JP2007330618A - Information recording medium processing device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make an information recording medium processing device smaller and thinner while securing a sufficient capacity of storing information recording media in a type for processing the information recording media such as IC tokens. <P>SOLUTION: The information recording medium processing device 71 is provided with an information processing part 92 which carries out the reading of information from an information recording medium C or others, an introduction path 93 for guiding the information recording medium C to the information processing part 92 from the slot 91, a guide out path 95 for guiding out the information recording medium C to the put-out port 94 from the information processing part 92, a storage part 101 capable of storing the plurality of information recording media C and a mover 203 movable along the storage part 101 to enable the moving of the information recording medium C along the storage part 101 with the movement of the mover 203. The storage part 101 is formed between a groove 120 formed in the mainframe 81 and a lid body 82 and moreover, a holder 132 is provided to hold the information recording medium C inside the groove 120. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an apparatus for processing an information recording medium used, for example, as a substitute for money in a game store or the like.

  For example, in a gaming hall in which a gaming machine such as a slot machine is installed, one medal lending machine that rents out medals as a gaming medium of the slot machine is arranged on each side of each slot machine (patent) Reference 1). The medal lending machine is configured to pay out the number of medals corresponding to the amount of money (for example, 50 medals for the amount of money of 1000 yen) when a bill is inserted. A player who wants to play a game with a slot machine first inserts a bill into a medal lending machine, borrows a medal, and uses the medal to play a game.

  In addition, in conventional game halls, magnetic cards that can store money value (money value) information and customer information are widely used as prepaid cards or membership cards, but in recent years, information called IC coins has been used. A game system using a recording medium has been proposed (see Patent Documents 1, 2, and 3). IC coins have advantages such as better durability than magnetic cards, excellent durability because they can withstand repeated use and cleaning, and are difficult to counterfeit and have high effects of preventing unauthorized use.

  When configuring such a gaming system using IC coins, the above-mentioned medal lending machine has an IC coin processing device having a function of paying out IC coins to give to a player, a function of processing information on IC coins, and the like ( An information recording medium processing apparatus) is incorporated. In such a medal lending machine, for example, in a state where the value of money corresponding to the number of game media borrowed by the player is less than the amount of money that the player has borrowed into the medal lending machine, that is, in the state where there is change When a switch or the like is operated, an IC coin given a monetary value equivalent to change is paid out instead of cash. Then, by inserting the IC coin into the settlement machine, it is possible to receive cash equivalent to change. Further, when the IC coin is inserted into the medal lending machine, the medal can be borrowed by using the value of the IC coin (that is, the value of money corresponding to the change described above).

  Such an IC coin processing device moves an IC coin from a storage unit to an information processing unit that performs reading of information such as an ID code recorded on the IC coin (or writing of information to the IC coin), etc. It is necessary to have a conveying means, a means for paying out IC coins, and the like. Furthermore, in order to always be able to pay out IC coins according to a player's request, it is necessary to have a storage unit for storing IC coins whose monetary value is zero.

  By the way, a medal lending machine incorporating such an IC coin processing device is required to be designed to have a small lateral width so that it can be installed in a restricted space such as between slot machines. . Therefore, it is desired that the IC coin processing apparatus is also thinned so that the lateral width is reduced. In order to meet such demands, a configuration is proposed in which, for example, a substantially disc-shaped IC coin is held vertically (both sides are substantially vertical) and stored side by side along a substantially vertical surface in a storage unit or the like. (See Patent Documents 2 and 3).

JP 2003-019341 A JP 2001-331834 A JP 2001-293242 A

  However, in the conventional IC coin processing device, it is difficult to reduce the thickness while improving the function of the IC coin processing device. Therefore, there is a problem that the thinning of the medal lending machine is also limited. For example, it is difficult to increase the capacity of the storage unit in the IC coin processing apparatus. In other words, when there is no IC coin in the storage unit, it is necessary for an administrator (a store clerk) or the like to supply IC coins to the storage unit. In order to reduce the trouble of such supply, the capacity of the storage unit is increased. It is desirable to increase the number of IC coins that can be stored inside, but in this case, there has been a problem that the IC coin processing apparatus becomes large. In addition, since the structure of the transport means for transporting the IC coins is complicated, there is a problem that it is difficult to downsize the IC coin processing device.

  Further, in the storage unit or the like, the movement of the IC coin may be hindered, for example, when foreign matter is inserted and clogging occurs. Therefore, it is desirable to perform maintenance by opening the storage unit or the like. As such a configuration, for example, a configuration is conceivable in which a lid is provided on a side portion such as a storage portion so that the storage portion or the like can be opened from the side. However, as described above, when the IC coin is stored vertically in the storage unit or the like, the IC coin easily falls from the storage unit or the like when the lid is opened, and the IC coin is picked up or reinserted into the storage unit. It was inconvenient.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and is an information recording medium processing apparatus that can sufficiently secure a capacity for storing an information recording medium such as an IC coin and can be reduced in size and thickness. The purpose is to provide.

  In order to solve the above problems, according to the present invention, an information recording medium processing apparatus for processing an information recording medium on which information is recorded or information can be recorded, and the information recording medium is inserted from the outside. A slot, an information processing unit that reads and / or writes information recorded in the information recording medium, and guides the information recording medium from the slot to the information processing unit And a plurality of pieces of information communicated with the information processing unit, a lead-out route for guiding the information recording medium from the information processing unit to the payout port, The information recording medium stored in the storage unit includes: a storage unit capable of storing recording media in a line on the same plane; and a movable body movable along the storage unit. It is configured to be moved along the storage portion as the moving body moves, and the storage portion is formed between a groove formed in the apparatus main body and a lid body that closes the opening side of the groove. A holding body for holding the information recording medium inside the groove on the opening side of the groove in the apparatus main body, and the information recording medium is opposed to the inner surface of the groove and the lid body, respectively. An information recording medium processing device is provided which is configured to be stored in the storage portion in a state where the peripheral portion is inserted between the inner surface of the groove and the holding body. The

  The moving body may be configured to move along a substantially arc-shaped moving path. Moreover, you may form the said storage part in a substantially circular arc shape along the movement path | route of the said mobile body. The holding body may be provided continuously along the edge of the groove.

  In addition, the introduction path, the information processing unit, and the storage unit are arranged in this order from above between the groove and the lid, and accommodate or move the information recording medium on the same plane. It is good also as a structure made to do. Further, in the information recording medium, also in the introduction path and / or the information processing unit, both surfaces are opposed to the inner surface of the groove and the lid body, respectively, and a peripheral portion is held to the inner surface of the groove. It is good also as a structure accommodated or moved in the state inserted between the bodies.

  According to the present invention, a plurality of information recording media can be suitably stored in the information recording medium processing apparatus. The information recording medium can be transported by a simple operation of the moving member, and various functions such as processing, storage, and dispensing of information on the information recording medium can be easily realized. While ensuring the capacity of the storage unit, the information recording medium processing apparatus can be reduced in size and thickness. Further, by simplifying the structure of the information recording medium conveying means, the information recording medium processing apparatus can be reduced in size and thickness. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce the thickness of game media lending machines such as medal lending machines.

  Further, by providing a holding body in the groove constituting the storage part, the information recording medium can be reliably held or guided inside the groove. For example, even when the lid is opened during maintenance or the like, the information recording medium can be prevented from dropping from the groove (reservoir). Therefore, maintainability of the information recording medium processing apparatus can be improved.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. First, an IC coin C that is an information recording medium (money substitute medium) used in the present embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 1, the IC coin C has a disk shape (coin shape) having substantially the same diameter and thickness as a coin such as a 500-yen coin, for example, and predetermined information is recorded therein. The electronic component is a non-contact data carrier, is composed of one or two discs 2A and 2B, and an annular portion 3 formed in a substantially annular shape.

  The electronic component 1 receives a memory 5 storing information such as a unique ID code of each IC coin C, and electrical energy for driving the memory 5 from the outside as an electromagnetic wave medium, and information recorded in the memory 5 And an antenna (antenna coil) 6 for transmitting the electromagnetic wave as a medium.

  In the memory 5, an ID code which is unique information given to the IC coin C having the memory 5 is recorded. This ID code is, for example, burned in the manufacturing stage of the memory 5 and cannot be changed after the manufacturing stage. The memory 5 may be, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory). That is, it is preferably a read-only memory in which information cannot be written after the manufacturing stage of the memory 5, or a non-volatile memory capable of continuing to hold information while power is not supplied. It may be a ROM or the like.

  Different ID codes are assigned to a plurality of IC coins C used in the gaming system 10 described later. Further, the ID code assigned to each IC coin C is stored by, for example, a sales management device 73 described later, and information on each IC coin C (for example, amount information given to the IC coin C, etc.) It is stored in association with the ID code and is managed by the sales management device 73.

  The electronic component 1 is built in a state of being sandwiched between the disks 2A and 2B. Each of the disks 2A and 2B may be formed of a synthetic resin such as ABS (acrylonitrile / butadiene / styrene).

  The annular portion 3 is provided so as to cover the outer peripheral edge of each of the disks 2A and 2B. The annular portion 3 may be formed of a metal material that is a nonmagnetic material, such as stainless steel or brass. In addition, when the electronic component 1 is encapsulated only with the synthetic resin, the rolling property of the IC coin C is insufficient due to its light weight. The mobility can be improved. Therefore, it can be moved smoothly in the IC coin processing device 71 described later. Further, by providing the annular portion 3, the strength of the peripheral portion of the IC coin C can be improved and damage can be prevented.

  Note that on the outer surface of the IC coin C, information about the IC coin C may be described so that it can be visually identified from the outside of the IC coin C. For example, information may be imprinted on the surfaces of the disks 2A and 2B by laser marking or the like. Further, information corresponding to information recorded in the IC coin C may be described. For example, the ID code and the manufacturing number of the IC coin C may be associated after performing a predetermined encryption process and the manufacturing number may be described on the outer surface of the IC coin C. Then, even if, for example, the internal electronic component 1 fails and the ID code cannot be read, the manager or the like is based on the serial number written on the outer surface of the IC coin C. By performing a survey method such as predetermined information processing, it is possible to confirm the ID code of the IC coin C, information associated with the ID code (for example, monetary value), and the like. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent, for example, the later-described settlement due to a failure of the electronic component 1 or the like. That is, it is possible to prevent the player from being given a disadvantage that the change amount associated with the ID code becomes unknown and the correct amount cannot be paid.

  Next, an example of the gaming system 10 such as a gaming hall in which the IC coin C is used will be described. The gaming system 10 illustrated in FIG. 2 includes a plurality of gaming islands 11, a settlement machine 12, a hall computer 13, an I / F (interface) unit 14, a sales management device 15, a communication line 16, and the like.

  Each gaming island 11 is provided with a slot machine 21 as a plurality of gaming machines and a medal lending machine 22 as a plurality of gaming machine lending machines (the same number as the slot machines 21). The slot machines 21 and the medal lending machines 22 are alternately arranged one by one, and are arranged in a row in the horizontal direction (left-right direction, X direction) while being close to each other. That is, one medal lending machine 22 is sandwiched between adjacent slot machines 21. In the illustrated example, a medal lending machine 22 corresponding to the slot machine 21 (dedicated to the slot machine 21) is located on the right side of the slot machine 21 when viewed from the front side (front side facing the player side) of each slot machine 21. Are installed.

  On the front of each slot machine 21, a tray 21a for medals is provided. In addition, a medal delivery nozzle 57 described later is provided in front of each medal lending machine 22. Each medal delivery nozzle 57 is swingably attached in the X direction, and the tip of the medal delivery nozzle 57 is placed on the tray 21a of the slot machine 21 located on the left side of each medal lending machine 22 when viewed from the front side. The part can be turned.

  Next, the medal lending machine 22 will be described. FIG. 3 shows the appearance of the medal lending machine 22. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the internal structure with the side wall of the medal lending machine 22 removed. As shown in FIG. 3, the medal lending machine 22 has an upper panel 32, a middle panel 33, and a lower panel 34 attached in this order from the top to the front side of the lending machine main body 31 (front side facing the player side). It has been configured. The upper panel 32 has a coin insertion slot 41 for inserting the IC coin C into the lending machine body 31, a coin payout opening 42 for paying out the IC coin C from the lending machine body 31, and an IC coin C for the player. The information display unit 43 for displaying information such as the balance given to the player, the state display lamp 44 for displaying the operation state of the medal lending machine 22 by the lighting color, etc., the value of money given to the IC coin C by the player A lending request switch 45 that is pressed when requesting the lending of the medal M, which is a game medium, and a coin return switch 46 that is pressed when the player requests the return of the IC coin C, and the upper panel 32 are lent. A locking mechanism 47 for locking so as not to be detached from the machine main body 31 is provided. The middle panel 33 is provided with a bill insertion slot 51 for inserting the bill E into the lending machine main body 31. The lower panel 34 is provided with a pipe-shaped medal delivery nozzle 57 for delivering the medal M from the lending machine main body 31.

