JP2015047185A - Game management device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a game management device capable of reducing registration work of a game machine and preventing error or omission in registration from occurring.SOLUTION: A game management device comprises a game machine, a game facility device capable of communicating with the game machine, and a management computer capable of communicating with the game facility device. The game machine includes game machine storage means capable of storing unique information that can set the game machine uniquely, and game machine transmission means capable of transmitting the unique information to the management computer. The game facility device includes game facility device transmission means capable of transmitting a unit number that can specify an installation site of the game machine to the management computer. The management computer includes management computer receiving means capable of receiving at least the unit number and the unique information, and registration means that registers the unique information received by the management computer receiving means in management computer storage means in association with the unit number.

Description

  The present invention relates to a game management apparatus that manages game information in a plurality of gaming machines, and more particularly, to a game management apparatus that can easily perform new registration or change registration of gaming machines in a gaming store.

  In recent years, most of the game stores where pachinko and pachislot machines are installed are equipped with game management devices for collecting and managing game information for each player, and the collected game information is used for management and services of the game store. It is useful for.

  However, with a conventional game management device, when a new gaming machine is installed in a gaming store or when a gaming machine is replaced, expanded, or removed, the manager of the gaming store manually performs new registration or change registration. Since it is necessary to do this, registration work takes a long time, and registration errors and forgetful registrations may occur.

  As one of the game management apparatuses that solve such problems, a game management apparatus that can easily register initial setting information by simply connecting an unregistered gaming machine to a network has been proposed. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

Japanese Patent No. 3818400

  However, although the conventional game management device can automatically acquire the model name from the gaming machine connected to the network, it still requires manual registration for information regarding other gaming machines. There is still a problem that it takes a long time to work, and registration mistakes or forgetting registration occur.

  In addition, since the conventional game management device performs control for confirming responses from all gaming machines in the initialization process, it is connected to the network after the initialization process or a game machine that is turned on after the initialization process. For gaming machines, there was a problem that registration work could not be automated.

  The present invention has been made to solve such conventional problems, and can be used to shorten the registration work of gaming machines and to prevent registration errors and forgotten registrations. An object is to provide an apparatus.

  The present invention relates to a gaming management device configured to include a gaming machine, a gaming equipment device communicable with the gaming machine, and a management computer capable of communicating with the gaming equipment device. A gaming machine storage means capable of storing unique information capable of uniquely determining a gaming machine; and a gaming machine transmission means capable of transmitting the unique information to the management computer; A gaming facility device transmitting means capable of transmitting to the management computer a machine number capable of specifying the installation location of the gaming machine is provided, and the management computer can receive at least the machine number and the unique information A management computer receiving means and a registration method for registering the unique information received by the management computer receiving means in the management computer storage means in association with the machine number. It comprises, when it is a game management system according to claim.

  According to the game management device of the present invention, it is possible to shorten the registration work of the gaming machine, and to achieve an excellent effect that it is possible to prevent registration mistakes and forgetting to register.

It is a block diagram showing typically the system configuration of the game management device concerning a 1st embodiment. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of a management computer 30, an island computer 50, and a stand computer 70. FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of a pachinko machine that is an example of a gaming machine 130. FIG. It is the figure which showed an example of the waveform of the operation signal which the game machine 130 can output. The circuit block diagram of a control part is shown. (A) It is the figure which showed an example of the memory map of CPU152 of the main control part 150. FIG. (B) It is the figure which showed the structure of ROM area | region. It is a schematic front view of a common pedestrian machine. (A) It is the flowchart which showed an example of the flow of the main control part main process which CPU152 of the main control part 150 of the gaming machine 130 performs. (B) It is the flowchart which showed an example of the flow of an initial setting process. It is the figure which showed an example of the gaming machine management data memorize | stored in a gaming machine management database. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of main processing executed by a CPU 31 of the management computer 30. It is the flowchart which showed an example of the flow of packet processing. It is the flowchart which showed an example of the flow of a specific information collation process. It is the flowchart which showed an example of the flow of a base movement determination process. It is the flowchart which showed an example of the flow of a number change determination process. It is the figure which showed typically the installation condition of the game machine in a game store. 6 is a sequence chart showing an example of a flow of a packet transmitted from the gaming machine 130 to the management computer 30 when new machine registration is performed. 6 is a sequence chart showing an example of a flow of packets transmitted from the gaming machine 130 to the management computer 30 when model exchange is performed. 10 is a sequence chart showing an example of a flow of a packet transmitted from the gaming machine 130 to the management computer 30 when the table is replaced. 10 is a sequence chart showing an example of a flow of packets transmitted from the gaming machine 130 to the management computer 30 when the number of tables decreases. 6 is a sequence chart showing an example of a flow of packets transmitted from the gaming machine 130 to the management computer 30 when the number of machines increases. It is the flowchart which showed an example of the flow of the management computer main process which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is the figure which showed an example of the database update in the case of (a) model change, (b) stand replacement, (c) stand decrease, and (d) stand increase. It is the flowchart which showed an example of the flow of the packet processing which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is the flowchart which showed an example of the flow of the specific information collation process which concerns on 2nd Embodiment.

  Hereinafter, a game management device according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

<< First Embodiment >>
First, the game management device according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing the system configuration of the game management device according to the first embodiment.

<Overall configuration of game management device>
As shown in FIG. 1, the game management apparatus 10 includes a management computer 30 that controls the entire apparatus, a plurality of island computers 50 connected to the management computer 30 via a network NW, and the island computer 50. A plurality of computer 70 connected under the network NW, a plurality of inter-machines (sand) 90 and a call lamp 110 connected via the network NW under the computer 70, and the call lamp And a plurality of gaming machines 130 connected to the base computer 70 via 110.

  In the game management apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, an operation signal (may be referred to as a game machine operation signal, which is referred to as a “game machine operation signal”, details will be described later) and unique information (details will be described later) transmitted from the gaming machine 130 are a call lamp 110 and a stand computer. 70 and the island computer 50, the information is transmitted to the management computer 30, and collected and managed by the management computer 30. In this example, the gaming machine 130 and the management computer 30 are connected via the call lamp 110, the base computer 70, and the island computer 50. However, an operation signal and unique information transmitted from the gaming machine 130 are not transmitted. Any configuration that can be collected by the management computer 30 is acceptable. Accordingly, one or more of the calling lamp 110, the base computer 70, and the island computer 50 may be omitted. For example, an operation signal or unique information transmitted from the gaming machine 130 may be used instead of the calling lamp 110. The base computer 70 (or the island computer 50) may be configured to receive, so that some or all of the calling lamps 110 may be omitted. Further, another device that relays the gaming machine operation signal and the unique information may be newly added on the network NW.

  Further, in the game management device 10 of the present embodiment, an operation signal (sometimes referred to as a related device operation signal, which will be described later) transmitted from the inter-machine 90 is managed via the stand computer 70 and the island computer 50. The information is transmitted to the computer 30 and collected and managed by the management computer 30. In this example, the pedestal machine 90 and the management computer 30 are connected via the pedestal computer 70 and the island computer 50. However, the management computer 30 can collect operation signals transmitted from the pedestal machine 90. For example, one or more of the base computer 70 and the island computer 50 may be omitted, or another device that relays the related apparatus operation signal may be newly added on the network NW. .

  In this example, the entire apparatus is controlled by one management computer 30. However, the entire apparatus may be controlled by two or more management computers. With such a configuration, the control burden required for the control of the entire device can be distributed, the processing capacity of the entire device can be increased, the operation signal and unique information from the gaming machine 130, and the operation from the intermediary machine 90 It is possible to collect signals quickly and perform appropriate processing. Further, the numbers of the island computer 50, the computer 70, the inter-machine 90, the calling lamp 110, and the gaming machine 130 are not limited to the illustrated numbers.

  Further, another device capable of transmitting an operation signal indicating an operation state may be connected to the network NW so that the management computer 30 can collect the operation signal from the device. For example, a counter (a so-called jet counter) is connected on the network NW, and the management computer 30 indicates an operation signal indicating the amount of game media (the number of game balls, the number of game medals, etc.) counted by the counter. You may comprise so that it can collect.

