JP2014133100A - Game medium dispenser - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game medium dispenser capable of preventing fraudulently brought-in game media from being counted.SOLUTION: The game medium dispenser is provided next to a game machine and dispenses game media according to supplied value media. The game medium dispenser includes: counting means for counting the number of game media; putout means for putting out the game media to a player; an openable/closable counting door communicated to the counting means; locking means for locking the counting door; and control means that controls the counting means, the putout means, and the locking means. When a difference obtained by subtracting the number of game media used in the game machine provided next thereto, from the number of putout game media in the game machine is a positive, the control means unlocks the locking means and, when the difference is equal to or less than 0, makes the locking means a lock state.

Description

  The present invention relates to a game medium lending device that lends game media such as medals used for playing a gaming machine such as a slot machine.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in game halls equipped with gaming machines such as slot machines, a gaming medium lending device called sand that lends medal as a gaming medium is attached to the gaming machine. A player rents a game medium using this game medium lending device and plays a game.
Such a game medium lending device is configured such that medals lent to a player are paid out by a payout hopper provided in the game medium lending device. In addition to such a configuration, a conventional game medium lending device includes a counting hopper (see Patent Document 1). In the gaming medium lending device equipped with this counting hopper, the player counts the number of medals without standing up by inserting the medal earned in the gaming machine into the slot of the counting hopper. can do.

JP 2012-130649 A

  By the way, in the conventional game medium lending device, the slot used when a player inserts a medal for counting is always open, and medals from other stores are illegally brought into the game hall. It has not been possible to prevent an illegal act of moving the medals from a gaming hall that prohibits the use of the medals paid out by other gaming machines.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a game medium lending device that can prevent illegally brought-in game media from being counted.

  The present invention provides the following game medium lending device.

(1) A gaming medium renting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is a gaming medium renting apparatus that lends a gaming medium according to a supplied value medium, and is disposed in the casing. A counting means for counting the number of game media, a payout means for paying out game media to a player, which is disposed below the counting means in the housing, and a control for controlling the counting means and the payout means Means, a first passage for guiding the game medium counted by the counting means to the payout means, and a second passage for discharging the game medium overflowed by the payout means to the outside of the housing. It is characterized by providing.

  According to the configuration of (1) above, emptying errors in the payout means can be reduced by replenishing the payout means with medals that have been counted in the counting means. As a result, it is possible to provide a game medium lending device that does not give the player dissatisfaction.

(2) In the game medium lending device of the present invention, in the configuration described in (1) above, the housing counts the replenishment door for replenishing the payout means with game media via the counting means. The control means counts the counting result by the counting means in a state where the replenishing door is opened as a replenishment number, and the number of game media stored in the payout means at the start of operation The number of game media stored in the payout means is calculated by adding the number of supply and the number of game media counted by the player, and the number of game media paid out by the payout means is stored. When the game medium stored in the payout means runs out, fraud is detected based on the calculated number of game media and the stored number of game media.

  According to the configuration of (2) above, it is possible to grasp the number of game media in the payout means by counting the supplied game media and then guiding it to the payout means, and when an empty error occurs in the payout means By checking against the number of game media that are normally requested to be paid out, a fraudulent act (so-called hopgot game) in which an illegal member is inserted into the payout means and the internal payout drive means (hopper disk) is moved to acquire game media. ) Can be detected.

(3) In the game medium lending device of the present invention, in the configuration described in the above (1) or (2), the housing includes a counting door for a player to put the game medium into the counting means, A lock means for locking the counting door, wherein the control means is positive when a difference obtained by subtracting the number of game media thrown into the gaming machine from the number of game media paid out in the game machine provided therewith is positive Or the lock means is unlocked only when the game medium is paid out by the payout means, and when the difference is 0 or less and there is no payout by the payout means, the lock means is locked. It is characterized by.

  According to the configuration of (3) above, when the difference (difference number) is 0 or less and there is no payout (lending), the counting door is locked, so that it is brought from another game hall or another game machine. Unauthorized game media can be prevented from being inserted.

(4) In the game medium lending device of the present invention, in the configuration according to any one of (1) to (3), the arrangement unit of the counting unit includes an opening that communicates vertically, and the counting unit and the The payout means has a similar configuration.

  According to the configuration of (4) above, when the upper counting means is removed, a space as a storage area for game media for the lower paying means is formed, so that the gaming medium lending device without counting function can be obtained. Can also be used. Since the upper and lower counting means and the dispensing means have the same configuration, it is possible to easily cope with the addition of the upper counting means, and to reduce the inventory cost.

(5) In the game medium lending device of the present invention, in the configuration according to any one of (1) to (4), the counting means is a counting means for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the control means. A side connector downward on the bottom surface of the counting means, and the housing includes a connector support portion having a housing side connector that is connected to the counting means side connector and a door through which the counting means is inserted and removed. The connector support portion is slidably supported toward the door of the housing, and the width of the support means for slidably supporting the connector support portion is less than half the size of the game medium. A connector cover that covers the housing-side connector and guides the game medium downward when the counting means is removed;

  According to the configuration of (5) above, the counting means can be easily attached by making the housing side connector slidable. Further, the width of the support means for slidably supporting the connector support portion is less than half of the size of the game medium, so that when the counting means is removed, the game medium replenished by opening the supply door Will fall directly to the payout means, but at this time, the game medium will not stay in the connector support means.

(6) The game medium lending device of the present invention is a game medium lending device that is provided in the gaming machine and lends game media according to the supplied value medium, and is arranged in the case and the case. A counting means for counting the number of game media; a payout means for paying out game media to a player; and a control means for controlling the counting means and the payout means. A detecting means for detecting a storage amount of the game medium stored in the payout means, a discharge passage for discharging the game medium counted by the counting means to the outside of the housing, and a middle part of the discharge passage. A first guiding state for guiding the game medium counted by the counting means to the payout means, and a second guiding state for discharging the game medium counted by the counting means to the outside of the housing. Between states And a passage switching means for switching the discharge passage to the second guiding state when the storage amount of the payout means exceeds a predetermined amount based on the detection result of the detection means. It is characterized by switching.

  According to the configuration of (6) above, when there is no predetermined amount of game media in the payout means, it is detected that the counted game media is replenished in the payout means and the game media in the payout means has reached a predetermined amount. Is equipped with a passage switching means that is controlled to discharge to the island facility side, so that the payout means is less likely to be in an empty state, and a game media lending device that does not give the player dissatisfaction is realized. It becomes possible to do. In addition, since the game medium stored in the payout means does not exceed a predetermined amount, the game medium can be prevented from overflowing from the payout means when the payout means is removed during maintenance or the like.

(7) In the game medium lending device of the present invention, in the configuration described in (6), the housing 22 includes a replenishment door for replenishing the payout means with game media via the counting means. A game medium provided above the counting means, wherein the control means counts a counting result by the counting means in a state where the replenishment door is opened as a replenishment number, and is stored in the payout means at the start of operation. The number of game media stored in the payout means is calculated by adding the number, the supply number, and the number of game media counted by the player, and the number of game media paid out by the payout means is stored. Then, when there are no more game media stored in the payout means, fraud is detected based on the calculated number of game media and the stored number of game media.

  According to the configuration of (7) above, the number of game media in the payout means can be ascertained by adopting a configuration in which the supply game medium is counted and then guided to the payout means, and when an empty error occurs in the payout means By detecting the illegal act (so-called hopagoto) that acquires the game medium by inserting the illegal member into the payout means and moving the internal payout driving means etc. by checking with the number of game media that are normally requested to be paid out. Is possible.

(8) In the game medium lending device of the present invention, in the configuration described in (6) or (7), the housing includes a counting door for a player to put the game medium into the counting means, A lock means for locking the counting door, wherein the control means is positive when a difference obtained by subtracting the number of game media thrown into the gaming machine from the number of game media paid out in the game machine provided therewith is positive Or the lock means is unlocked only when the game medium is paid out by the payout means, and when the difference is 0 or less and there is no payout by the payout means, the lock means is locked. It is characterized by.

  According to the configuration of (8) above, when the difference (difference number) is 0 or less and there is no payout (loan), the counting door 101 is locked and brought in from another game hall or another game machine. Incorrect game media can be prevented from being inserted.

(9) In the game medium lending device of the present invention, in the configuration according to any one of the above (6) to (8), the arrangement unit of the counting unit includes an opening 152 that communicates vertically, and the counting unit and The payout means has a similar configuration.

  According to the configuration of (9) above, when the upper counting means is removed, a space as a storage portion for the game medium for the lower paying means is formed, so that the gaming medium lending device without counting function can be obtained. Can also be used. Since the upper and lower counting means and the dispensing means have the same configuration, it is possible to easily cope with the addition of the upper counting means, and to reduce the inventory cost.

(10) In the game medium lending device according to the present invention, in the configuration according to any one of (6) to (9), the counting unit is a counting unit for transmitting and receiving a signal to and from the control unit. A side connector downward on the bottom surface of the counting means, and the housing includes a connector support portion having a housing side connector that is connected to the counting means side connector and a door through which the counting means is inserted and removed. The connector support portion is slidably supported toward the door of the housing, and the width of the support means for slidably supporting the connector support portion is less than half the size of the game medium. A connector cover that covers the housing-side connector and guides the game medium downward when the counting means is removed;

  According to the configuration of (10) above, the counting means can be easily attached by making the housing-side connector slidable. Further, the width of the support means for slidably supporting the connector support portion is less than half of the size of the game medium, so that when the counting means is removed, the game medium replenished by opening the supply door Will fall directly to the payout means, but at this time, the game medium will not stay in the connector support means.

(11) The game medium lending device of the present invention is a game medium lending device that is provided in the gaming machine and lends game media according to the supplied value medium, and is arranged in the case and the case. A counting means for counting the number of game media; a payout means for paying out game media to a player; and a control means for controlling the counting means and the payout means. And an opening portion formed in the arrangement portion of the counting means and communicating in the vertical direction, wherein the counting means and the payout means have the same configuration.

  According to the configuration of (11) above, when the upper counting means is removed, a space as a storage portion for game media for the lower paying means is formed, so that a gaming medium lending device without a counting function can be obtained. Can also be used. Since the upper and lower counting means and the dispensing means have the same configuration, it is possible to easily cope with the addition of the upper counting means, and to reduce the inventory cost.

(12) In the game medium lending device of the present invention, in the configuration described in (11) above, the housing counts the replenishment door for replenishing the payout means with game media via the counting means. The control means counts the counting result by the counting means in a state where the replenishing door is opened as a replenishment number, and the number of game media stored in the payout means at the start of operation The number of game media stored in the payout means is calculated by adding the number of supply and the number of game media counted by the player, and the number of game media paid out by the payout means is stored. When the game medium stored in the payout means is exhausted, fraud is detected based on the calculated number of game media and the stored number of game media, and when the fraud is detected, Take a picture of a player Characterized in that and transmits the captured the imaging result to the hall computer by means.

  According to the configuration of (12) above, the number of game media in the payout means can be ascertained by adopting a structure in which the replenishment game medium is counted and then guided to the payout means, and when an empty error occurs in the payout means By comparing with the number of game media that are normally requested to be paid out, it becomes possible to detect fraudulent activity in which an illegal member is inserted into the payout means and the internal payout drive means is moved to acquire the game media. . In addition, when fraud is detected, the image of the player is captured and the imaged data, which is the result of the image capture, is transmitted to the hall computer that manages the gaming machine, so that the information of the unauthorized person can be grasped by the hall computer. .

(13) The game medium renting apparatus according to the present invention is the configuration described in (11) or (12) above, wherein the game medium counted by the counting means is guided to the payout means, And a second passage for discharging the game medium overflowed by the payout means to the outside of the housing.

  According to the configuration of (13), the empty error of the payout means can be reduced by replenishing the payout means with the counted medals in the counting means. As a result, it is possible to provide a game medium lending device that does not give the player dissatisfaction.

(14) In the game medium lending device of the present invention, in the configuration described in the above (11) or (12), the game unit lending device counts the detection unit for detecting the storage amount of the game medium stored in the payout unit and the counting unit. A discharge path for discharging the played game medium to the outside of the housing; a first guide state provided in the middle of the discharge path for guiding the game medium counted by the counting means to the payout means; Path switching means for switching between the state of the second guidance state in which the game medium counted by the counting means is discharged to the outside of the housing, and the path switching means is based on the detection result of the detection means. Then, when the storage amount of the payout means exceeds a predetermined amount, the discharge passage is switched to the second guiding state.

  According to the configuration of the above (14), when there is no predetermined amount of game media in the payout means, it is detected that the counted game media is replenished in the payout means and the game media in the payout means has reached a predetermined amount. Is equipped with a passage switching means that is controlled to discharge to the island facility side, so that the payout means is less likely to be in an empty state, and a game media lending device that does not give the player dissatisfaction is realized. It becomes possible to do. In addition, since the game medium stored in the payout means does not exceed a predetermined amount, the game medium can be prevented from overflowing from the payout means when the payout means is removed during maintenance or the like.

(15) In the game medium renting apparatus according to the present invention, in the configuration according to any one of (11) to (14), the counting unit is a counting unit for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the control unit. A side connector downward on the bottom surface of the counting means, and the housing includes a connector support portion having a housing side connector that is connected to the counting means side connector and a door through which the counting means is inserted and removed. The connector support portion is slidably supported toward the door of the housing, and the width of the support means for slidably supporting the connector support portion is less than half the size of the game medium. A connector cover that covers the housing-side connector and guides the game medium downward when the counting means is removed;

  According to the configuration of (15) above, the counting means can be easily attached by making the housing side connector slidable. Further, the width of the support means for slidably supporting the connector support portion is less than half of the size of the game medium, so that when the counting means is removed, the game medium replenished by opening the supply door Will fall directly to the payout means, but at this time, the game medium will not stay in the connector support means.

(16) A gaming medium renting apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is a gaming medium renting apparatus that lends a gaming medium in accordance with a supplied value medium, and is a counting unit that counts the number of gaming media. A payout means for paying out a game medium to a player; an openable / closable counting door communicating with the counting means; a locking means for locking the counting door; the counting means, the payout means, and the locking means And a control means for controlling the control means, the control means when the difference obtained by subtracting the number of game media used in the gaming machine from the number of game media paid out in the game machine provided side by side is positive When the lock means is unlocked and the difference is 0 or less, the lock means is set in a locked state.

  According to the configuration of (16) above, when the difference (difference number) is 0 or less and there is no payout (loan), the counting door is locked, so that it is brought from another game hall or another game machine. Unauthorized game media can be prevented from being inserted.

(17) In the game medium lending device of the present invention, in the configuration described in (16) above, the housing counts the replenishment door for replenishing the payout means with game media via the counting means. The control means counts the counting result by the counting means in a state where the replenishing door is opened as a replenishment number, and the number of game media stored in the payout means at the start of operation The number of game media stored in the payout means is calculated by adding the number of supply and the number of game media counted by the player, and the number of game media paid out by the payout means is stored. When the game medium stored in the payout means is exhausted, fraud is detected based on the calculated number of game media and the stored number of game media, and when the fraud is detected, Take a picture of a player Characterized in that and transmits the captured the imaging result to the hall computer by means.

  According to the configuration of (17) above, the number of game media in the payout means can be ascertained by adopting a configuration in which the supply game media are counted and then guided to the payout means, and when an empty error occurs in the payout means By comparing with the number of game media that are normally requested to be paid out, it becomes possible to detect fraudulent activity in which an illegal member is inserted into the payout means and the internal payout drive means is moved to acquire the game media. . In addition, when fraud is detected, the image of the player is captured and the imaged data, which is the result of the image capture, is transmitted to the hall computer that manages the gaming machine, so that the information of the unauthorized person can be grasped by the hall computer. .

(18) The game medium lending device of the present invention is the configuration described in (16) or (17) above, wherein the first passage for guiding the game medium counted by the counting means to the payout means, And a second passage for discharging the game medium overflowed by the payout means to the outside of the housing.

  According to the configuration of (18), the empty error of the payout means can be reduced by replenishing the payout means with the counted medals in the counting means. As a result, it is possible to provide a game medium lending device that does not give the player dissatisfaction.

(19) In the game medium lending device of the present invention, in the configuration described in the above (16) or (17), the game unit lending apparatus is configured to detect the storage amount of the game medium stored in the payout unit and to count by the counting unit. A discharge path for discharging the played game medium to the outside of the housing; a first guide state provided in the middle of the discharge path for guiding the game medium counted by the counting means to the payout means; Path switching means for switching between the state of the second guidance state in which the game medium counted by the counting means is discharged to the outside of the housing, and the path switching means is based on the detection result of the detection means. Then, when the storage amount of the payout means exceeds a predetermined amount, the discharge passage is switched to the second guiding state.

  According to the configuration of (19), when there is no predetermined amount of game media in the payout means, it is detected that the counted game media is replenished to the payout means and the game media in the payout means has reached a predetermined amount. Is equipped with a passage switching means that is controlled to discharge to the island facility side, so that the payout means is less likely to be in an empty state, and a game media lending device that does not give the player dissatisfaction is realized. It becomes possible to do. In addition, since the game medium stored in the payout means does not exceed a predetermined amount, the game medium can be prevented from overflowing from the payout means when the payout means is removed during maintenance or the like.

(20) In the game medium renting apparatus according to the present invention, in the configuration according to any one of (16) to (19), the counting unit is a counting unit for transmitting and receiving a signal to and from the control unit. A side connector downward on the bottom surface of the counting means, and the housing includes a connector support portion having a housing side connector that is connected to the counting means side connector and a door through which the counting means is inserted and removed. The connector support part is supported so as to be slidable toward the door of the housing.

  According to the above configuration (20), the counting means can be easily attached by allowing the housing side connector to slide.