  The lending machine main body 31 includes a housing 60 having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The casing 60 is elongated along the height direction (Z direction) and thin in the X direction so that it can be disposed along the gap between the adjacent slot machines 21. The opening on the front side of the housing 60 is closed by the upper panel 32, the middle panel 33, and the lower panel 34.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the internal space of the housing 60 is partitioned into four regions, that is, accommodation spaces S1, S2, S3, and S4 by three partition plates 61, 62, and 63 in the vertical direction. In the uppermost accommodation space S1, an IC coin processing device 71 as an information recording medium processing device according to the present embodiment, and a coin collection unit as an information recording medium collection unit for collecting IC coins C in the IC coin processing device 71 72, a main control device 73 for controlling the entire medal lending machine 22, and a security black box (BB) 74 are provided. In the illustrated example, an IC coin processing device 71 is disposed on the left side on the front side, a coin collecting unit 72 is provided below the IC coin processing device 71, and a main control device is disposed on the right side of the IC coin processing device 71. 73 is provided. A BB 74 is arranged behind the IC coin processing device 71 and the main control device 73. A banknote processing device (bill valid unit) 75 that performs authenticity determination of the banknote E inserted into the banknote insertion slot 51, reading of an amount, and the like is provided in the second-stage storage space S2 from above. A medal sending device 76 for storing the medal M and sending the stored medal M to the medal sending nozzle 57 is provided in the third storage space S3 from above. A power supply unit 77 is provided in the lowermost accommodation space S4. The configuration of the IC coin processing device 71 will be described in detail later.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration between the respective devices built in the medal lending machine 22. As shown in FIG. 5, the information display unit 43, the status display lamp 44, the lending request switch 45, the coin return switch 46, the IC coin processing device 71 (coin processing device control module 226 described later), the bill processing device 75, The medal sending device 76 and the like are electrically connected to the main control device 73, respectively. That is, a control signal is transmitted from the main control device 73 to the information display unit 43, the status display lamp 44, the IC coin processing device 71, the banknote processing device 75, and the medal delivery device 76, respectively. Various information such as detection signals are transmitted from the status display lamp 44, the IC coin processing device 71, the bill processing device 75, and the medal sending device 76 to the main control device 73. In addition, an electrical signal is transmitted from the lending request switch 45 and the coin return switch 46 to the main control device 73. Further, the main control device 73 is electrically connected to the BB 74 and the hall computer 13 respectively. The BB 74 is connected to the sales management device 15 via the I / F unit 14.

  Next, the IC coin processing device 71 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail. FIG. 6 is a left side view (side view seen from the front side) of the IC coin processing device 71, and FIG. 7 is a right side view (side view seen from the back side) of the IC coin processing device 71. FIG. 8 shows a state in which a lid 82 described later is opened. FIG. 9 shows a state in which the lid 82 is omitted from the left side view of the IC coin processing device 71. FIG. 10 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view showing a configuration of a transport unit 170 described later.

  The IC coin processing device 71 includes a device main body 81 and a lid 82 provided so as to be openable and closable with respect to the device main body 81. The dimensions are smaller than the width in the Y direction and the height in the Z direction. Further, as shown in FIG. 9, the IC coin processing device 71 reads the information recorded in the insertion port 91 through which the IC coin C is inserted from the outside of the IC coin processing device 71 and the IC coin C. An ID code reading unit 92 as an information processing unit, an introduction path 93 for guiding the IC coin C from the insertion port 91 to the ID code reading unit 92, and a payout port (return port) for paying the IC coin C to the outside of the IC coin processing device 71 ) 94, a lead-out path 95 for guiding the IC coin C from the ID code reading unit 92 to the payout opening 94 is provided. Furthermore, a substantially arc-shaped storage unit 101 that can store a plurality of IC coins C in a line on the YZ plane, and the IC coin C from the IC coin processing device 71 (storage unit 101) downward. A collection port 105 for discharging the coin collection unit 72 and a collection path 106 for guiding the IC coin C from the storage unit 101 to the collection port 105 are provided.

  The apparatus main body 81 is formed of, for example, a synthetic resin and has an upper surface 81a, a front side surface 81b, a lower surface 81c, and a rear side surface 81d. The front side surface 81b is provided with an input port 91 and a payout port 94 (see FIG. 8). The insertion port 91 is opened in a slit shape formed elongated along the Z direction on the upper side of the front side surface 81b. Further, the opening is made in accordance with the size of the IC coin C, that is, slightly larger than the diameter and width of the IC coin C. The payout port 94 is provided below the insertion port 91 on the front side surface 81b, is elongated along the Z direction like the insertion port 91, and is opened in accordance with the size of the IC coin C. . In the state where the IC coin processing device 71 is provided in the medal lending machine 22, the front side surface 81b is attached to the rear surface of the upper panel 32 described above, and the insertion slot 91 is communicated with the coin insertion slot 41 described above. In addition, the payout opening 94 is configured to communicate with the coin payout opening 42 described above. An opening 108 for configuring the recovery port 105 is provided on the lower surface 81 c of the apparatus main body 81.

  The left side 81 e of the apparatus main body 81 is provided with a recess 111 that is closed by a lid 82. The recess 111 has a shape that is recessed from the left side 81e toward the right side 81f. A device or wiring for realizing the operation of the IC coin processing device 71 (for example, a motor 193, an ID code reading means 225, a coin processing device control module 226, etc., which will be described later) is attached to the right side 81f of the device main body 81. A housing space, that is, a mounting portion 112 is provided. The concave portion 111 and the attachment portion 112 are partitioned into two spaces on the left and right by a partition plate 113 provided in a vertical direction (see FIG. 10).

  As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, in the apparatus main body 81, the inner surface on the back side of the recess 111, that is, the left side surface of the partition plate 113 is vertically oriented (both surfaces are substantially along the YZ plane). A guide groove 120 that is a groove that can receive or convey the IC coin C (in a vertical posture) is provided. The guide groove 120 has a shape that is recessed from the left side 81e side toward the right side 81f side, and has a portion that is curved in an arc shape when viewed from the side in the X direction. The width of the guide groove 120 (the width in the direction substantially perpendicular to the moving direction of the IC coin C on the YZ plane) is substantially constant, and is slightly larger than the diameter of the IC coin C. The depth of the guide groove 120 in the X direction is also substantially constant, and is larger than the thickness of the IC coin C.

  The opening side of the guide groove 120, that is, the side opening 120a side directed to the left side 81e side is closed by the lid body 82 (see FIGS. 11 and 12), and the guide groove 120 and the inner surface of the lid body 82 are closed. A coin guiding / reserving space 130 capable of accommodating or transporting a plurality of IC coins C oriented vertically is formed between them. That is, the coin guiding / reserving space 130 can be opened and closed from the side by opening and closing the lid 82. When the lid 82 is closed, an elongated slit-shaped recovery port 105 is formed along the Y direction between the opening 108 and the lid 82, and the lower end of the coin guiding / reserving space 130 is It communicates with the recovery port 105. The collection port 105 is opened in accordance with the size of the IC coin C, that is, slightly larger than the diameter and width of the IC coin C.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the upper end portion of the coin guiding / reserving space 130 communicates with the insertion port 91, and the lower end portion communicates with the recovery port 105. In the coin guiding / reserving space 130, a portion curved in an arc shape is a storing portion 101, and an upper portion of the storing portion 101 is an ID code reading portion 92, which is inserted with the ID code reading portion 92. Between the port 91 is an introduction path 93 and between the lower end of the storage unit 101 and the recovery port 105 is a recovery path 106. That is, the ID code reading unit 92, the introduction path 93, the storage unit 101, and the recovery path 106 are arranged in this order from above (from the insertion port 91 side), and the IC coins C are arranged on the same plane (YZ plane). It is designed to be accommodated or moved above. In the illustrated example, the lead-out path 95 is provided not in the coin guiding / reserving space 130 but in the inner surface of the recess 111 and cannot be opened or closed. May be configured to be opened and closed.

  The introduction path 93 is inclined so as to gradually descend from the insertion port 91 side toward the ID code reading unit 92 side. That is, the IC coin C inserted in the vertical orientation through the insertion slot 91 is guided to fall obliquely downward along the YZ plane while being in the vertical orientation, and moved to the ID code reading unit 92. Be able to.

  The ID code reading unit 92 can accommodate one IC coin C in a vertical orientation. For example, the IC coin C can be held in the ID code reading unit 92 by stopping the IC coin C with a stopper 165 or the like which will be described later.

  The storage unit 101 is formed in a substantially arc shape having a constant radius of curvature, for example, along a movement path (trajectory) of the moving body 203 of the transport unit 170 described later. Moreover, it curves so that it may go to the rear side 81d side as it goes upwards from a lower end part, and it curves so that it may go to the front side 81b side as it goes upwards further. In the storage unit 101, a plurality of IC coins C are vertically oriented along the same plane (YZ plane), and the peripheral parts of the IC coins C adjacent to each other are vertically connected to each other. In a state of contact, the storage unit 101 can be accommodated in a line along the circumferential direction, that is, in an arcuate line. In the illustrated example, the storage unit 101 can store up to five IC coins C in a line.

  The recovery path 106 is formed between the storage unit 101 and the recovery port 105, and is configured to drop the IC coin C located at the lower end of the storage unit 101 downwards along the Z direction. .

  The lead-out path 95 is provided between the lower edge portion of the ID code reading unit 92 and the payout opening 94, and is inclined so as to gradually go downward from the rear side surface 81d side to the front side surface 81b side. Moreover, it has a slit-like opening cross-sectional shape that can guide the IC coin C in a vertical orientation along the YZ plane.

  Further, a holding body 132 for holding the peripheral edge of the IC coin C accommodated in the guide groove 120 is provided in the recess 111. The holding body 132 is provided on the side opening 120a side of the guide groove 120. In the illustrated example, one edge of the side opening 120a (the lower edge of the introduction path 93, the lower edge of the ID code reading unit 92). Part and the inner peripheral side edge of the storage part 101) and continuously over the entire edge part. Further, the guide groove extends from one edge of the side opening 120a to the other edge on the opposite side (the upper edge in the introduction path 93 and the ID code reading section 92 and the outer edge in the storage section 101). It is provided in a bowl shape (flange shape) so as to extend in the width direction of 120, and is further formed in a strip shape having a predetermined width in the width direction of the guide groove 120. Therefore, in a side view as viewed from the left side 81e side, the lower edge portion of the introduction path 93, the lower edge portion of the ID code reading portion 92, and the inner peripheral side edge portion of the storage portion 101 are covered by the holding body 132. It is in a broken state.

  As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, a gap T1 having a predetermined width is formed between the holding body 132 and the inner surface (inner surface on the back side) 120b of the guide groove 120, and X of the gap T1. The width in the direction is slightly larger than the thickness of the IC coin C. That is, the IC coin C has an introduction path 93, an ID code reading unit 92, and a storage unit 101, both surfaces of which are formed on the inner side surface 120b of the guide groove 120 and the inner surface of the lid 82 (side surface 150a of the protruding body 150 described later). It is accommodated or moved in a state of being opposed to each other and a part of the peripheral edge portion being inserted into the gap T1. When such a holding body 132 is provided, the peripheral edge portion of the IC coin C can be smoothly guided by the gap T1. Further, even when the lid 82 is opened, the IC coin C can be held by the holding body 132, so that the IC coin C can be prevented from coming off from the guide groove 120.

  That is, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, when the lid 82 is opened, the side opening 120a of the guide groove 120 is opened (a projecting body 150 described later is separated from the guide groove 120). For example, the left side surface of the IC coin C stored in the storage unit 101 or the left side surface of the IC coin C held in the ID code reading unit 92 is exposed to the outside. If the lid 82 is opened with the 71 in the vertical orientation, there is a problem that the IC coin C tends to fall from the guide groove 120. That is, since the IC coin C is stored vertically in the guide groove 120, when the holding on the left side surface is released, the IC coin C becomes unstable and easily falls to the left side. On the other hand, in this embodiment, even if the lid 82 is opened, a part of the peripheral edge of the IC coin C is held by the holding body 132. For example, the lower edge or front edge of the IC coin C is held on the upper side of the ID code reading unit 92 and the storage unit 101 (see FIG. 13), and the lower edge of the storage unit 101 is the upper edge of the IC coin. Is held (see FIG. 14). Therefore, it is possible to prevent the IC coin C from being largely collapsed. That is, the IC coin C can be prevented from falling.

  Next, the configuration of the lid 82 will be described in detail. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the lid 82 is provided so as to close the recess 111 from the left side 81e side. The rear edge portion of the lid body 82 is attached to the rear edge portion of the left side portion 81e via the hinge portion 135. That is, the concave portion 111 can be opened and closed by rotating around the hinge portion 135. Further, an engaging portion 142 that can be engaged with an engaging portion 141 provided at the front edge portion of the left side portion 81e is provided at the front edge portion of the lid 82. That is, when the engaging portion 142 is engaged with the engaging portion 141, the lid 82 is fitted in the concave portion 111, that is, a state where the lid 82 is disposed at a closed position (see FIG. 6) that closes the concave portion 111. It is supposed to be held at.

  As shown in FIG. 8, a protruding body 150 disposed along the side opening 120 a of the guide groove 120 is provided on the inner surface 82 b of the lid body 82 (the surface facing the recess 111). The protruding body 150 protrudes laterally from the inner side surface 82b, and when the lid body 82 is placed at the closed position, the edge of the side opening 120a (in the illustrated example, the top of the introduction path 93). It is continuously formed so as to be provided along the edge, the upper edge of the ID code reading unit 92, and the outer edge of the storage unit 101). Further, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the side surface 150a of the projecting body 150 is substantially parallel to the inner side surface 120b of the guide groove 120 (ie, YZ) when the lid body 82 is disposed at the closed position. Along the surface), a gap T2 having a predetermined width is formed between the side surface 150a and the inner side surface 120b. The width of the gap T2 in the X direction is slightly larger than the thickness of the IC coin C. That is, the IC coin C is accommodated or moved in the introduction path 93, the ID code reading unit 92, and the storage unit 101 in a state where the peripheral portion is inserted into the gap T2.