  Further, a part or all of each device (hardware) constituting the game management device 10 may be replaced with software that realizes a function equivalent to the device (hardware). The network NW applied to the game management apparatus 10 is typically a LAN (Local Area Network), but the communication form is a line that can communicate with each other regardless of wired or wireless. I just need it.

  Further, one or a plurality of management computers 30 may be connected to a management center outside the game store via the network NW, and in this management center, game information (including specific information) of game stores in the whole country or in a specific region. ) May be manageable. In this case, game information (including unique information) may be provided to the manufacturer of the gaming machine 130.

<Management computer>
Next, the management computer 30 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the internal configuration of the management computer 30, the island computer 50, and the base computer 70.

  The management computer 30 is a computer for receiving packets (electronic message information including operation signals and unique information; details will be described later) from the subordinate island computer 50 and performing various processes based on the received packets. The management computer 30 of the present embodiment includes a CPU 31 that controls the entire computer, a ROM 32 for storing basic I / O programs and various data, a RAM 33 for temporarily storing data, a CD-ROM, and a DVD. An external storage drive 35 capable of reading and writing data from and to the recording medium 34, a storage device 36 for storing data, an input device 37 for inputting commands to the management computer 30, and various displays The display device 38, a communication unit 39 for communicating with the island computer 50 via the network NW, and a timer 41 for measuring time, number of times, and the like. Such a management computer 30 can be realized by, for example, a conventionally known server or personal computer (PC).

  The CPU 31 operates by inputting a clock signal of a predetermined period output from a crystal oscillator (not shown) as a system clock, and executes a process for executing an application program, an operating system (OS), etc. stored in the ROM 32, the storage device 36, etc. Then, processing for storing data, files, and the like necessary for executing the program in the RAM 33 and the storage device 36 is performed.

  The storage device 36 stores application programs, OS, control programs, related programs, and the like, and can be realized by, for example, a hard disk (HDD). The input device 37 is for inputting a command (command) to the management computer 30 and can be realized by, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device (such as a mouse), a touch panel, or the like. The display device 38 displays a command input by the input device 37, a response output of the management computer 30 with respect to the command, and the like, and can be realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display device or a plasma display.

<Island Computer>
Next, the island computer 50 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The island computer 50 is a computer that receives a packet from the subordinate computer 70, performs predetermined processing on the received packet, and transmits the packet to the management computer 30 via the network NW.

  The island computer 50 of the present embodiment includes a CPU 51 for controlling the entire computer, a ROM 52 for storing basic I / O programs and various data, a RAM 53 for temporarily storing data, a management computer 30 and a network. The management computer communication unit 55 for performing communication via the NW and the base computer communication unit 56 for performing communication with the base computer 70 via the network NW are configured. Such an island computer 50 can be realized by, for example, a conventionally known server or personal computer (PC).

  When the computer communication unit 56 receives a packet from the computer 70, the CPU 51 of the island computer 50 stores the received packet information in the RAM 53 and then sends a packet transmission request to the management computer communication unit 55. Do. Upon receiving this transmission request, the management computer communication unit 55 reads the information of the packet stored in the RAM 53, adds the identification information (island number) of the island computer 50 to the information, and then the management computer 30 via the network NW. Send to.

  Further, the CPU 51 of the island computer 50 receives the game state information (such as big hit state information, small hit state information, probability change state information, or error state information) received in the packet received from the base computer 70. The gaming state information is stored in the RAM 53, and at the same time (for example, every 1 to 5 seconds), the management computer communication unit 55 is requested to transmit the gaming state information. Upon receipt of this transmission request, the management computer communication unit 55 reads the gaming state information stored in the RAM 53, adds the identification information (island number) of the island computer 50 to the gaming state information, and then manages it via the network NW. Send to computer 30.

<Computer>
Next, the stand computer 70 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The platform computer 70 is a computer that receives packets from the subordinate intermediary machine 90 and the call lamp 110, performs predetermined processing on the received packets, and transmits the packets to the island computer 50 via the network NW.

  The stand computer 70 of this embodiment includes a CPU 71 for controlling the entire computer, a ROM 72 for storing basic I / O programs and various data, a RAM 73 for temporarily storing data, an island computer 50 and a network. An island computer communication unit 75 for performing communication via the NW, and a gaming facility communication unit 76 for performing communication with the interstage machine 90 and the calling lamp 110 via the network NW. . Such a stand computer 70 can be realized by, for example, a conventionally known server or personal computer (PC).

  When the gaming equipment communication unit 76 receives a packet from the inter-vehicle machine 90 or the call lamp 110, the CPU 71 of the computer 70 stores the received packet information in the RAM 73 and then sends it to the island computer communication unit 75. Request packet transmission. Upon receiving this transmission request, the island computer communication unit 75 reads the information of the packet stored in the RAM 73, and includes the identification information (ID) of the base computer 70 and the identification information (ID of the transmission machine 90) as the information. ) Or identification information (unit number) that can specify the installation location of the gaming machine 130 is given, and then transmitted to the island computer 50 via the network NW.

  In addition, the CPU 71 of the stand computer 70 includes game state information (such as big hit state information, small hit state information, probability change state information, or error state information) in the packet received from the intermediary machine 90 or the call lamp 110. When the game state information is received, the received game state information is stored in the RAM 73, and at the same time (for example, every 1 to 5 seconds), the island computer communication unit 75 is requested to transmit the game state information. Upon receiving this transmission request, the island computer communication unit 75 reads the gaming state information stored in the RAM 73, and the information includes the identification information (ID) of the computer 70 and the identification information (ID of the transmission machine 90). ) Or identification information (unit number) capable of specifying the installation location of the gaming machine 130 is given, and then transmitted to the island computer 50 via the network NW.

  In this way, the base computer 70 gives the identification information of the transmission machine 90 or the gaming machine 130 and the identification information of the base computer 70 to the packet, and the island computer 50 further provides the island computer. After adding 50 pieces of identification information, the packet is transmitted to the management computer 30. For this reason, the management computer 30 refers to the identification information given to the received packet, and from which intermediary machine 90 or the gaming machine 130 the packet is from, and what route it is. It is possible to determine whether it has passed through.

<Amusement machine>
Next, the gaming machine 130 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 is a schematic front view of a pachinko machine that is an example of the gaming machine 130, and FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a waveform of an operation signal that the gaming machine 130 can output. FIG. 5 shows a circuit block diagram of the control unit of the gaming machine 130.

  The gaming machine 130 according to the present embodiment is a gaming device that pays out game media (for example, game balls, game medals) to a player in accordance with a predetermined winning event, and is realized by, for example, a pachinko machine shown in FIG. Is done. In addition, the gaming machine 130 receives an operating signal indicating the operating status of the gaming machine 130 (number of hit balls, jackpot game, etc.) and unique information that is information unique to the gaming machine 130 (in this embodiment, a call An information output circuit 167 (see FIG. 5) having an external output terminal for transmission toward the lamp 110) is provided.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the operation signal (game machine operation signal) that can be transmitted by the gaming machine 130 of the present embodiment is either an on signal (for example, a high level signal) or an off signal (for example, a low level signal). This is realized by a pulse signal consisting of the following signals. The gaming machine 130 generates a pulse signal by either changing the ON signal of the operation signal to an OFF signal or changing the OFF signal to an ON signal, and transmits the generated pulse signal toward the calling lamp 110. . In addition, the specific implementation method of an operation signal is not restricted to this, A part or all of an operation signal may be implement | achieved by a packet (electronic message information) like the interpolator 90 mentioned later, or a pulse The form of the signal may be either a serial signal or a parallel signal.

  A pachinko machine, which is an example of the gaming machine 130, will be described with reference to FIG. 133, a normal start port 134, a special start port 135, and a variable prize opening 136 are provided.

  In this example, a plurality of general winning ports 133 are arranged on the game board surface 131. When a prize is won in the general prize opening 133 (when a game ball enters the general prize opening 133), a predetermined number (for example, 10) of game balls are discharged to the upper plate 137. When the gaming machine 130 discharges the gaming ball to the upper plate 137, the gaming machine 130 outputs an operation signal (a ball signal) indicating that the gaming ball has been paid out from the external output terminal to the calling lamp 110.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 (b), one pulse signal is output every time one game ball is paid out as an outgoing ball signal. This ball signal is converted into a packet format by the call lamp 110 and then transmitted to the management computer 30 via the call lamp 110, the stand computer 70, and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can grasp that the game ball has been paid out in the gaming machine 130 by receiving the packet including the information on the ball signal, and the packet including the information on the ball signal. The number of game balls paid out in the gaming machine 130 (number of balls) can be acquired. Note that the game balls paid out from the gaming machine 130 may be called prize balls or safe balls in addition to the balls, and the number of balls played may be called the number of prize balls or the number of safe balls.

