JP2009254586A - Game device and game management system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game device and a game management system capable of effectively preventing fraudulence in the play, especially the fraudulence to affect the balance of payments of the game device, under a game environment in which a person monitoring the play is not substantially present. <P>SOLUTION: According to the game device, the state of balance of payments of game value can be monitored, so that the fraudulence to affect the balance of payments in the game device can be effectively prevented without the presence of a person such as a dealer to advance the play, or to manage or monitor the play. Further, according to the game device, the state of operation is recognized in every game device, and the state of operation of the respective game devices is compared with the state of balance of payments. As a result, fraudulence or errors in the play can be easily determined, and therefore, the fraudulence affecting the total balance of payments in the whole game parlor can be securely and efficiently prevented. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention manages a gaming device provided with an image display unit and a plurality of gaming stations installed for each player and capable of participating in a game executed by the image display unit, and a game of the gaming device The present invention relates to a game management system.

  In general, various gaming devices are installed in amusement halls and casinos, and one of them is an image display unit, which is installed for each player and can participate in a game executed by the image display unit. A configuration including a plurality of gaming stations (hereinafter referred to as stations) is known.

  Such a gaming apparatus includes an image display unit on which a game is executed and a plurality of stations installed around the image display unit, and the player executes the image display unit at each station. Participate in a game that will be played. Each station has a game medium processing unit for processing (mainly input processing and payout processing) game media used for executing the game, such as money and medals, and a game executed by the image display unit. And a BET operation unit for performing a BET operation.

  For example, a configuration disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known as a gaming apparatus capable of performing the above-described game. This gaming device includes a table-type housing, and is necessary for a game image and a game by a projector installed inside the housing with respect to an image display unit (display) installed in a horizontal state. Various images (for example, images for BET operation) can be projected. In addition, a light source that irradiates infrared light toward the image display unit so as to detect various operations (such as a BET operation) performed by the player on the image display unit inside the housing, A detecting means is provided that includes a camera that receives reflected light reflected from a player's finger that is irradiated from the light source and moves above the image display unit.

According to the gaming device configured as described above, the player may perform various operations on the image display unit, for example, move a finger, with respect to a game executed on the image display unit installed on the surface of the housing. You can participate in the game by performing various operations.
JP 2005-317032 A

  By the way, in the gaming device having the above-described configuration, there is a case where there is no person who progresses, manages and monitors a game such as a dealer, or all games even if there is a dealer or a person who monitors the game. Since it is difficult to confirm the action of the player, for example, it is difficult for the management side of the game hall to recognize even an illegal act in the game. In particular, when such a fraudulent act is a fraud that affects the balance of the gaming machine, if it cannot be recognized, it will be a great loss for the game hall manager.

  The present invention has been made paying attention to the above circumstances, and in a gaming environment where there is substantially no person who monitors the game, it is possible to effectively carry out a fraudulent act in the game, particularly a fraudulent act that affects the balance of the gaming device. An object of the present invention is to provide a gaming apparatus and a gaming management system that can be prevented.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, a gaming device according to claim 1 is provided with a casing including a station that can be played by a plurality of players and installed for each individual player. An image display unit for displaying game images and BET images corresponding to the individual stations, game image data displayed on the image display unit, and image data for BET operations; Image control means for controlling an image to be displayed on the image display section; and motion detection means for detecting an action when a player existing in each station performs a BET operation on the BET image displayed on the image display section; Depending on the game result for the shooting means installed in the housing and capable of shooting the player existing at each station, and the value of the game value paid for the game in accordance with the BET operation A game status monitoring means for monitoring a game value balance status relating to the amount of game value paid out to a player, and a game based on at least a detection signal from the motion detection means and an imaging signal from the shooting means. It has a judging means for judging whether the game is illegal or error by comparing the operating status and the balance status monitored by the balance status monitoring means.

  According to the gaming device described in claim 1, since the balance status of the game value can be monitored by the balance status monitoring means, even when there is no person who proceeds and manages and monitors the game like a dealer, Alternatively, even if there is a dealer or a person who monitors the game, even if it is difficult to confirm the actions of all the players, it is possible to effectively prevent fraud that affects the balance of the gaming device. Further, in this configuration, in order to grasp the operation status by the BET operation by the player based on the motion detection means and the raw image of the player based on the shooting means, and to compare the operation status with the balance status, It is easy to determine an error, and therefore illegal acts that affect the balance of the gaming device can be reliably and efficiently prevented.