  Further, the width of the protruding body 150 in the width direction of the guide groove 120 is formed smaller than the width of the guide groove 120 so as not to interfere with the holding body 132. That is, a gap T3 is provided between the edge of the projecting body 150 and the edge of the holding body 132, and this gap T3 is a moving member through which the moving body 203 of the conveying means 170 passes, as will be described later. It functions as a service passage. Further, on the inner side of the projecting body 150 (inner peripheral side with respect to the storage portion 101), the inner side surface 82b of the lid body 82 and the left side surface of the partition plate 113 are separated from each other. The gap T4 between the side surface 82b and the partition plate 113 functions as an arm moving space through which the arm 202 of the transport unit 170 passes, as will be described later.

  Note that the lid body 82 may be formed of, for example, a synthetic resin, or may be formed of a light-transmitting material. Then, even if the lid 82 is placed at the closed position, the state in the recess 111 (for example, the position of the IC coin C in the coin guiding / reserving space 130, the number of stored IC coins C, etc.) It can be visually confirmed from the outside through 82. Therefore, for example, when the IC coin processing device 71 is inspected, the trouble of opening and closing the lid 82 can be omitted, and the inspection can be performed smoothly.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, for example, a protrusion 120c that slightly protrudes from a part of the inner surface 120b may be provided on the inner surface 120b of the guide groove 120 described above. A protrusion 132 a that slightly protrudes from a part of the inner surface may be provided on the inner surface of the holding body 132. Furthermore, the side surface 150a of the protruding body 150 may be provided with a protruding portion 150b that slightly protrudes from a part of the side surface 150a. Further, the projecting portions 120c, 132a, and 150b may extend along the movement path of the IC coin C in the guide groove 120. If the protrusions 120c, 132a, and 150b are provided in this way and the protrusions 120c, 132a, and 150b are brought into contact with the side surface of the IC coin C, the IC is more than the case where the protrusions 120c, 132a, and 150b are not provided. The contact area between the coin C and the guide groove 120, the holding body 132, and the protruding body 150 can be reduced, the frictional resistance can be reduced, and the IC coin C can be moved more smoothly.

  Further, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the IC coin processing device 71 moves to a position where the movement path (movement range) of the IC coin C is blocked and a position where the IC coin C does not block, thereby restricting the movement of the IC coin C. The regulating member is provided. That is, in the example shown in the drawing, as the restricting member for restricting the insertion of the IC coin C by opening and closing the insertion slot 91 and the outlet path 95 as the restricting member for restricting the insertion of the IC coin C by opening and closing the insertion slot 91. The extraction path shutter 162 and the collection path 106 are opened and closed to restrict the collection of the IC coin C between the collection path shutter 163 and the ID code reading unit 92 and the storage unit 101 as a regulating member that regulates the collection of the IC coin C. An upper stopper 165 as a restricting member and a lower stopper 166 as a restricting member for restricting the movement of the IC coin C between the storage unit 101 and the recovery path 106 are provided. In addition, a transport unit 170 that transports the IC coin C stored in the storage unit 101 is provided.

  The inlet shutter 161 is, for example, a thin plate disposed vertically along the inlet 91, can project into the inlet 91 from the partition plate 113 side, and can close the inlet 91, and the partition plate 113 side. It is configured so as to be able to immerse in and retract from the insertion port 91. The lead-out path shutter 162 is formed, for example, in a thin plate shape that is inclined along the lower edge of the ID code reading unit 92, and projects from the partition plate 113 into the upper end (inlet) of the lead-out path 95. Thus, the lead-out path 95 can be closed, and it can be retracted from the upper end portion of the lead-out path 95 by being immersed in the partition plate 113. The collection path shutter 163 is formed, for example, in a thin plate shape that is disposed laterally between the lower end of the storage unit 101 and the upper end of the collection path 106, and extends from the partition plate 113 to the upper end of the collection path 106. The recovery path 106 can be closed by protruding into the (inlet), and can be retracted from the upper end of the recovery path 106 by being immersed in the partition plate 113.

  The upper stopper 165 is formed in a pin shape, for example, and is provided between the ID code reading unit 92 and the upper end of the storage unit 101, and can protrude into the guide groove 120 from the inner side surface 120b at such a position. The inner surface 120b can be retracted from the guide groove 120. The lower stopper 166 is formed, for example, in the shape of a pin, and is provided in the lower part of the storage unit 101 behind the recovery path 106 and protrudes into the guide groove 120 from the inner side surface 120b at this position. It is configured to be capable of being retracted from the guide groove 120 by being immersed in the inner side surface 120b. Note that one IC coin C can be accommodated in front of the lower stopper 166 (above the recovery path shutter 163), that is, the peripheral edge can be held in a state of being placed on the upper surface of the recovery path shutter 163. It has become.

  In addition, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the attachment portion 112 is provided with a regulating member moving mechanism for moving the various regulating members with respect to the movement path of the IC coin C. That is, in the illustrated example, the inlet shutter moving mechanism 171 as a restricting member moving mechanism for opening and closing the inlet shutter 161 and the outlet path shutter moving mechanism 172 as a restricting member moving mechanism for opening and closing the outlet path shutter 162. , A recovery path shutter moving mechanism 173 as a regulating member moving mechanism for opening and closing the recovery path shutter 163, an upper stopper moving mechanism 175 as a regulating member moving mechanism for projecting / retracting the upper stopper 165, and a protrusion of the lower stopper 166 A lower stopper moving mechanism 176 is provided as a restricting member moving mechanism that performs a retreat operation.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the slot shutter moving mechanism 171 is resistant to, for example, a coil spring 181 as a biasing member that biases the slot shutter 161 to protrude to the slot 91 and the biasing force of the coil spring 181. Then, a solenoid 182 as a driving source (actuator) for generating a driving force for retracting the insertion port shutter 161 from the insertion port 91, and a transmission for transmitting the biasing force of the coil spring 181 and the driving force of the solenoid 171a to the input port shutter 161. An arm (lever) 183 as a part and a support member 184 that is fixed to the partition plate 113 and supports the arm 183 in a swingable manner. The arm 183 is supported by a support member 184 between both end portions, and can swing about a shaft 183a disposed along the YZ plane as a center (fulcrum). An inlet shutter 161 is attached to the distal end of the arm 183, and a solenoid 182 is attached to the proximal end. A coil spring 181 is provided between the base end portion of the arm 183 and the solenoid 182. In such a configuration, in a state where the solenoid 182 is not driven, the base end portion of the arm 183 is urged in a direction away from the partition plate 113 side (left side) toward the right side by the elastic force of the coil spring 181. Yes. That is, the distal end of the arm 183 is close to the partition plate 113, and the insertion port shutter 161 protrudes from the insertion port 91. When the solenoid 182 is driven by applying electric energy and the base end of the arm 183 is pulled toward the partition plate 113, the tip of the arm 183 is separated from the partition plate 113, and the inlet shutter 161 is turned on. It is designed to retreat from the mouth 91.

  Note that the outlet path shutter moving mechanism 172, the recovery path shutter moving mechanism 173, the upper stopper moving mechanism 175, and the lower stopper moving mechanism 176 also have substantially the same configuration as the above-described inlet shutter moving mechanism 171. Detailed description thereof will be omitted because it overlaps with that related to the inlet shutter moving mechanism 171. In the drawings, substantially the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the transport unit 170 rotates a rotating member 191 that can rotate with respect to the apparatus main body 81 around the X direction (a moving body 203 to be described later). A motor (electric motor) 193 that is a driving source for generating a driving force (for movement) and a gear train 194 that transmits the driving force of the motor 193 to the rotating member 191 are provided.

  The rotation member 191 includes a rotation member main body 201 provided on the inner peripheral side of the storage unit 101, an arm 202 extending from the rotation member main body 201 toward the storage unit 101, and a distal end portion of the arm 202. A movable body (information recording medium abutting portion) 203 that is provided and is movable in the storage portion 101 is provided.

  The rotating member main body 201 is provided with a central axis 201a serving as a rotation central axis directed in the X direction. Both end portions of the central shaft 201a are supported so as to be rotatable with respect to the apparatus main body 81. A gear 205 that meshes with a second gear 218b of a compound gear member 218, which will be described later, is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating member main body 201 on the mounting portion 112 side. The gear 205 is a spur gear, for example. The partition plate 113 is formed with an opening 206 for exposing a part of the gear 205 to the mounting portion 112 side, and the composite gear member 218 is engaged with a portion exposed by the opening 206. Are arranged as follows.

  The arm 202 and the moving body 203 are provided inside the recess 111. The arm 202 is connected to the rotating member main body 201 on the base end side. The moving body 203 is provided at the distal end portion of the arm 202, and can be reciprocated up and down along the arc-shaped moving path in the YZ plane integrally with the arm 202. In the state where the lid 82 is disposed at the closed position, the moving body 203 and the arm 202 can move along the gaps T3 and T4, respectively.

Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 16, the arm 202 can be stopped stepwise at six rotation angles. As the rotation angle of the arm 202 changes, the moving body 203 moves to six positions. It can be stopped in steps. That is, the moving body 203 includes a first holding position P _M1 , an upper stopper 165, and four IC coins C that can be stacked and held between the standby position P _M0 and the upper stopper 165 in front of the lower stopper 166. A second holding position P _M2 capable of stacking and holding three IC coins C between them, and a third holding position P _M3 capable of stacking and holding two IC coins C between the upper stoppers 165, A fourth holding position P _M4 that can hold one IC coin C between the upper stopper 165 and a fifth holding position P _M5 that can hold the rear part of the IC coin C arranged in the ID code reading unit 92. Can be moved to.

Incidentally, the movable body 203 is disposed in the standby position _{P M0} in a state of storing the IC coin C of five to reservoir 101, the mobile 203 over the first is placed in the holding position _{P M1} and the moving body 203 The state in which four IC coins C are stored (or the state in which the lower stopper 166 is protruded and the four IC coins C are stored above the lower stopper 166), and the moving body 203 is moved to the second holding position _PM2 . arranged so it upward three states the IC coin C and reservoir of the mobile 203 was stored for two IC coin C moving body 203 so disposed in the third holding position P _M3 above the mobile 203 In a state where the moving body 203 is arranged at the fourth holding position _PM4 and one IC coin C is stored above the moving body 203, the IC coin C stored at the uppermost position is stored in the storage unit 101. The top edge of (immediately , Adjacent to the upper stopper 165 and the ID code read unit 92, and is adapted to be disposed in a position) to a state that has entered the detection range of the reservoir for detector 223 to be described later.

For example, a plurality of notch grooves (sensor slits) 210 are provided on the outer peripheral edge of the rotating member main body 201 on the recess 111 side. The notch grooves 210 are arranged side by side with a space around the central axis 201a. On the other hand, a notch groove detector 211 that detects the presence of these notch grooves 210 is provided in the recess 111. The notch groove detector 211 has a configuration using an optical sensor, for example. By detecting the notch groove 210 by the notch groove detector 211, the rotation angle of the rotating member 191 and thus the position of the moving body 203 can be detected. That is, the notch groove 210 and the notch groove detector 211 constitute a rotation angle detection means 212 that detects the rotation angle of the rotation member 191. In addition, the space | interval formed between the notch grooves 210 adjacent in the circumferential direction is, for example, six positions (standby position P _M0 , holding positions P _{M1 to} P _M5 ) where the above-described moving body 203 is disposed. The size may correspond to each interval. That is, for example, when six notch grooves 210 are provided and the moving body 203 is arranged at any one of the standby position P _M0 and the holding positions P _{M1 to} P _M5 , any one of the notch grooves 210 becomes the notch groove. You may make it arrange | position to the detection range of the detector 211. FIG.

  The motor 193 is a stepping motor, for example, and is attached to the attachment portion 112. Further, the main body 193a of the motor 193 has, for example, a substantially cylindrical outer shape, and is attached vertically so that the rotating shaft 193b of the motor 193 protrudes below the motor main body 193a along the Z direction. Yes.

  The rotation shaft 193b of the motor 193 is not directly connected to the right end portion of the rotating member 191, but via a gear train 194 (seven gears 215, 216a, 216b, 217a, 217b, 218a, 218b described later). Therefore, the degree of freedom of arrangement of the motor 193 can be improved by transmitting the power of the motor 193 to the rotating member 191 (the moving body 203 side). That is, for example, when the rotation shaft 193b of the motor 193 is directly connected to the right end portion of the rotating member 191, a space for arranging the motor 193 horizontally is required on the right side of the rotating member 191. There is a limit to reducing the thickness of the main body 81 in the X direction. In contrast, by adopting a configuration in which the power of the motor 193 is transmitted via the gear train 194, the motor 193 is attached at any appropriate position so as not to overlap with the rotating member 191 and other devices. Will be able to. Thereby, thickness reduction in the X direction of the apparatus main body 81 can be achieved. In particular, the gear train 194 includes a worm gear (combination of worm and worm wheel) and the like as will be described later, so that the direction of the rotation shaft 193b is different from the rotation center axis 201a of the rotation member main body 201. The power can be transmitted even in the state where it is directed to. That is, the degree of freedom of the direction (posture) of the motor 193 can be improved. For example, the rotation shaft 193b can be disposed substantially perpendicular (Z direction) to the central axis 201a (X direction).

