed data result informed from each device into the premium management DB106, IC chip 90, the circulation status of the special prize 80 identified with the premium serial number bar code 82, and the inventory status are to be registered and managed using the special prize 80 UID911 and the premium serial number bar code as a key. The premium inspection device 400, when the rejected premium 81 is brought in, verifies whether the the special prize 80 is true or forged by searching through the record of the special prize management DB106 based on the read-out UID911 and bar code 912 and, if necessary, exchanges it with the alternative special prize 83 of the same prize value. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention registers a processing result of a prize dispensing device, a prize reading device, and a prize inspecting device in a prize exchange system for handling a special prize provided with an IC chip by registering it in a database of the prize management apparatus, thereby managing the special prize. The present invention relates to a prize management system that centrally manages the payout status, purchase status, and carry-out status, and pays out alternative special prizes if necessary in the prize inspection device.

  In recent pachinko halls (amusement halls), a prize dispenser that dispenses special prizes in which special prize information is embedded in the memory of the IC chip has been introduced. In the prize purchase area, IC chips for special prizes that have been brought in are introduced. A prize reader that reads the prize information recorded in the memory and verifies the authenticity is introduced. If it is determined to be "true", the read prize information is notified to the deposit / withdrawal management machine connected to the prize reader. Then, the amount corresponding to the value of the premium information set in advance is calculated and the withdrawal process is performed.

  When performing the withdrawal process on the deposit / withdrawal management machine side, it is checked whether or not a special prize has been purchased twice based on the prize information and count data notified from the prize reader.

  In addition, as a technique for managing data related to the exchange of special prizes between the prize purchase place and the hall, a “special prize exchange management system” described in Patent Document 1 is disclosed.

The invention of this Patent Document 1 is a system that installs a prize management server in a prize management center and manages receipt and receipt data related to exchange of special prizes by performing data communication with a prize exchange terminal device.
JP 2003-340109 A

  The introduction of special prizes provided with IC chips by Pachinko Hall is effective as a security measure to prevent counterfeiting, illegal payout and purchase of special prizes.

  On the other hand, there are cases where information recorded on the IC chip cannot be read due to damage or contamination of special prizes, and the service cannot be relieved because the purchase process of special prizes that the player has been paid out normally cannot be remedied. However, special prizes that cannot be read by the IC chip even if they are brought into the amusement store as special prizes that are refused to be purchased lose the means for determining their authenticity.

  In the present invention, a prize management device is connected via a network to a payout device for paying out special prizes in the prize exchange system, and a prize purchase device for purchasing special prizes, and the data processing of the processing contents of special prizes is performed from each device. By registering and managing in the database of the prize management device, the special prize that replaces the special prize that the IC chip can no longer be read if necessary can centrally manage the distribution status, inventory status, and carry-out status of special prizes in the system. A premium management system that can automatically order special prizes is provided.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the invention of claim 1 is a prize management device for registering and managing a special prize provided with an IC chip handled in a prize exchange system in a database, and a game medium acquired by a player A network of a prize giving device that pays out special prizes according to the quantity of the prize and a prize inspecting device that inquires the prize management device for the validity of the special prize and exchanges it for a special prize that replaces the special prize if necessary. In a prize management system that connects and manages the distribution status and inventory status of special prizes, the prize management apparatus includes unique identification information, value information, unique identification information of prizes, and prize payout recorded on the special prize IC chip. A prize management information storage means for storing and managing the payout date and time of a special prize paid out by the apparatus, a prize payout apparatus, and a prize inspection A prize giving device for writing data on the date and time of payout and information indicating the payout to a special prize IC chip, and a prize management device. A communication means for performing data communication by connecting to the network via a network, and a registration instruction means for instructing the communication means to register the information written by the IC chip writing means in the premium management information storage means. The prize inspection device reads the data recorded on the IC chip of the special prize, and sends the information read by the IC chip reading means to the prize management device to inquire about the authenticity of the special prize. And an inquiry result display means for receiving and displaying the result of the inquiry by the inquiry means from the prize management device. To.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, when the premium inspection device determines that the result is inquired by the inquiry means as “true”, the alternative special premium having the same value as the special premium is obtained. It is further characterized by further comprising an alternative prize payout instructing means for detecting a payout request operation and instructing the prize payout apparatus to issue an alternative special prize.

  The invention of claim 3 is the invention according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the prize management system further comprises a prize purchase device for performing a purchase process of the special prize paid out by the special prize payout apparatus. The prize purchase device transmits the data read by the IC chip reader to the IC chip reader that reads the data recorded on the IC chip of the special prize and the prize management device via the network. Inquiry means for inquiring the authenticity of the special prize recording the transmitted data, and receiving the true / false result of the inquiry means from the prize management device, whether the special prize inquired can be purchased or not. Special prize to be purchased when it is determined that the purchase can be determined by the determination means for purchase and the determination means for purchase. It further comprises purchase means for paying out an amount of money corresponding to the value of the item, and having purchased information into an IC chip of a special gift to be purchased and writing information indicating the date and time of purchase.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the third aspect of the invention, when the prize purchase device determines that the purchase is not possible by the purchase permission / inhibition judging means, the reason for the purchase refusal is transmitted to the prize management device and management information is sent. It further comprises purchase refusal information registering means for instructing to register the information.

  The invention according to claim 5 is the invention according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the prize management device is valid from the date and time when the prize is paid out to the date and time when the prize can be purchased with the prize purchase device. The purchase expiration date setting management means for setting and managing the period is further provided. In the prize purchase device, the purchase availability determination means is set by the payout date and time recorded in the special prize and the purchase expiration date setting management means. The purchase expiration date is calculated based on the validity period, and when the calculated purchase expiration date has passed, the purchase of special prizes by the purchase means is prohibited.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in any of the third to fifth aspects of the present invention, the prize management device counts the information registered in the management information, and the prize is dispensed by the prize dispensing device. Based on the number of prizes and the number of special prizes purchased by the prize purchase device, the number of special prizes taken out is monitored by the take-out number monitoring means and the take-out number monitoring means. When the number of items to be taken out exceeds a predetermined value, the information processing device further comprises notification means for informing that effect.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the sixth aspect of the present invention, the prize management device further comprises an automatic ordering means for performing an automatic ordering process for a predetermined number of special prizes to a special prize wholesaler based on notification by the notification means. Furthermore, it is characterized by comprising.