  In addition, the gaming device described in claim 2 further includes notification means for notifying the game device described in claim 2 when the determination means determines that the game is illegal or error. It is characterized by having.

  According to the gaming device described in claim 2, the same operational effects as the gaming device described in claim 1 can be obtained, and when it is determined that the game is fraudulent or error, the fact is notified. Therefore, game fraud or error can be easily recognized. The “notification means” in this configuration includes various forms such as visual notification and voice notification.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a gaming management system that is connected to the plurality of gaming devices according to the first or second aspect and each of the plurality of gaming devices, and from the balance status monitoring means of each gaming device. A host computer that receives information on the balance status, and a display unit that is connected to the host computer and displays information on the balance status of each gaming device that can be received by the host computer.

  According to the game management system described in claim 3, since it is possible to monitor the balance of the game value in a plurality of gaming devices with the host computer, the game such as a dealer proceeds and is managed in each gaming device. Even if there is no person to monitor, or even if there is a dealer or a person to monitor the game, even if it is difficult to confirm the operation of all the players, the balance of the plurality of gaming devices, and therefore It is possible to effectively and comprehensively prevent fraudulent acts that affect the balance of the entire playground.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the gaming management system according to the third aspect, wherein the host computer is configured to detect a detection signal from the operation detecting means of each gaming device, and to detect each gaming device. By receiving an imaging signal from the imaging means and comparing the operating status of the game based on at least the detection signal and the imaging signal with the balance status monitored by the balance status monitoring means, It is characterized by determining an error.

  According to the game management system described in claim 4, the same operational effects as the game management system described in claim 3 can be obtained, and a bet by a player based on the motion detection means is provided for each gaming device. Since the operation status based on the operation and the player's raw image based on the shooting means is grasped and the operation status is compared with the balance status, it is easy to judge fraud or error in the game, and thus affects the overall balance of the game hall. Can be reliably and efficiently prevented.

  Further, in the game management system according to claim 5, in the game management system according to claim 4, when the host computer determines that the game is illegal or error, the game management system notifies the fact. Features.

  According to the game management system described in claim 5, the same operation effect as the game management system described in claim 4 can be obtained, and the host computer can be used when it is determined that the game is illegal or error. Since the fact is notified on the side, it is possible to easily and collectively recognize game fraud or error on the management room side of the game hall, for example. The “notification means” in this configuration includes various forms such as visual notification and voice notification.

  According to the present invention, there is provided a gaming device and a gaming management system capable of effectively preventing illegal acts in games, particularly illegal acts that affect the balance of gaming devices in a gaming environment where there is substantially no person who monitors the game. Can be provided.

Hereinafter, a configuration example of the gaming apparatus according to the present embodiment will be specifically described.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the gaming device, FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the internal configuration of the gaming device, and FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the arrangement position of the photographing means. The figure which shows the state installed in the position, (b) is a figure which shows the modification of the arrangement position of an imaging | photography means, and FIG. 4 is a figure which shows the example of a game implemented in an image display part.

  In the gaming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, the image display unit 3 is installed on the upper surface (table 2A) of the table-type housing 2, and six stations 5 are installed around it so that six players can play games. In a game arcade in which a large number of such gaming devices 1 are installed, each gaming device 1 is collectively stored in a host computer (which constitutes an external device as will be described later) 100 as shown in FIG. Thus, one game management system 200 is configured.

  Each station of each gaming device 1 is provided with a chair 5A, and a player seated on each station 5 can play various games such as card games, roulette games, dice, etc., which are executed at the center of the image display unit 3. You can participate in games. At this time, the player can participate in a game executed at the center of the screen by using a game medium having a game value such as a medal, a coin, a bill, a prepaid card, and can receive a payout at the end of the game. ing.

  As will be described later, the game is progressed by a control unit installed in the housing 2 and image projection means controlled by the control unit. This control unit is a player of each station in addition to the progress of the game. When the player wins a prize based on the reception of the BET operation and the game result, a game value payout process is performed on the player according to the BET content.