(21) A game medium lending device according to the present invention is a game medium lending device that is provided in a gaming machine and lends a game medium in accordance with a supplied value medium, wherein the game medium is lending based on a housing and a lending request. It has at least a payout means for paying out one by one and a counting means for counting game media inserted by the player and discharging them one by one, wherein the payout means pays out a sensor for detecting the game media paid out. At least a sending outlet for sending game media to the front side of the housing and obliquely downward; the counting means includes a sensor for detecting the discharged game media; and the discharged game media to the outside of the housing. A discharge port for discharging, and the payout means is installed above the counting means via a partition plate, and at least the game medium is placed downward on the back side of the housing in the installed state. A replenishment lid member for opening and closing a replenishment opening for replenishing the payout means with a game medium is formed on the front surface of the housing, and the replenishment lid member is formed on the front surface of the housing. And at least a unit lid member for opening and closing a portion where the dispensing means and the counting means are installed, and the unit lid member corresponds to a delivery port of the dispensing means A lending opening provided in a position, a nozzle attachment in which a nozzle is detachably provided in the lending opening, a counting opening provided above the lending opening, and a game in the counting opening An auxiliary member attachment that is detachably provided with an auxiliary member for facilitating the insertion of the medium, and allows the game medium input from the counting opening to flow down to the payout means. It is characterized in that a flow path for flowing down to the counting means through the space is provided.

  According to the configuration of the above (21), the payout means is provided above the counting means, and the game medium is paid out by the delivery outlet that sends it obliquely downward, so that the game medium is paid out (rented). Sometimes, depending on the weight of the game medium, the game medium can be sent to the nozzle with the minimum necessary output power. Therefore, it is necessary to use a special structure for jumping up or an expensive payout means with high output power. Therefore, cost reduction can be achieved.

  In addition, since the counting opening is provided above the lending opening and is configured to be able to count smoothly by the counting means, there is no restriction on the shape of the nozzle attached to the lending opening. Therefore, a highly versatile game medium lending device can be realized.

  In addition, since the dispensing means and counting means have the same configuration, it is possible to reduce the inventory cost of parts. In addition, since the paying-out means and the counting means are arranged vertically in the same direction, the number of parts for mounting these means on the housing can also be reduced.

(22) The game medium lending apparatus according to the present invention includes the counting door provided in the counting opening and a lock unit that locks the counting door in the configuration described in the above (19), and the control The means is when the difference obtained by subtracting the number of game media inserted into the gaming machine from the number of game media paid out at the game machine provided side by side is positive, or when the game media is paid out by the payout means The locking means is unlocked only when the difference is 0 or less, and when there is no payout by the payout means, the lock means is set in a locked state.

  According to the configuration of (22) above, when the difference (difference number) is 0 or less and there is no payout (loan), the counting door 101 is locked and brought in from another game hall or another game machine. Incorrect game media can be prevented from being inserted.

(23) In the game medium lending device of the present invention, in the configuration described in (21) or (22), the payout means includes a payout means side connector for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the control means. The bottom surface portion of the payout means has a downward surface, and the housing includes a connector support portion having a housing side connector connected to the payout means side connector upward, and the connector support portion includes the unit lid member. It is characterized by being supported so as to be slidable toward.

  According to the configuration of (23), since the housing side connector can be slid, the payout means can be easily attached.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a game medium lending device that can prevent illegally brought-in game media from being counted.

It is a front view which shows the pachi-slot machine which provided the game media rental apparatus (sand) by this invention side by side. It is a perspective view which shows sand. It is a perspective view which shows the internal structure of a sand. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the internal structure of sand. It is a basic diagram which shows the internal structure of sand. It is a fragmentary sectional view used for description of a partition plate. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of a partition plate. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of a partition plate. It is a basic diagram which shows the structure of a locking mechanism part. It is a side view which shows the cover of a connector. It is a side view which shows the cover by other embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the state which removed the front panel. It is a fragmentary sectional view which shows the attachment state of a speaker. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the payout hopper. It is sectional drawing which shows the structure of the discharge hopper. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the counting hopper. It is sectional drawing which shows the structure of the counting hopper. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a sand. It is a flowchart which shows a rental process procedure. It is a flowchart which shows a rental process procedure. It is a basic diagram which shows the example of a display of an operation unit. It is a flowchart which shows a leaving warning process procedure. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of a pachislot machine. It is a flowchart which shows the accumulation | storage process of payout information. It is a flowchart which shows the abnormality detection process performed by the main CPU of a sand. It is a timing chart which shows the procedure in case Sand acquires payout information from a hall computer. It is a basic diagram which shows the structure of the sand by other embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the switching control process performed by the main CPU of sand. It is a basic diagram which shows the structure of the sand by 2nd Embodiment. It is a cross-sectional view showing a partitioning state between the counting passage and the replenishing passage. It is a block diagram which shows the sand by other embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the front side of the front panel which concerns on other embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the back surface side of the front panel which concerns on other embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the counting process which concerns on other embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the rental process which concerns on other embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a basic diagram which shows the structure of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a partial side view which shows the structure of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a basic diagram which shows the structure of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the nozzle part of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a perspective view which shows the structure of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a basic diagram which shows the structure of the shared card issuing unit of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the shared card issuing process of the sand which concerns on other embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the connection state of the game hall which concerns on other embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the connection state of the game hall which concerns on other embodiment. It is a timing chart which shows the processing procedure of the sand, hall computer, and shop computer concerning other embodiments. It is a basic diagram which shows the structure of the count channel | path which concerns on other embodiment.

(First embodiment)
A first embodiment of the game medium lending device of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view showing a pachislot machine provided with a game medium lending device (hereinafter referred to as a sand) according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the sand.

  As shown in FIG. 1, sands 20 are provided on the right side of the pachislot machine 10, respectively. Each sand 20 is installed corresponding to the adjacent pachislot machine 10. Each sand 20 and each pachislot machine 10 are communicably connected to a controller (not shown) that performs system management and sales management of the sand 20 in the entire hall. In the present embodiment, the sand 20 does not directly communicate with the corresponding pachislot machine 10, but the case where information is exchanged via the hall computer 500 of the game hall will be described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the sand 20 and the pachislot 10 may be directly connected so as to communicate with each other, and direct communication may be performed between them.

  On the front portion 21 of each sand 20, an LED (light-emitting diode) portion 31, a card insertion slot 32, a bill insertion slot 33 into which a bill can be inserted, an operation unit 34 constituted by a touch panel LCD (liquid crystal display), A camera 35, a non-contact IC card reader / writer 36, a counting door 101 (insert port 23A), a speaker cover 38, a medal payout nozzle 140, and the like are provided. The card insertion slot 32 is an insertion slot that can accept an information card issued by a card issuing machine (not shown) in a hall, for example. The LED unit 31 includes a full color LED 31A and an infrared LED (infrared light emitting diode) 31B (FIG. 2).

  A player can receive a medal as a game medium necessary for a game by inserting an information card or a predetermined amount of banknotes into the card insertion slot 32 or the banknote insertion slot 33. Further, the player can receive a medal required for the game by holding the non-contact IC card over the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36.

  When the sand 20 receives input of a value medium such as an information card, a bill, and an IC card, the medal is paid out by counting the number of medals according to the amount of the inserted value medium by a payout hopper provided inside. From the nozzle 140 to the medal payout tray (dish) 12 of the pachi-slot machine 10. The player hits the medal paid out from the sand 20 through the medal payout nozzle 140 to the medal payout tray 12 of the pachislot machine 10 and throws it into the medal slot 11 of the pachislot machine 10 from the medal payout tray 12. By doing so, a game can be performed in the pachislot machine 10.

  Further, in the pachislot machine 10, medals are paid out to the medal payout tray 12 in accordance with the game result. The player can pick up the medal from the medal payout tray 12 and insert it into the medal counting slot 23A of the sand 20 so that the medal can be counted by the sand 20. The sand 20 counts medals inserted from the medal counting slot 23A by a counting hopper provided inside. The insertion slot 23A is provided with a counting door 101, and the lock is released only when the player has a regular medal by an internal locking mechanism (described later).

  The counted results are recorded on the information card inserted from the card insertion slot 32, or stored in a storage unit provided in the hall computer. In the present embodiment, amount data is stored as information stored in the information card, and the amount data is converted into the number of medals on the control board of the sand 20 so as to perform a process such as payout. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the number of medals may be stored in the information card as it is.

  The medals counted in the counting hopper are stored in the storage section of the payout hopper, and the overflowed medals are discharged from the discharge port provided on the bottom surface of the sand 20 to the transport conveyor and collected. In a place where no conveyor is provided, a storage box for storing medals may be installed below the sand 20 and the medals may be discharged into the storage box.

  3 is a perspective view showing an internal configuration of the sand 20, and FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view thereof. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the internal configuration of the sand 20 in a simplified manner. As shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 5, the sand 20 has an identification means (information card reader, banknote identification device) for identifying a value medium such as an information card, a banknote, and a non-contact IC card inside the housing 22. 61, an IC card reader / writer, etc.) and a power supply unit 65 are housed in a first storage space AR11. Further, below the first storage space AR11, there is a second storage space AR13 for storing the counting hopper 71 and the dispensing hopper 51 side by side. In the first storage space AR11, identification means (information card reader, bill identification device 61, IC card reader / writer, etc.) is stored in the upper part, and the power supply unit 65 is stored in the lower part. That is, the lower part of the first storage space AR11 forms a power supply unit storage space AR12 for storing the power supply unit 65.

  3 to 5, the payout hopper 51 housed in the second storage space AR13 below the first storage area AR11 is supplied with medals via the counting hopper 71 disposed in the upper part thereof. It is configured as follows.

  Specifically, on the upper portion of the counting hopper 71, the front panel 23 of the front surface portion 21 of the housing 22 is formed with an insertion port 23A for inserting medals into the counting hopper 71. The opening 23A is provided with a counting door 101 that is controlled to be able to open and close the insertion port 23A at a predetermined timing by an opening / closing mechanism having an electromagnetic lock mechanism. The counting door 101 is opened and closed by a driving motor 102. In the electromagnetic lock mechanism 110, a movable piece that is movable by a solenoid on the front panel 23 side is engaged or disengaged with respect to a protrusion (not shown) provided on the counting door 101. As a result, the counting door 101 is locked or unlocked. A control signal for locking or unlocking is supplied from a control board (described later). The front panel 23 is detachable from the housing 22, but when the front panel 23 is attached to the housing 22, the connection terminal on the front panel 23 side and the connection on the housing 22 side are connected. The terminal is electrically connected.

  The insertion slot 23 </ b> A provided with the counting door 101 is for allowing a player to insert a medal acquired by the pachislot machine 10 into the counting hopper 71. Incidentally, the counting door 101 is configured to be inclined toward the insertion slot 23A in the opened state, and also has a function as a guide slope (auxiliary member) for sliding the medal into the insertion slot 23A. Yes.

  In the present embodiment, a front panel 25 independent of the front panel 23 is detachably attached to the upper portion of the front panel 23. The front panel 25 can be opened and closed by a key possessed by the manager of the game hall. The manager can replenish medals stored in the payout hopper 51 with the front panel 25 opened. The insertion slot 25A is exposed to the outside, and medals can be replenished from the insertion slot 25A. That is, the front panel 25 has a function as a supply door. The front panel 25 prevents the player from opening, and prevents the player from opening the front panel 25 and inserting medals for counting.

  The counting hopper 71 counts medals inserted into the storage unit 71A from the insertion port 23A or 25A one by one by a sensor (not shown), and rotates the disk 71C, so that the counted medal is It lifts from a low position to a high position, and discharges from the discharge portion 71B to the outside of the hopper. The medals counted by a counting mechanism section (not shown) provided inside the counting hopper 71 are discharged out of the counting hopper 71 from the discharging section 71B.

  The discharge portion 71B of the counting hopper 71 is inserted into the opening 121 of the upper discharge passage 120 fixed to the housing 22 side of the sand 20, and the counted medals discharged from the discharge portion 71B. Is guided to the upper discharge passage 120.

  The upper discharge passage 120 is configured to guide the medal introduced into the passage from the upper opening 121 downward by its own weight. The other opening (opening 122 provided below) is provided below the upper discharge passage 120, and a medal that has dropped in the upper discharge passage 120 passes through the upper discharge passage 120 from the opening 122. It is discharged outside.

  The opening 122 is disposed in the storage portion 51A of the payout hopper 51 disposed below the counting hopper 71, and the medals discharged from the opening 122 to the outside of the upper discharge passage 120 are stored in the payout hopper 51. Stored in the storage 51A.

  The payout hopper 51 has the same configuration as the counting hopper 71 and performs a payout operation based on a signal output from a control board (described later) of the sand 20. In this case, the payout hopper 51 rotates the disk 71C to lift the medals stored in the storage portion 51A from a low position at the bottom of the hopper to a high position, and by the number specified by the signal from the control board. Paying out from the payout port 54 to the front side of the housing 22 while counting. The number of medals to be paid out is counted by detecting with a sensor (not shown) provided inside the payout hopper 51.

  By using the same configuration as the counting hopper 71 and the dispensing hopper 51 as in the present embodiment, the types of inventory management can be reduced compared to the case of using a different configuration, and the manufacturer The inventory cost on the side can be reduced.

  The front panel 23 of the sand 20 is formed with a payout opening 23 </ b> B that communicates with the discharge opening of the payout outlet 54 of the payout hopper 51. Further, the front panel 23 has a nozzle 140 attached to the front side thereof, and medals paid out from the payout hopper 51 are guided to the nozzle 140 through the payout port 23B. The nozzle 140 has a structure in which the medal paid out from the payout port 23B is slid down, and the medal that has passed through the nozzle is paid out to the outside through an opening provided at the tip of the nozzle 140. In the present embodiment, the tip of the nozzle faces the medal payout tray 12 of the pachislot machine 10, and the medals paid out from the nozzle are paid out to the medal payout tray 12. The nozzle 140 can swing in the left-right direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. 3, and the player can set the tip of the nozzle 140 at a position where it can be used easily.

  Since the payout hopper 51 is configured to lift and pay out medals at the bottom of the hopper, the payout port 23B is provided even in the configuration in which the counting hopper 71 is provided on the upper side and the payout hopper 51 is provided on the lower side. Can be provided at a certain height position, and a nozzle 140 configured to slide a medal by its own weight as shown in FIG. 3 can be used.

  As described above, in the sand 20, the medals counted in the counting hopper 71 are stored in the storage portion 51 </ b> A of the payout hopper 51 disposed below the counting hopper 71 through the upper discharge passage 120. It is possible to suppress the occurrence of shortage in the stored medals in the payout hopper 51 compared to the conventional sand in which the medals already counted in the counting hopper 71 are discharged as they are to the island facility side. it can. When the medals stored in the payout hopper 51 are insufficient for counting only medals, the game hall manager can open the front panel 25 and replenish medals from the insertion slot 25A. . The replenished medals are sent from the counting hopper 71 to the upper discharge passage 120 and are stored in the storage portion 51 </ b> A of the payout hopper 51 through the upper discharge passage 120. The front panel 25 can be removed by a game hall manager using a dedicated key. At this time, it counts not as a count medal as mentioned later but as a supply medal.

  The opening / closing operation of the counting door 101 used by the player is controlled by the player performing a predetermined operation on the operation unit 34.

  A lower discharge passage 130 is provided behind the dispensing hopper 51. The lower discharge passage 130 has a passage for dropping the medal by its own weight, guides the medal introduced from the opening 131 provided in the upper portion, and from the opening 132 provided in the lower portion to the island. It can be discharged to the equipment side.

  The upper opening 131 is arranged in the storage part 51A of the payout hopper 51, and when the medals in the storage part 51A increase, the medal drops from the opening 131 to the lower discharge passage 130. ing. In addition, you may make it provide the guide member for guide | inducing the medal in the storage part 51A to the opening part 131 separately.

  Thus, in the sand 20, the payout hopper 51 is disposed below the counting hopper 71, and the medals counted by the counting hopper 71 are stored in the storage portion 51 </ b> A of the payout hopper 51 through the upper discharge passage 120. By storing the medals, the counted medals can be used for payout, and the medals overflowed in the payout hopper 51 are discharged to the island facility side through the lower discharge passage 130.

  In the sand 20, a counting hopper 71 is disposed above the payout hopper 51, and an insertion port 23 </ b> A for inserting medals into the counting hopper 71 is disposed at a higher position than the counting hopper 71. have. Accordingly, a series of operations is possible in which medals are inserted from the insertion port 23A, the number of medals is counted by the counting hopper 71, and the counted medals are dropped to the payout hopper 51.

  In the sand 20 having such a configuration, the counting hopper 71 can be detachable so that it can be operated as a sand having no counting function. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the counting hopper 71 is provided with a partition plate 150 on which both sides are placed on the protruding portion 22 </ b> C provided on the inner wall portion of the casing 22 of the sand 20. The partition plate 150 constitutes a floor plate in a region where the counting hopper 71 is mounted.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, guide holes 151 are formed in the vertical wall surfaces on both sides of the partition plate 150. The guide hole 151 extends horizontally from the front side to the back side of the sand 20, and a support plate 155 is supported by the guide hole 151 so as to be slidable along the guide hole 151. ing.

  A connector 157 is provided upward on the upper surface of the support plate 155, and the connector 157 is connected to a connector 76 (FIG. 6) provided downward on the bottom surface portion of the counting hopper 71. And a control line (described later) of the sand 20 and a power line can be connected, and the counting hopper 71 can be controlled by the control board.

  The support plate 155 is always urged toward the front panel 23 by an urging means (not shown) such as a spring (FIG. 7). Thereby, the operation | work which removes the front panel 23 and mounts the counting hopper 71 on the support plate 155 can be performed easily. As shown in FIG. 7, with the support plate 155 biased to the front side (front panel 23 side), the counting hopper 71 is placed on the upper surface of the support plate 155 from the front side, and the connector 76 and the connector 157 Connect. As a result, the counting hopper 71 is mounted on the support plate 155.