  The invention according to claim 8 is the invention according to claim 1, wherein the prize payout device and the prize inspection device are respectively arranged in a plurality of holes and are commonly connected via a network. Hall information management means for registering and managing hole identification information for individually identifying holes, and access information for mutual data communication via a network for a prize dispensing device and a prize inspection device are associated with the hole identification information And an access information management means for managing the information, and the communication means specifies the hole to which the prize payout apparatus or the prize inspection apparatus for data communication belongs by the hole identification information corresponding to the access information, and the prize management information storage means Communicates with the information written by the IC chip writing means instructed by the registration instructing means. Characterized in that it stores and manages hole identification information specified at step imparted to.

  According to the prize management system of the present invention, the data of the special prize that is refused to be purchased due to damage or dirt on the IC chip is registered in the database of the prize management apparatus, and the information on the barcode given to the special prize. In this case, the management device can be inquired, so that it is possible to prevent a decline in service such as repairing purchase processing for a player who has become unreadable due to an accident and to prevent illegal special prizes from being brought in.

  An embodiment of the prize management system of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a prize management system according to the present invention.

  The prize management device 100 determines whether the special prize is authentic or not, determines whether the special prize is true, and purchases the prize inspection apparatus 300 that pays out the substitute special prize 83 or the special prize 80 depending on the conditions. A prize purchase device to be performed (hereinafter referred to as a prize reading device 400 in the description of the embodiment) is connected via the network 50, and the processing result of the special prize 80 notified from each device is registered in the prize management DB 106 and unified. to manage.

  As a result, the prize management device 100 records the payout status of the special prize 80 by the prize payout device 200 installed in the amusement hall 60, the purchase status of the special prize 80 by the prize reading device 300, and the history of the rejected prize 81 whose purchase is rejected. The number of special prizes 80 taken out in the system is managed by subtracting the number of special prizes 80 that have been purchased by the prize reading apparatus 300 from the number of special prizes 80 paid out from the information and prize dispensing apparatus 200.

The prize management device 100 monitors the number of special prizes 80 in the amusement hall 60 or the number of carry-outs in the system, and creates an order mail 63 for ordering a predetermined number of special prizes to the prize wholesaler 63 as necessary. To send.

  Also, the prize inspection device 300 inquires the prize management device 100 about the authenticity of the rejected prize 81 whose purchase is refused by the prize reading device 400, and pays out the substitute special prize 81 having the same value as necessary. To do.

  In the distribution state of the special prize 80 in this system, the special prize 80 is delivered from the special prize wholesaler 63 to the amusement hall 60 and set in the prize payout device 200, and the player enters the amusement hall 60. According to the quantity of game media acquired from the installed gaming table 62, the “paid out” state in which the payout has been paid out from the prize payout apparatus 200, and purchase is performed by the prize reading apparatus 400 installed in the prize exchange place 70. Further, there are “buy-out” status and “buy-out rejection” status in which purchase is rejected by the prize reading device 400.

  As an example of the special prize 80, as shown in FIG. 2, a prize serial number barcode 82 and an IC chip 90 are provided.

  The prize serial number bar code 82 is a bar code indicating a serial number assigned for identification in the system of the special prize 80.

  The IC chip memory 91 of the IC chip 90 is a UID 911 indicating unique identification information of the IC chip 90 assigned at the manufacturing stage, and barcode data given when the special prize is registered in the game hall 60. Bar code information 912 in which information of a certain prize serial number barcode 82 is written, denomination information 913 indicating the value of the special prize 80, prize payout date and time 914 recorded when the special prize 80 is paid out, prize payout / purchased flag 915.

  Next, the internal configuration of the prize management apparatus, prize payout apparatus, prize reading apparatus, and prize inspection apparatus shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

  In FIG. 3, the prize management device 100 includes a prize management device storage unit 102, a recording medium reading unit 103, a prize management device operation display unit 104, and a prize management device, which controls the overall prize management device 100. The communication control unit 105 is controlled by the connected configuration, and registers and manages the identification information of the special prize 80, and the prize payout apparatus 200, the prize reading apparatus 400, and the prize inspection apparatus 300 connected via the network 50. The processing result notified from the management unit 100 is recorded and managed in the database 106 of the prize management device 100 to manage the payout status, purchase status, stock status, and carry-out status of the special prize 80.

  The prize management device operation display unit 104 is a man machine for registering the special prize 80, confirming the distribution status of the registered special prize 80, confirming the inventory status, placing an order for the special prize 80, and maintaining the prize management DB 106. Interface.

  The prize management device control unit 101 includes a special prize order management unit 1011 database management unit 1012 as a main functional block.

  The special prize order management unit 1011 monitors the inventory quantity of the special prize 80 in the amusement hall 60 by using a predetermined monitoring schedule and registered data registered in the prize management DB 106, and the inventory quantity below a preset threshold value. Is reduced or the number of special prizes taken out exceeds a predetermined number, a warning is displayed on the prize management device operation display unit 104 to notify the administrator, or an order mail is transmitted to the special prize wholesaler 61 .

  When the special prize 80 is delivered from the prize wholesaler 61, the database management unit 1012, for example, when the special prize 80 recorded in the prize serial number barcode 82 of the delivered special prize 80 or the IC chip memory 91 is delivered. Since the UID 911 and bar code list of the delivered special prize 80 are provided on a medium such as a CD-ROM, the medium is read by the recording medium reading unit 103 and the special prize 80 is deducted for each denomination. Register in the management DB 106.

  The database management unit 1012 also updates the database that reflects the processing results received from the prize inspection device 300, the prize reading device 400, and the prize payout device 200 via the prize management device communication control unit 105, and the prize management DB 106, and Perform maintenance processing.

  The prize management device storage unit 102 stores a prize management DB 106, special prize order mail setting information 111, and a special special prize readable valid period 112.