  The station 5 may be configured so that the player can participate in the game and perform the BET operation. At least, the game medium receiving device 7 for inserting the game medium when the game is executed, and a predetermined instruction is input by the player. And a control unit 8 including a plurality of control buttons. As shown in the figure, the control unit 8 is installed on the table portion of the housing 2, but the function generated by operating the control button is realized by an operation image displayed on the image display unit 3. Alternatively, a part of the operation on the image display unit may be performed by a control button.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, a baccarat game, which is a kind of card game, is executed in the image of the image display unit 3. That is, in the central area of the image display unit 3, a game area 3 </ b> A for displaying “BANKER” and “PLAYER” cards is provided, and in the peripheral area of the image display unit 3, corresponding to each station 5. An operation area 3B is provided in which a BET operation can be performed for a game executed in the game area 3A.

  The operation area 3B is a component of each station 5, and a BET operation screen, a help information screen, and the like are displayed for each station in the operation area 3B. In FIG. 4, the BET operation screen is displayed on all the stations 5, and this BET operation screen is a BET area 3 a where the player at each station bets on “BANKER”, “PLAYER”, and “Draw”. A chip display area 3b for displaying a chip, a confirmation operation area 3c for confirming a BET, and a credit information display area 3d for displaying remaining credit information are provided.

  In this case, the player presses the amount to be chipd out of “1”, “5”, “10”, and “100” displayed in the chip display area 3b with a finger, and continues to “BANKER” and “PLAYER” in the BET area 3a. "Bet operation" can be performed by shifting to the display area of "Draw" or by pressing one of "BANKER", "PLAYER" and "Draw" in the BET area 3a without shifting. It is possible. Then, after the BET operation, the BET operation is confirmed by pressing the confirmation operation area 3c with a finger. In addition, about such a player's BET operation, a specific instruction | indication position is pinpointed by the sensor unit 20 installed in the inside of the housing | casing 2 mentioned later.

  Then, after one game is over, the control unit adds the credit according to the number of chips bet based on the payout table to the credit currently owned by the player and displays it in the credit information display area 3d. .

  The game medium receiving device 7 is configured to insert game media having game value such as medals, coins, bills, prepaid cards, etc., and is installed in each station 5. The player can execute a game within the range of the inserted game medium, and the amount of the input is displayed in the credit information display area 3d.

  The control unit 8 is installed in each station 5 and includes a button that is pressed by the player as the game progresses. The buttons include, for example, a payout (CASHOUT) button 8a and a help (HELP) button 8b that are pressed at the end of the game.

  The refund button 8a is usually a button that is pressed at the end of the game, and when the refund button 8a is pressed, a game medium corresponding to a credit owned by the current player acquired by the game or the like is displayed on the side of the housing 2. It is refunded from the installed outlet 10. In addition, when the game medium is inserted and paid out using the card, the value information is rewritten by the reader / writer installed inside the game medium receiving apparatus 7 and is discharged as it is.

  The help button 8b is a button that is pressed when the operation method or the like of the game is unknown, and immediately after the help button 8b is pressed, a rule and various operation information are displayed on the operation area 3B. The help screen is displayed.

  The image display unit 3 is configured by a transparent member (transparent screen), and is projected from the light projected from the back surface, specifically, from the image projection unit 12 installed inside the housing 2. The game image (card image as shown in FIG. 4) and the operation image (BET image as shown in FIG. 4) are displayed. In this case, the image projecting unit 12 is configured by a known projector, and displays various images (moving images and still images) transmitted from the control unit 15 that controls game operations and player operations at each station. The image forming unit 12A including a magnifying lens has a function of enlarging and forming an image on the image display unit 3.

  The control unit 15 functions as image control means for controlling game image data and BET operation image data displayed on the image display unit 3, and various images displayed on the image display unit 3. At the same time, it has a function as a game control means for controlling the progress of the game. The control unit 15 may be configured as a dedicated unit installed in the housing 2 in advance, or a personal computer (PC) such as a personal computer (PC) that stores data relating to game procedures and various image data. A configuration in which the unit is incorporated in the housing 2 may be adopted. In addition, the control unit 15 transmits and receives various types of information to and from an external device such as a host computer installed in a game arcade or other game devices via a communication network such as the Internet or a LAN. It may be a configuration.