  The normal start port 134 is a device called a gate or a through chucker for determining whether or not a game ball has passed through a predetermined area of the game board surface 131. In this example, one is provided on the left and right sides of the game board surface 131. They are arranged one by one. When the game ball passes through the general figure starting port 134, a general figure variable game is started by a general figure display device (not shown). When the game ball passes through the normal start port 134, the gaming machine 130 outputs an operation signal (start signal) indicating that the game ball has won the general start port 134 to the call lamp 110 as an external output terminal. Output from.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 (c), as a start signal, every time a winning is made to the ordinary start port 134 (every time a game ball passes through the ordinary start port 134), or a special feature described later. Each time a prize is entered in the figure starting port 135 (every time a game ball enters the special figure starting port 135), one pulse signal is output. The start signal is converted into a packet format in the call lamp 110 and then transmitted to the management computer 30 via the call lamp 110, the stand computer 70, and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can recognize that the game ball has won the universal start port 134 (or the special start port 135) in the gaming machine 130 by receiving the packet including the start signal.

  The special figure starting port 135 is called an electric tulip (electrical chew), and in this example, only one is provided at the center. This special figure starting port 135 is provided with a wing member that can be opened and closed to the left and right. When the wing member is closed, it is impossible to enter a game ball. Is stopped and displayed, the blade member opens and closes at a predetermined time interval and a predetermined number of times. When the special figure starting port 135 is won (when a game ball enters the special figure starting port 135), a predetermined number (for example, four) of the game balls are discharged to the upper plate 137, and a special figure (not shown) is used. The special figure variation game by the figure display device is started.

  When the gaming machine 130 wins the special figure starting port 135, the gaming machine 130 outputs an operation signal (starting signal) indicating that the game ball has won the special figure starting port 135 from the external output terminal to the calling lamp 110. . The contents of the start signal are as described with reference to FIG. In addition, when the gaming machine 130 discharges the game ball to the upper plate 137 by winning the special drawing start port 135, the gaming machine 130 sends an operation signal (departure signal) indicating that the game ball has been paid out to the calling lamp 110. Directly output from the external output terminal. The contents of the output signal are as described with reference to FIG.

  The variable winning opening 136 is called a big winning opening or an attacker, and in this example, only one variable winning opening 136 is arranged directly below the special figure starting opening 135. This variable winning opening 136 includes a door member that can be freely opened and closed, and it is impossible to enter a ball while the door member is closed, and a special figure display device wins a special figure variation game and the special figure display device wins. Is stopped and displayed, the door member opens and closes at a predetermined time interval and a predetermined number of times. The gaming machine 130 calls an operation signal (bonus signal) indicating that a jackpot has occurred in the gaming machine 130 when the special figure display device stops displaying the jackpot symbol (when the jackpot game is won). Output from the external output terminal toward the lamp 110.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 (e), as a big hit signal, the off signal is changed to an on signal when the big hit game is won, and the on signal is changed to an off signal when the big hit game ends. The signal to be output is output. The jackpot signal is converted into a packet format by the call lamp 110 and then transmitted to the management computer 30 via the call lamp 110, the stand computer 70, and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can grasp the start and end of the jackpot in the gaming machine 130 by receiving the packet including the information on the jackpot signal, and can determine the number of packets including the information on the jackpot signal. By counting, information on the number of jackpot games in the gaming machine 130 can be acquired.

  Note that the probability of winning a big hit is relatively higher in the jackpot symbol than in the special variation variable game after the big hit game. There is a non-probability big hit symbol that gets lower. The gaming machine 130 stops and displays the probability variation jackpot symbol, and when the gaming state changes from the non-probability variation state to the probability variation state, an operating signal (probability variation signal) indicating that the probability variation jackpot has occurred in the gaming machine 130, Output from the external output terminal toward the calling lamp 110.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 (g), as the probability change signal, when the gaming state changes from the non-probability changing state to the probability changing state, the off signal is changed to the on signal, and the gaming state changes from the probability changing state to the non-probability change state. A signal that changes the ON signal to the OFF signal when the state changes is output. The probability variation signal is converted into a packet format by the call lamp 110 and then transmitted to the management computer 30 via the call lamp 110, the stand computer 70, and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can know the start and end of the probability variation state in the gaming machine 130 by receiving the packet including the probability variation signal information.

  In addition, when the special figure display device stops and displays the small hit symbol (when winning the small hit game), the gaming machine 130 operates an operation signal (small bonus) indicating that a small hit has occurred in the gaming machine 130. Signal) is output from the external output terminal toward the calling lamp 110.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 (f), as the small hit signal, the off signal is changed to the on signal when the small hit game is won, and the on signal is turned off when the small hit game is finished. The signal to change to is output. The small win signal is converted into a packet format by the call lamp 110 and then transmitted to the management computer 30 via the call lamp 110, the stand computer 70, and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can grasp the start and end of the small hits in the gaming machine 130 by receiving the packet including the information on the small win signal, and the number of packets including the information on the small win signal By counting, information on the number of small hit games in the gaming machine 130 can also be acquired.

  In addition, when the special symbol display device stops and displays a symbol (a big hit symbol, a small hit symbol, a lost symbol, etc.), the gaming machine 130 operates an operation signal (start signal) indicating that the symbol is stopped and displayed on the gaming machine 130. ) From the external output terminal toward the calling lamp 110.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 (d), one pulse signal is output as the start signal every time the special-figure display device stops and displays the symbol. This start signal is converted into a packet format in the call lamp 110 and then transmitted to the management computer 30 via the call lamp 110, the stand computer 70, and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can recognize that the symbol has been stopped and displayed in the gaming machine 130 by receiving the packet including the information of the start signal, and can determine the number of packets including the information of the start signal. By counting, information on the number of symbol fluctuations of the special figure display device can be acquired.

  In addition, when the gaming machine 130 wins the variable prize opening 136, the gaming machine 130 discharges a predetermined number (for example, 15) of game balls to the upper plate 137. When the gaming machine 130 discharges the gaming ball to the upper plate 137, the gaming machine 130 outputs an operation signal (a ball signal) indicating that the gaming ball has been paid out from the external output terminal to the calling lamp 110. The contents of the output signal are as described with reference to FIG.

In addition, an out box (not shown) having a hitting ball counter (not shown) capable of counting the number of game balls (number of hitting balls) launched on the game board surface 131 is disposed on the back surface of the gaming machine 130. Has been. The gaming machine 130 externally sends an operation signal (hit ball signal) indicating that the game ball has been launched toward the game board surface 131 to the calling lamp 110 based on information from the hitting counter of the outbox. Output from the output terminal. It is to be noted that the game balls Dasa out out the game board 131, in addition to hitting ball, sometimes referred to as out ball, hitting the ball number is sometimes referred to as out-piece count.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4A, one pulse is output every time a game ball is launched (every time it is consumed) as a hitting signal. The hitting signal is converted into a packet format by the calling lamp 110 and then transmitted to the management computer 30 via the calling lamp 110, the stand computer 70, and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can recognize that the game ball is launched toward the game board surface 131 in the gaming machine 130 by receiving the packet including the information of the ball signal, By counting the number of packets including the above information, it is possible to acquire information on the amount of game balls that have been launched (the number of hit balls).

  In addition, when the gaming machine 130 detects various abnormalities (errors), the gaming machine 130 shifts the gaming state to the error state, and displays an operation signal (error signal) indicating that the gaming state is in the error state as a call lamp 110. Output from the external output terminal.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4 (h), as an error signal, an off signal is changed to an on signal when an error state occurs, and the error state is released (when a non-error state is entered). ) Outputs a signal for changing the ON signal to the OFF signal. The error signal is converted into a packet format by the call lamp 110 and then transmitted to the management computer 30 via the call lamp 110, the stand computer 70, and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can grasp the start and end of the error state in the gaming machine 130 by receiving the packet including the error signal information.