  In the illustrated example, the motor 193 is viewed from the side as viewed from the X direction (that is, when the apparatus main body 81 is viewed from a direction substantially perpendicular to the YZ plane in which the IC coins C are arranged in the storage unit 101), for example. Restriction member driving mechanisms such as an inlet shutter moving mechanism 171, an outlet path shutter moving mechanism 172, a recovery path shutter moving mechanism 173, an upper stopper moving mechanism 175, and a lower stopper moving mechanism 176, an introduction detector 221, and an outlet detector 222 described later. In a position that does not overlap with information recording medium detectors such as storage unit detector 223 and recovery path detector 224, ID code reading means 225 described later, coin processing device control module 226 described later, and the like. Is provided. That is, the motor 193 is arranged so that no other device exists on the left and right sides. Then, the motor 193 can be attached to the apparatus main body 81 in a more compact manner by effectively using the space where no other device is provided. In particular, the inlet shutter moving mechanism 171, the outlet path shutter moving mechanism 172, the recovery path shutter moving mechanism 173, the upper stopper moving mechanism 175, and the lower stopper moving mechanism 176 have a structure in which both ends of the arm 183 are moved in the X direction. Therefore, it is necessary to secure a space for the arm 183 to move on the right side. However, by arranging the motor 193 so as not to overlap the arm 183 when viewed from the X direction, the motor 193 Without being interfered with 183, it can be provided at a deep location in the mounting portion 112.

  Further, the motor 193 has a position where it does not overlap with the coin guiding / reserving space 130 (the ID code reading unit 92, the introducing path 93, the deriving path 95, the storing part 101, the collecting path 106) in a side view as viewed from the X direction. , Provided at a position that does not overlap the lead-out path 95 (see FIG. 9). In the example shown in FIG. 9, the motor 193 is located behind and above the upper end of the storage unit 101, that is, the corner surrounded by the upper surface 81 a, the rear side 81 d, and the upper edge of the coin guide / storage space 130 in a side view. Provided in the department. Further, in the example shown in FIG. 10, a part (left side) of the motor main body 193 a is buried in the partition plate 113. Thus, the motor 193 can be made more compact with respect to the apparatus main body 81 by effectively using the space where the coin guiding / reserving space 130, the lead-out path 95, etc. are not provided, that is, the portion where the coin C does not pass. Can be attached. That is, even when the motor 193 is deeply buried in the partition plate 113, the motor 193 can be disposed on the concave portion 111 side so as not to protrude to the inner surfaces of the coin guiding / reserving space 130, the lead-out path 95, and the like. Therefore, for example, even when the outer diameter of the motor main body 193a is thick, the motor 193 can be attached so as not to protrude from the right side portion 81f.

  Next, the gear train 194 will be described. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 10, the gear train 194 includes a gear 215 directly connected to the rotation shaft 193 b of the motor 193, a composite gear member 216 having two gears 216 a and 216 b, and two gears 217 a and 217 b. And a composite gear member 218 having two gears 218a and 218b. That is, a total of seven gears 215, 216a, 216b, 217a, 217b, 218a, 218b are provided.

  The gear 215 is a worm (for example, a cylindrical worm) having a tooth profile formed on the outer peripheral surface. In the illustrated example, the tooth profile is formed along the left-hand screw direction. Further, the motor 193 is configured to rotate integrally with the rotation shaft 193b of the motor 193 with the central axis directed in the Z direction as the rotation center.

  The compound gear member 216 includes a first gear 216 a that meshes with the gear 215 and a second gear 216 b that meshes with the gear 217 a of the compound gear member 217. The first gear 216a is, for example, a worm wheel, and the gear 216a and the gear 215 constitute a worm gear. The first gear 216a has a substantially disk shape with a tooth shape formed on the outer peripheral edge portion, and is provided in a vertical direction so that the radial direction is along the YZ plane. The second gear 216b is, for example, a spur gear, and has a substantially disc shape with a tooth shape formed on the outer peripheral edge portion, and is provided in a vertical direction so that the radial direction is along the YZ plane. . The second gear 216b has an outer diameter smaller than that of the first gear 216a, and is provided, for example, at the center of the right side surface of the first gear 216a. Furthermore, it is formed integrally with the first gear 216a. The compound gear member 216 is supported in a rotatable state by a support shaft 216c. The support shaft 216c is provided along the X direction so as to penetrate the center portion of the first gear 216a and the center portion of the second gear 216b. The left end portion of the support shaft 216c is supported by the right side surface of the partition plate 113, and the right end portion is supported by the inner side surface of a cover 219 described later. That is, the first gear 216a and the second gear 216b rotate with respect to the apparatus main body 81 integrally with each other around the support shaft 216c.

  The compound gear member 217 includes a first gear 217 a that meshes with the second gear 216 b of the compound gear member 216, and a second gear 217 b that meshes with the first gear 218 a of the compound gear member 218. The first gear 217a is, for example, a spur gear, and has a substantially disk shape with a tooth shape formed on the outer peripheral edge portion. The first gear 217a is provided vertically so that the radial direction is along the YZ plane. . The second gear 217b is also a spur gear, for example, and has a substantially disc shape with a tooth shape formed on the outer peripheral edge portion, and is provided in a vertical direction so that the radial direction is along the YZ plane. . The second gear 217b has an outer diameter smaller than that of the first gear 217a, and is provided, for example, at the center of the left side surface (partition plate 113 side) of the first gear 217a. Further, it is formed integrally with the first gear 217a. The composite gear member 217 is supported in a rotatable state by a support shaft 217c. The support shaft 217c passes through the center portion of the first gear 217a and the center portion of the second gear 217b and is provided along the X direction. The left end portion of the support shaft 217c is supported by the right side surface of the partition plate 113, and the right end portion is supported by the inner side surface of a cover 219 described later. That is, the first gear 217a and the second gear 217b are rotated with respect to the apparatus main body 81 integrally with each other around the support shaft 217c.

  The compound gear member 218 includes a first gear 218a that meshes with the second gear 217b of the compound gear member 217, and a second gear 218b that meshes with the gear 205 of the rotating member 191 described above. The first gear 218a has a substantially disk shape with a tooth shape formed on the outer peripheral edge portion, and is provided in a vertical direction so that the radial direction is along the YZ plane. The second gear 218b is also a spur gear, for example, and has a substantially disk shape in which a tooth shape is formed on the outer peripheral edge portion, and is provided in a vertical direction so that the radial direction is along the YZ plane. . The second gear 218b has an outer diameter smaller than that of the first gear 218a, and is provided, for example, at the center of the left side surface (partition plate 113 side) of the first gear 218a. Furthermore, it is integrally formed with respect to the first gear 218a. The compound gear member 218 is supported in a rotatable state by a support shaft 218c. The support shaft 218c passes through the center portion of the first gear 218a and the center portion of the second gear 218b and is provided along the X direction. The left end portion of the support shaft 218c is supported by the right side surface of the partition plate 113, and the right end portion is supported by the inner side surface of a cover 219 described later. That is, the first gear 218a and the second gear 218b rotate with respect to the apparatus main body 81 integrally with each other around the support shaft 218c.

  In the illustrated example, the support shafts 216c, 217c, 218c, and the central shaft 201a are provided in this order from the gear 215 side toward the front, and the front ones are provided at a lower height. In other words, the gear 217a is positioned more forward than the gear 216b, the gear 218a is positioned more than the gear 217b, and the gear 205 is positioned lower than the gear 218b.

  As described above, the gears 216a, 216b, 217a, 217b, 218a, and 218b are arranged along the YZ plane, so that the gear train 194 can be stored compactly in the mounting portion 112. can do. That is, by reducing the width of the entire gear train 194 in the X direction, the IC coin processing device 71 can be thinned in the X direction. Further, in the illustrated example, the gear train 194 has the above-described inlet shutter moving mechanism 171, outlet path shutter moving mechanism 172, recovery path shutter moving mechanism 173, upper stopper moving mechanism 175, lower part, as viewed from the side in the X direction. The stopper moving mechanism 176 is disposed at a position that does not overlap. That is, by disposing the arm 183 in a position that does not overlap with the movement range of the arm 183 from the X direction, the gear train 194 does not interfere with the arm 183, and a deep place in the mounting portion 112 (a place close to the partition plate 113). ) Can be provided.

  As described above, the gear 215 and the gear 216a, the gear 216b and the gear 217a, the gear 217b and the gear 218a, and the gear 218b and the gear 205 are attached in an engaged state. That is, when the motor 193 is driven, the gear 215 is rotated, and in conjunction with the rotation of the gear 215, the gears 216a, 216b, 217a, 217b, 218a, 218b, 205 are respectively rotated. 202 and the moving body 203 can be rotated integrally with the gear 205 around a central axis 201a. In the illustrated example, when the gear 215 is rotated rightward (clockwise) when viewed from above, the gears 216a and 216b are rotated clockwise while the gears 217a and 217b are rotated counterclockwise when viewed from the right side 81f side. The gear 218a and the gear 218b rotate clockwise, and the gear 205 rotates counterclockwise. Thereby, the moving body 203 is raised along the storage part 101. Conversely, when the gear 215 is rotated leftward (counterclockwise) when viewed from above, the gear 216a and gear 216b rotate counterclockwise, and the gear 217a and gear 217b rotate clockwise when viewed from the right side 81f side. The gear 218a and the gear 218b rotate counterclockwise, and the gear 205 rotates clockwise. Accordingly, the moving body 203 is lowered along the storage unit 101.

  The gear train 194 is housed in the mounting portion 112 and is further protected by a cover 219. The cover 219 is provided so as to cover the outer side of the gear 215 and the outer side (right side surface) of each composite gear member 216, 217, 218, and surround the outer periphery of each composite gear member 216, 217, 218. It has been. Further, the cover 219 is disposed in the mounting portion 112 in a state of being fixed to the partition plate 113. That is, the right end portion of each of the support shafts 216 c, 217 c, and 218 c described above is held with respect to the partition plate 113 via the cover 219. Note that the cover 219 may be formed of a light-transmitting material, for example. Then, even when the cover 219 is still attached, the state of the gear train 194 in the cover 219 can be visually confirmed through the cover 219, which facilitates inspection. Further, the cover 219 may be configured to be detachable from the partition plate 113, and by removing the cover 219 from the partition plate 113, the composite gear members 216, 217, and 218 may be configured to be detachable. This facilitates maintenance of the gear train 194.

  Further, the IC coin processing device 71 detects that a plurality of information recording medium detectors for detecting the presence or absence of the IC coin C in the movement path of the IC coin C, that is, the IC coin C is introduced into the introduction path 93. An introduction detector 221 as an information recording medium detector to be detected, a lead-out detector 222 as an information recording medium detector for detecting that the IC coin C is led out from the lead-out path 95, and an IC coin C at the upper end of the storage unit 101 As an information recording medium detector for detecting whether or not the IC coin C has passed through the collection path 106 (recovered). A recovery detector 224 is provided. Further, an ID code reading unit 225 as an information reading unit for reading an ID code as information from the IC coin C accommodated in the ID code reading unit 92, and a coin processing device control module 226 for controlling each part of the IC coin processing device 71 are provided. I have.

  The introduction detector 221 is arranged so that the detection range (detection region) is located at the entrance of the introduction path 93, that is, the presence or absence of the IC coin C at the entrance of the introduction path 93 can be detected. Also, as shown in FIG. 17, a light projecting unit 231 that projects light (for example, infrared light), a reflective unit 232 that reflects light projected from the light projecting unit 231, and light reflected from the reflective unit 232 Is provided. That is, it is configured using a reflection type optical sensor (a light projecting / receiving device including a light projecting unit 231 and a light receiving unit 233).

  The light projecting unit 232 is provided with a light emitting element such as a light emitting diode. The light receiving unit 233 is provided with a light receiving element such as a phototransistor or a photodiode. The light projecting unit 231 and the light receiving unit 233 are integrally attached to the apparatus main body 81. In the illustrated example, the light projecting unit 231 is provided to project light from the inner side surface 120b toward the gap T2. The light receiving unit 233 is provided below the light projecting unit 231.

  On the other hand, the reflecting portion 232 is integrally attached to the lid body 82, and is provided in the vicinity of the side surface 150a in the protruding body 150, for example. The reflection part 232 has two reflection surfaces 232a and 232b arranged in a substantially V shape. The reflecting surface 232a is inclined so as to go upward as it goes toward the side surface 150a. The reflection surface 232b is provided below the reflection surface 232a, and is inclined so as to be directed downward toward the side surface 150a. In the example shown in the drawing, the side surface 150a is a continuous surface that can form the gap T2 described above even at the location where the reflecting portion 232 is provided, and the reflecting portion 232 moves the IC coin C. It does not interfere.

  That is, when light is projected from the light projecting unit 231 with the lid 82 placed at the closed position, the projected light travels in the X direction toward the left, crosses the gap T2, and transmits light. Is reflected by the reflecting surface 232a and is reflected downward, further reflected by the reflecting surface 232b, proceeds in the X direction toward the right side, exits from the side surface 150a, crosses the gap T2 again, The light receiving unit 233 receives light. And from the detection signal of the light-receiving part 233, it can be detected now whether a light-shielding object exists in the clearance gap T2.

  The derivation detector 222 is arranged such that the detection range is located at the exit of the derivation path 95, that is, the presence or absence of the IC coin C in the derivation path 95 can be detected. Further, almost the same as the introduction detector 221, a configuration using a reflection type optical sensor is provided, which includes a light projecting unit 231, a reflecting unit 232, and a light receiving unit 233 (see FIG. 9).