  Information registered and managed in the free gift management DB 106 includes free gift registration information 107, free gift payout information 108, free gift reading information 109, and alternative free gift payout information 110.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the prize registration information 107 records denomination information for recording the value type of the special prize 80 delivered to the game hall 60 and UID 911 recorded on the IC chip 90 given to the special prize 80. The registration date for recording the date and time when the special prize 80 is registered in the prize management device 100.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the prize payout information 108 registers and manages information on the special prize 80 paid out to the player by the prize payout apparatus 200, and the prize reading device out of the registered special prize 80. Whether or not the purchase is made at 300 is managed by a flag. The payout date and time when the special prize 80 is paid out by the prize payout device 200, the UID indicating the UID 911 of the special prize 80 for which the payout has been performed, the premium serial number bar code indicating the reading information of the premium serial number barcode 82, and the special premium A payout / purchased flag for managing 80 payout states and purchase states with flags, and payout purchase date and time indicating the date and time when payout and purchase are performed are registered and managed.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the prize reading information 109 is information for recording and managing the processing contents of the special prize 80 whose purchase is refused by the prize reading device 400, and the date and time when the special prize 80 is rejected. The premium serial number barcode indicating the premium serial number barcode 82 of the special prize 80 whose purchase is refused, the UID indicating the UID 911 of the special prize 80 whose purchase is refused, the error code indicating the reason for rejecting the special prize 80, and the error Record and manage code content.

  The substitute prize payout information 110 is information for registering and managing the processing contents of the special prize 80 or the reject prize 91 brought into the amusement hall 60 by performing the payout process of the substitute special prize 83 by the prize inspection device 300. As shown in FIG. 7, the exchange date and time indicating the date and time when the substitute special prize 83 is paid out, the collected prize UID for recording the information of the UID 911 recorded in the IC chip memory 91 of the collected reject prize 91, and the reject prize 91 Collected prize barcode that records information of the prize serial number barcode 82, alternative prize UID that records the UID 911 of the substitute special prize 83, alternative prize barcode that records the prize serial number barcode 82 of the substitute special prize 83, and alternative special The identification information in the system of the prize inspection device 300 that has instructed the payout control of the prize 83 is recorded. ID of the prize inspecting device to be used, identification information of the substitute giving out device ID for recording the identification information in the system of the giving out device 300 that has paid out the special prize 83, and identification information of the person in charge who has paid out the alternative special prize 83 Register and manage the alternative gift handlers shown.

  Returning to FIG. 3, in the storage unit 102 of the free gift management apparatus 100, the special free gift order mail setting information 111 stores various data necessary for sending the special mail 80 order mail in the special free gift order management unit 1011. The destination address of the order mail, the message form, the mail transmission condition, and the unit for each type when ordering the special prize are recorded.

  The prize readable valid period 112 records the elapsed time from the payout date and time when the prize reading apparatus 400 sets and limits the period during which the prize can be purchased after the prize payout apparatus 200 has paid out. .

  When the special gift 80 is purchased, the free gift reading device 400 indicates the payout date and time of the special prize 80 identified by reading the free gift serial number barcode 82 of the special free gift 80 and the IC chip memory 91 in the free gift payout information 108. It is acquired from the registered data, and based on the current time, the payout date and time, and the free gift readable validity period 112, the expiration date for purchasing the free gift is calculated, and it is determined whether or not it is the time when the free gift can be purchased.

In FIG. 3, the prize dispensing apparatus 200 includes a prize dispensing apparatus control unit 201 that performs overall control of the prize dispensing apparatus 200, a prize dispensing apparatus IC chip R / W 202, a prize dispensing apparatus storage unit 205, and a prize dispensing apparatus communication control unit 203. The prize dispenser operation display unit 204 and the prize dispenser bar code reading unit 206 are controlled to be connected.
With this configuration, the prize payout device 200 calculates the number of special prizes 80 having a value corresponding to the number of game media acquired by the player for each denomination, and pays out information related to the special prize 80 that has been paid out. , A processing result notification function for transmitting information indicating the date and time of the payout process to the prize management device 100 is provided.

  The prize dispensing device IC chip R / W 202 reads the UID 911 of the IC chip memory 91 of the special prize 80 to be paid out for the special prize 80 to be paid out, as well as the barcode information storage unit 912 and the denomination information storage. The unit 913, the prize payout date / time 914, and the prize payout / purchased flag 915 are written under the control of the prize payout apparatus control unit 201.

  The prize payout apparatus communication control unit 203 transmits data notifying the contents of the payout process of the special prize 80 to the prize management apparatus 100 connected via the network 50, and between the prize inspecting apparatus 300. This is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving control data in order to perform the payout processing of the substitute special prize 83.

  The prize payout device operation display unit 204 is issued by the game medium counting device 62 in order to display various operation screens and error screens related to the payout process of the special prize 80 and the payout process of the special prize 80. Input means such as a numeric keypad and operation buttons for performing a payout instruction operation of the special prize 80 accompanied by barcode reading by the barcode delivery 206 of the prize receipt dispenser, and a manual operation of paying out the special prize by denomination are provided. Man-machine interface.

  The prize payout device storage unit 205 stores the exchange rate of the special prize 80 with respect to the number of game media, the identification information of the stocker in which the unpaid special prize 80 is stored, the number of special prizes stored in each stocker, and the number stored. Record denomination information for special prizes.

  The prize reading device 400 has a prize reading device storage unit 402, a prize reading device operation display unit 403, a prize reading device IC chip R / W 404, a prize, and a prize reading device control unit 401 that performs overall control of the prize reading device 400. Control is performed by a configuration in which a reading device barcode reading unit 405, a gift reading device communication control unit 406, and a gift reading device money dispensing unit 407 are connected.

  With this configuration, the prize reading device 400 calculates the total purchase amount of the special prize 80 paid out by the prize payout device 200 based on a predetermined purchase set unit price and the number of purchases set for each denomination. The amount of money corresponding to the purchase money is paid out.

  The prize reading device storage unit 402 includes a correspondence table of denomination codes recorded in the IC chip memory 91 of the special prize 80 notified from the prize management device 100 apparatus, a purchase unit price set in the denomination code, and special prizes. An error code list indicating the reason for purchase refusal set in the purchase validity period and the prize management device 100 is stored.