  Here, errors that can be detected in the gaming machine 130 include, for example, a magnet error when detecting abnormal magnetism, a radio wave error when detecting abnormal radio waves, a vibration error when detecting vibrations, Unauthorized winning errors such as when a game ball wins a variable winning opening 136 at times other than small hits, illegal payout error when the number of balls exceeds the specified value, door opening error when the door is opened, glass Glass opening error when opened, ball clogging error when game ball is clogged in winning opening or starting port, various sensors (for example, ball detection sensors arranged at the entrance of winning opening or starting port) are broken Sensor error, communication error when an abnormality occurs in communication between control units, power supply error when an abnormality occurs in the power supply system, and the like.

  Note that the operation signal of the gaming machine 130 described in the present embodiment is an example, and the operation signal varies depending on the type and model of the gaming machine. Therefore, for example, based on the operation signal (time signal) indicating that the time is short, or when the outbox is full and cannot be counted by the ball counter, the theory is based on the ball information that the gaming machine has. The operation signal includes an operation signal (winning safe signal) for outputting the above number of balls played (theoretical number of balls), an operation signal (replenishment signal) indicating the number of game media supplemented to the gaming machine 130, etc. May be.

  In addition, the gaming machine 130 according to the present embodiment only needs to have a function of transmitting an operation signal indicating the operation state of the gaming machine 130 to the outside. For example, a pachislot machine ( Slot machines), pachislot machines that use pachinko game balls as game media (so-called pachilot machines), and enclosed game machines that circulate and use game balls enclosed in the game machine 130). . In the case of an enclosed game machine, signals that are the same as or similar to some or all of the various signals output from the pachinko machine are output.

  For example, when a slot machine is adopted as the gaming machine 130, an operation signal indicating that a BB game or an RB game is started, an operation signal indicating that the AT is being performed, an operation signal indicating that the reel is rotating, An operation signal indicating that the start lever has been operated, an operation signal indicating that the stop button (stop button) has been operated, an operation signal indicating that a game medal has been inserted, and an operation indicating that a game medal has been bet A signal, an operation signal indicating that a game medal has been paid out, an operation signal indicating that an internal lottery has been performed, an operation signal indicating that a winning combination has been determined, and the like may be output.

  Also, hopper error when abnormality occurs in the hopper for storing game medals, payout error when the number of payout medals exceeds the specified number, door open error when the door is opened, game medals clogged Medal clogging error, sensor error when various sensors (for example, medal detection sensor installed at medal slot) fail, communication error when communication between control units fails, power supply system error A power error operation signal may be output in the event of a failure.

<Control unit>
Next, the circuit configuration of the control unit of the gaming machine 130 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The control unit of the gaming machine 130 is roughly divided into a main control unit 150 that controls the central part of the game and a command signal (hereinafter simply referred to as “command”) transmitted by the main control unit 150. A sub-control unit 170 that controls the game, a pay-out control unit 210 that mainly performs control related to pay-out of game balls in response to a command transmitted by the main control unit 150, a launch control unit 230 that controls the launch of game balls, It is constituted by. The configuration of the control unit is not limited to this example, and the gaming machine 130 may be configured with a smaller number of control units than the present example, or may be configured with a greater number of control units than the present example. May be.

<Main control unit>
The main control unit 150 includes a basic circuit (microcomputer) 151 that controls the entire main control unit 150. The basic circuit 151 includes a CPU 152, a ROM 153 for storing control programs and various data, A RAM 154 for temporarily storing data, an I / O 155 for controlling input / output of various devices, and a counter timer 156 for measuring time and frequency are mounted. Note that the ROM 153 and the RAM 154 may be built in the CPU 152 (the same applies to other CPUs).

  Further, the basic circuit 151 includes a counter circuit 158 that changes a numerical value every time a clock signal output from the crystal oscillator 157 is received, and various sensors 159 (for example, games that pass through each start port, winning port, and variable winning port). A sensor circuit 160 that receives a signal output from a sphere detection sensor for detecting a sphere, etc., and a drive for performing display control of various symbol display devices 161 (for example, a special figure display device or a general-purpose display device). A circuit 162, a drive circuit 164 for performing display control of various status display units 163 (for example, a general map holding lamp, a special map holding lamp, etc.), and various movable members (for example, a blade member of the special chart starting port 135) And a drive circuit 166 for controlling various solenoids 165 for opening and closing a door member of the variable prize opening 136).

  Further, the information output circuit 167 is connected to the basic circuit 151, and as described above, the main control unit 150 sends the operation information of the gaming machine 130 to the call lamp 110 via the external output terminal of the information output circuit 167. And unique information can be output.

  The main control unit 150 is provided with a start signal output circuit 168 that outputs a start signal (reset signal) when the power is turned on. The CPU 152 receives the start signal from the start signal output circuit 168. In such a case, game control to be described later is started. The main control unit 150 includes an output interface for transmitting a command to the sub-control unit 170 and an output interface for transmitting a command to the pay-out control unit 210. The sub-control unit 170 and the pay-out control unit Communication with 210 is possible.

<Sub control unit>
The sub-control unit 170 includes a basic circuit (microcomputer) 171 that mainly controls the sub-control unit 170 based on a command transmitted from the main control unit 150. The basic circuit 171 includes a CPU 172 and a CPU 172. ROM 173 for storing control programs and various effects data; RAM 174 for temporarily storing data; I / O 175 for controlling input / output of various devices; and for measuring time and frequency Counter timer 176 is mounted.

  The basic circuit 171 includes a sound source IC 178 for controlling the speaker 177, a drive circuit 179 for controlling various lamps 178, a sensor circuit 181 for receiving detection signals from the various sensors 180, an effect display, and the like. A liquid crystal display device 182 for performing the above is connected.

<Discharge control unit, launch control unit>
The payout control unit 210 controls a payout motor 211 that drives a payout device (not shown) based on a command or the like received from the main control unit 150 and a game based on a control signal output from the payout sensor 212. It detects whether or not the dispensing of the ball has been completed. The launch control unit 230 controls the launch motor 232 based on a control signal output from the payout control unit 210 and a control signal instructing the launch intensity according to the amount of operation of the ball launch handle 231 by the player.

<Unique information on gaming machines>
Next, the unique information stored in the gaming machine 130 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6A is a diagram showing an example of a memory map of the CPU 152 of the main control unit 150, and FIG. 6B is a diagram showing the configuration of the ROM area.

  The address / data signal line of the ROM 153 of the main controller 150 is assigned to an address corresponding to the ROM area of the CPU 152 (in this example, 0000H to 1FFFH), and the CPU 152 designates an address corresponding to this ROM area. As a result, data is read from the ROM 153.

  As shown in FIG. 5B, a control program storage area for storing a control program, a unique information storage area for storing unique information, and the like are allocated to the storage area of the ROM 153. Here, “unique information” refers to information unique to the gaming machine 130 stored in advance in the unique information storage area of the ROM 153, and is information that can uniquely determine the gaming machine 130.

  Examples of such unique information include a manufacturer code that can specify the manufacturer (manufacturer) of the gaming machine 130, a model code that can specify the model name and series name of the gaming machine 130, and the CPU 152. Such as a CPU identification number individually assigned to each, a checksum used to check the validity of the control program, an identification code preset by the manufacturer of the gaming machine 130, a MAC (Media Access Control) address, etc. Part or all. The unique information is preferably stored in a non-rewritable ROM 153 to prevent tampering, but may be stored in a rewritable storage means such as the RAM 154.

<Call lamp>
As shown in FIG. 3, a calling lamp 110 is provided on the upper part of the gaming machine 130. The calling lamp 110 is a display that performs a predetermined display (for example, blinking display) in response to a predetermined winning event (for example, a big hit game). In the present embodiment, an operation signal transmitted from the gaming machine 130, It also has transmission means for transmitting (transmitting) the unique information to the computer 70.

  Specifically, when the call lamp 110 receives an operation signal or unique information from the gaming machine 130, the call lamp 110 generates a packet (electronic message information) corresponding to the operation signal or unique information. In addition, identification information (unit number) that can specify the installation location of the game machine 130 that is the transmission source of the operation signal and the specific information is added to the received packet, and then transmitted to the computer 70.