  In addition, in the housing 2, an operation (in this embodiment, a position designated by a finger of the player's hand) that is operated when the player sitting at each station proceeds with the card game is specifically described. A sensor unit 20 for detection is installed.

  The sensor unit 20 has a function as an operation detecting unit, and a light emitting unit 21 that emits scanning light toward the image display unit 3 and a light receiving unit that is installed on four diagonal lines with the light emitting unit 21 as a center. The light emitting unit 21 is configured to emit infrared rays so as not to be affected by surrounding visible light. The reflected light from the object operated by the player on the surface of the image display unit 3 is detected by the light receiving camera 22 to detect a change in the amount of light accompanying the operation of the player's finger and process the detection signal. The specific operation position of each player can be specified.

  It should be noted that by installing a plurality (four) of the light receiving cameras 22, even when a plurality of players operate simultaneously, the multipoint operation position is based on the angle information of the object (finger) detected by each camera. Based on this, it is possible to specify an accurate position. That is, since the angle information of the object can be calculated from the four cameras 22, it is possible to accurately specify the operation position where the multipoint operation is performed by combining the angle information from each camera by a predetermined algorithm. It becomes possible.

  The casing 2 is provided with a photographing means 30 for photographing an image displayed on the image display unit 3 and a player sitting on the chair 5A. The photographing means 30 is constituted by, for example, a CCD camera, and the image data photographed here is converted into an electrical signal. For example, a reference regarding the presence of the player, the operation status of the player, and the display status on the image display unit. It is used for various confirmation processes, collation processes, and the like by contrast processing with images.

  In this embodiment, a vertical support member 2a is fixed to each corner of the table 2A of the housing 2, and a decorative top plate 2b substantially parallel to the table 2A is provided at the upper end of the support member 2a. A frame 2c is installed in the top plate 2b, and a CCD camera 31 constituting a photographing means is provided. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3A, the frame 2c installed in the top plate 2b is horizontally mounted on a diagonal line and above a position corresponding to the vicinity of the center of the image display unit 3. A CCD camera 31 is installed.

  The CCD camera 31 is configured, for example, as a so-called dome camera housed in a dome-shaped housing fixed to the frame 2c, and a predetermined mechanism is provided by a rotation mechanism, a tilt mechanism, and the like installed therein. The direction (each station 5 and the image display unit 3) can be periodically photographed. For this reason, the CCD camera 31 can shoot all the players seated on the table 5A in addition to various images displayed on the image display unit 3.

  Note that the configuration, installation mode, shooting interval, and the like of the CCD camera 31 can be appropriately modified depending on the method of using the image. For example, as shown in FIG. 3B, a rectangular frame 2 c can be installed in the top plate 2 b and the CCD camera 31 can be arranged in a direction facing each station 5. As shown in FIG. 3B, the CCD camera disposed at the opposite position may shoot one player with one CCD camera, or a plurality of players with one CCD camera. You may shoot. In such a configuration, in addition to the presence of the player sitting on the chair 5A, it is possible to photograph the facial expression of the player, so the acquired image data can also be used, for example, for face recognition processing It is.

  Moreover, it is preferable that the above-described photographing means is installed so that it cannot be visually recognized by the player sitting on the chair. For example, by forming a hole for exposing only the lens portion on the decorative top plate 2b as described above and installing the CCD camera 31, a necessary image can be taken without making the player aware of it. Is possible.

  Furthermore, in addition to the above-described photographing means, for example, a speaker that plays music, sound effects, and various lamps may be installed in the housing 2.

  Next, the control system of the gaming apparatus 1 configured as described above will be described with reference to the block diagrams of FIGS.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of an image processing system that processes the video imaged by the imaging means 30 described above.
As described above, the photographing unit 30 includes the image display unit 3 and the CCD camera (imaging device) 31 capable of photographing the player. The imaging signal from the CCD camera 31 is an image processing circuit (image processing unit). ) 40.