  The prize reading device operation display unit 403 gives an operator who performs the purchase processing operation of the special prize 80 to an operation screen (input of the special prize 80, display of the purchase price of the special prize 80, An operation instruction guide for instructing button operation after the completion of the charging operation, a display section for displaying an error guide when the purchase of the special prize 80 is refused, a purchase instruction button for instructing the purchase of the special prize 80, a staff call button, etc. It is a man-machine interface equipped with various buttons necessary for the purchase operation of the special prize 80.

  The gift reading device IC chip R / W 404 reads data from the IC chip memory 91 of the special gift 80 that is instructed to be purchased and set at a predetermined insertion slot or installation position, and the reading result and the reading succeed. In this case, the read data is output to the premium reader control unit 401.

  The premium reading device premium serial number barcode reading unit 405 performs a reading process of the premium serial number barcode 82 given to the special premium 80 and outputs the read barcode data to the premium reading device control unit 401.

  The prize reading device communication control unit 406 is a communication interface for performing data communication control for performing authenticity inquiry processing of the special prize 80 with the prize management apparatus 100 connected via the network 50. .

  The prize reading device money payout unit 407 pays out money corresponding to the purchase money determined by the control of the prize reading device control unit 401.

  The prize inspecting device 300 has a prize inspecting device storage unit 302, a prize inspecting device communication control unit 303, and a prize inspecting device bar code reading unit 304 for a prize inspecting device control unit 301 that controls the overall prize inspecting device 300. The prize inspection apparatus IC chip reading unit 305 and the prize inspection apparatus operation display unit 306 are controlled to be connected.

  With this configuration, the prize reading device 400 notifies the prize managing device 100 of the authenticity of the rejected prize 81 whose purchase has been rejected, the reading serial number barcode 82, and the read information of the IC chip memory 91, and the rejected prize 81 Then, the payout device 200 performs a referral process to determine whether or not the payout device 200 has been paid out and the gift reading device 400 has rejected the purchase.

  As a result of the inquiry process, when the hall attendant determines that the replacement special prize 83 can be exchanged, the hall attendant pays out the special prize 80 of the same denomination by the payout operation of the alternative special prize 83. The prize payout device 200 connected via the network 50 is controlled to pay out the substitute special prize 83.

  In addition, when the substitute special prize 83 is paid out, the processing unit 100 instructs the prize management apparatus 100 to register the processing contents of the substitute special prize 83 with respect to the substitute prize payout information 110.

  The prize inspection apparatus communication control unit 303 transmits inquiry data for inquiring the reject prize 81 with the prize management apparatus 100 to which the prize inspection apparatus 300 is connected via the network 50, and the prize management apparatus 100. Data communication control is performed to receive the response data for notifying the inquiry result from the user and to transmit / receive control data to / from the premium payout device 200 for the payout control of the alternative special prize 83.

  The premium inspection apparatus barcode reading unit 304 reads the premium serial number barcode 82 of the reject premium 81 and the special premium 80 to be inspected, and outputs the read result and the read barcode data to the premium inspection apparatus control unit 301.

  The prize inspection device IC chip reading unit 305 includes the UID 911, the barcode information 912, the denomination information 913, the prize payout date / time 914, the prize payout / purchased flag 915 recorded in the IC chip memory 91 of the special prize 80 and the reject prize 81. Are read out under the control of the prize inspection device control unit 301, and the result of the reading process and the read data are output to the prize inspection device control unit 301.

  Next, an example of the operation for registering the special prize 80 in the prize management device 100 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  The prize management device 100 receives the special prize 80 from the manufacturer of the special prize 80 (S101), and when the special prize 80 is received, the prize serial number barcode 82 assigned to each special prize 80 recorded on the enclosed medium. The combination list of UIDs 911 written in the IC chip memory 91 is read by the recording medium reading unit 103 (S102).

  The prize management device 100 assigns denomination information and registration date to the combination of the UID 911 and the prize serial number barcode 82, and registers them in the prize registration information 107 of the prize management DB 106 (S103).

  The special prize 80 that has been registered in the prize registration information 107 managed by the prize management DB 106 of the prize management apparatus 100 is set in the prize dispensing apparatus 200 (S104).

  Next, an operation example of the prize payout device 200 and the prize management device 100 when paying out the special prize 80 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  The prize dispenser control unit 201 reads the data recorded in the IC chip memory 91 provided in each special prize 80 and writes the data to the IC chip memory 91 with respect to the special prize 80 for which the withdrawal is confirmed, and the prize dispenser IC chip. It is transported to a position where it can be read by the R / W 202 and a position where the barcode can be read by the barcode reader 206, and the UID 911 and the prize serial number barcode 82 are read, the payout purchase date and time, the payout purchase flag Is written in the IC chip memory 91 by the prize dispensing device IC chip R / W 202 (S201).

  When the data writing to the IC chip memory 91 of each special prize 80 for which the payout is confirmed is completed, the prize payout apparatus 200 gives the prize serial number barcode 82 of the special prize 80 for which the payout has been performed, The information written in the IC chip memory 91 is transmitted to the prize management device 100 to make a registration request to the prize registration information 107 (S202).

  The prize management apparatus 100 receives registration request data for the prize payout information 108 from the prize payout apparatus 200 (S203), and based on the received data, the UID 911 and the prize serial number barcode of the special prize 80 for which the payout has been performed. 82, the payout date / time, the purchased flag, and the denomination information are registered in the free gift payout information 108 (S204), and the result of data registration processing (success or failure of data registration) in the free gift payout information 108 is stored in the free gift payout device 200. It transmits and responds (S205).

  The prize payout apparatus 200 analyzes the registration processing result received from the prize management apparatus 100, and when the registration process to the prize payout information 108 is successful (S206 YES), the prize payout apparatus 200 displays a special prize payout port (not shown). ), The special prize 80 is discharged (S208).

  When the registration process of the prize payout information 108 fails (S206 NO), the prize payout apparatus 200 displays an error message notifying that the registration process of the prize payout information 108 has failed on the prize payout apparatus display unit 205, and the special prize is displayed. The payout process of 80 is terminated (S207).