  In the present embodiment, the machine number and the operation signal are transmitted by a single packet. For example, when a “hitting ball signal” is received from the gaming machine 130 with the machine number “101”, the calling lamp 110 A single packet including the information “number = 101, operation signal = ball signal” is generated and transmitted to the computer 70. When the unique information is received from the gaming machine 130 having the machine number “102”, the calling lamp 110 generates a single packet including the information “machine number = 102, unique information” and transmits the packet to the machine computer 70. (Details will be described later). Note that the specific method of realizing the machine number and the operation signal (or unique information) is not limited to this. For example, the machine number and the operation signal (or unique information) may be transmitted in separate packets, or the machine number may be transmitted. And an operation signal (or unique information) may be transmitted in the form of a pulse signal.

  In addition, when the call lamp 110 detects that the big signal received from the gaming machine 130 has changed from the off signal to the on signal (when the rising edge of the big signal is detected), the gaming state is the big hit state In order to set the gaming state information (hit state information) indicating that the game state is ON, generate a packet including this gaming state information (hit state information), and identify the gaming machine 130 that has transmitted the bonus signal Is added to the computer 70 and transmitted to the computer 70.

  On the other hand, when it is detected that the jackpot signal received from the gaming machine 130 has changed from an on signal to an off signal (when a falling edge of the jackpot signal is detected), game state information (jackpot status information) is displayed. Set to off, generate a packet including this gaming state information (hit state information), add identification information (unit number) for identifying the gaming machine 130 that has transmitted the jackpot signal, 70.

  In addition, when the call lamp 110 detects that the small win signal received from the gaming machine 130 has changed from the off signal to the on signal (when the rising edge of the small win signal is detected), the gaming state is small hit. The gaming state information (small hit state information) indicating the state is set to ON, a packet including the gaming state information (small hit state information) is generated, and the gaming machine 130 that has transmitted the small hit signal is Identification information (unit number) for identification is added and transmitted to the computer 70.

  On the other hand, when it is detected that the small win signal received from the gaming machine 130 has changed from an on signal to an off signal (when a falling edge of the small win signal is detected), gaming state information (small hit state information) Is set to OFF, and a packet including this gaming state information (small hit state information) is generated, and identification information (unit number) for identifying the gaming machine 130 that has transmitted the hitting signal is added, To the computer 70.

  Further, when the call lamp 110 detects that the probability variation signal received from the gaming machine 130 has changed from the off signal to the on signal (when the rising edge of the probability variation signal is detected), the gaming state is the probability variation state. Identification information for identifying the gaming machine 130 that has transmitted the probability variation signal and generates a packet including the gaming state information (probability variation state information). (Station number) is added and transmitted to the computer 70.

  On the other hand, when it is detected that the probability variation signal received from the gaming machine 130 has changed from the on signal to the off signal (when the falling edge of the probability variation signal is detected), the gaming state information (probability variation state information) is turned off. A packet including this game state information (probability change state information) is generated, and identification information (unit number) for identifying the gaming machine 130 that has transmitted the probability change signal is added to the base computer 70. To do.

  In addition, when the call lamp 110 detects that the error signal received from the gaming machine 130 has changed from the off signal to the on signal (when the rising edge of the error signal is detected), the gaming state is an error state. Identification information for identifying the gaming machine 130 that has transmitted the error signal and generates a packet including the gaming state information (error state information). (Station number) is added and transmitted to the computer 70.

  On the other hand, when it is detected that the error signal received from the gaming machine 130 has changed from the on signal to the off signal (when the falling edge of the error signal is detected), the gaming state information (error state information) is turned off. Set and generate a packet including this gaming state information (error state information), add identification information (unit number) for identifying the gaming machine 130 that transmitted the error signal, and transmit to the computer 70 To do.

  In the present embodiment, the call lamp 110 has a function of transmitting the operation signal and the specific information received from the gaming machine 130 to the computer 70, but the function other than the call lamp 110 is provided. Alternatively, the operation signal and the specific information are directly transmitted from the gaming machine 130 to the stand computer 70 (or the island computer 50), and the stand signal computer 70 (or the island computer 50) converts the operation signal and the unique information into a packet. You may comprise so that a process may be performed.

  In addition to the gaming machine 130, the call lamp 110 may be configured to be able to transmit an operation signal. For example, when a call button is provided near the call lamp 110 and the call button is pressed down, The call lamp 110 may be configured to transmit an operation signal (call signal) indicating whether or not the call button is pressed. Further, in this example, an example in which the call lamps 110 are provided in one-to-one correspondence with the gaming machines 130 is shown, but the correspondence relationship between the number of the calling lamps 110 and the gaming machines 130 is not limited thereto.

<Between machines>
Next, the interstage machine 90 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. In addition, FIG. 7 is a schematic front view of a general pedestal machine.

  The inter-machine 90 is a ball lending machine (sand) that lends game balls in response to the insertion of cash or a membership card. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, each gaming machine is adjacent to each gaming machine 130. One unit is installed for every 130 units. In addition, the related apparatus installed corresponding to each gaming machine 130 is not limited to the inter-machine 90, and for example, a card reader, a ball lending machine, a medal lending machine, a prize ball meter (award ball counting) And the like). Moreover, although the example which provides the game machine 130 on the one-to-one correspondence with the machine 90 was shown, the correspondence of the number of the machine between the machine 90 and the game machine 130 is not limited to this. That is, the inter-game machine 90 is not limited to the “CR unit” that requires one for each gaming machine 130 as in this example, but one for the two gaming machines 130. The “Nikoichi CR unit” that can be operated with a single machine, and an inter-vehicle machine that can operate with one or more of three or more gaming machines 130 are also included.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the inter-machine 90 includes a bill insertion slot 91, an IC coin insertion slot 92, an IC coin discharge slot 93, a member card insertion slot 94, a lamp 95, and the like. In addition, the intermediary machine 90 is a communication device for transmitting an operation signal (related apparatus operation signal) indicating the operation status (the number of sales balls, presence / absence of IC coins, etc.) to the management computer 30. (Not shown).

  The bill insertion slot 91 is an insertion slot into which a player inserts cash in order to receive rental of game balls. When cash is inserted into the bill insertion slot 91, the inter-machine 90 outputs a packet including information on an operation signal (payment signal) indicating that cash has been deposited from a communication device (not shown). The packet including the information of the deposit signal is transmitted to the management computer 30 via the base computer 70 and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can grasp that the cash is deposited in the inter-machine 90 by receiving the packet including the information of the deposit signal.

  The IC coin insertion port 92 and the IC coin discharge port 93 are openings for inserting and discharging IC coins. Here, the IC coin is a coin-type housing in which a storage medium is built in, and is used for making the number of game media stored as data and facilitating carrying by a player.

  When the player receives a ball lending with cash or IC coins, the inter-machine 90 indicates that the player has received a ball lending in a deposit state from a communication device (not shown), that is, sales have increased. A packet including information on an operation signal (sales signal) is output. In the present embodiment, every time the inter-vehicle machine 90 lends one game ball, it outputs one packet including sales signal information.

  The packet including the sales signal is transmitted to the management computer 30 via the stand computer 70 and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can recognize that the game ball has been lent out in the inter-machine 90 by receiving the packet including the sales signal, and count the number of packets including the sales signal. Thus, it is also possible to acquire information on the amount of rented game balls (number of sales balls). Note that the sales balls may be referred to as lent balls, and the number of sales balls may be referred to as the number of lent balls (including stored balls (withdrawals); the same applies hereinafter).

  In the present embodiment, an example is shown in which a packet including a sales signal is transmitted when a player receives a ball lending with cash or IC coin. However, a medium having a monetary value equivalent to cash or IC coin ( For example, a packet including a sales signal may be output when a player receives a ball loan using a credit card or electronic money.

  The membership card insertion slot 94 is an insertion slot that accepts insertion of a membership card (card-type recording medium) distributed in advance to members of the amusement store. In the present embodiment, card identification information is recorded on each member card, and when a player's member card is inserted into the member card insertion port 94 of the inter-machine 90, an internal communication from the member card insertion port 94 is established. The card reader (not shown) provided in the card is configured to read the card identification information of the member card.