  The image processing circuit 40 receives an imaging signal from the CCD camera 31, and calculates a luminance for converting a captured image for each pixel of the subject specified by the subject specifying unit 41 and the subject specifying unit 41 into luminance information. Based on the luminance information calculated by the unit 42 and the luminance calculation unit 42, information on the player for each station (presence / absence of the player, player operation information, face information, player operation information formed over time, etc.) Information of the game image displayed on the image display unit 3 based on the luminance information calculated by the player information processing unit 43 and the luminance calculation unit 42 (game image content, BET image content, position information thereof, etc.) ) Game image processing unit 45, operation program, reference data for comparison, mask data for masking unnecessary background images, etc. A ROM 46, a RAM 47 having a function of temporarily storing an operating program and processed image data, and a CPU 48 for controlling them are connected, and these units are connected via a bus. The structure is controlled by the control CPU 48.

  Specifically, image information of the image signal captured by the CCD camera 31 is specified by the subject specifying unit 41, and for example, edge information is acquired by the player information processing unit 43, so that the chair 5 </ b> A of a certain station 5 can acquire the edge information. It is possible to process data relating to whether or not the player is seated and data relating to the designated position operated by the player. Further, the game image processing unit 45 can process game image data (displayed image content, display position, etc.) displayed on the image display unit 3 based on the specified image information. .

  Further, regarding the specified image information, the luminance calculation unit 42 can convert the data into luminance data for each pixel, thereby executing various processes. For example, the player information processing unit 43 detects the continuity of the portion where the difference in luminance information is connected to a predetermined threshold or more based on the captured images taken every predetermined time, so that the direction of the action of the player is detected. Data relating to the identity of a person, or by taking a picture of the player's face and comparing it with a reference image (reference data) stored in advance. Etc. can be acquired. Note that the reference data here may be the reference data taken at a certain point in time when continuous shooting is performed, or may be stored in advance in a ROM or another device (host computer). Etc.) may be used as reference data.

  In addition, with respect to the imaging signal captured by the CCD camera 31, when unnecessary background is deleted or the display contents of the image display unit 3 cannot be specifically identified, the mask data stored in the ROM 46 is superimposed. Thus, it is also possible to obtain only the image of the table portion and the image of the player operating on the table. Such image data is transmitted to the CPU 51 for main control described later, and is actually combined with the image data displayed on the image display unit, so that the position of the player existing in the station 5 and the image display unit 3 are displayed. It is also possible to acquire image data (see FIG. 9) specifying the display content.

  Data on the processed image obtained in this way is stored in the RAM 47 and transmitted via the interface 49 to the CPU 51 for main control in the game control means 15A for executing the following card game.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the game control means 15A in the control unit 15 for executing the card game.

  The game control means 15A has a main control CPU 51, ROM 52, RAM 53, and a microcomputer 55 having a bus 54 for transferring data between them as a core. Then, the CPU 51, via the I / O interface 57, the player seated at each station 5, and the image processing circuit 40 for processing an image obtained by photographing the display content of the image display unit 3, the image display unit 3 receives a detection signal from an image control drive circuit 60 that controls various images displayed at 3 and a sensor unit 20 that detects an operation position of a finger (object) of a player sitting at each station 5, It is connected to an operation position detection circuit 61 or the like that specifically specifies the operation position of the player.

  The CPU 51 for main control of the game control means 15A transmits / receives various data such as BET information and payout information to / from each station 5 via the I / O interface 57 and the communication interface 63. It has the function of controlling the station 5 to lead the game. Specifically, the BET operation information made at each station 5 is specified by the operation position detection circuit 61 and the BET information is received, and based on the game result and the BET information made at each station 5 Then, a winning determination process for the betted chips is performed, and the number of credits paid out at each station 5 is calculated with reference to the payout table.

  Further, the ROM 52 in the game control means 15A is constituted by, for example, a semiconductor memory or the like, and a program for realizing basic functions in proceeding with a baccarat game, as the game progresses, the image display unit 3 A display operation program for controlling various image contents displayed in the game, a program for controlling each station 5 in an initiative, a program for receiving and paying out game media, a payout table referred to when executing a baccarat game, etc. Is stored.

  The RAM 53 is a memory that temporarily stores various data calculated by the CPU 51. For example, the player's operation information (BET operation position, BET amount, etc.) by the control unit or operation screen of each station 5 is used. The operation position information for each station specified by the operation position detection circuit 61, the photographing data by the CCD camera 31 processed in the image processing circuit 40, the data related to the result of the processing executed by the CPU 51, and the like are temporarily stored. .