  Next, an operation example of the special prize purchase processing in the prize reading device 400 and the prize management device 100 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the prize reader 400 detects a prize purchase operation by the prize reader operation display unit 403, the prize reader 400 reads the IC chip memory 91 of the special prize 80 requested to be purchased by the prize reader IC chip R / W 404 ( S301).

  When reading of the IC chip memory 91 fails (S302 YES), the prize reading device 400 returns the special prize 80 as a reject prize 81 to a return port (not shown) provided in the prize reading apparatus 400 (S311). Registration data for registering the contents of the rejected processing in the reading information 109 is created (S312), and the created registration data is transmitted to the prize management device 100 (S313).

  If the reading of the IC chip memory 91 is successful (NO in S302), the prize reading device 400 reads the information of the payout / purchased flag 915 and the purchase date / time 915 recorded in the IC chip memory 91 to determine whether or not it has been purchased. A determination is made (S303).

  If it has been purchased (YES in S303), the prize reading device 400 returns the special prize 80 as a reject prize 81 to a return port (not shown) provided in the prize reading apparatus 400 (S311) and rejects it to the prize reading information 109. Registration data for registering the contents of the process is created (S312), and the created registration data is transmitted to the prize management device 100 (S313).

  If the special prize 80 has not been purchased (NO in S303), the prize reading device 400 next reads the prize serial number barcode 82 of the special prize 80 (S304).

  When reading of the prize serial number barcode 82 fails or when the contents of the read prize serial number barcode 82 and the contents of the barcode information 912 do not match (NO in S305), the prize reading device 400 is the special prize 80. Is returned as a reject prize 81 to a return port (not shown) provided in the prize reading device 400 (S311), and registration data for registering the contents of the rejected process in the prize reading information 109 is created (S312). The created registration data is transmitted to the free gift management apparatus 100 (S313).

  When the prize serial number barcode 82 has been successfully read and the contents of the read prize serial number barcode 82 match the contents of the barcode information 912 (YES in S305), the prize reading device 400 determines the UID 911 and the prize serial number. The information of the barcode 82 is notified to the prize management device 100, and an inquiry is made as to whether the special prize 80 is authentic or not (S306).

  The prize management apparatus 100 searches for the prize registration information 107 (A data) using the information of the UID 911 and the prize serial number barcode 82 notified from the prize reading apparatus 400 as search keys (S314).

  When there is no record corresponding to the free gift registration information 107 (NO in S315), the free gift management apparatus 100 creates response data for notifying the processing result regarding the inquired special prize 80 as illegal (S321), and the created response Data is transmitted to the prize reading device 400 (S322).

  On the other hand, when a record that matches the UID 911 and the prize serial number barcode 82 notified from the prize reading device 400 is registered in the prize registration information 107 (YES in S315), the prize management apparatus 100 then uses the same search key. The premium payout information 108 (B data) is retrieved at (S316).

  If there is no record that matches the search key in the prize payout information 108 (NO in S317), the prize management device 100 creates response data for notifying the processing result regarding the inquired special prize 80 as illegal (S321). The response data sent is sent to the prize reading device 400 (S322).

  If there is a record matching the search key in the gift payout information 108 (YES in S317), the contents of the gift payout / purchased flag 915 recorded in the matched record are read to determine whether or not the purchase has been made (S318).

  If the special prize 80 has been purchased (YES in S318), the prize management device 100 creates response data notifying that the inquired special prize 80 has been purchased (S321), and reading the created response data as a prize. It transmits to the apparatus 400 (S322).

  When the special prize 80 has not been purchased (NO in S318), the prize management device 100 determines that the current time is greater than the purchase expiration date based on the valid period 112 for which the premium can be read and the payout date and time read from the corresponding record in the premium payout information 108. It is determined whether or not it is time for purchase due to being in front (S319).

  When the expiry date that can be purchased has passed (NO in S319), the special gift 80 for which the inquiries are made is a gift that has been paid out normally, but the expiry date that can be purchased has passed. Response data for notifying that purchase cannot be made is created (S321), and the created response data is transmitted to the premium reading device 400 (S322).

  If it is within the valid period for purchase (YES in S319), the prize management device 100 creates response data instructing the purchase of the special prize 80 (S320), and transmits the created response data to the prize reading device 400 (S322). ).

  When the prize reading device 400 receives response data to the inquiry about whether or not the special prize 80 can be purchased from the prize management device 100 (S307), the content of the response data is analyzed to determine whether or not the special prize 80 can be purchased. (S308).

  If the purchase is possible (YES in S308), the prize reading device 400 calculates the purchase amount based on the denomination information of the special prize 80 and performs a money payout process (S309), and the prize payout information 108 has been paid out and purchased. Data requesting to update the flag 915 to “purchased” is created (S310), and the data created by the prize management device 100 is transmitted (S313).

  When the special prize 80 cannot be purchased (NO in S308), the prize reading device 400 returns the special prize 80 as a reject prize 81 to a return port (not shown) provided in the prize reading device 400 (S311), and the prize reading information. Registration data for registering the contents of the processing rejected in 109 is created (S312), and the created registration data is transmitted to the prize management device 100 (S313).

  The prize management device 100 receives the purchase processing result from the prize reading device 400, and either the update process of the prize payout information 108 when the purchase is successful or the registration process to the prize reading information 109 when the purchase is rejected. It is determined whether or not there is (S323).

  In the case of a request for updating the prize payout information 108 (YES in S324), the prize management apparatus 100 gives a prize payout / purchased flag recorded in the record corresponding to the UID 911 and the prize serial number barcode 82 of the notified special prize 80. The content of 915 is updated to “purchased” (S325).

  If the request is a reject information registration request for the free gift reading information 109 (NO in S324), the free gift management device 100 reads the received UID 911, free serial number barcode 82 information, the date of rejection, and an error code indicating the reason for the free gift reading. The information notified from the apparatus 400 is registered in the free gift reading information 109 (S326).