  In this state, when the counting hopper 71 is pushed into the housing 22 of the sand 20 (backward direction), the support plate 155 resists the urging force of the urging means along the guide hole 151 of the partition plate 150. The body 22 moves in the direction of the back surface 22B (FIG. 8).

  The partition plate 150 is provided with a lock mechanism portion 156 for locking the support plate 155 at a position where the support plate 155 is pushed in. When the support plate 155 is pushed in, the lock mechanism portion is operated, and the support plate 155 is locked. As a result, the support plate 155 is locked at the position where the support plate 155 is pushed into the back side, and unless the lock is released, the support plate 155 does not move to the front side even when the urging force by the urging means remains applied. Absent. As shown in FIG. 9A, the lock mechanism 156 has a lock claw 156A that can move between a locked position and an unlocked position. The lock claw 156A is always urged in the locking direction indicated by the arrow d by an urging means such as a spring, and the engaging portion 155A which is a part of the support plate 155 is moved along with the movement of the support plate 155. When pushed into the back side of the housing 22 (FIGS. 9B and 8), the engaging portion 155A moves the lock claw 156A in the direction of the arrow u against the urging force. As a result, FIG. ) Is locked as shown.

  The lock claw 156A can be driven in the direction of arrow u by a driving means (not shown) such as a motor, and is supported by being driven in the direction of arrow u by a signal from a control board (described later). The locked state of the plate 155 is released, and as a result, the support plate 155 moves to the front side by the urging force of the urging means (FIG. 7).

  Thus, by providing a connector on the movable support plate 155 and mounting the counting hopper 71 on the support plate 155, the counting hopper 71 can be easily attached and detached.

  Here, the partition plate 150 has an opening 152 at the center thereof. In a state in which the counting hopper 71 is not mounted, the medal inserted from the insertion port 23A or 25A falls through the opening 152 to the storage unit 51A of the payout hopper 51. In the partition plate 150, the width dimension around the opening 152 (the width dimension of the support means 150A that slidably supports the support plate 155 that is the connector support portion) L1 and L2 are both the dimensions L1 and L2. Less than half the medal diameter is desirable. By doing in this way, it is possible to prevent medals inserted from the insertion port 23 </ b> A from staying on the partition plate 150 around the opening 152. When the counting hopper 71 is not mounted, a mountain-shaped cover 158 is mounted on the connector 157 as shown in FIG. By attaching this cover 158, it is possible to prevent medals from staying on the support plate 155. Note that the shape of the cover 158 is not limited to the mountain shape. For example, as shown in FIG. 11A, the cover 158 has an inclined surface in one direction, or a spherical surface as shown in FIG. Various shapes may be applied as long as medals falling from the top do not stay.

  In addition, a replenishment opening 52 for replenishing medals from the back side is provided in the upper portion (above the counting hopper 71) of the back surface portion 22A of the housing 22 (FIGS. 3 and 4). It is possible to replenish medals from the replenishment opening 52 via the replenishment passage 53. Thereby, the sand 20 can be set so that the medals are replenished from the back side as necessary, such as a game hall having an island facility with an automatic replenishment function.

  Next, the mounting position of the speaker in the sand 20 will be described. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a front panel 21 is provided on the front surface 21 of the sand 20, and a speaker cover 38 is provided on the front panel 23. The speaker cover 38 has a plurality of transmission ports through which sound from a speaker provided on the back side of the front panel 23 (speaker cover 38) is transmitted forward.

  FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a state where the front panel 23 of the front portion 21 of the sand 20 is removed. As shown in FIG. 12, a payout hopper 51 is disposed on the back surface side of the front panel 23, and a speaker 81 is attached to the front surface portion of the payout hopper 51. The mounting position of the speaker 81 is below the payout hopper 51. The payout outlet 54 of the payout hopper 51 pays out medals from the payout hopper 51 to the nozzle 140 provided on the front panel 23. As the payout hopper 51, the medals stored therein are used. By using a hopper configured to lift and pay out the payout port 54, the payout port 54 is provided at a relatively high position, and the sand 20 configured to slide the medal from the payout port 54 through the nozzle 140 by its own weight. A space is formed below the outlet 54 in the front surface portion. The speaker 81 is attached using this space.

  As shown in FIG. 13, an enclosing projection member 99 for preventing leakage of sound output from the speaker 81 is integrally formed on the back surface side of the front panel 23 so as to cover the periphery of the speaker 81. It is desirable to do.

  FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the dispensing hopper 51, and FIG. 15 is a longitudinal sectional view thereof. As shown in FIG. 14, a speaker 81 is unitized in the payout hopper 51 via a coupling member 82, and the connection wiring 84 of the speaker 81 is connected to the payout hopper 51 as shown in FIG. 15. It is connected to the connector 56. The connecting connector 56 of the payout hopper 51 is a connector for connecting the control board 63 and the payout hopper 51 and supplying a control signal from the control board 63 to the payout hopper 51. In the case of the configuration, the connection connector 56 is shared by the payout hopper 51 and the speaker 81 by connecting a wiring for supplying an audio signal to the speaker 81 to the connection connector 56. As a result, the audio signal from the control board 63 is output to the speaker 81 via the connection connector 56, and the existing connection connector 56 for the payout hopper 51 is shared as a connection connector for the speaker 81. By doing so, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of connection connectors and to avoid complication of the configuration. Further, since the speaker 81 is retrofitted to the payout hopper 51, the upper and lower identically configured hoppers (the counting hopper 71 and the payout hopper 51) are used, and the speaker 81 is attached as necessary. Inventory costs can be reduced.

  FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing the counting hopper 71, and FIG. 17 is a longitudinal sectional view thereof. As shown in FIG. 16, an opening 75 for receiving medals is provided on the front surface of the storage portion 71 </ b> A of the counting hopper 71, and the counting hopper 71 is attached to the housing 22 in the opening 75. In the mounted state, the insertion port 23A of the front panel 23 overlaps. As a result, the medal inserted into the insertion slot 23 </ b> A is guided to the storage portion 71 </ b> A of the counting hopper 71 through the opening 75. As shown in FIG. 17, the medals counted in the counting hopper 71 are discharged from the discharge portion 71B of the counting hopper 71 to the upper discharge passage 120 (FIGS. 4 and 5).

  Incidentally, the size of the opening 75 and the insertion port 23A of the counting hopper 71 is set so that the player's hand is difficult to enter.

  The opening 75 is provided with a photo sensor 77 (FIG. 12), which detects when a player's hand enters. Accordingly, when the player's hand is inserted by mistake or when the hand is inserted by fraud, the detection by the photosensor 77 can be performed and the operation of the counting hopper 71 can be stopped. The photo sensor 77 is attached at a position where a medal inserted through the insertion slot 23A and the opening 75 is not erroneously detected. For example, by providing only the state of the upper part of the opening 75, it is possible to detect only the player's hand entering the upper part of the opening 75 without detecting a medal that slides below the opening 75. it can. Incidentally, the counting hopper 71 is also provided with a sensor (not shown) for detecting insertion of medals.

  FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing the control board 63 of the sand 20 and the components controlled by the control board 63. A main CPU (central processing unit) 121 reads a control program stored in a ROM (read only memory) 122 and executes medal counting and other processing. Various data relating to the processing is stored in a RAM (random access memory) 123.

  The main CPU 121 stores the amount data read from the information card via the information card reader 62 in the RAM 123 as balance data. When the amount designated by the player is smaller than the balance data based on the balance data and the operation result output from the operation unit 34, the main CPU 121 pays out a medal for the designated amount. The balance data is updated by counting and paying out and subtracting the amount of medals paid out from the balance data. The main CPU 121 can drive the payout hopper 51 by controlling the drive circuit 131. Further, the counting hopper 71 is connected to the main CPU 121 via the driving circuit 132, and the main CPU 121 can drive the counting hopper 71 by controlling the driving circuit 132.

  The operation unit 34 also displays a button for returning an information card. When the player operates this operation button, the main CPU 121 inserts the information card inserted into the information card reader 62 into the card insertion slot 32. Return from.

  Further, the main CPU 121 stores the banknote identification result output from the banknote identification device (Bill Bali) 61 in the RAM 123 as balance data. When the amount designated by the player is smaller than the balance data based on the balance data and the operation result output from the operation unit 34, the main CPU 121 pays out a medal for the designated amount. The balance data is updated by counting and paying out and subtracting the amount of medals paid out from the balance data. The main CPU 121 can drive the payout hopper 51 by controlling the drive circuit 131.

  Further, the main CPU 121 uses the infrared LED 31B of the LED unit 31 as a monitoring projector, reflects the infrared light from the infrared LED 31B by the player, and images it with the camera 35. The main CPU 121 stores an image captured by the camera 35 in the ROM 122, and detects the presence of the player based on this image. This detection process is always performed. When the player's state changes to a non-detection (seating) state and there is a balance in the amount data of the information card inserted from the card insertion slot 32, or the amount data of the banknote inserted from the bill insertion slot 33 When there is a balance, the main CPU 121 can alert the player who is about to leave the seat by issuing a warning sound or warning sound through the speaker 81. As the warning voice, a voice such as “Forgot card” is issued.

The main CPU 121 performs non-contact communication with the non-contact IC card via the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36. This communication method is, for example, an electromagnetic induction method with a carrier frequency of 13.56 MHz. The main CPU 121 counts the number of medals according to the amount data read from the non-contact IC card via the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36 by the payout hopper 51 and pays out the medal from the medal payout nozzle 140. Rewrite the balance data of the contact IC card.
Further, the main CPU 121 communicates with the hall computer via the interface 125.

  19 to 20 are flowcharts showing a game medium lending process procedure by the main CPU 121. This process is always executed by the main CPU 121. As shown in FIG. 19, the main CPU 121 determines in step S11 whether or not there has been a payout instruction based on the counted number of medals. This process is a process of determining whether or not an instruction for paying out the number of medals counted in step S33, which will be described later, is input via the operation unit 34.

  Incidentally, FIG. 21 is a plan view showing the display content for selection displayed on the touch panel LCD of the operation unit 34 in step S11. As shown in FIG. 21, on the touch panel LCD of the operation unit 34, an icon A11 for selecting a payout instruction based on the counted number of medals and an icon A12 for selecting a payout instruction based on cash (value medium). Is displayed. The player can specify any one of these icons by pressing the icon.

  When there is a payout instruction based on the counted medal number, the main CPU 121 shifts the processing from step S11 to step S12 and operates the payout hopper 51 to pay the same number of medal as the counted medal number. Pay out from exit 54. When the player designates the number of payouts by operating the operation unit 34, the number of medals designated within the range of medal numbers stored in the RAM 123 may be paid out.

  On the other hand, when there is no designation of payout based on the counted number of medals in step S11, the main CPU 121 shifts the processing from step S11 to step S13, and determines whether or not a value medium has been inserted. The value medium means an information card inserted into the card insertion slot 32, a bill inserted into the banknote insertion slot 33, or a non-contact IC card held over the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36. When the information card is inserted into the card insertion slot 32, the amount data is read from the information card by the information card reader 62. When a bill is inserted into the bill insertion slot 33, the bill amount is identified by the bill recognition device (bill validator) 61. When a non-contact IC card is held over the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36, the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36 reads the amount data of the non-contact IC card. These read amount data are stored in the RAM 123.

  When the value medium is inserted, the main CPU 121 obtains a positive result in step S13, thereby moving the process from step S13 to step S14 to determine whether or not an amount related to payout has been designated. If a negative result is obtained here, this means that the player has not specified the amount of the payout medal through the operation unit 34 (that is, the payout for the entire amount data has been specified). Yes. Here, when an information card or banknote is inserted, the amount of money can be designated by the player operating the operation unit 34 after inserting the information card or banknote. When the amount data is read by holding the card, the player can specify the amount data by operating the operation unit 34 before holding the non-contact IC card. When an information card or banknote is inserted, the main CPU 121 temporarily stores the read amount data in the RAM 123, and then the amount specified by the player is within the range of the amount stored in the RAM 123. For this, the amount data in the RAM 123 is rewritten to the specified amount data.

  On the other hand, when a contactless IC card is held, the main CPU 121 sets the specified amount data in the RAM 123 by specifying the amount first, and then the contactless IC card is held over the contactless IC card. When the communication is performed with the CPU, it is determined whether or not the amount set in the RAM 123 is stored in the non-contact IC card, and if it is stored, it is stored in the non-contact IC card. By subtracting the amount set in the RAM 123 from the amount, the amount of the contactless IC card is rewritten. On the other hand, when the amount stored in the non-contact IC card is less than the amount set in the RAM 123, the main CPU 121 does not rewrite the amount data of the non-contact IC card and displays an error display on the operation unit 34. By doing so, the payout process is canceled.

  By executing such processing in step S14, the RAM 123 stores data for the amount of money actually withdrawn from the value medium. Incidentally, when there is already balance data in the RAM 123 (the past counting result or the balance when the previous value medium was inserted), the main CPU 121 adds data for the amount drawn from the value medium to these balance data. Will do.

  Then, when the amount is designated, the main CPU 121 shifts the processing from step S14 to step S15, and drives the payout hopper 51 so that the medal for the designated amount is placed in the medal payout tray 37. Pay out. The paid-out amount data is left as payout history data in a specific area of the RAM 123. Then, the main CPU 121 projects the process to step S17.

  On the other hand, when the amount is not designated, the main CPU 121 shifts the processing from step S14 to step S16, and pays out medals for all the inserted amounts. The paid-out amount data is left as payout history data in a specific area of the RAM 123. Then, the main CPU 121 projects the process to step S17.

  When the player does not insert the value medium, the main CPU 121 obtains a negative result in the above-described step S13, thereby displaying the process from step S13 to step S17. Thus, the medal payout (lending) process ends.

  Next, the main CPU 121 executes processing based on whether or not the payout hopper 51 is empty. That is, in step S17, the main CPU 121 determines whether or not the payout hopper 51 is empty. Specifically, it is possible to determine that the payout hopper 51 is empty when a medal to be paid out is not detected by a sensor provided in the payout hopper 51 despite the payout operation of the payout hopper 51.

  If the main CPU 121 determines that it is empty, it obtains a positive result in step S17, thereby moving the process from step S17 to step S18 and executing the empty process. In the empty process, the main CPU 121 displays an error on the operation unit 34 and notifies the hall computer 500 that it is in an empty error state. In this process, the main CPU 121 also determines whether or not there is an illegal act called a so-called hopper goto. Hoppergoto means an act of illegally taking out the stored medals by operating the payout hopper 51 illegally.

  The main CPU 121 compares the number of medals estimated to remain in the payout hopper 51 with the number of medals to be paid out, and determines that the hopper goth action has not been performed if they are almost the same. be able to. On the other hand, when the result of subtracting the number of medals paid out from the number of medals estimated to remain in the payout hopper 51 at the time of occurrence of the empty error is a positive value, It can be determined that an empty error has occurred even though an empty error should not have occurred, that is, that there has been a possibility that a medal has been taken out illegally (a possibility of hopping). However, in the present embodiment, the result of subtracting the number of medals paid out from the number of medals estimated to remain in the payout hopper 51 is a positive value, and is a predetermined value (for example, 100 or more). ), It is determined that there has been a hopping action. Thus, by setting a predetermined value (for example, 100 or more), it is possible to absorb an error in the estimated number of medals in the hopper. At this time, since the payout hopper 51 can store about 1000 medals, the estimated number of medals exceeding “1000” is cleared, and the estimated number of stored medals is “1000”. Become. That is, the number of medals overflowing in the hopper is taken into account.

  If the main CPU 121 determines in this empty process that a hopping action has been performed, the main CPU 121 notifies the hall computer to that effect. Further, the main CPU 121 regularly transmits the image of the player who is constantly capturing images to the hall computer, and the hall computer that has received the notification that the hopgot action has been performed, When door lock processing (described later) is carried out by fraudulent carry-out, a player's image at the time of the door lock processing is searched from a database in the hall computer, and it can be determined that the same person is obtained by face authentication Performs a search using a security camera in the amusement hall site. Specifically, face authentication is performed on the basis of images from each security camera, a location where a matching person is located is specified, and processing for informing the location of the game hall to the manager of the game hall on a monitor display or the like is executed.

  After executing the empty process, the main CPU 121 shifts the process to step S19 to determine whether or not medals have been supplied. When the manager of the game hall opens the front panel 25 having a function as a replenishing door with a dedicated key, the main CPU 121 detects the front panel 25 (by a sensor (not shown) provided on the housing 22 side). It is detected that the supply door) has been opened. In this case, the main CPU 121 switches the replenishment flag to the on state and shifts the processing from step S19 to step S20. At this time, the number of medals counted in the counting hopper 71 is replenished instead of the counting result by the player. The number is stored in the RAM 123. Incidentally, when the front panel 25 is closed, the supply flag is turned off, and the result counted in the counting hopper 71 in this state is counted as the number of medals of the player.

  After step S20, the main CPU 121 calculates the number of medals in the payout hopper 51 in step S21. This calculation process is a process of adding the number of medals replenished in step S20 to the number of medals in the payout hopper 51 estimated so far.

  After the process of step S21, the main CPU 121 moves the process to step S22, and when the empty process is in the middle of payout in the above-described empty process (step S17), pays out medals for the remaining payout number, In step S23, the calculated value (estimated value) of the number of medals in the payout hopper 51 stored in the RAM 123 is subtracted from the number of medals in the payout hopper 51 in step S23. Update.

  In this way, when there are not enough medals stored in the payout hopper 51, medals are replenished by the manager of the game hall, and the replenished medals are counted by the counting hopper 71. Thus, the estimated value of the number of stored medals in the payout hopper 51 in the RAM 123 is updated, and the replenished medals are transferred from the counting hopper 71 to the payout hopper 51 via the upper discharge passage 120.

  If there is no shortage of medals in the payout hopper 51 as a result of the payout in step S12, step S16, or step S15, the main CPU 121 obtains a negative result in step S17, so that the steps from step S17 to step S17 are performed. The process moves to S23, and the estimated medal number in the payout hopper 51 is updated.