  The CPU 51 for main control of the game control means 15A is used for the progress of the game, such as control of various drive devices and display images on the image display unit 3, based on the data and programs stored in the ROM 52 and RAM 53. The accompanying control process is executed.

  The image control drive circuit 60 includes a program ROM, an image ROM, an image control CPU, a work RAM, a VDP (video display processor), a video RAM, and the like. The program ROM stores an image control program related to the display of the image display unit 3. The image ROM stores, for example, various image data (dots) for forming an image displayed on the image display unit 3. Data) is stored.

  In addition, the image control CPU performs image display unit 3 (projector 12) from the dot data stored in the image ROM according to the image control program stored in advance in the program ROM based on the parameters set in the CPU 51. ) To determine the image to be displayed. Therefore, the CPU 51 controls the specific display position of the game image (card image) and the operation image (BET image) as shown in FIG. 4 and the timing for displaying the image as the game progresses. Is done.

  The work RAM is configured as a temporary storage unit when the image control program is executed by the image control CPU, and the VDP forms an image corresponding to the display content determined by the image control CPU, and passes through the projector 12. To be projected on the image display unit 3.

  The operation position detection circuit 61 includes a CPU that executes predetermined calculation processing and the like, and has a function of specifically specifying the position of an object (a finger pointed by the player) existing on the surface of the image display unit 3. I have. Specifically, the detection signals from the four cameras 22 of the sensor unit 20 installed in the housing 2 are received, and the part that the player actually operates on the image display unit 3 (the finger of the player's hand). A specific position specified by the function (1). In this case, the operation position detection circuit 60 derives the angle information of the detected object based on the detection position input from each of the four cameras 22 and specifies the position of the hand indicated on the image display unit 3. Specific functions. By using four cameras 22, even if a player seated at each station 5 executes an instruction operation at the same time, it is possible to accurately specify the position based on detection information obtained from each camera. Become.

  The CPU 51 obtains the player's operation and the operation position detection circuit 61 based on the player's operation position information obtained from the operation position detection circuit 61 and the player's operation image obtained from the image processing circuit 40. And an identification processing function for identifying whether or not the position information matches.

  Further, the CPU 51 can transmit / receive information to / from an external device 100 such as a host computer via the communication interface 63. In this case, for example, information relating to the operating status of each gaming device for each hour, information relating to the payout rate of gaming media at each station, authentication information of players sitting at the station, and the like are transmitted to the external device 100. It is possible. Further, for example, it is conceivable to transmit reference image data such as the face information of players existing in the game hall, ID information of cards owned by each player, and the like from the external device.

Next, a configuration related to the control system of the station 5 connected to the CPU 31 will be described.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing a control system of the station 5 according to the present embodiment. The station 5 includes a player control unit 70 that controls the operation at the station and the peripheral device (the game medium receiving device 7, the control unit 8, the payout processing device 9, etc.) described above.

  The player control unit 70 includes a CPU 71 for controlling a station, a ROM 72, and a RAM 73, and transmits and receives data to and from the CPU 51 for main control of the game control means 15A described above via a communication interface 65. I do.

  The ROM 72 is composed of, for example, a semiconductor memory, and stores programs for realizing basic functions in the station 5, various programs necessary for control in the station, data tables, and the like.

  The RAM 73 is a memory for temporarily storing various data calculated by the CPU 71, the number of credits currently owned by the player, the chip BET status by the player, and the like.

  The CPU 71 is connected with a refund button 8a and a help button 8b provided in the control unit 8 (see FIG. 1). The CPU 71 responds based on an operation signal output by pressing each button or the like. Control is performed to execute various operations. An input signal generated by the player's operation is transmitted to the main control CPU 51.

  Further, a payout processing device 9 is connected to the CPU 71, and a game medium such as a medal can be paid out from the payout exit 10 by a payout command signal from the CPU 71. Further, the CPU 71 is connected to a game medium receiving device 7 for inserting the above-described game media such as money and medals. Game value information (credit information) transmitted from the game medium receiving device 7 is stored in the RAM 73. Then, the payout information by the payout processing device 9 and the game value information (credit information) transmitted from the game medium receiving device 7 are transmitted to the CPU 51 as balance information relating to the game device 1.