  The storage unit detector 223 is configured so that the detection range is located at the upper end of the storage unit 101, that is, the presence or absence of the IC coin C at the upper end of the storage unit 101 (the IC coin C stored at the uppermost position). It is arranged so that it can be detected. In addition, almost the same as the introduction detector 221, a configuration using a reflective optical sensor is provided, which includes a light projecting unit 231, a reflective unit 232, and a light receiving unit 233, and further includes a light projecting unit 231 and a light receiving unit 233. Is provided on the apparatus main body 81 side, and the reflecting portion 232 is provided on the lid body 82 side (near the side surface 150a in the protruding body 150).

  The collection detector 224 is arranged so that the detection range is located at the lower end of the storage unit 101 (near the entrance of the collection path 106). In the illustrated example, the detection range of the recovery detector 224 is disposed obliquely downward with respect to the periphery of one IC coin C accommodated in front of the lower stopper 166. That is, when the IC coin C is held on the upper surface of the recovery path shutter 163 in a state where the recovery path 106 is closed by the recovery path shutter 163, the IC coin C is in the detection range of the recovery detector 224. Although the position is slightly deviated and is not detected, when the recovery path shutter 163 is retracted and the recovery path 106 is opened, and the holding by the recovery path shutter 163 is released, the IC coin C Is configured to cross the detection range of the recovery detector 224 in the middle of falling into the recovery path 106. Thereby, it is possible to detect whether or not the IC coin C has passed through the collection path 106. Further, almost the same as the introduction detector 221, a configuration using a reflection-type optical sensor is provided, which includes a light projecting unit 231, a reflective unit 232, and a light receiving unit 233 (see FIG. 9), and further, 231 and the light receiving portion 233 are provided on the apparatus main body 81 side, and the reflecting portion 232 is provided on the lid body 82 side (near the side surface 150a in the protruding body 150).

  As described above, the introduction detector 221, the reservoir detector 223, and the recovery detector 224 are configured using reflective optical sensors, and each of the introduction detectors 221, the reservoir detector 223, and the recovery detector The structure of the lid 82 can be simplified by providing the light projecting unit 231 and the light receiving unit 233 of the instrument 224 on the apparatus main body 81 side instead of the lid 82. If it does so, the thickness in the X direction of the cover body 82 can be made thin, and by extension, the width | variety in the X direction of the IC coin processing apparatus 71 can be made small. Further, by making the lid 82 having translucency simple, the state in the recess 111 can be easily seen through the lid 82. That is, when checking the state in the concave portion 111 through the lid 82, the visual field is not obstructed by the light projecting unit 231, the light receiving unit 233, wirings connected to these, and the like can be reliably observed. . In addition, although the reflection part 232 is provided in the cover body 82 side, the reflection part 232 is a simple structure, and there is no worry which disturbs visual observation in the case of inspection.

  Further, the reflection detectors 232 of the introduction detector 221, the reservoir detector 223, and the recovery detector 224 are integrally provided on the lid 82 side, so that the plurality of information recording medium detectors can be connected to the lid 82. It is also possible to use as a means for detecting whether or not is open. For example, when light is projected from each light projecting unit 231 of the introduction detector 221, the storage unit detector 223, and the recovery detector 224, the light is received by any one of the light receiving units 233. It can be estimated that the lid 82 is closed (that is, each reflecting portion 232 is disposed at a predetermined position where light can be reflected). On the other hand, no light is received by any of the light receiving sections 233 even though light is projected from the respective light projecting sections 231 of the introduction detector 221, the reservoir detector 223, and the recovery detector 224. In some cases, it can be inferred that the lid 82 may be opened (that is, each reflecting portion 232 may be separated from the light projecting portion 231 and the light receiving portion 233). The introduction detector 221 does not receive light even when the IC coin C is introduced into the introduction path 93. However, since the time for the IC coin C to pass through the detection range is short at this time, no light is received. The time is also relatively short. In the recovery detector 224, no light is received even when the IC coin C falls into the recovery path 106, but since the time for the IC coin C to pass through the detection range is short, the time when the light is not received is also compared. It is a short time. On the other hand, when the lid 82 is opened, no light is received for a long time. Therefore, the case where the light is not received due to the passage of the IC coin C and the case where the light is not received because the lid 82 is opened are easily determined based on the length of time during which the light is not received. Can be identified. As described above, it is possible to determine whether or not the lid 82 is open based on the light receiving states of the plurality of information recording medium detectors. Therefore, it is effective for finding, for example, a closing failure of the lid 82 and an illegal act of trying to steal the IC coin C.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the ID code reading means 225 sends the electric energy for driving the memory 5 built in the IC coin C as an electromagnetic wave, and the information recorded in the memory 5 as the electromagnetic wave as a medium. An antenna 241 for receiving and an antenna control module 242 for controlling the antenna 241 and the like are provided. The antenna 241 is disposed on the back side of the ID code reading unit 92 (the right side surface of the partition plate 113). The antenna control module 242 is configured by, for example, a circuit board (printed wiring board) on which an electronic circuit is configured, and is housed in the mounting portion 112 in a vertical direction (along the YZ plane). The antenna 241 and the antenna control module 242 are electrically connected to each other through wiring or the like.

  The coin processing device control module 226 includes, for example, a circuit board on which a microcomputer is configured, and includes electronic components such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), and a RAM (Random Access Memory). Has been implemented. The coin processing device control module 226 is also stored in the attachment portion 112 in a vertical direction (along the YZ plane).

  FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration between devices incorporated in the IC coin processing device 71. As shown in FIG. 18, the coin processing device control module 226 includes various driving devices such as a slot shutter moving mechanism 171, an outlet path shutter moving mechanism 172, a recovery path shutter moving mechanism 173, an upper stopper moving mechanism 175, Each solenoid 182 and motor 193 of the lower stopper moving mechanism 176 are electrically connected via wiring or the like. Furthermore, various detection devices, for example, a notch groove detector 211, each introduction detector 221, a lead-out detector 222, a reservoir detector 223, a collection detector 224, a light projecting unit 231 and a light receiving unit 233, The antenna control module 242 and the like are electrically connected via wiring or the like. In addition, the coin processing device control module 226 is electrically connected to an external device of the IC coin processing device 71, for example, the main control device 73 through wiring or the like.

  Next, a method for using the gaming system 10 configured as described above and a method for renting medals M will be described. First, a player who wants to play a game in the slot machine 21 borrows a medal M from a medal lending machine 22 adjacent to the slot machine 21. At this time, the player inserts the banknote E by inserting the banknote E into the banknote insertion slot 51, or by inserting the IC coin C, which is given a monetary value of a predetermined unit amount or more, into the coin insertion slot 41. A predetermined number of medals M can be borrowed in exchange for the monetary value of the bill E or the IC coin C. That is, for example, the medal M can be borrowed according to any one of a first medal lending pattern, a second medal lending pattern, and a third medal lending pattern described later. The medal lending machine 22 is set to pay out a predetermined number (for example, 50) of medals M in a lump for a predetermined unit amount (for example, 1000 yen).

  First, a first medal lending pattern, that is, a medal lending method when, for example, one thousand yen bill (cash of a predetermined unit amount) is inserted as the banknote E will be described. The bill E inserted into the bill insertion slot 51 is identified as authentic by the bill processing device 75. As a result, the banknote E determined to be authentic is read in amount and taken into the banknote processing device 75. On the other hand, the bill E that is not determined to be authentic is sent back to the bill insertion slot 51 and discharged from the medal lending machine 22.

  When the amount of the bill E is read, the amount information is transmitted from the bill processing device 75 to the main controller 73. Then, a control signal is transmitted from the main control device 73 to the medal sending device 76, and the medal sending device 76 is driven so as to send 50 medals M. The medal M sent out from the medal sending device 76 is paid out to the tray 21a through the medal sending nozzle 57.

  Next, a second medal lending pattern, that is, a medal lending method when, for example, a 5,000 yen bill or a 10,000 yen bill (cash of a predetermined unit amount or more) is inserted as the banknote E will be described. As with the first medal lending pattern described above, the bill E inserted into the bill insertion slot 51 is subjected to true / false discrimination, amount reading, and the like in the bill processing device 75, and the amount information read is the main control. Is transmitted to the device 73.

  When the main controller 73 detects from the money amount information transmitted from the banknote processing device 75 that the inserted banknote E is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount, the main control device 73 transfers the information to the IC coin processing device 71. On the other hand, a control signal for performing a later-described coin movement process, ID code reading process, and the like is transmitted. Further, a control signal is transmitted from the main control device 73 to the medal sending device 76, the medal sending device 76 is driven in the same manner as the first medal lending pattern described above, and 50 medals M are paid out. Then, the value of the amount of the banknote E minus a predetermined unit amount (for example, 4000 yen when a 5,000-yen bill is inserted, 9000 yen when a 10,000-yen bill is inserted) is still a medal It is stored in the main controller 73 that it is not used for lending M and remains as the remaining amount (change). Further, the remaining amount information is transmitted from the main control device 73 to the sales management device 15 via the BB 74 and the I / F unit 14.

  On the other hand, in the medal lending machine 22 before the bill E is inserted by the player, the IC coin processing device 71 is in a standby state (FIG. 19) described later. In other words, in the IC coin processing device 71, one or more IC coins C (the IC coin C whose monetary value is zero (no monetary value is given)) are stored in advance. . Further, when the bill E is inserted by the player, a control signal is transmitted from the main control device 73 to the IC coin processing device 71 based on information transmitted from the bill processing device 75 to the main control device 73. Then, the IC coin processing device 71 is placed in a coin insertion prohibited state (FIG. 20) which will be described later. That is, the IC coin C cannot be temporarily inserted into the medal lending machine 22. When a control signal for performing the above-described coin movement processing, ID code reading processing, and the like is transmitted from the main control device 73 to the IC coin processing device 71, the coin movement processing (FIG. 21) is performed, the IC coin processing device 71 is brought into an ID code readable state (FIG. 22) described later, and an ID code reading process described later is performed. Thereby, the ID code is read from one IC coin C among the IC coins C stored in the IC coin processing device 71. The standby state, coin insertion prohibited state, coin movement process, ID code readable state, ID code reading process, and the like of the IC coin processing device 71 will be described in detail later.

  The ID code information read by the ID code reading process is transmitted from the IC coin processing device 71 to the main control device 73 and further transmitted to the sales management device 15 via the BB 74 and the I / F unit 14 ( ID code information transmission processing). In this way, the information on the remaining amount and the information on the ID code of one IC coin C are transmitted to the sales management device 15 respectively, and the sales management device 15 associates (associates) the remaining amount with the ID code. Remember). That is, it is stored that one IC coin C selected in the IC coin processing device 71 has a monetary value corresponding to the new remaining amount (monetary value assigning process).

  As described above, in the state where the money amount value giving process is performed, the player selectively presses either the lending request switch 45 or the coin return switch 46 to further use the remaining amount to obtain a medal. It is possible to select whether to borrow M or to receive IC coin C given a value equivalent to the remaining amount.

  For example, when it is desired to borrow more medals M using the remaining amount, the lending request switch 45 may be pressed once or more according to the number of medals M to be borrowed. Each time the lending request switch 45 is pressed, the lending request switch 45 transmits a signal requesting lending of a predetermined number (50) of medals M to the main controller 73. The main controller 73 compares the remaining amount with the number n of times the lending request switch 45 has been pressed, and determines whether or not the requested number (50 × n) of medals M can be lent. Then, a control signal is transmitted to the medal sending device 76 so that a plurality of medals M are sent out in a range where lending is possible. Thereby, the medal M is additionally lent out, and the main control device 73 detects that the value of money corresponding to the number of medals M additionally lent out is consumed. Then, the information of the new remaining amount is transmitted from the main control device 73 to the sales management device 15, and the sales management device 15 updates the amount value of the IC coin C to the new remaining amount (amount value update process).

  Similarly, it is possible to request the lending of the medal M using the new remaining amount. For example, when the IC coin C is desired to be received from the medal lending machine 22 without further requesting the lending of the medal M. The coin return switch 46 may be pushed. When the coin return switch 46 is pressed, a return request signal is transmitted to the main control device 73, and a control signal is transmitted from the main control device 73 to the IC coin processing device 71. Then, the IC coin processing device 71 performs a coin payout process (FIG. 23), which will be described later, so that the IC coin C given an amount value corresponding to the remaining amount is paid out from the coin payout exit 42. The coin payout process will be described later in detail.

  Incidentally, when the remaining amount becomes zero (the value of money is lost) because the medal M is borrowed by pressing the lending request switch 45, the coin storage process (FIG. 24) described later is performed in the IC coin processing device 71. Done. When this coin storage process is performed, the coin payout process is not performed even if the coin return switch 46 is pressed. The coin storage process will be described later in detail.

  Next, a third medal lending pattern, that is, a medal lending method when an IC coin C given a monetary value equal to or greater than a predetermined unit amount is inserted will be described. First, in the medal lending machine 22 before the IC coin C is inserted by the player, the IC coin processing device 71 is, for example, a second standby state (FIG. 25) or a first standby state (FIG. 19) described later. Etc. In such a standby state, when the IC coin C is inserted into the coin insertion slot 41 by the player, the IC coin C is introduced into the IC coin processing device 71 as will be described later, and the IC coin processing device 71 is connected to the coin described later. The charging prohibited state and the ID code readable state (FIG. 22). In the IC coin processing device 71, the ID code of the IC coin C inserted by the player is read by performing almost the same process as the ID code reading process performed in the second medal lending pattern described above.