  When the membership card is inserted into the membership card insertion slot 94, the inter-machine 90 receives a packet including information on an operation signal (member card insertion signal) indicating that the membership card has been inserted from a communication device (not shown). Output. The packet including the information of the membership card insertion signal is transmitted to the management computer 30 via the base computer 70 and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can recognize that the membership card has been inserted into the membership card insertion slot 94 in the inter-machine 90 by receiving the packet including the membership card insertion signal.

  In addition, when the card reader reads the card identification information of the member card, the inter-machine 90 receives information (operation card identification information) of an operation signal indicating information for identifying the member card from a communication device (not shown). Output including packet. The packet including the membership card identification information is transmitted to the management computer 30 via the base computer 70 and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can grasp the information for identifying the membership card by receiving the packet including the membership card identification information.

  In addition, when the storage ball based on the storage ball information associated with the membership card is paid out, the pedestal machine 90 receives an operation signal (a storage ball payout signal) indicating that the storage ball has been paid out from a communication device (not shown). Output a packet containing information. The packet including the information of the storage ball payout signal is transmitted to the management computer 30 via the table computer 70 and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can grasp that the storage ball based on the storage ball information associated with the membership card has been paid out in the intermediary machine 90 by receiving the packet including the information of the storage ball payout signal, In addition, by counting the number of packets including information on the stored ball payout signal, information on the number of stored balls can be acquired.

  In addition, when the membership card is ejected from the membership card insertion slot 94, the inter-machine 90 receives operation signal information (membership card ejection signal information) indicating that the membership card has been ejected from a communication device (not shown). Output including packet. The packet including the membership card discharge signal information is transmitted to the management computer 30 via the base computer 70 and the island computer 50. Therefore, the management computer 30 can recognize that the membership card has been ejected from the membership card insertion port 94 in the inter-stage machine 90 by receiving the packet including the membership card ejection signal information.

  In this embodiment, the member card identification information and the member card insertion signal / member card discharge signal are transmitted by a single packet. For example, when a member card whose card identification information is “01234” is inserted / extracted, the inter-machine 90 generates and transmits a packet including “insertion, 01234” information and “discharge, 01234” information. .

  However, the specific method of realizing the member card identification information, the member card insertion signal, and the member card discharge signal is not limited to this. For example, the member card identification information and the member card insertion signal / member card insertion signal may be transmitted in separate packets, or part or all of the operation information may be transmitted in the form of a pulse signal.

  The lamp 95 is for displaying the state of the corresponding gaming machine 130 and the inter-vehicle machine 90. In the present embodiment, when the member card is not ejected from the inter-vehicle machine 90, it functions as a notification means for displaying a predetermined color (for example, red) and notifying the user that the member card has been forgotten to be removed.

  In addition, the operation signal of the intermediary machine 90 demonstrated in this embodiment is an example, and an operation signal changes with kinds of intermediary machine. Therefore, an error signal indicating that an abnormality has occurred may be included in the operation signal depending on the type of the inter-machine.

<Machine / Main control unit main processing>
Next, the main process of the main control unit of the gaming machine 130 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8A is a flowchart illustrating an example of a main control unit main process executed by the CPU 152 of the main control unit 150 of the gaming machine 130.

  The main control unit main process is a part of a process executed by a control program stored in advance in the ROM 153 of the main control unit 150. For example, when a start signal (reset signal) is input from the start signal output circuit 168 (see FIG. 5), the CPU 152 of the main control unit 150 starts execution from the initial setting process in step S101. This initial setting process will be described later. After the initial setting process, the game control process is repeatedly executed in step S102.

<Game machine / initial setting process>
Next, the initial setting process (step S101) in the main control unit main process will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8B is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the initial setting process.

  In step S201 of the initial setting process, the unique information stored in the unique information storage area of the ROM 153 is acquired, and the acquired unique information is output from the external output terminal of the information output circuit 167 to the calling lamp 110, and then in step S202. Proceed to In step S202, for example, after a process for initializing a part of the storage area of the RAM 154 to 0 or a process for setting an initial value for a part of the storage area of the RAM 154, the process is terminated.

<Amusement machine management database>
Next, a gaming machine management database stored in the storage device 36 of the management computer 30 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of gaming machine management data stored in the gaming machine management database.

  In this game machine management data, an island number, a unique information reception flag, a unique information collation completion flag, a unique information change flag, unique information 1 to 3, a batting counter, a withdrawal counter, and a sales counter are associated with the machine number. A start counter, a big counter, a small counter, and a start counter are stored. Here, the machine number is identification information (ID) for identifying each gaming machine 130, and in this example, the call lamp 110 is configured to give a positive integer of a serial number starting from 101 to the packet. doing. The island number is identification information (ID) for identifying the gaming machine island to which each gaming machine 130 belongs. In this example, the island computer 50 gives a positive integer of a serial number starting from 1 to the packet. It is configured.

  The unique information reception flag is a flag indicating whether or not unique information has been received from the gaming machine 130, and is a flag that is set to ON when it is determined that unique information has been received in packet processing to be described later. The unique information matching completion flag is a flag indicating whether or not the matching process of the unique information received from the gaming machine 130 is completed, and is set to ON after the unique information matching process is completed in the unique information matching process described later. Flag to be The unique information change flag is a flag indicating whether or not the unique information received from the gaming machine 130 has changed, and is a flag that is set to ON when it is determined that the unique information has been changed in the unique information matching process described later. It is.

  The unique information 1 to 3 is information unique to the gaming machine 130 described above. In this example, in the packet processing to be described later, a manufacturer code is stored as the unique information 1, a model code is stored as the unique information 2, and CPU identification information is stored as the unique information 3. The unique information is not limited to the three types in this example, and other unique information may be stored instead of (or in addition to) these unique information.

  The hitting counter is a counter for managing the number of game balls (the number of hitting balls) launched on the gaming board surface 131 in each gaming machine 130, and is sent from each gaming machine 130 in packet processing to be described later. Addition processing is performed based on the ball signal. The exit counter is a counter for managing the number of game balls paid out in the gaming machine 130 (number of exits), and is based on the exit signal transmitted from each gaming machine 130 in packet processing to be described later. To add. The sales counter is a counter for managing the number of game balls lent out (number of sales balls) rented out in the inter-machine 90, and is based on the sales signal transmitted from each inter-machine 90 in packet processing to be described later. Addition processing is performed.

  The start counter is a counter for managing the number of winnings at the general figure start port 134 or the special figure start port 135 in the gaming machine 130, and is based on a start signal transmitted from each gaming machine 130 in packet processing to be described later. Addition processing is performed. The big win counter is a counter for managing the number of big hit games in the gaming machine 130, and performs addition processing based on the big win signal transmitted from each gaming machine 130 in packet processing to be described later.

  The allowance counter is a counter for managing the number of small hit games in the gaming machine 130, and performs addition processing based on the allowance signal transmitted from each gaming machine 130 in packet processing to be described later. The start counter is a counter for managing the number of times that the special symbol display device has stopped and displayed the symbols in the gaming machine 130. In the packet processing described later, an addition process is performed based on the start signal transmitted from each gaming machine 130. Do.

  For example, in the example shown in FIG. 9, the unique information 1 of the machine number 101 / island number 1 is A, the unique information 2 is A-1, and the unique information 3 is the CPU 1. Also, the number of hits at a certain point of the game machine is 100, the number of balls is 100, the number of sales is 1000, the number of starts is 1, the big hit game is 3, the small hit game is 4 times, It represents that the number of symbol variations is nine.

<Management computer / main processing>
Next, processing executed by the management computer 30 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of main processing executed by the CPU 31 of the management computer 30.

  This main process is a part of a process executed by a program (application) stored in advance in a storage unit (for example, the storage device 36) of the management computer 30. The CPU 31 of the management computer 30 starts execution from the initial setting process in step S301, for example, when an instruction to execute the program is given by the input device 37.

  In the initial setting process in step S301, for example, a process for initializing a part of the storage area of the RAM 33 (a number counter or various flags described later) to 0, or a process for setting an initial value in a part of the storage area of the RAM 33. In addition, processing for displaying an initial screen on the display device 38, processing for permitting communication with the island computer 50 by executing the initial setting of the communication unit 39, and the like are performed.