  Next, the main CPU 121 executes processing for detecting illegally bringing in medals. In step S24, the main CPU 121 executes unauthorized carry-in detection processing. In this process, the main CPU 121 pays out the number of medals paid out in the sand 20 (number of loans), the number of medals inserted in the pachislot machine 10 for the game (number of pachislots inserted), and the payout as a result of the game in the pachislot machine 10. Based on the number of medals (number of pachislot payouts), it is determined whether or not counting by illegally bringing in medals is performed in the sand 20.

  Specifically, the main CPU 121 determines the number of pachislot thrown in the pachislot machine 10 received from the pachislot machine 10 via the hall computer 500 and the number of pachislot payouts received from the pachislot machine 10 via the hall computer 500. The number of medals paid out from the payout hopper 51 in the sand 20 is also stored in the RAM 123 in the same manner.

  Based on these pieces of information stored in the RAM 123, the main CPU 121 uses the value obtained by subtracting the number of pachislots inserted from the number of pachislot payouts as the difference number, and if the addition result of the difference number and the number of loans is positive, It is determined that the door 101 can be unlocked (opened). That is, the number of medals estimated to be possessed by the player based on the result of the game in the pachislot machine 10 provided in the sand 20 and the number of medals lent out in the sand 20 is less than zero. If there are many, it is determined that the player is properly counting (a state in which the counting door 101 can be unlocked (opened)), and the player does not have a regular medal. In this case, it is determined that the player does not need to perform counting. The regular medal means a medal that is estimated to be possessed by the player based on the result of the game of the pachislot 10 attached to the sand 20 and the number of medals lent out from the sand 20.

  In this way, the main CPU 121 determines whether or not it is estimated that the player has illegally brought in based on the difference number and the number of loans in the process of step S24 (that is, the count due to illegal carry-in is in the sand 20). Whether or not there is a possibility of being performed). Then, in the subsequent step S25, the main CPU 121 determines whether or not unauthorized carry-in is detected as a result of unauthorized carry-in detection in step S24 described above.

  When unauthorized bringing is detected, the main CPU 121 obtains an affirmative result in step S25, moves the process from step S25 to step S26, locks the counting door 101, and then in step S27, operates the operation unit. It is determined whether or not the opening operation of the counting door 101 at 34 has been executed by the player.

  When the release operation is performed, this means that the medal count (illegal count) due to fraudulent bringing is about to be performed, and the main CPU 121 shifts the processing from step S27 to step S28. An error is displayed on the operation unit 34 and the hall computer 500 is notified of the error. The main CPU 121 regularly transmits the image of the player who is constantly capturing images to the hall computer. When the counting door 101 is locked, the hall computer is illegal with the image of the previous player. The possibility is notified to the game hall manager, and a count stop instruction is transmitted to the sand 20. As a result, the sand 20 stops the counting process itself in addition to the locking of the counting door 101, and can prevent the counting of illegally brought medals.

  In addition, as a process of step S27, you may make it judge whether the door 101 for counting was forcedly opened instead of the process which judges whether there existed door opening operation. In this case, a door position sensor (such as an optical sensor) for detecting whether the counting door 101 is closed or opened is provided, and when the operation unit 34 is not opened, the counting door 101 When an open state is detected, a determination process for obtaining a positive result in step S27 may be executed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S25 that there is no illegal carry-in detection, the main CPU 12 obtains a negative result in step S25, moves the process from step S25 to step S29, and sets the counting door 101 to the unlocked state. To do.

  Next, in step S <b> 30, the main CPU 121 moves the player's hand to the counting hopper 71 based on the detection result of the sensor (photosensor) 77 provided in the insertion port (opening 75) of the counting hopper 71. It is determined whether or not it has been inserted. If an affirmative result is obtained here, the main CPU 121 shifts the process to step S31 and stops the operation of the counting hopper 71, so that the counting process in steps S33 and S34 described later is not executed. The processing is moved to S35. Thereby, when the player's hand is inserted into the counting hopper 71, the counting process of the counting hopper 71 can be stopped.

  On the other hand, when the player's hand is not inserted into the counting hopper 71, the main CPU 121 moves the process from step S30 to step S32, and based on the detection result of the sensor (not shown) of the counting hopper 71, It is determined whether or not a medal has been inserted into the counting hopper 71. If the CPU 121 determines that a medal has been inserted into the counting hopper 71, the CPU 121 obtains a positive result in step S32, moves the process from step S32 to step S33, and causes the counting hopper 71 to perform a counting operation. . Then, in step S34, the main CPU 121 stores the counting result (the number of medals counted) in the RAM 123, and then moves the process to step S35.

  On the other hand, if no medal is inserted in the counting hopper 71, the main CPU 121 obtains a negative result in step S32, and moves the process from step S32 to step S35.

  With the above processing procedure, the medal counting process ends. Next, the main CPU 121 executes an absence warning process in step S35. FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the procedure for the absence warning process. In step S41, the main CPU 121 analyzes the imaging result obtained by the camera 35, and in a subsequent step S42, determines whether or not the player has left. When the player leaves the seat, the main CPU 121 shifts the processing from step S42 to step S43, and determines whether an information card or cash (amount data) remains. The state in which the information card or cash (amount data) remains means a state in which the balance remains in the amount data stored in the RAM 123.

  When the amount data remains, the main CPU 121 shifts the processing from step S43 to step S44, causes the drive circuit 133 to generate a warning sound or warning sound from the speaker 81, and ends the absence warning processing. Thus, when the player leaves the seat even though the balance remains, the player can be alerted.

  If the main CPU 121 determines in step S42 that the player has not left the seat, or if it is determined in step S43 that there is no remaining balance, the main CPU 121 ends the absence warning processing, and the processing routine (FIG. The process moves to step S36).

  In step S36, the main CPU 121 determines whether or not there is an instruction to write the balance stored in the RAM 123 to the information card or non-contact IC card inserted at this time. This process is a process of displaying an icon for instructing the operation unit 34 to write, and determining whether or not this icon has been pressed.

  When there is a write instruction, the main CPU 121 shifts the processing from step S36 to step S37, and when an information card is inserted into the card insertion slot 32, the balance data in the RAM 123 is written into the information card and information is written. By adding to the balance data of the card, the balance data of the information card is updated. The information card reader 62 is also configured to write information to the information card. When the information card is not inserted, the main CPU 121 displays a message prompting the user to insert the information card or hold the non-contact IC card over the operation unit 34. When the player inserts an information card into the card insertion slot 32 or holds the non-contact IC card over the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36, the main CPU 121 writes balance data to these cards. The main CPU 121 returns to the above-described step S11 and repeats the same process after the process of step S37 or when it is determined that there is no write instruction in step S36.

  As described above, the main CPU 121 performs the lending process (FIGS. 19 to 20) and the absence warning process (FIG. 22), thereby lending (paying) medals and counting medals in the sand 20. Can do.

  In the medal lending process, by lending medals using the results counted in the sand 20, the player counts the medals paid out from the pachislot machine 10 and counts the holes away from the pachislot machine 10. The counting result can be written in the information card or the non-contact IC card without taking the trouble of carrying and counting the medals. In addition, by receiving a medal payout based on the counted result, the medal number paid out can be reduced without taking the trouble of carrying the medal to the hole counting device away from the pachislot machine 10 and counting it. Replays can be performed accordingly.

Further, when the player tries to leave the seat despite the balance, the player can be alerted by a warning sound output from the speaker 81 provided on the sand 20.
In addition, the player can write the balance data to an information card or a non-contact IC card, or use it for paying out medals for replaying, so that the player or the hole transports the medal storage box to the hole counting device. Staff time can be reduced.

  In addition, the player can select the medal payout based on the inserted value medium or the medal payout based on the counting result, so that, for example, the counted medal data is left as it is and from the value medium. It is possible to select a flexible usage method of adding and using the extracted amount data.

  Further, since the speaker 81 is attached not to the removable front panel 23 but to the dispensing hopper 51, the speaker 81 is not removed together with the front panel 23 when the front panel 23 is removed. As a result, it is possible to prevent the speaker connection wiring 84 from obstructing the removal of the front panel 23, and the maintenance work can be easily performed.

  Next, the configuration of the pachislot machine 10 will be described. FIG. 23 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the pachi-slot machine 10. The pachislot machine 10 includes a main control circuit 250, a sub control circuit 280, and peripheral devices (actuators) that are electrically connected thereto. The main control circuit 250 includes a microcomputer 260 installed on a circuit board as a main component. The microcomputer 260 includes a main CPU 261, a main ROM 262, and a main RAM 263.

  The main ROM 262 stores a control program executed by the main CPU 261, a data table such as an internal lottery table, data for transmitting various control commands (commands) to the sub control circuit 280, and the like. The main RAM 263 is provided with a storage area for storing various data such as an internal winning combination determined by execution of the control program.

  The main CPU 261 is connected with a clock pulse generation circuit 252, a frequency divider 253, a random number generator 254, and a sampling circuit 255. The clock pulse generation circuit 252 and the frequency divider 253 generate clock pulses. The main CPU 261 executes a control program based on the generated clock pulse. The random number generator 254 generates a random number in a predetermined range (for example, 0 to 65535). The sampling circuit 255 extracts one value from the generated random numbers.

  A switch or the like is connected to the input port of the microcomputer 260. The main CPU 261 receives input from a switch or the like, and controls the operation of peripheral devices such as stepping motors 271L, 271C, and 271R. A stop switch 312S serving as a stop operation detecting means detects that each of the three stop buttons 312L, 312C, 312R has been pressed (stop operation) by the player. Further, the start switch 310S, which is a start operation detecting means, detects that the start lever has been operated by the player (start operation).

  The medal sensor 240S detects that a medal received at the medal insertion slot 11 has passed through the selector. The bet switch 332S detects that the bet button has been pressed by the player. Further, the settlement switch 334S detects that the settlement button has been pressed by the player. Further, the door sensor 335S detects that the door of the housing has been opened.

  Peripheral devices whose operations are controlled by the microcomputer 260 include stepping motors 271L, 271C, 271R, a 7-segment display 314, and a hopper 350. A circuit for controlling the operation of each peripheral device is connected to the output port of the microcomputer 260.

  The motor driving circuit 272 controls driving of stepping motors 271L, 271C, and 271R provided corresponding to the reels 320L, 320C, and 320R. The reel position detection circuit 270 detects a reel index indicating that the reel has made one rotation by an optical sensor having a light emitting part and a light receiving part according to each reel 320L, 320C, 320R.

  The stepping motors 271L, 271C, and 271R have a configuration in which the momentum is proportional to the number of output pulses and the rotation axis can be stopped at a specified angle. The driving force of the stepping motors 271L, 271C, 271R is transmitted to the reels 320L, 320C, 320R via gears having a predetermined reduction ratio. Each time one pulse is output to the stepping motors 271L, 271C, 271R, the reels 320L, 320C, 320R rotate at a constant angle.

  The main CPU 261 counts the number of times pulses are output to the stepping motors 271L, 271C, 271R after detecting the reel index, thereby rotating the rotation angles of the reels 320L, 320C, 320R (mainly, the number of symbols of the reels). The position of each symbol arranged on the surface of the reels 320L, 320C, 320R is managed.

  The display unit drive circuit 315 controls the operation of the 7-segment display 314. The hopper driving circuit 352 controls the operation of the hopper 350. Also, the payout completion signal circuit 353 manages the detection of medals performed by the medal detection unit 351 provided in the hopper 350, and checks whether or not the medals discharged from the hopper 350 have reached the payout number.

  The sub-control circuit 280 is electrically connected to the main control circuit 250 and performs processing such as determination and execution of effect contents based on a command transmitted from the main control circuit 250. The sub control circuit 280 basically includes a sub CPU, a sub ROM, a sub RAM, a rendering processor, a drawing RAM, a driver, a DSP (digital signal processor), an audio RAM, and the like.

  In response to the command transmitted from the main control circuit 250, the sub CPU controls the output of video, sound, and light according to the control program stored in the sub ROM. The sub-RAM is provided with a storage area for registering the determined contents and effects data, and a storage area for storing various data such as an internal winning combination transmitted from the main control circuit 250. The sub ROM basically includes a program storage area and a data storage area.

  The sub ROM stores effect data for performing effects by light in a light emitting effect device (not shown). The sub CPU causes the lamp 412 to emit light by outputting the effect data based on a command from the main control circuit 250. In addition, the sub ROM stores effect data for effecting with sound effects and images, and the sub CPU outputs the effect data based on a command from the main control circuit 250 to thereby produce a speaker. A sound effect is output from 414 and an effect image is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 410.

  Here, an interface 210 is connected to the main control circuit 250, and the main CPU 261 communicates with the hall computer 500 via the interface 210. The main CPU 261 transmits medal payout information to the sand 20 via the hall computer 500 in response to a request transmitted from the sand 20 via the hall computer 500. The medal payout information includes, for example, the number of medal payouts and the number of bonus occurrences. The main CPU 261 accumulates the information after the previous request from the sand 20 in the main RAM 263, and transmits the payout information to the sand 20 in response to the request from the sand 20. After transmitting to the sand 20, the main CPU 261 resets the accumulated information so far.

  The payout information accumulation process is shown in FIG. The main CPU 261 repeatedly executes the accumulation process shown in FIG. In step S101, the main CPU 261 determines whether or not a medal has been paid out. When medals are paid out, the main CPU 261 moves the process from step S101 to step S102, updates the payout information by adding the number of medals newly paid out to the payout information in the main RAM 263, and continues. The process moves to step S103.

  If no medal has been paid out, the main CPU 261 shifts the processing from step S101 to step S103. In step S <b> 103, the main CPU 261 determines whether or not there is a request for payout information from the sand 20. If there is a request, the main CPU 261 shifts the process from step S103 to step S104, transmits the payout information stored in the main RAM 263 to the sand 20, and then, in step S105, the payout stored in the main RAM 263. Reset information. Then, the main CPU 261 returns to step S101 described above. If it is determined in step S103 that the payout information request has not been received, the main CPU 261 returns to step S101 described above.

  In this way, each time a medal is paid out, the pachislot machine 10 stores the information in the main RAM 263 and transmits it to the sand 20 in response to a request from the sand 20 (hole computer 500). Thereby, in the sand 20, the payout information accumulated after requesting the previous payout information can be acquired from the pachislot machine 10.

  The sand 20 that has received the payout information from the pachislot machine 10 via the hall computer 500 detects an abnormal state based on the payout information. For example, when the number counted in the counting hopper 71 of the sand 20 is much larger than the sum of the number of medals lent out in the sand 20 and the number of medals paid out in the pachi-slot machine 10, the player can use another pachi-slot machine 10 Or a medal paid out at another store may be used, and the sand 20 detects this state as an abnormal state. Note that the state detected as an abnormal state is not limited to this. For example, the state in which the number of payouts in the pachislot machine 10 exceeds the count value or the number of bonuses generated in the pachislot machine 10 is paid out. Various states such as a state where the count value exceeds the maximum number of medals can be applied.

  FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing an abnormality detection process executed by the main CPU 121 of the sand 20. The main CPU 121 executes this abnormality detection process in addition to the lending process (FIGS. 19 to 20) and the absence warning process (FIG. 22) described in the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 25, the main CPU 121 of the sand 20 determines whether or not the counting by the counting hopper 71 has been performed in step S111. If counting is not performed, this process is repeated until counting is performed.

  When the counting is performed, the main CPU 121 shifts the processing from step S111 to step S112, and stores the counting result in the RAM 123 (FIG. 18). The main CPU 121 acquires payout information from the pachislot machine 10 via the hall computer 500 in step S113.

  In step S114, the main CPU 121 compares the count result stored in the RAM 123 in step S112 described above with the payout information acquired from the pachislot machine 10 in step S113 described above, and is in an abnormal state in subsequent step S115. Determine whether or not.

  When determining that the main CPU 121 is in an abnormal state, the main CPU 121 moves the process from step S115 to step S116, and notifies the abnormal state by causing a light emitting unit (not shown) provided on the sand 20 to emit light, for example. To do. The notification method is not limited to causing the light emitting unit to emit light, and various methods such as generating a notification sound from a speaker can be used. At the same time, the sand 20 determines whether the player has a regular medal based on the number of medals paid out from the pachislot machine 10 and the number of medals inserted into the pachislot machine 10. If it is determined that there are no medals, the counting door 101 of the counting hopper 71 is locked to prohibit the subsequent insertion of medals into the counting hopper 71. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the counting itself from being performed when there is an illegal carry-in.

  After notifying the abnormal state, the main CPU 121 notifies the hall computer of the occurrence of the abnormal state in step S117. In step S118, the player 35 images the player and stores the image in the RAM 123, and in step S119. , Stop counting result output. The counting result output includes processing for writing the counting result to the information card inserted in the card insertion slot 32, processing for writing the counting result to the non-contact IC card, processing for paying out medals based on the counting result, and the like. By stopping these processes, it is possible to stop returning the results counted in the abnormal state to the player.

  The main CPU 121 returns the process to step S111 described above after the process of step S119 or when it is determined in step S115 that no abnormal state has occurred.

  Thus, in the sand 20, based on the payout information in the pachislot machine 10, it is determined whether or not the result counted in the sand 20 is abnormal, thereby preventing unauthorized use of medals by the player. can do.

  In FIG. 25, the case where the sand 20 obtains medal payout information from the pachislot machine 10 via the hall computer 500 has been described, but instead of this, the pachislot machine 10 is configured to directly communicate with the pachislot machine 10. You may make it acquire directly from the apparatus 10. FIG.