  In the ID code reading process, when the ID code is normally read from the IC coin C, the read ID code information is the main information in the same manner as the ID code information transmission process in the second medal lending pattern described above. It is transmitted to the control device 73 and the sales management device 15. In the sales management device 15, the amount value corresponding to the ID code transmitted from the main control device 73 (that is, the amount value given to the IC coin C inserted into the medal lending machine 22 by the player) is searched. The Then, the information of the searched monetary value is transmitted to the main control device 73 via the I / F unit 14 and the BB 74 (monetary value reply process). Thus, the main control device 73 detects the value of the IC coin C inserted by the player.

  When the money value return process is performed as described above, the player receives the loan request switch 45, the coin, as in the case where the money value addition process or the money value update process is performed in the second medal lending pattern described above. By selectively pressing any one of the return switches 46, it is possible to select whether to borrow the medal M using the value of the IC coin C or to request the return of the IC coin C. The operation when the lending request switch 45 is pressed, the operation when the coin return switch 46 is pressed (coin payout processing, etc.), etc. are substantially the same as those described in the second medal lending pattern described above. The description to be omitted is omitted.

  In the above-described ID code reading process, when the ID code is not normally read from the IC coin C inserted by the player, or when the read ID code is stored in the sales management device 15. In the case where it does not correspond to the above, the IC coin processing device 71 performs coin discharge processing (FIG. 23) described later. As a result, the IC coin C inserted by the player is discharged through the coin payout exit 42 and returned to the player without being used for lending the medal M, as will be described later. The coin discharge process will be described in detail later.

  Incidentally, when the ID code is not read normally as described above, or when the ID code does not correspond to any of those stored in the sales management device 15, the administrator or the like is notified that an abnormality has occurred. You may make it. For example, abnormality notification may be performed by the status display lamp 44, the hall computer 13, or the like. Further, the abnormality notification may be performed in a state where the coin discharge process described later is not performed, that is, the IC coin C is not returned. Then, until the confirmation work by the administrator is performed, for example, the operation of the medal lending machine 22 is temporarily stopped, that is, the state where the medal M lending operation or the like is not temporarily performed is maintained. You may do it.

  Further, in this third medal lending pattern, by borrowing the medal M by pressing the lending request switch 45, the amount value given to the IC coin C inserted by the player is reduced to zero. In this case, in the IC coin processing device 71, a coin storage process (FIG. 24) described later or a coin collection process (FIGS. 26, 27, and 28) described later is performed. For example, in a standby state before the IC coin C is inserted into the IC coin processing device 71, the IC coin C of less than a predetermined set storage number (four in this embodiment) is stored in the IC coin processing device 71. If it is (for example, in the second standby state as shown in FIG. 25), a coin storage process is performed. On the other hand, when IC coins C of a predetermined set number or more are already stored in the IC coin processing device 71 (for example, in the first standby state as shown in FIG. 19), coin recovery processing is performed. Is called.

  As described above, the player can borrow the medal M by inserting the banknote E or the IC coin C into the medal lending machine 22, and can use the medal M to play a game on the slot machine 21. . Further, in the second medal lending pattern or the third medal lending pattern described above, the IC coin C paid out from the medal lending machine 22 by the coin payout process uses the settlement by the settlement machine 12 or the IC coin C. The medals M can be used for borrowing (that is, for example, the third medal lending pattern described above).

  For example, when the player inserts the IC coin C into the checkout machine 12, the checkout machine 12 reads the ID code of the inserted IC coin C and transmits the information of the read ID code to the sales management device 15. Is done. In the sales management device 15, based on the information of the ID code received from the settlement machine 12, the monetary value corresponding to the ID code (that is, the remaining amount given to the IC coin C inserted into the settlement machine 12). Searched. Then, the information on the amount of money that has been searched is transmitted to the settlement machine 12, and cash corresponding to the amount of money is paid out as change from the settlement machine 12. In this way, the remaining amount given to the IC coin C can be settled. The IC coin C after the settlement is performed (that is, the monetary value has been returned to zero) is collected by the settlement machine 12 and reused in the gaming system 10.

  By the way, there may be a case where no IC coin C is stored in the IC coin processing device 71 (storage unit 101) due to, for example, the second rental pattern described above. That is, IC coin C cannot be paid out to the player any more, and the second medal lending pattern may not be executed. In such a case, for example, neither the banknote E nor the IC coin C can be inserted into the medal lending machine 22 (that is, for example, the banknote E is not taken into the banknote processing device 75 and sent back to the banknote insertion slot 51, or The insertion slot 91 of the IC coin processing device 71 is closed), and the medal lending by the medal lending machine 22 may be stopped. Alternatively, the banknote E may not be inserted, and only the IC coin C may be inserted, that is, only the third medal lending pattern may be executed. Or, a 5,000 yen bill or a 10,000 yen bill cannot be inserted (not taken into the banknote processing device 75), but either a thousand yen bill or an IC coin C can be inserted, that is, the first medal lending pattern Any of the third medal lending patterns may be executed. That is, at least the second medal lending pattern is temporarily not started, and then, for example, when the IC coin C is replenished into the IC coin processing device 71 by an administrator or the like (when the IC coin C replenishment operation is performed). ), And the second medal lending pattern can be resumed.

  The information on the operating state of the medal lending machine 22, for example, whether or not the insertion of the banknote E is prohibited, and whether or not the insertion of the IC coin C is prohibited, for example, is displayed on the screen of the information display unit 43, Alternatively, the status display lamp 44 may be lit so that it can be confirmed from the front of the medal lending machine 22, that is, it can be notified to a player or the like.

  Further, for example, information such as the number of IC coins C stored in the IC coin processing device 71 or whether or not the replenishment work of the IC coins C needs to be performed can be notified to an administrator or the like. May be. For example, a signal may be transmitted from the IC coin processing device 71 to the hall computer 13 or the like via the main control device 73 and information regarding the medal lending machine 22 may be displayed on the screen of the hall computer 13 or the like. Further, for example, when the number of IC coins C stored in the IC coin processing device 71 (storage unit 101) is equal to or less than a predetermined number (for example, one), a replenishment operation of the IC coin C is requested. A message to the effect (supplement request) may be displayed to the administrator or the like. Such a replenishment request may be notified by, for example, the screen of the hall computer 13 or the lighting color of the status display lamp 44. Then, when the administrator confirms the replenishment request, if the IC coin C is replenished immediately, that is, while one or more IC coins remain in the storage unit 101, the replenishment operation is performed. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the storage unit 101 from becoming empty.

  Information necessary for the administrator but not necessary for the player, for example, special information such as the number of IC coins C stored in the IC coin processing device 71 is predetermined by the administrator or the like. Only when a special operation is performed, the information may be displayed on the information display unit 43 or the like. For example, an operation that cannot be performed by the player (for example, unlocking the locking mechanism 47) or an operation that is unlikely to be performed by the player (for example, the lending request switch 45 and the coin return switch 46 are simultaneously operated for a predetermined time or more. Etc.) may be displayed when the button is pressed for a while. In this way, information unnecessary for the player or information whose meaning cannot be understood can be prevented from being displayed to the player, so that the player can be prevented from being confused.

  Incidentally, when the IC coin C is used only for the medal lending machine 22 in a game hall or the like, the IC coin C is always given a value that is an integral multiple of the above unit amount, so the medal lending machine 22 It is only necessary to pay out an integer multiple of 50 medals M, but the value of the IC coin C used in the medal lending machine 22 is used as a common monetary value medium in other systems. In some cases, it may be possible. In such a case, an amount value other than an integral multiple of the unit amount may be input to the medal lending machine 22. That is, an IC coin C to which a monetary value less than a unit amount (for example, 100 yen) is given may be inserted. Further, an IC coin C to which an amount value (for example, 1100 yen, etc.) that is greater than the unit amount but not divisible by the unit amount is inserted, and the medal lending machine 22 uses the amount value of the IC coin C. Due to the loan, the remaining amount may be less than the unit amount. In such a case, for example, the number of medals M proportional to the amount of money given to the IC coin C (less than 50) may be lent out.

  For example, the minimum unit amount is set to 20 yen, and one medal M is lent out for 20 yen. When the amount value given to the IC coin C is, for example, 100 yen (value divisible by the minimum unit amount), it corresponds to a quotient when the amount value of the IC coin C is divided by the minimum amount value. The number (100/20)) of medals M may be automatically paid out in a lump so that the value of the IC coin C is zero. In addition, when the amount of money given to the IC coin C is 50 yen (a value that is not divisible by the minimum unit amount), for example, two pieces corresponding to 40 yen (the amount of money of the IC coin C is divided by the minimum amount of money). The number of medals M corresponding to the quotient at that time is automatically paid out in a lump sum, and the value of the IC coin C is the remaining 10 yen (the value of the IC coin C divided by the minimum value) It may be returned to the player after being updated to a number corresponding to too much. In this way, it is possible to increase the chance that the value of the IC coin C becomes zero by lending out the medal M, that is, the chance that the IC coin processing device 71 performs a coin storage process or a coin collection process described later. In other words, since the IC coin C inserted by the player is more likely to be stored in the storage unit 101 without being returned to the player, the replenishment work of the IC coin C by the administrator can be reduced. Therefore, the burden on the administrator can be reduced.

  Next, the operation of the IC coin processing device 71 in the second medal lending pattern will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 19 to 24 are diagrams schematically showing the configuration and operation of the IC coin processing device 71. For convenience of explanation, in FIG. 19 to FIG. 24, the input port shutter 161, the outlet path shutter 162, the recovery path shutter 163, the upper stopper 165, and the lower stopper 166 are the input port 91, the outlet path 95, and the coin. A state of projecting into the guidance / reservation space 130 or the like is indicated by a solid line, and a state of retreating from the insertion slot 91, the lead-out path 95, the coin guidance / storage space 130 or the like is indicated by a one-dot chain line.

First, the standby state of the IC coin processing device 71 illustrated in FIG. 19, that is, the IC coin processing device 71 when neither the banknote E nor the IC coin C is inserted into the medal lending machine 22 by the player. The state will be described. In such a standby state, the insertion slot shutter 161 is retracted and the insertion slot 91 is opened. On the other hand, the outlet path 95 is closed by the outlet path shutter 162, the recovery path 106 is closed by the recovery path shutter 163, and the upper stopper 165 and the lower stopper 166 are projected into the coin guiding / reserving space 130, respectively. Further, although the IC coin C is stored in the storage unit 101 along the storage unit 101, the IC code C is not present in the ID code reading unit 92, the introduction path 93, and the recovery path 106. Yes. The moving body 203 is disposed below the IC coin C stored in the storage unit 101, or the IC stored in contact with the IC coin C disposed at the lowest position among the stored IC coins C is stored. The coin C is held so as to be lifted from below. In the example shown in the figure, the storage unit 101 shows a state where four IC coins C are stored in a row, but the present invention is not limited to this example, and an arbitrary number of one or more and four or less Of coins C are stored. In the illustrated example, the moving body 203 is arranged at the first holding position P _M1 , but it may be at the standby position P _M0 , or depending on the number of IC coins C stored in the storage unit 101. You may arrange _| position in 2nd holding position _PM2 , 3rd holding position _PM3 , 4th holding position _PM4, etc. In addition, in each introduction detector 221, derivation detector 222, storage unit detector 223, and recovery path detector 224, the light is always projected from each projection unit 231, that is, each introduction detector. The detection range of the 221, the lead-out detector 222, the storage unit detector 223, and the recovery path detector 224 may be in a state where it can be detected at all times whether or not the IC coin C passes.

  Next, the coin insertion prohibited state illustrated in FIG. 20 will be described. In such a coin insertion prohibition state, the insertion slot 91 is closed by the insertion slot shutter 161, so that the IC coin C cannot be inserted into the insertion slot 91 (coin insertion slot 41). In the second medal lending pattern, when the main controller 73 detects that the banknote E has been inserted into the banknote slot 51 while the IC coin processing device 71 is in the standby state, A control signal is transmitted from the control device 73 to the coin processing device control module 226, and the insertion port shutter moving mechanism 171 is driven under the control of the coin processing device control module 226, and the insertion port shutter 161 is protruded, thereby preventing coin insertion. Put into a state.

Next, the coin movement process illustrated in FIG. 21 will be described. In this coin movement process, for example, the main control device 73 detects that the remaining amount that has not yet been used for lending the medal M remains, and a control signal is transmitted from the main control device 73 to the coin processing device control module 226. Is started. In the coin movement process, first, the upper stopper 165 is retracted from the coin guiding / reserving space 130 under the control of the coin processing device control module 226. Then, by driving the motor 193, the rotating member 191 is rotated clockwise as viewed from the left side 81e side. That is, the moving body 203 is raised along the storage unit 101. Then, the IC coin C stored in the lowermost part in the storage unit 101 is pushed up by the moving body 203, and the IC coins C stacked and stored in the upper part are also pushed up by the lower IC coin C, respectively. Thus, as the moving body 203 rises, all the IC coins C in the storage unit 101 are raised along the storage unit 101, and one IC coin C stored in the uppermost part in the storage unit 101. Is moved to the ID code reading unit 92 (when only one IC coin C is stored in the storage unit 101, the IC coin C is directly pushed up by the moving body 203 and moved to the ID code reading unit 92. ). In this way, the moving body 203 is raised by one step above the standby state, for example, from the first holding position P _M1 to the second holding position P _M2 , so that one IC coin C is transferred to the ID code reading unit 92. When moved, under the control of the coin processing device control module 226, the driving of the motor 193, that is, the movement of the moving body 203 and the IC coin C is temporarily stopped. As described above, the coin movement process ends.