  The gaming device 1 having such a configuration can monitor the balance status of the entire gaming device 1 by the CPU 51 based on the balance information sent from each station 5 (in this sense, the CPU 51 has a balance status). Functions as a monitoring means). Here, the balance status is a situation relating to the magnitude of the game value paid out to the player in accordance with the game result with respect to the magnitude of the game value paid out for the game in accordance with the BET operation. Further, the CPU 51 of the gaming apparatus 1 can determine whether the game is illegal or error by comparing such a balance state with the operating state of the gaming apparatus 1 (in this sense, the CPU 51). Has a function as a determination means for determining whether the game is illegal or error). Here, the operating status refers to the operation position detection circuit 61, the image processing circuit 40, the operation signal from each station, specifically the detection signal from the sensor unit 20 as the operation detection means, the photographing means 30 (CCD It is an operation state of the gaming apparatus 1 based on an imaging signal from the camera 31), an operation input signal from each station 20, and the like (operation information).

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the monitoring determination processing flow of the CPU 51 that monitors the balance status of the gaming apparatus 1 and determines whether the game is illegal or error. This monitoring determination process is executed, for example, by interruption every predetermined time after a certain period of time has elapsed since the gaming apparatus 1 started operation.

  As shown in the figure, first, the CPU 51 acquires the operation information described above (step S1), and then acquires the above-described balance information (step S2). Then, the CPU 51 compares the acquired operation information with the balance information (step S3). At this time, in the CPU 51, such information is grasped as data as shown in FIG. 9, for example, and the balance status is determined based on these data. In the data configuration example in FIG. 9, the game media input status is in the form of a graph rising to the right as shown in FIG. 9A, and the game media payout status (based on the payout status by the payout processing device 9). ) In the form of a graph ascending to the right as shown in FIG. 9B, and the balance status is in the form of a graph in FIG. 9C.

  The CPU 51 finally determines whether or not there is an abnormality in the balance status based on such balance comparison (step S4). In this determination, for example, the CPU 51 uses the acquired balance data (the data line indicated by the solid line in FIG. 9C) as a reference, and the balance transition line (indicated by the broken line in FIG. 9C). If it is deviated from (if the determination in step S4 is YES), it is determined that there is an abnormality in the balance status, that is, it is determined that the game is illegal or error, and a notification to that effect is given (step S5). ). Further, if the determination in step S4 is NO, the monitoring state of watching the gaming situation is continued without notification. The notification may be performed in the form of sound or visual display by a speaker, a lamp, or the like as a notification means constituting the external device 100, or the information is transmitted to the external device 100 such as a host computer. It may be sent.

  Further, the monitoring determination process as described above may be performed by the host computer 100 (see FIG. 10) as an external device that performs overall control of all the gaming devices 1. That is, the host computer 100 performs the same processing as the processing flow of the flowchart of FIG. 8 described above based on the operation information and balance information sent from the CPU 51 of each gaming device 1. In this case, the game hall manager, etc., as shown in FIG. 9, for example, shows the balance status up to 50 hours ago (or may be the balance status before that) through the display device 100A connected to the host computer 100. Can be known in various display modes.

  As described above, according to the gaming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, since the balance state of the game value can be monitored by the CPU 51 as the balance state monitoring means, the person who progresses, manages and monitors the game like a dealer Even if there is no game, or even if there is a dealer or a person who monitors the game, it is difficult to confirm the operation of all players, it effectively prevents fraudulent acts affecting the balance of gaming devices it can. Further, in the present configuration, the operating situation based on the BET operation by the player based on the sensor unit 20 as the motion detecting means or the raw image of the player based on the photographing means 30 is grasped, and the operating situation is compared with the balance status. Therefore, it is easy to determine a game fraud or an error, and therefore it is possible to reliably and efficiently prevent a fraud that affects the balance of the gaming device.