FIG. 26 is a timing chart showing a procedure when the sand 20 acquires the payout information from the hall computer 500. This timing chart shows that the sand 20 is transferred to the hall computer 500 in the pachislot payout number acquisition process in the fraudulent carry-in detection process (step S24) described above with reference to FIG. 20 and the payout information acquisition process (step S113) described in FIG. 7 is a timing chart when requesting payout information or the like.
As shown in FIG. 26, the pachislot machine 10 transmits the payout information to the hall computer 500 when the medal is paid out. This payout information is not limited to the number of medals paid out, and may be, for example, a bonus game occurrence state (game information).

  When the payout information or the game information is received from the pachislot machine 10, the hall computer 500 stores this information in the internal RAM (step S151). On the other hand, when the counting is performed by the counting hopper 71 in the sand 20 (step S152), the sand 20 requests payout information (game information) from the hall computer 500 (step S153).

  In response to a request from the sand 20, the hall computer 500 transmits payout information (game information) to the sand 20 (step S154), and resets the accumulated payout information (game information).

  Then, the sand 20 compares the counting result counted in the above-described step S152 with the payout information acquired from the hall computer 500 in the above-described step S154 (step S156), and determines whether or not it is in an abnormal state ( Step S157). At the same time, the sand 20 determines whether the player has a regular medal based on the number of medals paid out from the pachislot machine 10 and the number of medals inserted into the pachislot machine 10. If it is determined that there are no medals, the counting door 101 of the counting hopper 71 is locked to prohibit the subsequent insertion of medals into the counting hopper 71. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the counting itself from being performed when there is an illegal carry-in.

  When it is determined that the sand 20 is in an abnormal state, the abnormal state is notified, for example, by causing a light emitting unit (not shown) provided on the top of the sand 20 to emit light (step S158). The notification method is not limited to causing the light emitting unit to emit light, and various methods such as generating a notification sound from a speaker can be used.

  After notifying the abnormal state, the sand 20 notifies the hall computer of the occurrence of the abnormal state (step S159), images the player with the camera 35, and stores the image in the RAM 123 (step S160). The output is stopped (step S161). The counting result output includes processing for writing the counting result to the information card inserted in the card insertion slot 32, processing for writing the counting result to the non-contact IC card, processing for paying out medals based on the counting result, and the like. By stopping these processes, it is possible to stop returning the results counted in the abnormal state to the player.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that there is no abnormal state, the sand 20 does not perform the processing of Step S158 to Step S161.

  After transmitting the payout information (game information) to the sand 20, the hall computer 500 waits for a notification from the sand 20 that it is in an abnormal state (step S162). When the hall computer 500 receives the notification that it is in an abnormal state, the hall computer 500 notifies the monitoring monitor that the sand 20 is in an abnormal state (step S163). Thereby, the hall staff can recognize that there is a possibility that the medal is illegally used in the sand 20.

  As described above, when the counting processing is executed in the sand 20 while managing the payout information and game information of the pachislot machine 10 in the hall computer 500, abnormal information is generated in the sand 20 by transmitting these information to the sand 20. It can be determined whether a condition has occurred.

  Next, another fraud prevention process performed in the sand 20 will be described. The pachislot machine 10 is provided with a door sensor 335S (FIG. 23) that detects the opening and closing of the door. When a signal indicating the opening of the door is output from the door sensor 335S, the main CPU 261 of the pachislot machine 10 The result (door opening information) is transmitted to the sand 20 via the interface 210 and the hall computer 500.

  When the main CPU 121 of the sand 20 receives the door opening information from the pachislot machine 10, the main CPU 121 images the player with the camera 35 and stores the image in the RAM 123. When imaging a player with the camera 35, the main CPU 121 can illuminate the player by emitting the infrared LED 31B (FIG. 3) of the LED unit 31, thereby imaging the player without irradiating visible light. it can.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the pachislot machine 10 and the sand 20 are communicably connected via the hall computer 500, and the payout information is transmitted from the pachislot machine 10 to the sand 20, Unauthorized use of medals can be prevented.

  In the first embodiment described above, the upper discharge passage 120 and the lower discharge passage 130 which is separate from the upper discharge passage 120 are used, and medals discharged to the upper discharge passage 120 are always temporarily stored in the payout hopper 51. However, the present invention is not limited to this, but the discharge destination of the medals discharged through the upper discharge passage 120 is the destination of the medals stored in the payout hopper 51. Depending on the amount, switching to either the payout hopper 51 or the island facility side may be performed.

  A configuration for switching the discharge destination will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of the sand 320. The sand 320 is different from the sand 20 described above in the first embodiment in that the upper discharge passage 120 and the lower discharge passage 130 are in communication with each other. In FIG. 27, parts corresponding to those in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 27, in the sand 320, a discharge passage 321 in which the upper discharge passage 120 and the lower discharge passage 130 in FIG. 5 are integrated is provided in place of the upper discharge passage 120 and the lower discharge passage 130. ing.

  In the discharge passage 321, the upper discharge passage portion 321 </ b> A that guides the counted medals discharged from the counting hopper 71 downward, and the upper discharge passage portion 321 </ b> A, the medals that have fallen down the upper discharge passage portion 321 </ b> A further down And a lower discharge passage portion 321B for discharging to the island facility side.

  A movable guide member 322 is provided between the upper discharge passage portion 321A and the lower discharge passage portion 321B. The guide member 322 is pivotally supported around a rotation shaft 322A. Specifically, the guide member 322 guides the medals discharged from the counting hopper 71 to the payout hopper 51 based on a signal from the control board of the sand 320 (a first line indicated by a solid line in FIG. 27). (Guidance state) or a state in which the medal overflowed in the payout hopper 51 is discharged to the island facility side without passing through the payout hopper 51 (a second guiding state indicated by a one-dot chain line in FIG. 27) Is switched to one of the following.

  In the first guiding state, the counted medals discharged from the counting hopper 71 are stored in the storage unit 51 </ b> A of the payout hopper 51. In the second guiding state, the counted medals discharged from the counting hopper 71 are discharged directly to the island facility without being stored in the counting hopper 51. In this state, when the medal stored in the payout hopper 51 overflows, it is also discharged to the island facility side.

  The guide member 322 is biased by a biasing means such as a spring so as to be in the first guiding state, and based on a signal from the control board, a driving means (not shown) such as a motor in a predetermined case. ) To turn to the second guiding state.

  The payout hopper 51 is provided with a payout hopper sensor 330 at a predetermined position of the storage portion 51A. The payout hopper sensor 330 detects a state where the medals stored in the storage portion 51A are full, The detection result is output to the control board. The main CPU 121 of the control board switches and controls the guide member to the first guide state or the second guide state based on a signal from the payout hopper sensor 330. When the full state is detected by the hopper sensor 330, the main CPU 121 estimates that the number of storage in the storage unit 51A is 1000.

  FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a guide member switching control processing procedure by the main CPU 121. As shown in FIG. 28, in step S181, the main CPU 121 determines whether or not a signal indicating a full state is output from the payout hopper sensor 330. When the signal indicating the full state is not output, this means that the medals stored in the payout hopper 51 have not reached the full state, and the main CPU 121 makes a negative result in step S181. By obtaining, the process moves from step S181 to step S182, and the guide member 322 is set to the first guide state. Specifically, the guide member 322 is held in a state corresponding to the urging force of the spring.

  On the other hand, when a signal indicating a full state is output from the payout hopper sensor 330, this means that the medals stored in the payout hopper 51 are full, and the main CPU 121 Obtains a positive result in step S181, shifts the processing from step S181 to step S183, and moves the guide member 322 to the second guide state. Specifically, by driving the driving means (motor or the like), the guiding member 322 is rotated against the urging force of the spring and moved to the second guiding state. As a result, the medals discharged from the counting hopper 71 are not stored in the payout hopper 51 but are directly discharged to the island facility side.

  After the process of step S182 or step S183, the main CPU 121 returns the process to step S181 described above and repeats the same process. Thus, the main CPU 121 can prevent the number of medals stored in the payout hopper 51 from overflowing by repeatedly executing the switching control process.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 29 is a schematic diagram showing a sand 420 according to the second embodiment. In FIG. 29, the same reference numerals are given to corresponding parts to those in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 29, in the sand 420, a payout hopper 451 is disposed at the top, and a counting hopper 471 is disposed below the payout hopper 451 via a partition plate 150.

  The partition plate 150 of the present embodiment has the same configuration as that shown in FIG. 7, and has a connector (payout means side connector) 476 provided downward on the bottom surface of the payout hopper 451, and On the partition plate 150, a connector (housing side connector) 457 is provided upward on a support plate 155 that can slide back and forth. By connecting the connector 476 and the connector 457, the payout hopper 451 can be mounted on the partition plate.

  The payout hopper 451 is a hopper that pays out obliquely downward from the payout portion 451B while moving the medal stored at the bottom of the storage portion 451A downward by rotating a disk 451C provided in the storage portion. Yes, the counting hopper 471 rotates the disk 471C provided in the storage unit to pay out the medal stored in the bottom of the storage unit 471A in an obliquely downward direction, from the discharge unit 471B. This is a hopper that discharges to the outside of the housing 22. The dispensing hopper 451 and the counting hopper 471 have the same configuration. Thus, by using the same configuration as the dispensing hopper 451 and the counting hopper 471, it is possible to make it easier for manufacturers to manage the inventory. In addition, by adopting a structure in which each hopper discharges the medal while moving it downward, it is not necessary to lift the medal in the medal payout and counting operations, and the power consumption can be reduced correspondingly. it can.

  The medals discharged from the payout unit 451B of the payout hopper 451 are paid out to the medal payout tray 12 of the pachislot machine 10 while being guided by the nozzle 140.

  In the upper part of the payout hopper 451, an insertion port 23A is provided for inserting a medal acquired by the player with the pachislot machine 10 into the counting hopper 471 for counting. A counting door 101 that can be opened and closed is provided at the insertion port 23A. The counting door 101 can be attached to and detached from the insertion port 23A (front panel 23) by a door attachment 441. In the case of the present embodiment, the counting door 101 functions as a door for opening and closing the insertion slot 23A, and as a guide member (auxiliary member) to the insertion slot 23A when a medal is inserted in the opened state. However, the door and the auxiliary member may be separated from each other.

  The medal inserted from the insertion port 23A is guided to the storage portion 471A of the counting hopper 471 through the counting passage 455.

  At the upper part of the insertion port 23A, there is provided an insertion port 25A for the game hall manager to insert a supply medal into the payout hopper 451. The medal inserted from the insertion port 25A is guided to the storage portion 451A of the payout hopper 451 through the supply passage 456.

  An opening for removing the dispensing hopper 451 and the counting hopper 471 is provided on the front surface of the housing 22, and a front panel 23 for closing the opening is detachably mounted. . The front panel 23 is provided with a payout outlet 54 for paying out medals paid out from the payout hopper 451 to the outside of the housing. A nozzle 140 is attached to the payout outlet 54 to guide the payout medal to the player.

  FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion where the counting passage 455 and the replenishing passage 456 intersect. As shown in FIG. 30, the inside of the insertion port 23 </ b> A is a space communicating with the counting passage 455, and the replenishment passage 456 is partitioned by a partition wall 422 with respect to this space. The nozzle 140 is attachable to and detachable from the outlet 54 (front panel 23) by a nozzle attachment 440.

  As a result, the medal inserted from the insertion port 23 </ b> A falls to the counting hopper 71 through the counting passage 455 without being guided to the supply passage 456. On the other hand, the medal inserted from the replenishment insertion port 25A falls to the dispensing hopper 451 via the replenishment passage 456 without being guided to the counting passage 455 by the partition wall 422.

  Thus, although the counting passage 455 and the replenishment passage 456 intersect each other in the upper space of the dispensing hopper 451, each space is partitioned by the partition wall 422, so The medal for counting and the medal for counting are guided to each hopper without being mixed.

  The payout hopper 451 is provided with a sensor (not shown) for counting the number of medals to be paid out one by one, and the counting hopper 471 has the number of medals counted one by one. Is provided with a sensor (not shown) for counting. The medals detected and counted by the sensor are discharged from the discharge unit 471B to the outside of the housing 22 (island equipment side).

  Thus, in the sand 420 of the present embodiment, by providing the counting inlet 23A at the upper part of the outlet 54, there is no limitation on the shape of the nozzle 140 attached to the outlet 54. Therefore, it is possible to realize a highly versatile gaming medium lending device. Specifically, if the payout port 54 is above the insertion port 23A, the nozzle 140 attached to the payout port 54 prevents the counting medal from being inserted into the input port 23A. For example, in the present embodiment in which the discharge port 54 is disposed below the input port 23A, such a device is not necessary, and a general-purpose nozzle is used. Can be installed.

  Also in the sand 420 of the present embodiment, the lending process (FIGS. 19 and 20) similar to that of the sand 20 of the first embodiment described above is executed, and the pachislot machine 10 provided side by side. The lock mechanism unit 110 is unlocked only when the difference obtained by subtracting the number of medals inserted into the pachislot machine 10 from the number of medals paid out is positive, or when the medals are paid out by the payout hopper 451. When the difference is 0 or less and there is no payout by the payout hopper 451, the past locking part 110 is set in the locked state. As a result, when the difference (difference number) is 0 or less and no medals are paid out, the counting door 101 is locked, so that illegal gaming media brought in from other gaming holes or other gaming machines can be inserted. Is prevented. Incidentally, since the replenishment door (front panel 25) can be opened only by a key managed by the manager of the game hall, the player cannot open it, and the player opens the front panel 25A. It is not possible to insert medals for counting.

(Other embodiments)
(1) In the above embodiment, the control board 63, the bill burr 61, the information card reader 62, the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36, the dispensing hopper 51, the counting hopper 71, etc. are fixed to the housing 22 of the sand 20 respectively. Although the case where it does is described, it is not restricted to this, For example, as shown in FIG. 31, it is good also as a unit structure which can be attached or detached with respect to the housing 22. As shown in FIG.

  FIG. 31 is a block diagram showing the sand 20 when the control board 63, the bill burr 61, the information card reader 62, the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36, the dispensing hopper 51, the counting hopper 71, and the like are made detachable unit configurations. It is. As shown in FIG. 31, the sand 20 is formed in a vertically long box shape, and is detachably attached to a U-shaped housing 22 having a U-shaped cross section that is installed and fixed between gaming machines. A payout hopper 51, a counting hopper 71 having a unit configuration, and a power supply unit 65.

In the sand 20, the unit portion 630 is attached to the housing 22 via the attaching / detaching device 634 of the unit portion 630 and the attaching / detaching device 625 (configured by a locking pin, a release pin, a protrusion, etc.) of the housing 22. It is removable.
Further, the payout hopper 51 can be attached to and detached from the housing 22 via an attaching / detaching device 651 for the payout hopper 51 and an attaching / detaching device 653 (consisting of a locking pin, a release pin, a protrusion, etc.) for the housing 22. It has become. Further, the dispensing hopper 51 can be attached to and detached from the housing 22 via an attachment / detachment device 671 for the counting hopper 71 and an attachment / detachment device 673 (consisting of a locking pin, a release pin, a protrusion, etc.). It has become.

  The unit portion 630 accommodates a control board 63, a bill burr 61, an information card reader 62, and a non-contact IC card reader / writer 36 in a vertically long main body (casing) 633 configured in a substantially rectangular shape. These components having a high maintenance frequency are installed in one unit portion 630 so that they can be detached from the housing 22.

  The operation of each unit described above is controlled by a control board 63 installed inside the unit section 630. The control board 63 is supplied with power from the power supply section D by connecting a connector 631 mounted on the rear surface of the unit section 630 to a connection connector 622 mounted on the inner surface of the housing 22. Various data can be sent and received between them. In this case, the connector 631 provided in the unit portion 630 and the connection connector 622 provided in the housing 22 are installed so that the connection between the two is released as it is when the unit portion 630 is moved away from the housing 22. It is configured.

  The payout hopper 51 is connected to the connector 654 mounted on the inner surface of the housing 22 by connecting the connector 652 mounted on the rear surface thereof, so that power is supplied from the power supply unit D and between the outside. Various data can be sent and received. In this case, the connector 652 provided on the payout hopper 51 and the connector 654 provided on the housing 22 are installed so that the connection between the two is released as it is when the payout hopper 51 is moved away from the housing 22. ,It is configured.

  In addition, the counting hopper 71 is connected to a connector 674 mounted on the inner surface of the housing 22 by connecting a connector 672 mounted on the rear surface thereof, so that power is supplied from the power supply unit D and between the outside. Various data can be sent and received. In this case, the connector 672 provided on the counting hopper 71 and the connector 674 provided on the housing 22 are installed so that the connection between the two is released as it is when the counting hopper 71 is moved away from the housing 22. ,It is configured.

  In the power supply unit D, the bill burrs 61 housed in the unit unit 630, the information card reader 62, the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36, the operation unit 34, the drive motor of the attachment / detachment device 634, etc. A power supply unit 65 for controlling the voltage supplied from the external power supply 645 and a communication control unit 623 are installed in order to supply power to the drive motor and the like, and the drive motor of the counting hopper 71 and the like. This communication control unit 623 has a function of performing communication system conversion control (serial / parallel conversion control) and transmission / reception destination distribution control, and is adjacent to the hall computer 500 via communication connectors 627 and 628, respectively. Various data is transmitted to and received from the pachislot machine 10.

  As described above, the unit portion 630, the dispensing hopper 51, and the counting hopper 71 are slidable from the front side with respect to the housing 22, and can be attached and detached, so that maintenance work can be easily performed.

(2) In the above-described embodiment, the case where the present invention is applied to the sand 20 provided in the pachislot machine 10 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and is also applied to the sand provided in the pachinko machine. can do.

(3) In the above-described embodiment, the case where the nozzle 140 is detachable from the front panel 23 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as shown in FIGS. A unit in which the nozzle 140 is fixed to the panel 23 may be used.