  Next, operation examples of the inspection process of the reject prize 81 and the payout process of the substitute special prize 83 in the prize inspection apparatus 300 and the prize management apparatus 100 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  The prize inspection apparatus 300 detects the inspection support operation of the reject prize 81 by the prize inspection apparatus operation panel 306, and reads the reading of the IC chip memory 91 of the reject prize 81 by the prize inspection apparatus IC chip reading unit 306 (S401). .

  If reading of the IC chip memory 91 fails (YES in S402), the prize inspection device 300 next receives the prize serial number barcode 82 given to the reject prize 81 by the prize inspection apparatus premium serial number barcode reading unit 304. Read processing is performed (S403).

  If the reading of the prize serial number barcode 82 fails (NO in S404), the prize reading device 400 indicates that both the IC chip memory 91 and the prize serial number barcode 82 of the rejected prize 81 cannot be read. Display and end the inspection process (S411).

  If the prize serial number barcode 82 is read in step 403 (YES in S404), the prize inspection device 300 displays the read data and displays an operation screen for inquiring the authenticity of the reject prize 81 (for example, FIG. 14). (A)) is displayed on the prize inspection device operation display unit 306, an inquiry start operation is detected, the read serial number barcode 82 and UID 911 are notified, and the authenticity determination of the reject prize 81 is performed. Inquiry data to be requested to 100 is created and transmitted to the prize management device 100 (S406).

  Returning to step S402 again, if the IC chip memory 91 of the rejected prize 81 has been successfully read (NO in S402), the prize reading device 400 notifies the UID 911 and bar code information 912 of the IC chip memory 91 and authenticates the rejected prize 81. Inquiry data for inquiring false is created and transmitted to the prize management device 100 (S405).

  The free gift management device 100 analyzes the authenticity inquiry data of the reject free gift 81 received from the free gift inspection device 300 (S412), and searches the data registered in the free gift management DB 106 for “UID, free gift serial number barcode” or “ It is determined which of the search methods for “premium serial number barcode” is used to determine the authenticity (S413).

  When the “UID, prize serial number barcode” is notified from the prize inspecting apparatus 300 (UID + prize serial number barcode in S413), the prize management apparatus 100 performs authenticity determination processing based on the IC chip read data ( S415).

On the other hand, when only the “prize serial number barcode” is notified from the premium inspection device 300 (premium serial number barcode in S413), the premium inspection device 300 performs authenticity determination processing when the IC chip is not read (S414). ).
When the authenticity determination process in either step S414 or step S415 is completed, the prize management device 100 creates response data that notifies the determination result and transmits it to the prize inspection device 300 (S416).

  When receiving the result of the true / false determination from the free gift management device 100, the free gift inspection device 300 displays the content of the true / false determination by the free gift management device 100 as shown in FIG. A selectable screen ((C) of FIG. 14) is displayed on the prize inspection apparatus operation display unit 306 (S407).

  When the payout instruction operation for the substitute special prize 83 is detected by the prize inspection apparatus operation display unit 306 (YES in S408), the prize inspection apparatus 300 issues a payout instruction for the substitute special prize 83 of the same denomination as the reject prize 81. (S409), registration request data for registering the contents of the payout process of the substitute special prize 82 in the substitute prize payout information 110 is created and transmitted to the prize management apparatus 100 (S410).

  When the prize management device 100 receives registration request data for registering the content of the payout process of the substitute special prize 82 in the substitute prize payout information 110 (YES in S417), the rejected special prize notified by the registration request data is received. 81. Information relating to payout including information on the substitute special prize 82 is registered in the substitute prize payout information 110 (S418).

  Returning to the process of step S408 again, as a result of the authenticity determination, the rejected prize 81 is a regular prize, and both the IC chip memory 91 and the prize serial number barcode 82 can be read. If it is determined that the payout 83 is unnecessary and the payout instruction operation for the alternative special prize 83 is not performed by pressing the cancel button or the end button (NO in S408), the prize inspection device 300 ends the inspection process ( S411).

  In addition to the rejected prize 81 rejected by the prize reading device 400, the inspection process in the flowchart shown in FIG. 11 can be similarly processed even for the special prize 80 paid out by the prize giving device 200. It is.

  Next, the authenticity determination processing of the reject prize 81 (special prize 80) shown in steps S414 and S415 of FIG. 11 will be further described.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the operation of the authenticity determination process of the reject prize 81 in the prize management device 100 when the IC chip 90 shown in step S415 of FIG. 11 is read.

  The prize management device 100 searches for the prize registration information 107 using the UID 911 and the barcode information 912 as keys (S501).

  If there is no corresponding data matching the search key in the free gift registration information 107 (NO in S502), the free gift management apparatus 100 determines that the rejected free gift 81 for which the inquiry has been made is illegal (S509).

  If there is registration data that matches the search key in the free gift registration information 107 (YES in S502), the free gift management device 100 searches for free gift payout information 108 using the same search key (S503).

  If there is no registration data matching the search key in the premium payout information 108 (NO in S504), the premium management apparatus 100 regards the rejected premium 81 for which the inquiry has been made as illegal (S509).

  If there is registration data that matches the search key in the prize payout information 108 (S504 YES), and the matching registration data has already been purchased (S505 YES), the prize management device 100 fraudulently rejects the reject prize 81 that has been inquired. (S509).

  If there is registration data that matches the search key in the prize payout information 108 (S504 YES), and the matching registration data has not been purchased (S505 NO), the prize management device 100 uses the same search key for the prize reading information 109. Is searched (S506).

If there is no registered data that matches the search key of the free gift reading information 109 (NO in S507), the free gift management device 100 determines that the reject free gift 81 for which the inquiry has been made is illegal (S509).
When there is registered data matching the search key in the free gift reading information 109 (NO in S507), the free gift management apparatus 100 determines that the reject free gift 81 is a valid special free gift 80 (S508), and in the search processing in step S501. The contents of the data registered in the specified prize registration information 107, the contents of the data registered in the prize registration information 108 specified in the search process in step S503, and the premium registration information 109 specified in the search process in step S506 Response data for notifying the prize inspection device 300 of the contents of the received data is created (S510).