  After the coin movement process, as shown in FIG. 22, the upper stopper 165 is protruded into the coin guiding / reserving space 130 again. Then, the rear side of the peripheral portion of the IC coin C moved to the ID code reading unit 92 is in contact with the upper stopper 165. Thus, the IC coin processing device 71 is in a state where one IC coin C is held in the ID code reading unit 92, that is, in an ID code readable state. In this state, the ID code reading means 225 can read the ID code of the IC coin C, that is, the ID code reading process can be performed.

  Next, ID code reading processing will be described. In a state where the IC coin processing device 71 is in a state in which the ID code can be read, current is supplied from the antenna control module 242 to the antenna 241 under the control of the coin processing device control module 226. Then, electric energy is given from the antenna 241 to the antenna 6 by the electromagnetic induction action, and information on the unique ID code given to the IC coin C is read from the memory 5 by the antenna control module 242. The ID code information thus read is transmitted from the antenna control module 242 to the coin processing device control module 226, and further transmitted to the main control device 73 and the sales management device 15 as described above.

  Next, the coin payout process illustrated in FIG. 23 will be described. First, when the coin return switch 46 is pressed in a state where the IC coin processing device 71 is ready to read the ID code, a return request signal is transmitted to the main control device 73, and the main control device 73 sends a coin processing device. A control signal is transmitted to the control module 226. Then, under the control of the coin processing device control module 226, the lead-out path shutter 162 is retracted from the upper end of the lead-out path 95, and the ID code reading unit 92 and the lead-out path 95 are communicated with each other. Then, the IC coin C falls while rolling from the ID code reading unit 92 to the lead-out path 95 due to its own weight, is discharged through the lead-out path 95 and the payout exit 94, and is paid out from the coin payout exit 42. Note that the IC coin C is paid out from the payout outlet 94 can be detected by the derivation detector 222, and can be detected by the coin processing device control module 226 by an electric signal from the derivation detector 222.

  Note that after the IC coin C is paid out by the coin payout process, the input port shutter 161 is retracted again and the input port 91 is opened under the control of the coin processing device control module 226. That is, it returns to the standby state (FIG. 19) described above. Incidentally, the number of IC coins C remaining in the storage unit 101 after the coin payout process is performed is one less than the number in the standby state before the coin movement process is performed. That is, if the above coin movement process and coin payout process are repeated, the IC coin C in the storage unit 101 may decrease and become insufficient. In that case, the replenishment work of the IC coin C by the administrator is performed.

Next, the coin storage process illustrated in FIG. 24 will be described. First, when the main controller 73 recognizes that the value of the IC coin C held in the ID code reading unit 92 has become zero because the player has borrowed a medal M, the main controller A control signal is transmitted from 73 to the coin processing device control module 226, and the upper stopper 165 is retracted under the control of the coin processing device control module 226. Further, the rotation member 191 is rotated counterclockwise as viewed from the left side 81 e side by driving the motor 193. That is, the moving body 203 is lowered along the storage unit 101. Then, the IC coins C stacked above the moving body 203 in the storage unit 101 are respectively lowered as the moving body 203 is lowered while the IC coin C existing at the lowest position is supported on the moving body 203. Furthermore, the IC coin C held in the ID code reading unit 92 descends to the storage unit 101 (if there is no IC coin C in the storage unit 101, the IC coin held in the ID code reading unit 92) C descends to the reservoir 101 while being directly supported on the moving body 203). Thus, the IC 203 held in the ID code reading unit 92 is lowered by one step from the second holding position P _M2 to the first holding position P _M1 while the moving body 203 supports the IC coin C, for example. When the coin C is returned to the storage unit 101, the driving of the motor 193, that is, the movement of the moving body 203 and the IC coin C is temporarily stopped by the control of the coin processing device control module 226, and the coin storage process is finished.

  Note that after the coin storage process is completed, the upper stopper 165 is protruded again, and the insertion slot shutter 161 is retracted to open the insertion slot 91. That is, it returns to the standby state (FIG. 19) described above. Further, by performing this coin storage process, the IC code C is not present in the ID code reading unit 92. Therefore, even if the coin return switch 46 is pushed by the player and the lead-out path shutter 162 is withdrawn from the lead-out path 95, the IC coin C whose value is zero is not paid out from the coin payout exit 42. As described above, the IC coin C whose value is zero is not delivered to the player but is stored in the storage unit 101, whereby the IC coin C can be reliably reused.

  Next, the operation of the IC coin processing device 71 in the third medal lending pattern described above will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 22 to 24 and FIGS. 25 to 28. 25 to 28, for convenience of explanation, the input port shutter 161, the outlet path shutter 162, the recovery path shutter 163, the upper stopper 165, and the lower stopper 166 are the same as the input port 91, the outlet path 95, and the coin. A state of projecting into the guidance / reservation space 130 or the like is indicated by a solid line, and a state of retreating from the insertion slot 91, the lead-out path 95, the coin guidance / storage space 130 or the like is indicated by a one-dot chain line.

  First, the second standby state of the IC coin processing device 71 illustrated in FIG. 25 is substantially the same as the standby state in the second medal lending pattern illustrated in FIG. 19, but in the example illustrated in FIG. The number of IC coins C stored in the storage unit 101 is four, which is a predetermined set storage number, whereas in the example shown in FIG. 25, the number is three, which is one less than the set storage number. Is different. In this second standby state, when the IC coin C is inserted into the coin insertion slot 41, the IC coin C is introduced into the IC coin processing device 71 through the insertion slot 91 as shown in FIG. It falls to the ID code reading unit 92 through the introduction path 93 while rolling by its own weight. Then, the peripheral edge of the IC coin C comes into contact with the upper stopper 165, the IC coin C is stopped, and the IC coin C is held in the ID code reading unit 92. Further, when the IC coin C passes through the insertion slot 91, the IC coin processing device 71 is placed in the above-described coin insertion prohibition state. Therefore, the ID code can be read in the second medal lending pattern illustrated in FIG.

  In the third medal lending pattern, the introduction detector 221 detects that the IC coin C is inserted into the insertion slot 91 while the IC coin processing device 71 is in the standby state, and the main control is performed. When detected by the device 73, a control signal is transmitted from the main control device 73 to the coin processing device control module 226, and the insertion port shutter 161 is protruded by the control of the coin processing device control module 226, and the coin insertion prohibited state. To be.

  Next, coin discharge processing will be described. First, in the ID code reading process, the main control device indicates that the ID code has not been read normally or that the read ID code does not correspond to any of those stored in the sales management device 15. When detected at 73, a control signal is transmitted from the main control device 73 to the coin processing device control module 226, and the lead-out path shutter 162 is retracted in the same manner as the coin payout processing described above (see FIG. 23). Then, the IC coin C is paid out from the coin payout exit 42 through the lead-out path 95 and the payout exit 94 from the ID code reading unit 92.

  After the IC coin C is paid out from the ID code reading unit 92 by the coin discharge process, the slot shutter 161 is again retracted under the control of the coin processing device control module 226 in the same manner as the coin payout process described above. Then, the insertion port 91 is opened and returned to the second standby state (FIG. 25).

  Next, the coin collection process will be described with reference to FIGS. First, when the main controller 73 detects that the value of the IC coin C held in the ID code reading unit 92 has become zero because the player has borrowed the medal M, the main controller 73 A control signal is transmitted from 73 to the coin processing device control module 226. In the coin processing device control module 226, for example, the IC coin C reaches a predetermined set storage number (maximum capacity between the upper stopper 165 and the lower stopper 166) between the upper stopper 165 and the lower stopper 166 of the storage unit 101. Whether to perform the above-described coin storage process or coin recovery process is determined based on whether or not it is stored. For example, in a standby state (FIG. 19) in which a predetermined set number of stored IC coins C are stored between the upper stopper 165 and the lower stopper 166, the IC coins C are inserted, and an ID code reading unit as shown in FIG. If the medal M is held and the value of the IC coin C becomes zero, and no more IC coins C can be stored between the upper stopper 165 and the lower stopper 166, the coin collecting process is performed. Done.

Whether or not the IC coin C is stored between the upper stopper 165 and the lower stopper 166 up to the set storage number is determined by, for example, the detection signal of the notch groove detector 211 of the rotation angle detection means 212 and the storage section. Based on the detection signal of the detector 223, the coin processing device control module 226 can make a determination. That is, when the presence of the IC coin C is detected by the storage unit detector 223 in a state where the moving body 203 exists at the first holding position _PM1 , the four IC coins C are connected to the upper stopper 165 and the lower stopper 165. It can be determined that it is stored between the stopper 166, that is, it is stored up to a predetermined set number of stored sheets.

If it is determined to perform the coin collecting process, first, as shown in FIG. 27, in a state where the moving body 203 is disposed in the first holding position P _M1, the control of the coin processing apparatus control module 226, an upper stopper 165 and the lower stopper 166 are retracted. Then, by driving the motor 193, the moving body 203 is moved toward the standby position _{P M0} from the first holding position _{P M1.} Then, the IC coins C stacked above the moving body 203 in the storage unit 101 are lowered as the moving body 203 moves while the lowermost IC coin C is supported by the moving body 203. When the moving body 203 reaches the standby position _PM0 , the IC coin C present at the lowest position is carried out in front of the lower stopper 166. In addition, the IC coin C present second from the bottom is disposed behind (upper) the lower stopper 166 in a state of being supported by the IC coin C present at the bottom. Then, the IC coin C held in the ID code reading unit 92 is lowered to the upper end portion of the storage unit 101.

  Thus, when one IC coin C stored at the lowermost position is moved to the front of the lower stopper 166, and the IC coin C held by the ID code reading unit 92 is moved to the storage unit 101, The driving of the motor 193, that is, the movement of the moving body 203 and the IC coin C is temporarily stopped by the control of the coin processing device control module 226. Further, the upper stopper 165 and the lower stopper 166 are projected. Then, the IC coin C existing above the lower stopper 166 is held in a state where the peripheral edge is in contact with the lower stopper 166. That is, the four IC coins C stored between the upper stopper 165 and the lower stopper 166 are held in a state where they cannot be lowered from the lower stopper 166. After the lower stopper 166 is thus protruded, the recovery path shutter 163 is retracted and the recovery path 106 is opened as shown in FIG. As a result, the IC coin C held in front of the lower stopper 166 falls to the coin collection unit 72 through the collection path 106 and the collection port 105. As described above, the coin collecting process is completed. After the coin collection process, the collection path shutter 163 is projected again, and the collection path 106 is closed. That is, it returns to the first standby state (FIG. 19).

  By performing the coin collecting process as described above, when the IC coin C is to be moved from the ID code reading unit 92 to the storage unit 101, the IC coin C having the maximum capacity is placed between the upper stopper 165 and the lower stopper 166. Even if the IC coin C is stored in the storage unit 101 from the ID code reading unit 92 by discharging the extra IC coin C from the storage unit 101 and collecting it in the coin recovery unit 72. It can be moved and stored.

  By the way, as described above, in the IC coin processing device 71, when the coin payout process is performed in the second medal lending pattern, the number of IC coins C remaining in the storage unit 101 is determined as coin movement. This is less than the number of IC coins C stored in the storage unit 101 before the processing and the coin payout processing are performed. Therefore, if the second medal lending pattern is continuously performed, the number of IC coins C stored in the storage unit 101 may gradually decrease and become zero. In this case, the second medal lending pattern can no longer be realized. That is, there is a possibility that the IC coin C having a monetary value cannot be paid out and the remaining amount cannot be returned to the player. Therefore, it is necessary to appropriately replenish the IC coin C so that at least one IC coin C always exists in the storage unit 101. In the IC coin processing device 71, the number of IC coins C stored in the storage unit 101 is based on, for example, a detection signal from the notch groove detector 211 and a detection signal from the storage unit detector 223. The coin processing device control module 226 can make the determination. Further, by forming the lid 82 from a light-transmitting material, it is possible for an administrator or the like to visually confirm whether or not the IC coin C is stored in the storage unit 101 through the lid 82. .

  In the IC coin processing device 71, the lid 82 is formed of a light-transmitting material, so that not only the storage portion 101 but also other portions in the recess 111, for example, the introduction path 93 is used. The ID code reading unit 92, the storage unit 101, the recovery path 106, the rotating member 191 (moving body 203), the recovery path shutter 163, the upper stopper 165, the lower stopper 166, etc. Can be visually inspected. In particular, in the medal lending machine 22 provided with the IC coin processing device 71, the upper panel 32 is removed, and the IC coin processing device 71 is pulled out in the Y direction toward the front of the housing 60, and the left side. Since the part 81e is exposed to the outside of the housing 60 and the lid 82 can be seen, the state in the recess 111 can be easily and quickly confirmed. That is, after the IC coin processing device 71 is pulled out from the housing 60, the state in the recess 111 is immediately displayed without performing a troublesome work such as removing the lid 82 or changing the direction of the IC coin processing device 71. I can confirm.

  Further, in the IC coin processing device 71, each introduction detector 221, storage unit detector 223, light projecting unit 231 and light receiving unit 233 of the recovery detector 224, conveying means 170, slot shutter 161, lead-out Devices such as a road shutter 162, a collection path shutter 163, an upper stopper 165, and a lower stopper 166 are attached together on the apparatus main body 81 side, and the lid 82 has a simple configuration. Therefore, when the state in the recess 111 is visually confirmed through the lid 82, the devices do not get in the way and are easy to visually confirm.