(4) A counting process according to another embodiment will be described. FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing a counting process procedure according to another embodiment. As shown in FIG. 34, the main CPU 121 of the sand 20 waits for a count start operation in step S201. The counting start operation is an operation for instructing to start the counting operation of the counting hopper 71 by operating the operation unit 34 provided on the front surface of the sand 20, and when the player performs this operation, the main CPU 121. Obtains a positive result in step S202, shifts the processing from step S202 to step S203, and operates the counting hopper 71. On the other hand, when the operation for starting the counting operation is not performed, the main CPU 121 shifts the processing to the above-described step S201 and waits for the counting operation. Thereby, the counting hopper 71 starts the counting operation based on the counting operation. In this state, when medals are inserted through the counting slot 23A, the counting hopper 71 sequentially counts the inserted medals.

  In step S204, the main CPU 121 waits for a detection result from the discharge sensor. The discharge sensor is an optical sensor or the like provided on a discharge path through which medals counted in the counting hopper 71 are discharged, and outputs a detection result when the medal passes through the discharge path. That is, in the state where the medal that is the object of the counting process is inserted in the counting hopper 71, the detection result from the discharge sensor is obtained by discharging the counted medal to the discharge unit. On the other hand, when the medal to be counted is not inserted in the counting hopper 71, there is no counted medal, and the detection result from the discharge sensor cannot be obtained.

  When the detection result from the discharge sensor is obtained, the main CPU 121 determines that the medal is inserted in the counting hopper 71, and in contrast, the detection result from the discharge sensor is obtained for a certain time. If not, it is determined that no medal is inserted in the counting hopper 71.

  If a negative result is obtained in step S205, this means that a detection result has not been obtained from the discharge sensor, and the main CPU 121 moves the process from step S205 to step S206, and a predetermined time has elapsed. Determine whether or not. If the predetermined time has not elapsed, the main CPU 121 obtains a negative result in step S206, moves the process to step S204 described above, and waits for a detection result from the discharge sensor.

  On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step S206, this means that a predetermined time set in advance has elapsed, and the main CPU 121 shifts the processing from step S206 to step S207. The counting process by the counting hopper 71 is stopped by stopping the operation of the counting hopper 71.

  If a positive result is obtained in step S205 described above, this means that a detection result has been obtained from the discharge sensor, and the main CPU 121 shifts the processing to step S203 described above for counting. The operation of the hopper 71 is continued. As a result, in the state where medals are inserted in the counting hopper 71, the operation of the counting hopper 71 is continued.

  As described above, the main CPU 121 continues the operation of the counting hopper 71 as long as the medal is inserted into the counting hopper 71, and when the medal is not inserted for a predetermined time (from the discharge sensor for a predetermined time). When the detection result is not output), the operation of the counting hopper 71 is stopped by the operation of the player by stopping the operation of the counting hopper 71. The operation can be automatically stopped.

  FIG. 34 shows the case where the counting operation of the counting hopper 71 is started by the operation of the operation unit 34 by the player. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the medal of the counting hopper 71 is introduced. A sensor for detecting a medal such as an optical sensor may be provided in the portion, and the counting operation may be started when the sensor detects a medal.

  The counting process procedure of the main CPU 121 in this case is executed in the gaming medium lending process shown in FIGS. This processing procedure is shown in FIG.

  FIG. 35, in which parts corresponding to those in FIG. 20 are assigned the same reference numerals, is a flowchart showing a gaming medium lending process procedure by the main CPU 121 of the sand 20 according to another embodiment. 35 corresponding to those in FIG. 20 are assigned the same reference numerals and redundant description is omitted.

  In the lending process shown in FIG. 35, the counting operation of the counting hopper 71 is started when a medal is inserted into the insertion slot 23A and the insertion of a medal is detected by a sensor (for example, a photo sensor) described later of the counting hopper 71. It is supposed to let you.

  If the main CPU 121 determines in step S30 that the player's hand has not been inserted into the counting hopper 71, the main CPU 121 obtains a negative result in step S30, and then proceeds from step S30 to step S32. To determine whether or not a medal has been inserted into the counting hopper 71. In this process, the main CPU 121 determines whether or not a medal has been inserted based on a detection result from a sensor provided in a portion where the medal of the counting hopper 71 is introduced.

  This sensor is, for example, a photosensor 751 provided in an opening 75 which is a medal slot in the counting hopper 71, as shown in FIG. The photo sensor 751 detects that a medal has been inserted. The photo sensor 77 for detecting the player's hand is provided above the opening 75 so that the player's hand occupying a relatively large area with respect to the size of the opening 75 can be detected. On the other hand, a photo sensor 751 for detecting a medal is provided below the opening 75 and detects a medal that has been inserted into the medal counting insertion port 739 and slipped into the opening 75. It is like that. Note that these photosensors 77 and 751 may use other sensors. For example, the photosensor 751 for detecting a medal uses a sensor capable of detecting metal, such as a magnetic sensor, to play a game. It is also possible to prevent erroneous detection of a person's hand.

  In step S32 of FIG. 35, when it is detected that a medal has been inserted based on the detection result of the photosensor 751, the main CPU 121 obtains a positive result in step S32, and then proceeds from step S32 to step S251. Then, the counting operation by the internal timer is started, and in the subsequent step S33, the counting operation of the counting hopper 71 is started and the medal counting process is started.

  After storing the counting result in step S34, the main CPU 121 shifts the processing to the subsequent step S252, and determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed based on the result of the time measuring operation started in step S251 described above.

  If the predetermined time has not elapsed, the main CPU 121 obtains a negative result in step S252, moves the process from step S252 to step S32 described above, and determines again whether or not a medal has been inserted. In contrast, when the predetermined time has elapsed, the main CPU 121 obtains an affirmative result in step S252, and moves the process from step S252 to the absence warning process (FIG. 22) in step S35.

  On the other hand, if a negative result is obtained in step S32 described above, this means that a medal detection result by the photosensor 751 has not been obtained, and the main CPU 121 proceeds from step S32 to step S35. Move.

  In this way, in the lending process shown in FIG. 35, the medal insertion state is detected by the photosensor 751 provided in the opening 75 (FIG. 36) of the counting hopper 71, and the counting hopper 71 is based on the detection result. By starting the counting operation, the player can easily insert the medal from the medal counting insertion port 23A without operating the operation unit such as the operation unit 34 (FIG. 2). The counting operation can be started.

(5) In the above-described embodiment, the case where the medals counted by the counting hopper 71 are discharged from the opening 132 provided in the bottom surface of the housing 22 to the island facility (conveyor) is described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and instead of the opening 132 at the lower part of the housing, the medals counted in the counting hopper 71 are transported to the counting hopper 71 using a predetermined lifting means. May be.

  As the lifting means, for example, various structures such as one that lifts medals using air, one that lifts medals by a lifting means such as a belt, or one that launches medals by a spring are applied. Can do.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 37, after being counted in the counting hopper 71, medals discharged from the opening 132 at the lower portion of the housing 22 through the payout hopper 51 (or directly) Thus, the feed path 761 is lifted and dropped into the supply passage 53 provided in the upper part of the counting hopper 71.

  By providing the lifting means, the medal discharged from the sand 20 is sent to the counting hopper 71 without being collected by the hole collecting means, and can be used for paying out to the player. Thereby, it is possible to save the trouble of collecting by the hole.

(6) In the above-described embodiment, the front side of the housing internal space in which the banknote recognition device 61 of the sand 20, the power supply unit 65, the control board 63, etc. are housed is combined into one front panel (front surface portion 21). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the front part 21 is divided into a plurality of (for example, two) parts, and only the front part of the part where important components such as the control board 63 are attached is individually provided. It is good also as a panel structure.

  FIG. 38 shows the sand 20 having such a configuration. As shown in FIG. 38, the sand 20 has a front panel 221 that covers the front part of the cabinet internal space to which the bill validator 61 is attached, and a cabinet internal space to which the control board 63 and the power supply unit 65 are attached as the front part 21. It comprises a front panel 222 that covers the front part, and a front panel 223 that covers the front part of the internal space of the housing in which the supply passage 53 of the payout hopper 51 is provided.

  As shown in FIG. 39, the front panels 221, 222, and 223 are configured to be detachable individually, and cover the front part of the internal space of the housing in which the control board 63, which is the most important component, is provided. 222 is configured to be locked by attaching front panels 221 and 223 arranged above and below to the housing 22.

  This locking mechanism will be described. FIG. 40 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the front panels 221, 222 and 223 are attached. As shown in FIG. 40, a key 224 is provided on the upper portion of the front panel 221, and the front panel 221 is locked to the housing 20 by this key 224. The front panel 221 can be removed from the housing 22 substantially in parallel as shown by a one-dot chain line in FIG. 40 by releasing the key 224. As a result, the front panel 221 can open and close the front of the upper space (the space adjacent to the upper side of the first internal space AR101 to be described later) AR102 in the internal space of the housing 22. A key 225 is provided at the lower part of the front panel 223, and the front panel 223 is locked to the housing 20 by the key 225. The lower portion of the front panel 223 is pivotally supported with respect to the housing 22, and the upper portion opens and closes with the lower portion serving as a rotation shaft, as indicated by a dashed line in FIG. 40. Thus, the front panel 223 can open and close the front of the lower space (the space adjacent to the lower side of the first internal space AR101 described later) AR103 in the internal space of the housing 22.

  A substantially L-shaped bent portion 221 </ b> A is formed in the lower portion of the front panel 221, and a substantially U-shaped bent portion 222 </ b> A is formed in the upper portion of the front panel 222. By inserting the bent portion 221A into the concave portion formed by the bent portion 222A, the upper portion of the front panel 222 is pushed from the front by the bent portion 221A of the front panel 221 and locked to the housing 22. The bent portions 221A and 222A constitute a first lock portion.

  A substantially L-shaped bent portion 223 </ b> A is formed in the upper portion of the front panel 223, and a substantially U-shaped bent portion 222 </ b> B is formed in the lower portion of the front panel 222. By inserting the bent portion 223A into the concave portion formed by the bent portion 222B, the lower portion of the front panel 222 is pushed from the front by the bent portion 223A of the front panel 223 and locked to the housing 22. The bent portions 223A and 222B constitute a second lock portion.

  In the state where the front panel 221 is locked to the housing 22 by the key 224, the upper part of the front panel 222 is also locked by the front panel 221, and in the state where the front panel 223 is locked to the housing 22 by the key 225. The lower part of the front panel 222 is also locked by the front panel 223. Thus, in the state where the front panels 221 and 223 are locked to the housing 22 by the keys 224 and 225, the upper and lower portions of the front panel 22 are locked to the housing 22. That is, the front panel 222 can be removed from the housing 22 by unlocking the front panels 221 and 223 and removing them from the housing 22.

  Further, when the front panel 222 is attached, the front panels 221 and 223 are attached to the housing 22 after the front panel 222 is aligned with the housing 22.

  Thus, it is possible to prevent the front panel 22 from being easily removed by adopting a configuration in which the front panel 222 itself is locked by the front panels 221 and 223 without providing a key or the like. Thereby, it is possible to prevent an important component (such as a control board) from being illegally replaced.

(7) In the above-described embodiment, the configuration has been described in which medals are counted by inserting medals from the counting slot 23A. By illuminating the insertion slot 23A with illumination, a medal can be easily inserted.

  FIG. 41 is a perspective view showing the sand 20 provided with illumination for illuminating the insertion port 23A. As shown in FIG. 41, the sand 20 has an opening 29 </ b> E that transmits light at the upper part of the insertion port 23 </ b> A of the front panel 23. An illumination LED substrate 311 is provided inside the housing 22. The illumination LED substrate 311 irradiates light from the LEDs provided on the substrate surface in front of the sand 20 via the illumination lens 313 and the opening 29E. Since the opening 29E is provided in the upper part of the insertion port 23A, the insertion port 23A is illuminated by the light from the LED board 311 for illumination. Thereby, even in a dark store, it is possible to easily see the insertion position of the medal by illuminating the insertion slot 23A.

  The wiring of the LED board for illumination 311 is combined with the wiring of the speaker 81 and is connected to the control board 63 via the same connector 56 (FIG. 15). Thus, the wiring of the LED board 311 for illumination can be easily installed by routing the wiring of the LED board 311 together with the wiring of the speaker 81. FIG. 42, in which parts corresponding to those in FIG. 18 are assigned the same reference numerals, is a block diagram showing a configuration in which an illumination LED board 311 is connected to a control board 63.

  As shown in FIG. 42, the main CPU 121 can drive an illumination LED board 311 to cause an LED (not shown) provided on the illumination LED board 311 to emit light. In the case of the present embodiment, the control board 63 controls the LEDs of the illumination LED board 311 to always light up. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, based on the operation result of the operation unit 34. The illumination LED substrate 311 may emit light. In this way, the insertion port 23A can be illuminated by operating the operation unit 34 only when a player is required. Further, for example, a sensor may be provided in the insertion slot 23A, and when the medal approaches the insertion slot 23A, the illumination LED board 311 is controlled to emit light so that the insertion slot 23A is illuminated.

(8) In the above-described embodiment, the case where the control board 63 configured by a flat board is used has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as illustrated in FIG. The control board 63 may be configured by a bent board.

  As shown in FIG. 43, the control substrate 63 has a first substrate region 63A and a second substrate region 63B coupled at an angle of approximately 90 °. The first substrate region 63A has a main surface in a vertical plane, and the second substrate region 63B has a main surface in a horizontal plane. The first substrate region 63A is stored so as to be in contact with the back surface side of the front surface portion 21 (front panel) of the sand 20. That is, the first substrate region 63A is stored substantially vertically. The second substrate region 63B joined in the direction orthogonal to the first substrate region 63A is provided with a connector 63C at the end thereof, and this connector 63C is connected to the I / O substrate 67.

  The I / O board 67 is arranged so that its main surface is along the back surface portion 22B of the housing 22, and the connector 63C of the control board 63 is connected to the connector provided on the board surface of the I / O board 67. Is done.

  Further, a power supply unit 65 is disposed between the first substrate region 63 A of the control substrate 63 and the I / O substrate 67. The connector 65C of the power supply unit 65 is connected to a connector provided on the I / O board 67. In this way, the power supply unit 65 is arranged in a state of being sandwiched between the first board region 63 </ b> A of the control board 63 and the I / O board 67. The width dimension of the power supply unit 65 and the control board 63 in the left-right direction is such that it is sandwiched between the left and right side walls 22D (FIG. 2) provided in the housing 22 of the sand 20, as shown in FIG. In a state where the power supply unit 65 and the control board 63 are arranged, the power supply unit 65 and the control board 63 are sandwiched by the side wall 22D (FIG. 2) of the housing 22 from the left-right direction. The power supply unit 65 is also placed on a frame 22 </ b> E provided in a part of the housing 22.

  As a result, the power supply unit 65 is sandwiched by the I / O board 67, the side wall 22D, the first board area 63A, the second board area 63B, and the frame 22E of the control board 63 from all directions up, down, left, and right. Become. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the power supply unit 65 from inadvertently moving. Incidentally, the front surface portion 21 can be fixed to the housing 22 with a predetermined locking mechanism or the like, thereby preventing the control board 63, the power supply unit 65, and the like from jumping forward.

(9) Another embodiment of the antenna arrangement of the information card reader 62 and the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36 (FIG. 3) will be described. In the sand 20, the information card reader 62 and the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36 are provided above and below the control board 63, so that each antenna of the information card reader 62 and the non-contact IC card reader / writer 36 is provided. Are controlled separately by one control board 63 (FIG. 18).

(10) Another embodiment of the camera 35 will be described. In the camera 35 of another embodiment, instead of the infrared LED 31B shown in FIG. 2, an infrared LED that irradiates infrared light and a camera unit (CMOS camera) are provided close to each other. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 44, the camera 35 receives an infrared LED substrate 35A that irradiates infrared light, and reflected light obtained by reflecting the infrared light at a subject (player). Thus, a CMOS camera 35B that captures a subject image is provided. The infrared LED substrate 35 </ b> A emits infrared light based on a command from the control substrate 63 by the infrared LED. The CMOS camera 35 </ b> B sends an imaging signal to the control board 63. The control board 63 performs image recognition based on the imaging signal.

  In the camera 35, a filter 35C is provided in front of the infrared LED substrate 35A and the CMOS camera 35B. This filter 35C is a filter that transmits infrared light and does not transmit light of other wavelengths, and transmits only the reflected light of infrared light irradiated to the subject from the infrared LED substrate 35A, thereby allowing the CMOS camera 35B. To receive light. Thereby, the influence of the effect light of the pachislot machine 10 or the hall in which the pachislot machine 10 is installed can be suppressed, and the image of the subject (player) can be clearly captured.

(11) In the above-described embodiment, medals are paid out from the payout opening 54 (FIG. 4) to which the nozzle 140 is mounted, and the counting medals are supplied from the insertion opening 23A provided above the payout opening 54. The medal to be replenished to the payout hopper 51 has been described as being inserted from the input port 25A (FIG. 4) provided above the payout port 54. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, FIG. As shown, the counting medals are inserted into the nozzle 640 for guiding the medals paid out from the payout hopper 51 to the payout tray 12 of the pachislot machine 10 instead of the insertion port 23A (FIG. 4). The inserted inlet 640A may be used. In this case, in order to insert a medal for counting into a part of the nozzle 640 having a function for guiding a medal paid out from the payout port 54 (similar to the guide function of the nozzle 140 described above in the above embodiment). The insertion slot 640A may be provided, and a counting medal may be inserted from the insertion slot 640A.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 45 in which the same reference numerals are assigned to the corresponding parts as in FIG. 29, a nozzle 640 is attached to the discharge port 54 provided in the front surface of the housing 22, and this The nozzle 640 is provided with a charging port 640A at the upper part of the root portion. The insertion slot 640A has a door 640B that can be opened and closed, and the player can open the door 640B and insert a medal.

  The nozzle 640 has a payout passage 640C that allows the medal discharged from the payout outlet 54 of the sand 420 to flow down to the tip of the nozzle, and an input passage 640D that is separated from the payout passage 640C. The insertion passage 640D is a passage for guiding medals inserted from the insertion port 640A to the insertion port 54 of the sand 420.