  In step S302, after performing packet processing, the process proceeds to step S303. Although details will be described later, in this packet processing, it is determined whether or not the communication unit 39 has received a packet from the island computer 50, and when the packet is received, the gaming machine management data is updated according to the content of the packet. Perform processing.

  In step S303, unique information matching processing is performed. Although details will be described later, in this unique information collation process, unique information received from the gaming machine 130 is collated. In step S304, a table movement determination process is performed. Although details will be described later, in this table movement determination process, a model change of the gaming machine 130, a table replacement determination, or the like is performed based on the result of the unique information matching process in step S303. In step S305, the number change determination process is performed. Although details will be described later, in this number change determination process, an increase / decrease in the number of gaming machines 130 is determined based on the result of the unique information matching process in step S303.

  In step S306, after performing other processes, the process returns to the packet process in step S302. Thereafter, the CPU 31 of the management computer 30 repeatedly executes the processes of steps S302 to S306 unless there is an instruction to terminate the execution of the program by the input device 37 or the like. Note that the order of the processes in steps S302 to S306 is not limited to this example, and the order of the steps may be changed.

<Management computer / packet processing>
Next, packet processing (step S302) in the main processing of the management computer will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of packet processing.

  In step S401, it is determined whether or not the communication unit 39 has received a packet from the island computer 50. If it has not been received, the process is terminated. If it has been received, the process proceeds to the next step S402.

  In step S402, it is determined whether or not the received packet includes unique information. If unique information is included, the process proceeds to step S403. If unique information is not included, the process proceeds to step S406. . In step S403, the machine number included in the packet is acquired and stored in the RAM 33. In the next step S404, the unique information included in the packet is acquired and stored in the RAM 33. In step S405, among the unique information reception flags stored in the gaming machine management database, the unique information reception flag corresponding to the machine number acquired in step S403 is set to ON, and the process proceeds to step S409.

  In step S406, the machine number included in the packet is obtained and stored in the RAM 33. In the next step S407, the machine number obtained in step S406 is stored in the unique information matching completion flag stored in the gaming machine management database. The corresponding unique information matching completion flag is referenced to determine whether the unique information matching completion flag is on or off. As a result of the determination, if the specific information collation completion flag is on, the process proceeds to step S408, and if it is off, the process proceeds to step S409.

  That is, in this example, only the gaming machine 130 for which the unique information matching process has been completed proceeds to the next step S408, and the corresponding various counters (gaming machine operating information) are updated. With such a configuration, it is possible to record only reliable operation information among the operation information transmitted to the management computer 30, so that accurate operation information can be collected. Therefore, it is possible to perform analysis with higher accuracy than in the past.

  In step S408, information on the operation signal included in the packet is acquired, and 1 is added to the counter corresponding to the machine number and the operation signal among a plurality of types of counters stored in the gaming machine management database, and then in step S409. Proceed to Specifically, when the operation signal is “hitting ball signal”, 1 is added to the hitting counter corresponding to the acquired stand number, and when the operation signal is “out of ball signal”, the acquired stand 1 is added to the payout counter corresponding to the number, and 1 is added to the sales counter corresponding to the acquired car number when the operation signal is “sales signal” or “save ball payout signal”.

  When the operation signal is “start signal”, 1 is added to the start counter corresponding to the acquired unit number, and when the operation signal is “big signal”, the large number corresponding to the acquired unit number is added. Add 1 to this counter. When the operating signal is a “small signal”, 1 is added to the small counter corresponding to the acquired unit number, and when the operating signal is a “start signal”, it corresponds to the acquired unit number. Add 1 to the start counter.

  In step S409, it is determined whether or not the processing for all packets received by the communication unit 39 has been completed. If the processing has not been completed, the process returns to step S402 to continue processing the remaining packets. Then, the process ends.

<Management computer / unique information matching process>
Next, the unique information matching process (step S303) in the main process of the management computer will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the unique information matching process.

  In step S501, the initial value of the machine number of the gaming machine 130 (101, which is the minimum value of the machine number in this embodiment) is set in the machine number counter stored in the RAM 33. In step S502, it is determined whether the unique information reception flag corresponding to the machine number is on or off. If it is off (if no unique information is received from the gaming machine 130 corresponding to the machine number), the process ends. If it is ON (if the unique information is received from the gaming machine 130 corresponding to the machine number), the process proceeds to step S503.

  In step S503, the gaming machine management database is referenced to determine whether or not the unique information 1 to 3 corresponding to the machine number has already been stored (registered). As a result of this determination, if the unique information 1 to 3 has already been stored (registered), the process proceeds to step S505, and if not yet stored (registered), the process proceeds to step S504.

  In step S504, the unique information corresponding to the machine number stored in the RAM 33 by the packet processing described above is stored (registered) in the corresponding storage area of the gaming machine management database, and the process proceeds to step S505. As a result, the latest unique information received from the gaming machine 130 is automatically stored (not manually) in the unique information 1 to 3 corresponding to the machine number in the gaming machine management database. For this reason, in the new machine registration and the like, the registration work of the gaming machine can be shortened, and registration mistakes and forgotten registration can be prevented in advance.

  In step S505, 1 is added to the number counter stored in the RAM 33. In step S506, it is determined whether or not the unique information corresponding to the machine number stored in the RAM 33 by the packet processing described above matches the unique information stored in the corresponding storage area of the gaming machine management database. If so, the process proceeds to step S507, and if not, the process proceeds to step S508. In step S507, the unique information change flag stored in the RAM 33 is turned off and then the process proceeds to step S509. In step S508, the unique information change flag is turned on and then the process proceeds to step S509. In step S509, after the unique information collation completion flag is set to ON, the process proceeds to step S510.

  In step S510, 1 is added to the machine number counter, and in the next step S511, whether the machine number counter after the addition exceeds the maximum value that the machine number can take (the maximum number of gaming machines 130 managed by the game store). It is determined whether or not the unique information matching process for all the gaming machines 130 has been completed. As a result of the determination, if the machine number counter does not exceed the maximum value that the machine number can take (if the unique information matching process for all the gaming machines 130 has not been completed), the process returns to step S503 and the process is continued. When the machine number counter exceeds the maximum value that can be taken by the machine number (when the unique information collation process for all the gaming machines 130 is completed), the process ends.

<Management computer / base movement determination processing>
Next, the table movement determination process (step S304) in the main process of the management computer will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of the table movement determination process.

  In step S601, the initial value of the machine number of the gaming machine 130 (101, which is the minimum value of the machine number in this embodiment) is set in the machine number counter stored in the RAM 33. In step S602, it is determined whether the unique information change flag corresponding to the machine number is on or off. If it is off (if the unique information of the gaming machine 130 corresponding to the machine number has not changed), the process proceeds to step S607. If it is on (if the unique information of the gaming machine 130 corresponding to the machine number has changed), the process proceeds to step S603.

  In step S603, unique information confirmation processing is performed. In this unique information confirmation processing, the display device 38 or the like is used to display the machine number, island number, corresponding unique information, and display that the unique information has changed. By performing such a display, it is possible to immediately grasp that the gaming machine 130 installed in the gaming store does not match the gaming machine information registered in the management computer 30.

  Further, in this unique information confirmation process, a confirmation display as to whether or not to store (register) the unique information corresponding to the machine number stored in the RAM 33 in the packet processing described above in the corresponding storage area of the gaming machine management database; A display prompting the operation of the input device 37 is performed. With this confirmation display, it is possible to make a decision as to whether or not to update the unique information of the management computer 30 to the unique information transmitted from the gaming machine 130. It can be shortened, and registration mistakes and forgotten registrations can be prevented.

  In addition, when the information to be stored is selected by operating the input device 37 after the confirmation display, the unique information corresponding to the machine number stored in the RAM 33 by the packet processing described above is stored in the corresponding game machine management database. After performing the process of storing in the storage area, 1 is added to the number counter. With such a configuration, even when there is a model change or a stand replacement of the gaming machine 130, the unique information of the gaming machine can be easily changed, and convenience can be improved. In addition, when there is a mistake in changing the model of the gaming machine 130 or replacing the stand, it is possible to take an appropriate action without updating the unique information of the gaming machine.