Further, in the present embodiment, when it is determined that the game is illegal or error, the fact is notified, so that the game illegal or error can be easily recognized. Also, the game management system of the present embodiment 200, since it is possible to monitor the balance of gaming values in a plurality of gaming devices 1 with the host computer 100, there is a person who progresses, manages and monitors games such as dealers in each gaming device 1. Even if it is not possible, or even if there is a dealer or a person who monitors the game, it is difficult to confirm the operation of all players, it will affect the balance of multiple gaming devices, and hence the balance of the entire playground It is possible to effectively and comprehensively prevent fraudulent acts that affect

  In addition, according to the game management system 200 of the present embodiment, for each gaming device 1, the operation status based on the BET operation by the player based on the sensor unit 20 or the raw image of the player based on the photographing means 30 is grasped. Since the operation status is compared with the balance status, it is easy to determine whether or not the game is fraudulent or error. Therefore, it is possible to reliably and efficiently prevent fraudulent acts that affect the balance of the entire game hall.

  Further, according to the game management system 200 of the present embodiment, when the game is determined to be fraudulent or error, the fact is notified on the host computer 100 side. It can be easily and collectively recognized on the management room side.

  Although the gaming device according to the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made.

  For example, the configuration of the gaming device and the object for specifying the operation position can be modified as appropriate. For example, the configuration is not limited to the player's hand, but may be configured to specify the position of the operation article possessed by the player. Further, the image display unit 3 is configured to project a game image by a projector installed inside the housing 2, but may be configured by a liquid crystal screen or the like. In addition, the configuration of the station 5 where the game is performed and the operation equipment can be appropriately modified according to the game that is performed.

It is a figure which shows one Embodiment of a game device, and is a perspective view which shows the whole structure. Schematic which shows the internal structure of a game device. It is a figure which shows the arrangement position of an imaging means, Comprising: (a) is a figure which shows the state installed in the center position, (b) is a figure which shows the modification of the arrangement position of an imaging means. The figure which shows the example of a game implemented in an image display part. The block diagram which showed schematic structure of the image processing system which processes the image | video image | photographed with the imaging | photography means. The block diagram which shows the structure of the game control means 15A in the control unit 15 which implements a card game. The block diagram which shows the control system in each station. The flowchart of an example of the flow of the monitoring determination process of CPU which monitors the balance status of a gaming device and determines fraud or error of a game. The graph which shows an example of the data structure used by the determination of the balance status. The schematic block diagram of a game management system.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game device 2 Case 3 Image display part 3A Game area 3B Operation area 5 Station 12 Image projection means 15 Control unit 20 Sensor unit (motion detection means)
30 Imaging means 31 CCD camera 51 CPU (balance status monitoring means; determination means)
100 External device, host computer (notification means)
100A display device (display means)
200 Game management system

Claims (5)

A plurality of players capable of playing, and a housing with a station installed for each player;
An image display unit that is provided in the housing and displays a game image and a BET image corresponding to each individual station;
Image control means for controlling the image displayed on the image display unit, comprising image data for gaming displayed on the image display unit and image data for BET operation;
An operation detecting means for detecting an operation when the player present at each station performs a BET operation on the BET image displayed on the image display unit;
Shooting means installed in the housing and capable of shooting a player present in each station;
A balance status monitoring means for monitoring a balance status of the game value with respect to the magnitude of the game value paid to the player according to the game result with respect to the magnitude of the game value paid to the game in accordance with the BET operation; ,
By comparing at least the operation status of the game based on the detection signal from the motion detection means and the imaging signal from the imaging means with the balance status monitored by the balance status monitoring means, it is possible to determine whether the game is fraudulent or error. Determination means for determining;
A gaming device comprising:   2. The gaming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising notification means for notifying that when the determination means determines that the game is illegal or error. A plurality of gaming devices according to claim 1 or claim 2,
A host computer connected to each of the plurality of gaming devices and receiving information on the balance status from the balance status monitoring means of each gaming device;
Display means connected to the host computer for displaying information relating to the balance status of each gaming device received by the host computer;
A game management system comprising:   The host computer receives a detection signal from the operation detection unit of each gaming device and an imaging signal from the imaging unit of each gaming device, and an operation status of the game based on at least the detection signal and the imaging signal 4. The game management system according to claim 3, wherein a game fraud or error is determined by comparing the balance status monitored by the balance status monitoring means.   5. The game management system according to claim 4, wherein when the host computer determines that the game is illegal or an error, the host computer notifies the fact.

Images