  The case 422 of the sand 420 is provided with a counting passage 660 for allowing medals inserted through the insertion passage 640D to flow downward. The counting passage 660 is a passage separated from the medal payout portion 451B to be paid out from the payout hopper 451 to the payout outlet 54, and the medal inserted through the input passage 640D is placed below the payout hopper 451. The medal is guided to the storage section 471A of the counting hopper 471 provided.

  46 is a longitudinal sectional view taken along the line AA in FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view showing the nozzle 640 and the insertion port 54 as seen from the front side. As shown in FIG. 46, the input passage 640D of the nozzle 640 is separated from the payout passage 640C by a partition wall 640E, and is discharged from the payout hopper 51 and flows down the payout passage 640C to the player. The medal that is inserted from the insertion port 640A and the medal that flows through the insertion passage 640D to the counting hopper 71 is not mixed.

(12) In the present embodiment described above, the slot 23A (the counting door 101 is provided) for the player to insert medals for counting, and the manager of the gaming hall supplies medals. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the insertion port 23A is used for counting by the player and the manager. Can also be used for replenishment by

  In this case, when the administrator replenishes the medal, by operating the operation unit 34, the lock mechanism unit 110 is unlocked by inputting a predetermined password, and the lock is being released by the password. The inserted medals may be handled on the data as medals for replenishment, not the number counted by the player.

(13) FIG. 47 is a schematic diagram showing a sand 700 according to another embodiment. The sand 700 is different from the sands 20, 320, and 420 according to the first and second embodiments described above in that it has a shared card issuing function.

  47, in which parts corresponding to those in FIGS. 2 to 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals, a control board 63, a bill burr 61, an information card reader 62, a non-contact IC card reader / writer 36 are provided in the casing 22 of the sand 700. In addition to the payout hopper 51 and the counting hopper 71, a shared card issuing unit 701 is provided.

  As shown in FIG. 48, in the shared card issuing unit 701, a stacker 702 for stocking a shared card (information card) in advance, and information on the number of medals are written in the shared card 705 stacked on the stacker 702. Information writing unit 704 and a sending mechanism unit 703 for sending the shared card 705 on which information is written to the outside.

  In the stacker 702, a plurality of shared cards 705 are stacked. When the player operates the operation unit 34 to instruct the use of the shared card, the player is directed to the stacked shared cards 705. The data of the number of medals specified by the operation is written. The shared card 705 in which the information is written is sent to the outside by the sending mechanism unit 704. The delivery mechanism unit 704 is configured by a conveyance roller using a motor as a drive source.

  In this shared card 705, a player who plays a game in the pachislot machine 10 attached to the sand 700 has an interest of his medal in other players (the number of medals of the player stored in the RAM 123 of the sand 700). This is a card for handing over part or all of the card to allow the other player to play a game with another pachislot machine.

  FIG. 49, in which the same reference numerals are assigned to the parts corresponding to FIG. 18, is a block diagram showing the sand 700. As shown in FIG. 49, in the sand 700, a shared card issuing unit 701 is connected to a bus, and the shared card issuing unit 701 is controlled by the main CPU 121.

  FIG. 50 is a flowchart showing the control processing procedure of the shared card issuing unit 701 by the main CPU 121. As shown in FIG. 50, in step S301, the main CPU 121 determines whether or not there is an instruction to issue a shared card via the operation unit 34.

  If there is no issue instruction, the main CPU 121 obtains a negative result in step S301, thereby repeating the process until an issue instruction is issued. On the other hand, when there is an issuance instruction, the main CPU 121 obtains an affirmative result in step S301, moves the process from step S301 to step S302, and determines the number of medals specified in the issuance instruction by the player. At this time, it is determined whether or not it corresponds to an amount within the balance of the RAM 123 or the player's information card (player's information card inserted in the information card reader 62).

  If it is not within the balance, this means that the amount of medals that the player intends to issue as a shared card does not remain as the balance of the player, and the main CPU 121 determines in step S302 that the result is negative. Thus, the process proceeds from step S302 to step S303, an error is displayed on the operation unit 34, and the process proceeds to step S301 described above.

  On the other hand, if the balance is within the balance, the main CPU 121 obtains an affirmative result in step S302, shifts the processing from step S302 to step S304, and calculates an amount corresponding to the number designated by the player. By subtracting from the RAM 123 or the information card (player information card inserted into the information card reader 62), these amount data are updated, and the specified number of pieces of data are prepared in the stacker 702. Write on an unused shared card. The information written in the shared card is data in the same format as the data stored in the information card inserted in the information card reader 62. In the case of the present embodiment, since the data written on the information card is money data, similarly, the data written on the shared card is data obtained by converting the designated number into money. When the data written on the information card is data representing the number of medals, the data written on the shared card is also data representing the number of medals. In this way, the data written on the information card and the data written on the shared card have the same contents and format, so that the shared card can be taken to another sand and read by the information card reader of that sand. Is possible. Incidentally, in this embodiment, the information card and the shared card have the same configuration, and both can read and write information by the information card reader 62. The shared card is not limited to this, and the data may be read or written by a reading device dedicated to the shared card as a configuration different from the information card. In this way, the shared card can be used only in the sand provided with the reading device dedicated to the shared card, and the use of the shared card can be limited to a specific sand.

  In step S304, when the writing of data to the shared card is completed, the main CPU 121 moves the process to step S305 and operates the sending mechanism unit 704 of the shared card unit 701 to send the shared card to the outside of the sand 700. To do.

  Thereby, the player can receive the issuance of the shared card storing the number of medals for the designated number (or amount) by operating the operation unit 34.

  After the process of step S305, the main CPU 121 moves the process to the above-described step S301 and repeats the same process. Thereby, the player can receive the issuance of the shared card by operating the operation unit 34 and instructing the issuance of the shared card.

(14) In the above-described embodiment, the sands 20, 320, 420, and 700 installed in the game hall using one type of medal have been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of types having the same lending unit price. The present invention can also be applied to sands installed in game halls using medals.

  For example, in a game hall in which a gaming machine is provided for each of two types of medals having the same lending unit price (for example, a medal with a diameter of 25 mm and a medal with a diameter of 30 mm) ) Is also stored in one information card as the same data, the information card can be used in any game machine (sand).

(15) In the above-described embodiment, the sands 20, 320, 420, and 700 installed in the game hall using one type of medal have been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a plurality of types with different lending unit prices. The present invention can also be applied to sands installed in game halls using medals.

  For example, in a gaming hall in which a gaming machine is provided for each of two types of medals with different lending unit prices (for example, a medal with a lending unit price of 5 yen and a medal with a lending unit price of 20 yen) By storing the number (amount) of medals in the same information card as the same data, the information card can be used in any game machine (sand).

  Specifically, in a sand provided in a gaming machine that plays a game with a medal with a rental unit price of 5 yen, the number of medals (amount) is converted to 4 times and managed (the number of medals stored in the information card (amount) ) Is also converted to 4 times and stored). Or, in a sand that is attached to a gaming machine that plays with a medal with a rental unit price of 20 yen, the number of medals (amount) is converted to 1/4 times and managed (the number of medals (amount) stored in the information card) Is also converted to 1/4 times and stored).

  In this way, the number of medals (amount) paid out by any gaming machine can be stored as the same data in one information card, and the player can use any one information card to play any gaming machine. But you can play games.

(16) In the above-described embodiment, the case where the sand 20 (320, 420, 700) corresponding to the face pachislot machine 10 is arranged on the right side of the pachislot machine 10 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The sand 20 (320, 420, 700) corresponding to the right side of the pachislo machine 10 may be arranged.

  In addition, a television receiver is provided on the sand 20 (320, 420, 700), and various information (information related to the game hall and information other than the game hall) is provided to the player regardless of whether it is installed on the left or right. You may make it.

  Specifically, each sand 20 (320, 420, 700) is provided with a display device (liquid crystal display device or the like) capable of displaying a television broadcast, and the video data and audio data of the television broadcast are sent from the hall computer 500 to the sand. To display a television broadcast video and output sound from a speaker 81 provided in the sand. Thereby, the player can enjoy television broadcasting while playing with the pachislot machine 10.

(17) FIG. 51 is a diagram showing a connection relationship between the pachislot machine 10, the sand 20, the hall computer 500, and the data display device 800 when the data display device 800 is provided. As shown in FIG. 51, the hall computer 500 receives the result counted in the sand 20 and transmits it to the data display device 800. The data display device 800 displays the counting result received from the hall computer 500 on the display unit. Thereby, the player can check the counting result in the sand 20 also in the data display device 800.

(18) FIG. 52 is a diagram showing a configuration of a gaming hall provided with an ordering system in which a player operates the sand 20 to order drinks and the like from the gaming hall. As shown in FIG. 52, the hall computer 500 is connected to a shop computer (shop computer) 900 that provides drinks and the like via a communication line, and sends order information sent from each sand 20 to the shop. To do.

  In the sand 20, the player can input order information by operating the operation unit 34, and the sand 20 transmits the input order information to the hall computer 500.

  By constructing such a system, the player can place a desired order such as a drink while playing the game with the pachislot machine 10.

  FIG. 53 is a timing chart showing the order processing procedure in the order system shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 53, when the player operates the operation unit 34 in the sand 20 to input the ordered items and the number thereof as order information (step S321), the main CPU 121 of the sand 20 is input. Calculate the amount of money for the order details. Incidentally, it is assumed that the price information of the orderable items is stored in advance in the RAM 123 of the sand 20.

  Then, the main CPU 121 of the sand 20 determines whether or not the input order item amount is larger than the player's money at that time (the amount stored in the information card or the amount stored in the RAM 123). (Step S322), if larger, an error display is performed (step S323).

  On the other hand, if the amount of the inputted order item is smaller than the player's money, the order information is transmitted to the hall computer 500 (step S324).

  When the hall computer 500 receives the order information from the sand 20, the hall computer 500 discriminates the order contents (step S341), and searches the database for an order destination that matches the order contents (step S342). For example, if the order content is coffee, a coffee shop is searched from the database. Then, the hall computer 500 transmits order information to the searched order destination (step S343).

  The computer (shop computer) 900 on the shop side that has received the order information authenticates the order contents and the hall computer 500 that is the order source using predetermined registration information, and determines the order contents based on the authentication result. (Step S361). Then, the confirmation information indicating the confirmation is returned to the hall computer 500 (step S362).

  The hall computer 500 that has received the confirmation information authenticates whether the confirmation information is legitimate information (step S344), and if it is legitimate information, transmits it to the sand 20. The sand 20 that has received the confirmation information updates the data by subtracting the player's balance stored in the information card or RAM 123 by the order amount (step S325).

  In this way, the player can place a desired order such as coffee using the information card inserted into the sand 20 or the balance data in the RAM 123.

  When the balance data is subtracted in step S325, a process for obtaining approval from the player in the sand 20 may be added. Specifically, the main CPU 121 of the sand 20 displays the amount to be subtracted from the balance on the operation unit 34. When the player operates the operation unit 34 and approves the subtraction, the main CPU 121 executes a subtraction process. On the other hand, when the player inputs that the player does not approve, the main CPU 121 stops the subtraction process. In this case, the main CPU 121 transmits order cancellation information to the hall computer 500. The hall computer 500 transfers the received order cancellation information to the shop computer 900. This cancels the order if the player does not approve.

(19) FIG. 54, in which parts corresponding to those in FIG. 45 are assigned the same reference numerals, is a diagram showing the configuration of a counting passage 660 according to another embodiment. As shown in FIG. 54, a plurality of slits 660B are formed in the lower side wall portion 660A of the counting passage 660 so that medals passing through the counting passage 660 do not fall. By providing the slit 660B, for example, even when a liquid such as a drink enters from the inlet 640A, the liquid can be prevented from being discharged from the slit 660B and entering the counting hopper 471. .

(Outline of game media lending device)
(1) The game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the present embodiment is a game medium lending device (sand 20) that lends to a gaming machine (pachislot machine 10) and lends game media according to the supplied value medium. And a housing 22, a counting means (counting hopper 71) for counting the number of game media disposed in the housing, and a gaming medium disposed in the housing below the counting means. A payout means (payout hopper 51) for paying out to a player, a control means (control board 63) for controlling the counting means and the payout means, and a game medium counted by the counting means are guided to the payout means. A first passage (upper discharge passage 120) and a second passage (lower discharge passage 130) for discharging the game medium overflowed by the payout means to the outside of the housing. To do.

  According to the configuration of (1) above, the emptying error of the payout means (payout hopper 71) is obtained by replenishing the payout means (payout hopper 51) with the medals counted in the counting means (counter hopper 71). Can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to provide a game medium lending device (sand 20) that does not give a dissatisfaction to the player.

(2) In the game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention, in the configuration described in the above (1), the casing 22 is configured such that the game medium is passed through the counting means (counting hopper 71). A replenishing door (front panel 25) for replenishing the dispensing means (dispensing hopper 71) is provided above the counting means, and the control means (control board 63) has the replenishing door opened. The counting result by the counting means in the state is counted as a supply number, and the number of game media stored in the payout means at the start of operation, the supply number, and the number of game media counted by the player are added. To calculate the number of game media stored in the payout means, store the number of game media paid out by the payout means, and calculate when the game medium stored in the payout means runs out. Play And detecting a fraud based on game medium number and that said stored and medium speed.

  According to the configuration of (2) above, the number of game media in the payout means can be ascertained by providing the payout means (the payout hopper 51) after counting the replenishment game media. By checking against the number of game media normally requested to be paid out when an empty error occurs in the means, an illegal member is inserted into the payout means and the internal payout drive means (hopper disk) is moved to acquire the game media It is possible to detect fraudulent acts (so-called hopper goto).

(3) In the game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention, in the configuration described in the above (1) or (2), the housing 22 is configured so that the player counts the game medium with the counting means ( A counting door 101 for loading into the counting hopper 71), and a locking means (locking mechanism part 110) for locking the counting door; Only when the difference obtained by subtracting the number of game media inserted into the gaming machine from the number of game media paid out in the (pachislot machine 10) is positive, or when the game media is paid out by the payout means. The lock means is unlocked, and when the difference is 0 or less and there is no payout by the payout means, the lock means is in a locked state.

  According to the configuration of (3) above, when the difference (difference number) is 0 or less and there is no payout (loan), the counting door 101 is locked and brought in from another game hall or another game machine. Incorrect game media can be prevented from being inserted.

(4) The game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention has an arrangement part (counter hopper 71) of the counting means (the counting hopper 71) in the configuration described in any one of (1) to (3) above. The partition plate 150) includes an opening 152 that communicates vertically, and the counting means and the dispensing means (dispensing hopper 51) have the same configuration.

  According to the configuration of (4) above, when the upper counting means (counting hopper 71) is removed, a space is formed as a storage portion for game media for the lower paying means (paying hopper 51). As a result, the game medium lending device (sand) having no counting function can be operated. Since the upper and lower counting means (counting hopper 71) and the dispensing means (dispensing hopper 51) have the same configuration, it is possible to easily cope with the addition of the upper counting means. Cost can be reduced.

(5) In the game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention, in the configuration according to any one of (1) to (4), the counting means (counting hopper 71) A counter means connector (connector 76) for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the control means (control board 63) is provided downward on the bottom surface of the counter means, and the housing 22 is connected to the counter means connector. A connector support portion (support plate 155) having a housing-side connector (connector 157) to be connected upward; and a door (front panel 23) for taking in and out the counting means; The widths L1 and L2 of the support means 150A that is slidably supported toward the door and supports the connector support portion so as to be slidable are half the size of the game medium (medal). A full, it said counting means covering said housing side connector when is removed, characterized in that it comprises a connector guide the game medium to the lower cover (cover 158).

  According to the configuration of (5) above, the counting means (counting hopper 71) can be easily attached by making the housing side connector (connector 157) slidable. Further, when the width L1 and L2 of the support means 150A for slidably supporting the connector support portion (support plate 155) is less than half the size of the game medium (medal), the counting means is removed. Then, the game medium replenished by opening the replenishment door (front panel 25) falls directly to the payout means (payout hopper 51). At this time, the game medium may stay in the connector support means. Disappear.

(6) The game medium lending device (sand 320) according to the embodiment of the present invention is a game medium lending device that lends a game medium in accordance with the supplied value medium, and is provided with the gaming machine. , Counting means (counting hopper 71) for counting the number of game media arranged in the case, and payout means for paying out game media to the player arranged below the counting means in the case (Payout hopper 51), control means (control board 63) for controlling the counting means and the payout means, and detection means (payout hopper sensor 330) for detecting the amount of game media stored in the payout means And a discharge passage 321 for discharging the game medium counted by the counting means to the outside of the housing, and a game medium which is provided in the middle of the discharge passage and counted by the counting means. Path switching means (guidance member 322) for switching between a first guidance state for guiding to the recording / dispensing means and a second guidance state for discharging the game medium counted by the counting means to the outside of the housing The passage switching means switches the discharge passage to the second guiding state when the storage amount of the payout means exceeds a predetermined amount based on the detection result of the detection means. And

  According to the configuration of (6) above, when there is no predetermined amount of game media in the payout means (payout hopper 51), the counted game media is replenished to the payout means, and the game media of the payout means reaches a predetermined amount. If this is detected, the passage switching means (guidance member 322) that is controlled to discharge to the island facility side is provided, so that the payout means is less likely to be in an empty state. It is possible to realize a game medium lending device that does not give dissatisfaction. In addition, since the game medium stored in the payout means does not exceed a predetermined amount, the game medium can be prevented from overflowing from the payout means when the payout means is removed during maintenance or the like.

(7) In the game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention, in the configuration described in the above (6), the casing 22 is configured such that the game medium is passed through the counting means (counting hopper 71). A replenishing door (front panel 25) for replenishing the dispensing means (dispensing hopper 51) is provided above the counting means, and the control means (control board 63) has the replenishing door opened. The counting result by the counting means in the state is counted as a supply number, and the number of game media stored in the payout means at the start of operation, the supply number, and the number of game media counted by the player are added. To calculate the number of game media stored in the payout means, store the number of game media paid out by the payout means, and calculate when the game medium stored in the payout means runs out. Play And detecting a fraud based on game medium number and that said stored and medium speed.