  FIG. 13 shows the operation of the authenticity determination process of the reject prize 81 in the prize management device 100 when the IC chip cannot be read and the prize serial number barcode 82 is read, as shown in step S414 of FIG. It is a flowchart.

  The prize management device 100 searches for the prize registration information 107 using the prize serial number barcode 82 as a search key (S601).

  If there is no registration data matching the search key in the free gift registration information 107 (NO in S602), the reject free gift 81 is regarded as illegal (S609).

  If there is registration data matching the search key in the free gift registration information 107 (YES in S602), the free gift management device 100 searches the free gift payout information 108 using the free serial number barcode 82 as a search key (S603).

  If there is no registration data matching the search key in the prize payout information 108 (604 YES), the prize management device 100 regards the reject prize 81 as an illegal prize (S609).

  If there is registration data matching the search key in the prize payout information 108 (NO in S604), the prize management device 100 refers to the registration contents of the corresponding record that matches the search key and determines whether or not it is a special prize that has been purchased. Judgment is made (S605).

  If it has been purchased (YES in S605), the prize management device 100 regards the reject prize 81 as illegal (S609).

  If it has not been purchased (NO in S605), the prize management device 100 searches for the prize reading information 109 using the search key (S606).

  If there is registered data that matches the prize serial number barcode 82, and the rejection reason recorded in the registration data contains the contents of “reject by IC chip unread” (YES in S607), the prize management device 100, it is determined that the rejected prize 81 is highly likely to be unread by the IC chip due to an accident, and is regarded as a special prize that has been properly paid out (S608).

  On the other hand, if there is no registration data matching the search key of the prize serial number barcode 82 in the prize reading information 109, or if another matching reason is recorded even if there is matching registration data (NO in S607). The prize management device 100 regards the reject prize 81 as illegal (S609).

  The giveaway management apparatus 100 creates response data for notifying the giveaway inspection apparatus of the result of the authenticity determination and the contents of the registered data that matches the search key in the search processing in steps S601, S603, and S606 (S610). ).

  Next, the operation example of the automatic ordering process for the special prize 80 in the prize management apparatus 100 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  The prize management device 100 monitors the start time of the inventory confirmation process for the special prize 80 based on the inventory quantity monitoring schedule stored in the prize management device storage unit 102 (NO in S701).

  When the arrival of the start time of the inventory confirmation process is detected (YES in S701), the prize management device 100 displays the number of special prizes 80 registered and the prize payout information 108 based on the prize registration information 107 managed by the prize management DB 106. Then, the number of special prizes 80 that have been paid out is totaled, and the stock quantity of special prizes 80 is calculated for each denomination (S702).

  Next, the threshold set for the money type used when determining whether or not the order mail creation and transmission process is necessary is read from the prize order mail setting information 111 in the prize management device storage unit 102, and is calculated in step S702. It is determined for each denomination whether the number of stocks received is below the read threshold value (S703).

  If there is a denomination whose stock quantity falls below the threshold value (S704 YES), the prize management device 100 creates a mail for ordering a predetermined number of special prizes set in the order mail setting information 111 (S705). The ordered mail is sent to the free gift wholesaler 61 (S706).

On the other hand, when the stock quantity calculated in step S702 is larger than the predetermined value (NO in S704), the free gift management apparatus 100 monitors the next stock quantity monitoring time.
In the flowchart shown in FIG. 15, the example of monitoring the number of stocks is shown. However, in addition to this, the prize reading device 400 purchases the number of special prizes 80 paid out by the prize payout device 200. When the value obtained by subtracting the number of purchased special prizes 80 (the number of items taken out) is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the ordering process for the special prize 80 may be performed.

  In addition to the above embodiment, the automatic ordering process of the special prize 80 in the prize management apparatus 100 displays a warning message on the prize management apparatus operation display unit 104 in addition to using an order mail, and notifies the manager. The user may be prompted to place an order. In addition to mail, automatic ordering may be performed using facsimile communication.

  Although the prize management device 100 has been shown as being installed in a game hall, the prize management device 100 also sets and registers an identification code for each game hall, manages a prize payout device, and a prize inspection device. Are recorded and managed in association with the access information including the device name for data communication and the identification code of the amusement hall, and are managed by the prize management DB 106. A prize is issued in the form in which the identification code of the corresponding game hall is identified from the identification information of the prize dispensing apparatus that has issued the record registration instruction for the prize dispensing information 110 or the prize inspection apparatus, and the identified game hall identification code is added. It is configured to be registered in the management DB 106, and the prize management device 100 is configured to be shared and connected to a plurality of game halls 60. Apart from the distribution situation of the Special prizes, inventory status, it may be able to manage the take-out situation.

  The prize management system of the present invention can be used in a prize exchange system that handles special prizes provided with IC chips, and in particular, after a special prize is paid out by a prize dispensing apparatus, This is effective for managing the state of special prizes before the purchase process is performed, managing the authenticity of special prizes that cannot be read due to an accident, and managing the number of special prizes in stock and the number of items taken out.