  In addition, for example, when the IC coin C or foreign matter inserted from the insertion slot 91 is caught in the coin guiding / reserving space 130 or the like, and the IC coin C or the moving body 203 becomes difficult to move, etc. There are cases where the lid 82 is removed and the recess 111 is opened to perform maintenance or the like to remove the catch of the IC coin C or foreign matter. Furthermore, when performing other maintenance required for the IC coin processing device 71, the lid 82 may be removed to open the recess 111. When the lid 82 is removed in such a case, the lid 82 (projecting body 150) is separated from the IC coin C held in the guide groove 120 as shown in FIGS. The guidance / storage space 130 is opened, and the holding of the peripheral edge portion of the IC coin C in the gap T2 is released. However, even in such a case, the peripheral portion of the IC coin C is inserted into the gap T1 by providing the holding body 132 along one edge of the guide groove 120 on the apparatus main body 81 side. Maintained. Therefore, even if the lid 82 is removed, the IC coin C is stably held in the guide groove 120, and the IC coin C can be prevented from being removed from the guide groove 120. In particular, a plurality of IC coins C stored in the storage unit 101 can be reliably held.

  In particular, in the medal lending machine 22 provided with the IC coin processing device 71, as described above, the left side portion 81e of the housing 60 is simply pulled out of the housing 60 by simply pulling out the IC coin processing device 71. Although it is exposed to the outside and the lid 82 can be opened and closed, in such a case, when the lid 82 is opened in the vertical orientation while the IC coin processing device 71 is pulled out in the Y direction, There is a problem that the IC coin C held vertically in the guide groove 120 is likely to fall from the guide groove 120. However, by providing the holding body 132, the IC coin C can be suitably prevented from dropping from the guide groove 120. Therefore, when the lid 82 is opened, it is not necessary to change the posture of the IC coin processing device 71 to the horizontal direction, and it is possible to easily perform operations such as maintenance of the IC coin processing device 71.

  As described above, according to the IC coin processing device 71, the IC coin C can be transported by the simple operation of the moving member 81 in the IC coin processing device 71, and the information of the ID code of the IC coin C is obtained. Various functions such as processing (reading), storage of IC coin C, and payout can be easily realized. The structure of the IC coin C conveying means 170 is simple, and the IC coin processing device 71 can be made thinner and more compact, and the medal lending machine 22 as a whole can be made thinner.

  Further, the IC coin C can be reliably held or guided in the guide groove 120 by providing the holding body 132 in the guide groove 120 constituting the storage unit 101. For example, even when the lid 82 is opened during maintenance or the like of the IC coin processing device 71, the IC coin C can be reliably held in the guide groove 120, and the IC coin C can be held in the guide groove 120 (reserving portion). 101). Accordingly, it is possible to improve the maintainability of the IC coin processing device 71 while reducing the thickness of the IC coin processing device 71. Furthermore, by providing the holding body 132 continuously along the guide groove 120, the IC coin C can be smoothly guided along the guide groove 120 and can be reliably held in the guide groove 120. By providing the holding body 132 not only in the storage unit 101 but also in the introduction path 93 and the ID code reading unit 92, the IC coin C can be reliably held and guided in the introduction path 93 and the ID code reading unit 92 and the like. You can do it.

  Further, in the introduction detector 221, the reservoir detector 223, and the recovery detector 224, the light projecting unit 231 and the light receiving unit 233 are attached to the apparatus main body 81, so that the configuration of the lid 82 is simplified. Thinning can be achieved. Therefore, the entire width of the IC coin processing device 71 can be reduced.

  In the moving mechanism 182, the power of the motor 193 is transmitted to the moving body 203 via the gears 195, 196 a, 196 b, 197 a, 197 b, 198 a, 198 b, so that the arrangement and posture of the motor 193 can be freely set. The degree can be improved. That is, the degree of freedom in designing the IC coin processing device 71 can be improved, and thus the IC coin processing device 71 can be thinned. Further, the motor 193 is connected to other devices (input port shutter moving mechanism 171, outlet path shutter moving mechanism 172, recovery path shutter moving mechanism 173, upper stopper moving mechanism 175, lower stopper moving mechanism 176, introduction detector 221, outlet detector. 222, a storage unit detector 223, a recovery path detector 224, an ID code reading means 225, a coin processing device control module 226, or the like, or a flow path (ID code reading unit 92) through which the IC coin C passes. , The introduction path 93, the lead-out path 95, the storage part 101, the recovery path 106, etc.) can be provided by using the space of the attachment part 112 effectively. Thereby, the apparatus main body 81 can be reduced in thickness.

  As mentioned above, although preferred embodiment of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to this example. It is obvious for those skilled in the art that various changes or modifications can be conceived within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims. It is understood that it belongs to.

  For example, in the above embodiment, the IC coin C recorded in the memory 5 in a state where the ID code cannot be changed has been exemplified. However, the information recording medium is not limited to this, and is recorded on the information recording medium. The information is not limited to the ID code alone. For example, it may be an information recording medium capable of recording various types of information such as money amount information and customer information. For example, an IC coin C having a built-in memory capable of writing information may be used.

  Further, the configuration of the gaming system 10, the medal lending machine 22, the IC coin processing device 71, and the like are not limited to the configuration of the IC coin processing device 71 shown in the above embodiment. For example, in the IC coin processing device 71, in the above embodiment, the ID code reading unit 92 that reads the ID code recorded in the IC coin C is exemplified as the information processing unit. For example, information may be written on the information recording medium. That is, for example, in place of the ID code reading means 225, information writing / reading means (reader / writer) capable of writing information to the IC coin C held in the information processing unit and reading information from the IC coin C. May be provided. The information read from the IC coin C by the information processing unit is not limited to the ID code, and for example, money amount information, customer information, and the like may be read.

  In the above embodiment, the holding body 132 has one edge portion of the guide groove 120, that is, the lower edge portion of the introduction path 93, the lower edge portion of the ID code reading portion 92, and the inner peripheral side edge portion of the storage portion 101. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. For example, the edge on the opposite side of the guide groove 120, that is, the upper edge of the introduction path 93, the upper edge of the ID code reading unit 92 Also, it may be provided on the outer edge of the storage unit 101 or the like.

  In the above embodiment, three shutters and two stoppers, that is, the inlet shutter 161, the outlet passage shutter 162, the recovery passage shutter 163, the upper stopper 165, and the lower portion are used as restricting members for restricting the movement of the information recording medium. Although the stopper 166 is illustrated, the type, shape, arrangement, number, etc. of the restricting members are not limited to the above. For example, a regulating member (stopper) that regulates the movement of the IC coin C between the introduction path 93 and the ID code reading unit 92 may be provided.

  The number of gears provided in the conveying means 170 is not limited to the eight gears (gears 215, 216a, 216b, 217a, 217b, 218a, 218b, 205) shown in the above embodiment, but one or two or more arbitrary The number can be. Moreover, it is not limited to the structure which rotates two gears integrally, ie, the compound gear member 216, 217, 218 is included. The types of gears are not limited to worms, worm wheels, spur gears, and the like. Further, the arrangement of gears, the arrangement and orientation of the motor 193, etc. are not limited to those described in the above embodiments.

  In the above embodiment, the introduction detector 221, the lead-out detector 222, the reservoir detector 223, and the recovery path detector 224 are illustrated as information recording medium detectors that detect the presence or absence of the information recording medium. However, the arrangement of the information recording medium detectors is not limited to these, and may be provided at other locations. Further, the number of information recording medium detectors is not limited to these four, and can be any plural number.

  In the embodiment described above, the medal lending machine 22 that lends the medal M based on the insertion of either the banknote E or the IC coin C has been described. Alternatively, the present invention can be applied to a game medium lending machine that lends game media based on the insertion of only coins C.

  In the above embodiment, the slot machine 21 is illustrated as the gaming machine, the medal M is illustrated as the gaming medium, and the medal lending machine 22 that lends the medal M for the slot machine is illustrated as the gaming medium lending machine. The gaming machine, the game medium, and the game medium rental machine are not limited to the above. For example, the gaming machine may be a pachinko machine, the gaming medium may be a pachinko ball, and the gaming medium lending machine may be a ball lending machine that lends pachinko balls.

  Furthermore, the information recording medium processing apparatus is not limited to that used in a gaming system including a gaming machine, and various systems related to information recording media are also provided in a system that provides various services other than gaming using a gaming machine. The present invention can be widely applied to apparatuses that process the information. For example, in a facility such as a coin laundry where a point service function is added, the point given to the IC coin (the number of points issued according to conditions such as the number of times the coin laundry is used from the store side) is changed, etc. The present invention can be applied to an information recording medium processing apparatus that processes information given to an IC coin. Further, the present invention can also be applied to an information recording medium processing apparatus for changing the value of money given to an IC coin in various merchandise machines that handle the IC coin as a money substitute medium.

  The present invention can be applied to an apparatus for processing an information recording medium used in a game store or the like in which a gaming machine such as a slot machine or a pachinko machine is installed.

It is a perspective view explaining the structure of IC coin. It is explanatory drawing explaining the structure of a game system. It is a perspective view of a medal lending machine. It is the perspective view which showed the internal structure of the medal lending machine. It is the block diagram which showed the circuit structure between each apparatus incorporated in the medal lending machine. It is a left view of the IC coin processing apparatus concerning this embodiment. It is a right view of an IC coin processing device. It is the perspective view which showed the IC coin processing apparatus of the state which opened the cover body. It is sectional drawing which abbreviate | omitted the cover and showed the internal structure of the IC coin processing apparatus. It is a schematic fragmentary sectional view of an IC coin processing device. It is sectional drawing which expanded and showed the upper part side of the guide groove. It is sectional drawing which expanded and showed the lower part side of the guide groove. It is sectional drawing which showed the state which removed the cover body in the upper part side of a guide groove. It is sectional drawing which showed the state which removed the cover body in the upper part side of a guide groove. It is explanatory drawing explaining the structure of a slot shutter moving mechanism. It is explanatory drawing explaining operation | movement of a moving body (rotating member). It is a fragmentary sectional view explaining the composition of an input detector (detector for storage part). It is the block diagram which showed the circuit structure between each apparatus incorporated in the IC coin processing apparatus. It is the schematic side view which represented the internal structure of IC coin processing apparatus roughly, and showed the standby state. It is the schematic side view which showed the coin insertion prohibition state of IC coin processing apparatus. It is the schematic side view which showed the mode of the coin movement process of IC coin processing apparatus. It is the schematic side view which showed the ID code readable state of IC coin processing apparatus. It is the schematic side view which showed the mode of the coin payout process (coin discharge process) of an IC coin processing apparatus. It is the schematic side view which showed the mode of the coin storage process of IC coin processing apparatus. It is the schematic side view which showed the 2nd standby state of IC coin processing apparatus. It is the schematic side view which showed the state just before a coin collection | recovery process is performed in an IC coin processing apparatus. It is the schematic side view which showed a mode that an IC coin was moved from an ID code reading part in the coin collection | recovery process of an IC coin processing apparatus. It is the schematic side view which showed a mode that IC coin was collect | recovered by the collection | recovery part in the coin collection | recovery process of an IC coin processing apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

C IC coin 22 Medal lending machine 71 IC coin processing device 81 Device body 82 Lid 91 Input slot 92 ID code reading unit 93 Introduction path 94 Discharge path 95 Derivation path 101 Storage section 105 Collection port 106 Collection path 120 Guide groove 132 Holding body 191 Rotating member 193 Motor 193a Rotating shaft 203 Moving body 215 Gear 216, 217, 218, 219 Compound gear member 216a, 216b, 217a, 218a, 218b Gear 221 Introduction detector 222 Derivation detector 223 Reservoir detector 224 Recovery Detector 231 Light projecting unit 232 Reflecting unit 233 Light receiving unit

Claims (4)

An information recording medium processing apparatus for processing an information recording medium that records information or is capable of recording information,
An input port through which the information recording medium is input from the outside, an information processing unit for reading information recorded on the information recording medium and / or writing information to the information recording medium, and the information recording medium An introduction path for guiding the information recording medium from the insertion port, a payout opening for discharging the information recording medium to the outside, a lead-out path for guiding the information recording medium from the information processing section to the payout opening, and the information A storage unit communicated with the processing unit and capable of storing a plurality of the information recording media arranged in a line on the same plane; and a movable body movable along the storage unit,
The information recording medium stored in the storage unit is configured to be moved along the storage unit along with the movement of the moving body,
The reservoir is formed between a groove formed in the apparatus main body and a lid that closes the opening side of the groove,
A holding body for holding the information recording medium inside the groove on the opening side of the groove in the apparatus main body;
The information recording medium has both surfaces opposed to the inner surface of the groove and the lid body, and a peripheral edge portion is inserted between the inner surface of the groove and the holding body. An information recording medium processing device, characterized in that it is configured to be accommodated. The moving body is configured to move along a substantially arc-shaped moving path,
The information storage medium processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit is formed in a substantially arc shape along a moving path of the moving body. The information recording medium processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the holding body is continuously provided along an edge of the groove. The introduction path, the information processing section, and the storage section are arranged in this order from above between the groove and the lid, and the information recording medium is accommodated or moved on the same plane. age,
In the information recording medium, also in the introduction path and / or the information processing unit, both surfaces are opposed to the inner surface of the groove and the lid body, and a peripheral portion is formed on the inner surface of the groove and the holding body. The information recording medium processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information recording medium processing apparatus is configured to be accommodated or moved while being inserted between the two.

Images