  According to the configuration of (7) above, the number of game media in the payout means can be ascertained by adopting a configuration in which the supply game media are counted and then guided to the payout means (the payout hopper 51). By checking against the number of game media normally requested to be paid out when an empty error occurs in the means, an illegal member is inserted into the payout means and the internal payout drive means (hopper disk) is moved to acquire the game media It is possible to detect fraudulent acts (so-called hopper goto).

(8) In the game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention, in the configuration described in the above (6) or (7), the housing 22 is configured so that the player counts the game medium with the counting means ( A counting door 101 for loading into the counting hopper 71), and a locking means (locking mechanism part 110) for locking the counting door; Only when the difference obtained by subtracting the number of game media inserted into the gaming machine from the number of game media paid out in the (pachislot machine 10) is positive, or when the game media is paid out by the payout means. The lock means is unlocked, and when the difference is 0 or less and there is no payout by the payout means, the lock means is in a locked state.

  According to the configuration of (8) above, when the difference (difference number) is 0 or less and there is no payout (loan), the counting door 101 is locked and brought in from another game hall or another game machine. Incorrect game media can be prevented from being inserted.

(9) The game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention is the arrangement according to any one of the above (6) to (8), wherein the counting unit (counting hopper 71) is disposed ( The partition plate 150) includes an opening 152 that communicates vertically, and the counting means and the dispensing means (dispensing hopper 51) have the same configuration.

  According to the configuration of (9) above, when the upper counting means (counting hopper 71) is removed, a space is formed as a storage portion for game media for the lower paying means (paying hopper 51). As a result, the game medium lending device (sand) having no counting function can be operated. Since the upper and lower counting means (counting hopper 71) and the dispensing means (dispensing hopper 51) have the same configuration, it is possible to easily cope with the addition of the upper counting means. Cost can be reduced.

(10) In the game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention, in the configuration according to any one of (6) to (9), the counting means (counting hopper 71) A counter means connector (connector 76) for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the control means (control board 63) is provided downward on the bottom surface of the counter means, and the housing 22 is connected to the counter means connector. A connector support portion (support plate 155) having a housing-side connector (connector 157) to be connected upward; and a door (front panel 23) for taking in and out the counting means; The widths L1 and L2 of the support means 150A that is slidably supported toward the door and supports the connector support portion in a slidable manner are half the size of a game medium (medal). Less than, the counting means covering said housing side connector when is removed, characterized in that it comprises a connector guide the game medium to the lower cover (cover 158).

  According to the configuration of (10) above, the counting means (counting hopper 71) can be easily attached by making the housing side connector (connector 157) slidable. Further, when the width L1 and L2 of the support means 150A for slidably supporting the connector support portion (support plate 155) is less than half the size of the game medium (medal), the counting means is removed. Then, the game medium replenished by opening the replenishment door (front panel 25) falls directly to the payout means (payout hopper 51). At this time, the game medium may stay in the connector support means. Disappear.

(11) The game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention is a game medium lending device that is provided in the gaming machine (pachislot 10) and lends a game medium (medal) according to the supplied value medium. And a housing 22, a counting means (counting hopper 71) for counting the number of game media disposed in the housing, and a gaming medium disposed in the housing below the counting means. Formed in a payout means (payout hopper 51) for paying out to a player, a control means (control board 63) for controlling the counting means and the payout means, and an arrangement portion (partition plate 150) for the counting means; The counting means and the payout means have the same configuration.

  According to the configuration of (11) above, when the upper counting means (counting hopper 71) is removed, a space is formed as a storage portion for game media for the lower paying means (payout hopper 51). As a result, the game medium lending device (sand) having no counting function can be operated. Since the upper and lower counting means (counting hopper 71) and the dispensing means (dispensing hopper 51) have the same configuration, it is possible to easily cope with the addition of the upper counting means. Cost can be reduced.

(12) In the game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention, in the configuration described in the above (11), the housing 22 is configured such that the game medium is passed through the counting means (counting hopper 71). A replenishing door (front panel 25) for replenishing the dispensing means (dispensing hopper 51) is provided above the counting means, and the control means (control board 63) has the replenishing door opened. The counting result by the counting means in the state is counted as a supply number, and the number of game media stored in the payout means at the start of operation, the supply number, and the number of game media counted by the player are added. To calculate the number of game media stored in the payout means, store the number of game media paid out by the payout means, and calculate when the game medium stored in the payout means runs out. An injustice is detected based on the number of game media and the stored number of game media. If the injustice is detected, the player is imaged by a predetermined imaging means (camera 35), and the imaged result is a hall computer. It transmits to 500, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  According to the configuration of (12) above, the number of game media in the payout means can be ascertained by providing the payout means (the payout hopper 51) after counting the replenishment game media. By checking against the number of game media normally requested to be paid out when an empty error occurs in the means, an illegal member is inserted into the payout means and the internal payout drive means (hopper disk) is moved to acquire the game media It is possible to detect fraudulent acts (so-called hopper goto). In addition, when fraud is detected, the image of the player is captured and image data obtained as a result of the capture is transmitted to the hall computer 500 that manages the gaming machine, whereby the hall computer 500 grasps the information of the unauthorized person. Can do.

(13) In the game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention, the game medium counted by the counting means (counting hopper 71) in the configuration described in (11) or (12) is used. A first passage (upper discharge passage 120) for guiding to the payout means (payout hopper 51), and a second passage (lower part) for discharging the game medium overflowed by the payout means to the outside of the housing 22. A discharge passage 130).

  According to the configuration of (13) above, the empty error of the payout means (payout hopper 71) is obtained by replenishing the payout means (payout hopper 51) with the medals counted in the counting means (counter hopper 71). Can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to provide a game medium lending device (sand 20) that does not give a dissatisfaction to the player.

(14) In the configuration described in (11) or (12) above, the game medium lending device (sand 20) in the embodiment of the present invention detects detection of the storage amount of the game medium stored in the payout means. Means (payout hopper sensor 330), a discharge passage 321 for discharging the game medium counted by the counting means to the outside of the housing, and a game counted in the middle of the discharge passage and counted by the counting means Path switching means (guidance member) for switching between a first guidance state for guiding the medium to the payout means and a second guidance state for discharging the game medium counted by the counting means to the outside of the housing 322), and the passage switching means moves the discharge passage through the second guide when the storage amount of the payout means exceeds a predetermined amount based on the detection result of the detection means. Wherein the switch to state.

  According to the configuration of (14) above, when there is no predetermined amount of game media in the payout means (payout hopper 51), the counted game media are replenished to the payout means, and the game media of the payout means reaches a predetermined amount. If this is detected, the passage switching means (guidance member 322) that is controlled to discharge to the island facility side is provided, so that the payout means is less likely to be in an empty state. It is possible to realize a game medium lending device that does not give dissatisfaction. In addition, since the game medium stored in the payout means does not exceed a predetermined amount, the game medium can be prevented from overflowing from the payout means when the payout means is removed during maintenance or the like.

(15) In the game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention, in the configuration according to any one of (11) to (14), the counting unit (counting hopper 71) A counter means connector (connector 76) for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the control means (control board 63) is provided downward on the bottom surface of the counter means, and the housing 22 is connected to the counter means connector. A connector support portion (support plate 155) having a housing-side connector (connector 157) to be connected upward; and a door (front panel 23) for taking in and out the counting means; The widths L1 and L2 of the support means 150A that is slidably supported toward the door and supports the connector support portion in a slidable manner are the sizes of game media (medals). Less than half the counting means covering said housing side connector when is removed, characterized in that it comprises a connector guide the game medium to the lower cover (cover 158).

  According to the configuration of (15) above, the counting means (counting hopper 71) can be easily attached by making the housing side connector (connector 157) slidable. Further, when the width L1 and L2 of the support means 150A for slidably supporting the connector support portion (support plate 155) is less than half the size of the game medium (medal), the counting means is removed. Then, the game medium replenished by opening the replenishment door (front panel 25) falls directly to the payout means (payout hopper 51). At this time, the game medium may stay in the connector support means. Disappear.

(16) The game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention is provided in the gaming machine (pachislot machine 10) and lends game media (medals) according to the supplied value medium. The housing 22, the counting means (counting hopper 71) for counting the number of game media disposed in the housing, and the game media disposed below the counting means in the housing And a control means (control board 63) for controlling the counting means and the payout means, and the housing has a game medium stored by the player. A counting door 101 for loading into the counting means, and a locking means (locking mechanism portion 110) for locking the counting door, wherein the control means is based on the number of game media paid out in a game machine provided therewith. Play The lock means is unlocked only when the difference obtained by subtracting the number of game media inserted into the machine is positive, or when the game medium is paid out by the payout means, the difference is 0 or less, and When there is no payout by the payout means, the lock means is in a locked state.

  According to the configuration of (16) above, when the difference (difference number) is 0 or less and there is no payout (loan), the counting door 101 is locked and brought in from another game hall or another game machine. Incorrect game media can be prevented from being inserted.

(17) In the game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention, in the configuration described in the above (16), the casing 22 is configured such that the game medium is passed through the counting means (counting hopper 71). A replenishing door (front panel 25) for replenishing the dispensing means (dispensing hopper 51) is provided above the counting means, and the control means (control board 63) has the replenishing door opened. The counting result by the counting means in the state is counted as a supply number, and the number of game media stored in the payout means at the start of operation, the supply number, and the number of game media counted by the player are added. To calculate the number of game media stored in the payout means, store the number of game media paid out by the payout means, and calculate when the game medium stored in the payout means runs out. An injustice is detected based on the number of game media and the stored number of game media. If the injustice is detected, the player is imaged by a predetermined imaging means (camera 35), and the imaged result is a hall computer. It transmits to 500, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  According to the configuration of (17) above, the number of game media in the payout means can be ascertained by adopting a configuration in which the supply game media are counted and then guided to the payout means (the payout hopper 51). By checking against the number of game media normally requested to be paid out when an empty error occurs in the means, an illegal member is inserted into the payout means and the internal payout drive means (hopper disk) is moved to acquire the game media It is possible to detect fraudulent acts (so-called hopper goto). In addition, when fraud is detected, the image of the player is captured and image data obtained as a result of the capture is transmitted to the hall computer 500 that manages the gaming machine, whereby the hall computer 500 grasps the information of the unauthorized person. Can do.

(18) The game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention is configured so that the game medium counted by the counting means (counting hopper 71) in the configuration described in the above (16) or (17). A first passage (upper discharge passage 120) for guiding to the payout means (payout hopper 51), and a second passage (lower part) for discharging the game medium overflowed by the payout means to the outside of the housing 22. A discharge passage 130).

  According to the configuration of (18), the emptying error of the payout means (payout hopper 71) is obtained by replenishing the payout means (payout hopper 51) with medals counted in the counting means (counter hopper 71). Can be reduced. As a result, it is possible to provide a game medium lending device (sand 20) that does not give a dissatisfaction to the player.

(19) The game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention has a configuration described in (16) or (17) described above, and detects the amount of game medium stored in the payout means. Means (payout hopper sensor 330), a discharge passage 321 for discharging the game medium counted by the counting means to the outside of the housing, and a game counted in the middle of the discharge passage and counted by the counting means Path switching means (guidance member) for switching between a first guidance state for guiding the medium to the payout means and a second guidance state for discharging the game medium counted by the counting means to the outside of the housing 322), and the passage switching means moves the discharge passage through the second guide when the storage amount of the payout means exceeds a predetermined amount based on the detection result of the detection means. Wherein the switch to state.

  According to the configuration of (19) above, when there is no predetermined amount of game media in the payout means (payout hopper 51), the counted game media are replenished to the payout means, and the game media of the payout means reaches a predetermined amount. If this is detected, the passage switching means (guidance member 322) that is controlled to discharge to the island facility side is provided, so that the payout means is less likely to be in an empty state. It is possible to realize a game medium lending device that does not give dissatisfaction. In addition, since the game medium stored in the payout means does not exceed a predetermined amount, the game medium can be prevented from overflowing from the payout means when the payout means is removed during maintenance or the like.

(20) In the game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention, in the configuration according to any one of (16) to (19), the counting means (counting hopper 51) A counter means connector (connector 76) for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the control means (control board 63) is provided downward on the bottom surface of the counter means, and the housing 22 is connected to the counter means connector. A connector support portion (support plate 155) having a housing-side connector (connector 157) to be connected upward; and a door (front panel 23) for taking in and out the counting means; It is supported to be slidable toward the door.

  According to the above configuration (20), the casing-side connector (connector 157) can be slid, so that the counting means (counting hopper 71) can be easily attached.

(21) The game medium lending device (sand 420) according to the embodiment of the present invention is provided in the gaming machine (pachislot machine 10) and lends game media (medals) according to the supplied value medium. The payout means (payout hopper 451) for paying out game media one by one based on the lending request, and the counting means for counting game media input by the player and discharging them one by one (Counting hopper 471), and the payout means detects a payout game medium, and sends out the payout game medium to the front side of the housing in an obliquely downward direction ( At least a payout unit 451B), and the counting means includes at least a sensor for detecting the discharged game medium and a discharge port 471B for discharging the discharged game medium to the outside of the housing. The payout means is installed above the counting means via the partition plate 150, and has a space AR400 in which at least the game medium can flow downward in the installed state on the rear side of the housing. And a replenishment lid member (front panel 25) for opening and closing a replenishment opening (inlet 25A) for replenishing the game medium to the payout means, and the replenishment member A unit lid member (front panel 23) that is positioned below the lid member and opens and closes a portion where the dispensing means and the counting means are installed, and the unit lid member includes the dispensing member A lending opening (payout port 54) provided at a position corresponding to the delivery port (dispensing portion 451B) of the means, and a nozzle attachment 4 in which the nozzle 140 is detachably provided in the lending opening. 40, a counting opening (injecting port 23A) provided above the lending opening, and an auxiliary member (counting door 101) for making it easier to input game media into the counting opening are removable. An auxiliary member attachment 441 provided, and for allowing the game medium thrown through the counting opening to flow down to the counting means via the space AR400 without flowing down to the payout means. A down flow path (counting path 455) is provided.

  According to the configuration of the above (21), the payout means (payout hopper 451) is provided above the counting means (counter hopper 471), and the game medium is provided by the outlet (payout part 451B) that feeds diagonally downward Since the game medium can be sent out to the nozzle 140 with the minimum necessary output power depending on its own weight at the time of paying out (renting out) the game medium. There is no need to use a special structure or an expensive dispensing means (dispensing hopper) having a strong output power, and cost can be reduced.

  In addition, the shape of the nozzle mounted on the lending opening is provided by providing the counting opening (input port 23A) above the lending opening (payout port 54) and smoothly counting by the counting means. The game medium lending device (sand 420) with high versatility can be realized without causing any restrictions.

  In addition, since the dispensing means (dispensing hopper 451) and the counting means (counting hopper 471) have the same configuration, it is possible to reduce the inventory cost of parts. Further, since the dispensing means and the counting means are arranged vertically in the same direction, the number of parts for mounting these means (the dispensing hopper 451 and the counting hopper 471) on the housing 22 is also reduced. can do.

(22) The game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention includes the counting door 101 provided in the counting opening (input port 23A) in the configuration described in (19) above, Lock means (lock storage unit 110) for locking the counting door, and the control means (control board 63) is thrown into the gaming machine from the number of game media paid out in the game machine (pachislot machine 10) provided therewith The lock means is unlocked only when the difference obtained by subtracting the number of inserted game media is positive, or when the game media is paid out by the payout means, the difference is 0 or less, and the payout When there is no payout by the means, the lock means is in a locked state.

  According to the configuration of (22) above, when the difference (difference number) is 0 or less and there is no payout (loan), the counting door 101 is locked and brought in from another game hall or another game machine. Incorrect game media can be prevented from being inserted.

(23) In the game medium lending device (sand 20) according to the embodiment of the present invention, in the configuration described in the above (21) or (22), the payout means (the payout hopper 451) is the control means (control A connector (476) for paying-out means for transmitting / receiving signals to / from the board 63) is provided downward on the bottom surface of the paying-out means, and the housing 22 is connected to the connector on the paying-out means side. It is provided with a connector support part (support plate 155) having a housing side connector (connector 457) upward, and the connector support part is supported slidably toward the unit lid member (front panel 23). Features.

  According to the configuration of (23), since the housing side connector (connector 457) can be slid, the payout means (payout hopper 451) can be easily attached.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Pachislot machine 20,320,420 Sand 21 Front part 22 Housing 23, 25 Front panel 29E Opening part 31 LED part 32 Card insertion slot 33 Banknote insertion slot 34 Operation unit 35 Camera 35A Infrared LED board 35B CMOS camera 36 Non-contact IC Card reader / writer 37 Tray for medal (game media) payout 38 Speaker cover 39 Slot for medal (game media) counting 51 Hopper for payout 61 Bill identification device (Bill Bali)
62 Information Card Reader 63 Control Board 65 Power Supply Unit 67 I / O Board 71 Counting Hopper 81 Speaker 121 Main CPU
140 nozzles 500 hall computer

Claims (1)

A gaming medium lending device that lends gaming media according to the supplied value medium, attached to the gaming machine,
Counting means for counting the number of game media;
A payout means for paying out game media to the player;
An openable / closable counting door communicating with the counting means;
Locking means for locking the counting door;
Control means for controlling the counting means, the payout means, and the locking means;
With
The control means includes
When the difference obtained by subtracting the number of game media used in the gaming machine from the number of game media paid out in the game machine to be installed is positive, the locking means is unlocked,
When the difference is 0 or less, the game medium lending device is characterized in that the lock means is in a locked state.