The block diagram which shows the structural example of the special prize management system of this invention. The figure which shows the example of a special prize. The block diagram which shows the internal structure of the prize management apparatus shown in FIG. 1, the prize payout apparatus, the prize reading apparatus, and the prize inspection apparatus. The figure which shows the example of the prize registration information (A data) managed by the prize management DB of a prize management apparatus. The figure which shows the example of the prize delivery information (B data) managed in the prize management DB of a prize management apparatus. The figure which shows the example of the prize read information (C data) managed by the prize management DB of the prize management apparatus. The figure which shows the example of alternative prize payout information (D data) managed by the prize management DB of the prize management apparatus. The flowchart which shows the operation example of the registration process of the special prize in a prize reading apparatus and a prize management apparatus. The flowchart which shows the operation example of the payout process of the special prize in the prize payout apparatus and the prize management apparatus. The flowchart which shows the operation example of the purchase process of the special prize in a special prize reading apparatus and a prize management apparatus. The flowchart which shows the operation example of the inspection process of the special prize in a prize inspection apparatus and a prize inspection apparatus. The flowchart which shows the operation example of the true / false determination process of the special prize when an IC chip is read. The flowchart which shows the operation example of the true / false determination process of the special prize when an IC chip cannot be read. The figure which shows the example of the inquiry result screen of a special prize displayed on the operation display part of a prize inspection apparatus, and an alternative special prize payout operation screen. The flowchart which shows the operation example of the order processing by the mail of the special prize in the prize management apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Premium management apparatus 101 Premium management apparatus control part 102 Premium management apparatus memory | storage part 103 Recording medium reading part 104 Premium management apparatus operation display part 105 Premium management apparatus communication control part 106 Premium management DB
107 Premium registration information (A data)
108 Free gift payout information (B data)
109 Gift reading information (C data)
110 Alternative prize payout information (D data)
111 free gift order mail setting information 112 valid readable valid period 1011 special free gift order management unit 1012 database management unit 200 free gift dispensing device 201 free gift dispensing device control unit 202 free gift dispensing device IC chip R / W
203 Freebie Dispensing Device Communication Control Unit 204 Freebie Dispensing Device Operation Display Unit 205 Freebie Distributing Device Storage Unit 206 Freebie Dispensing Device Premium Serial Number Barcode Reading Unit 300 Freebie Inspecting Device 301 Freebie Inspecting Device Control Unit 302 Freebie Inspecting Device Storage Unit 303 Freebie Inspecting Device communication control unit 304 Premium inspection device bar code reader 305 Premium inspection device IC chip reader 306 Premium inspection device operation display unit 400 Premium reader 401 Premium reader control unit 402 Premium reader storage unit 403 Premium reader display unit 404 Gift reader IC chip R / W
405 prize reading device bar code reading section 406 prize inspection apparatus communication control section 50 network 60 game hall 61 special prize wholesaler 62 game medium counting apparatus 63 game table 65 prize ordering mail 70 prize exchange place 80 special prize 81 reject prize 82 prize serial number Bar code 83 Alternative special prize 90 IC chip 91 IC chip memory 911 UID
912 Bar code information 913 Denomination information 914 Premium payout date and time 915 Payout completed flag

Claims (8)

A prize management device for registering and managing a special prize provided with an IC chip handled by the prize exchange system in a database, and a prize giving apparatus for paying out a special prize according to the quantity of game media acquired by a player, Inquiries to the prize management device about the validity of the special prize, and if necessary, a special prize substitute for the special prize is exchanged with a prize inspection apparatus for network connection, and the distribution status and inventory status of the special prize In the prize management system that centrally manages
The premium management device is:
Prize management information for storing and managing unique identification information, value information, prize unique identification information recorded on the IC chip of the special prize, and the payout date and time of the special prize paid out by the prize payout device Storage means;
Communication means for performing data communication between the premium payout device and the premium inspection device,
The prize payout device is:
IC chip writing means for writing information indicating the payout date and time of payout to the IC chip of the special prize;
Communication means for performing data communication by connecting to the prize management device via a network;
Registration instruction means for instructing the communication means to register the information written by the IC chip writing means in the premium management information storage means;
The prize inspection device is:
IC chip reading means for reading data recorded on the IC chip of the special prize;
Inquiry means for sending the information read to the IC chip reading means to the premium management device and inquiring the authenticity of the special prize;
Inquiry result display means for receiving and displaying the result of the inquiry by the inquiry means from the premium management device;
A prize management system comprising: The prize inspection device is:
As a result of the inquiry by the inquiry means, if it is determined to be “true”, the payout request operation of the alternative special prize having the same value as the special prize is detected, and the alternative special prize is paid out to the prize giving device. The premium management system according to claim 1, further comprising: an alternative premium payout instruction means for instructing. The premium management system includes:
A premium purchase device for purchasing the special prize paid out by the special prize payout device;
The prize purchase device is:
IC chip reading means for reading data recorded on the IC chip of the special prize;
Inquiry means for sending the data read by the IC chip reading means to the prize management device via the network, and inquiring the authenticity of the special prize in which the transmitted data is recorded,
Receiving a true / false result by the inquiry means from the prize management device, and determining whether or not the special prize that made the inquiry can be purchased;
If it is determined that the purchase is possible, the amount of money corresponding to the value of the special gift to be purchased is paid out and purchased to the IC chip of the special gift to be purchased. The premium management system according to claim 1, further comprising purchase means for writing information indicating the date and time. The prize purchase device is:
A purchase refusal information registration means for instructing to register the management information by sending a reason for the purchase refusal to the premium management device when it is determined by the purchase permission / inhibition determining means that the purchase cannot be made; The premium management system according to claim 3, wherein: The premium management device is:
A purchase expiration date setting management means for setting and managing an effective period from the date and time when the premium is paid out by the premium payout device to the date and time when the premium can be purchased by the premium purchase device;
In the prize purchase device,
The purchase availability determination means includes:
The purchase expiration date is calculated based on the payout date and time recorded in the special prize and the validity period set by the purchase expiration date setting management means, and when the calculated purchase expiration date has passed, The premium management system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the purchase of special prizes by the buying means is prohibited. The premium management device is:
The information registered in the management information is totaled, and based on the number of special prizes paid out by the prize payout apparatus and the number of special prizes purchased by the prize purchase apparatus, the special prize Take-out number monitoring means for calculating the number of take-outs at predetermined times;
6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5, further comprising notification means for notifying that when the number of carry-out monitored by the take-out number monitoring means exceeds a predetermined value. The premium management system described. The premium management device is:
7. The prize management system according to claim 6, further comprising automatic ordering means for performing an automatic ordering process for a predetermined number of special prizes with respect to the special prize wholesaler based on the notification by the notification means. The premium payout device and the premium inspection device are:
It is arranged in each of a plurality of holes and is shared through the network,
The premium management device is:
Hall information management means for registering and managing hole identification information for individually identifying the plurality of holes;
Access information management means for managing access information for performing data communication with each other via the network for the premium paying device and the premium inspection device in association with the hole identification information;
Further comprising
The communication means includes
The prize management device that identifies the hole to which the prize payout device or prize inspection device performing data communication belongs is specified by the hole identification information corresponding to the access information,
The hole identification information specified by the communication means is added to the information written by the IC chip writing means instructed by the registration instructing means and stored and managed. Free gift management system.

Images