  In step S604, after the unique information change flag corresponding to the machine number is set to OFF, the process proceeds to step S605. In step S605, 1 is added to the machine number counter, and in the next step S606, whether the machine number counter after the addition exceeds the maximum value that the machine number can take (the maximum number of gaming machines 130 managed by the game store). No, that is, whether or not the table movement determination process for all the gaming machines 130 is completed. As a result of the determination, if the machine number counter does not exceed the maximum value that the machine number can take (if the machine movement judgment process for all the gaming machines 130 has not been completed), the process returns to step S603 and the process is continued. When the machine number counter exceeds the maximum value that the machine number can take (when the machine movement determination process for all the gaming machines 130 is completed), the process ends.

  In step S607, unique information matching display processing is performed. In this unique information matching display processing, the display device 38 or the like is used to display the machine number, island number, and corresponding unique information, and the newly received unique information matches the unique information stored in the gaming machine management database. A message to the effect is displayed. By performing such display, it is possible to immediately grasp that the gaming machine installed in the gaming store matches the gaming machine registered in the management computer. For this reason, the registration work of the gaming machine can be shortened when replacing the table, and a registration error or forgotten registration can be prevented.

<Management computer / number change judgment processing>
Next, the number change determination process (step S305) in the main process of the management computer will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the number change determination process.

  In step S701, it is determined whether or not the value of the number counter stored in the RAM 33 is the same as the value obtained by subtracting 1 from the number counter stored in the RAM 33 (the maximum number of gaming machines 130 managed by the game store). If both are the same, it is determined that there is no change in the number of installed gaming machines 130, and the process ends. On the other hand, if both are not the same, the process proceeds to step S702.

  In step S702, it is determined whether or not the value of the number counter is larger than the value obtained by subtracting 1 from the machine number counter (the maximum number of gaming machines 130 managed by the game store). If applicable, the process proceeds to step S703. If NO in step S704, the flow advances to step S704. In step S703, the number increase confirmation process is performed. In the number increase confirmation process, display indicating that the number of gaming machines 130 has increased is performed using the display device 38 or the like. By performing such a display, it is possible to confirm the increase in the number of gaming machines installed in the gaming store on the management computer side, so it is possible to shorten the registration work of gaming machines when adding gaming machines. Registration errors and forgotten registrations can be prevented.

  In step S704, the number reduction confirmation process is performed. In this number decrease confirmation process, a display indicating that the number of gaming machines 130 has decreased is performed using the display device 38 or the like. By performing such a display, it is possible to confirm the decrease in the number of gaming machines installed in the gaming store on the management computer side, so it is possible to shorten the registration work of gaming machines when removing gaming machines. Registration errors and forgotten registrations can be prevented.

<Specific examples of gaming machine management>
Next, a specific example of gaming machine management will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 15 is a diagram schematically showing an installation state of the gaming machine in the gaming store. In the figure, for convenience of explanation, an example in which up to four gaming machines can be installed on one gaming machine island is shown, but the number of gaming machine islands and gaming machines in a gaming store, the arrangement, etc. It goes without saying that is not limited to this example.

  FIG. 15A shows a state where the gaming machine 130 is not installed. In this example, it is configured so that a maximum of four gaming machines 130 can be installed on the gaming machine island with island number 1, and each of the gaming machines 130 is provided with 101 to 104 machine numbers in advance. ing. These machine numbers 101 to 104 are stored in the call lamps 110 (see FIG. 1) provided one-to-one with respect to each of the gaming machines 130. After a corresponding machine number (any one of 101 to 104 in this example) is added to the received packet, the packet and machine number information is transmitted to the machine computer 70. The machine number can be changed to an arbitrary value at the game store.

<Examples of gaming machine management / new machine registration>
Next, an example of new machine registration will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 16 is a sequence chart showing an example of a flow of packets transmitted from the gaming machine 130 to the management computer 30 when new machine registration is performed.

  FIG. 15B shows a state where three gaming machines 130 are newly installed at the installation locations of the machine numbers 101 to 103 in the gaming machine island of the island number 1. In this example, the unique information 1 (maker code) of the gaming machine number 101 is A, the unique information 2 (model code) is A-1, and the unique information 3 (CPU identification information) is CPU1. Also, the unique information 1 (maker code) of the gaming machine with the machine number 102 is B, the unique information 2 (model code) is B-1, and the unique information 3 (CPU identification information) is CPU2. Further, the unique information 1 (maker code) of the gaming machine number 103 is C, the unique information 2 (model code) is C-1, and the unique information 3 (CPU identification information) is CPU3.

  As shown in FIG. 16, when power is turned on to the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 101, the gaming machine 130 starts executing the initial setting process in the main process of the main control unit, and is stored in advance in its own ROM 153. Specific information (in this example, unique information 1 = A, unique information 2 = A-1, unique information 3 = CPU1) is output to the call lamp 110. Upon receiving this unique information, the calling lamp 110 generates a packet including the unique information, adds a machine number (101 in this example) for identifying the gaming machine 130 that is the transmission source of the unique information, The packet is transmitted to the base computer 70.

  Subsequently, the computer 70 that has received the packet including the unique information and the machine number stores the received packet in the RAM 73, and the island computer communication unit 75 of the machine computer 70 reads the packet stored in the RAM 73, and The identification information (ID) of the base computer 70 is given to the island computer 50 and then transmitted to the island computer 50.

  Subsequently, the island computer 50 that has received the packet including the unique information and the machine number stores the received packet in the RAM 53, and the management computer communication unit 55 of the island computer 50 reads the packet stored in the RAM 53, and The island number (1 in this example) of the island computer 50 is assigned to the management computer 30 and then transmitted to the management computer 30.

  Subsequently, since the management computer 30 has received the packet including the unique information from the island computer 50, the management computer 30 sets the unique information reception flag to ON in the packet processing described above. At this point, since the unique information matching process has not been completed (because the unique information matching completion flag is off), even if a packet including a gaming machine operation signal is received from the gaming machine 130, various counters Do not update (such as hitting ball counter).

  Subsequently, the management computer 30 executes the process when the unique information reception flag is on in the unique information collation process described above. In this example, the unique information 1 to 3 corresponding to the machine number 101 is still stored ( Since it is not registered, the unique information (in this example, unique information 1 = A, unique information 2 = A-1, unique information 3 = CPU1) corresponding to the machine number 101 is stored in the gaming machine management database. The number counter is updated from 0 to 1 by adding 1 to the number counter.

  Similarly, for the gaming machine with the machine number 102, the unique number of the gaming machine with the machine number 102 (in this example, the unique information 1 = B and the unique information 2 = B-1) when the power to the gaming machine is turned on. , The packet including the unique information 3 = CPU 2) is transmitted through the route of the call lamp 110 → the computer 70 → the island computer 50 → the management computer 30. Further, the management computer 30 that has received the packet including the unique information has not yet stored (registered) the unique information 1 to 3 corresponding to the machine number 102, and therefore manages the unique information corresponding to the machine number 102. While storing in the database, the number counter is updated from 1 to 2 by adding 1 to the number counter.

  Similarly, for the gaming machine with the machine number 103, the unique number of the gaming machine with the machine number 103 (in this example, the unique information 1 = C and the unique information 2 = C-1) when the power to the gaming machine is turned on. , The packet including the unique information 3 = CPU 3) is transmitted through the route of the call lamp 110 → the computer 70 → the island computer 50 → the management computer 30. In addition, the management computer 30 that has received the packet including the unique information has not yet stored (registered) the unique information 1 to 3 corresponding to the machine number 103, and therefore manages the unique information corresponding to the machine number 103 for gaming machine management. While storing in the database, the number counter is updated from 2 to 3 by adding 1 to the number counter.

  As described above, in this example, the unique information of the three newly installed gaming machines 130 can be automatically registered (regardless of the manual operation), so that the manual registration operation is not required and the convenience is improved. Can be increased.

  In this example, for convenience of explanation, an example is shown in which power is turned on in the order of the gaming machine with the machine number 101 → the gaming machine with the machine number 102 → the gaming machine with the machine number 103. There is no limitation, and all the gaming machines may be turned on simultaneously. In addition, there is no particular limitation on the power-on opportunity, and examples include power-on when a game shop is opened, power-on to eliminate a malfunction of a gaming machine, power-on due to a power failure, etc. .

  As described above, the gaming management device according to the present example includes a gaming machine (for example, the gaming machine 130), a gaming facility device (for example, the call lamp 110) that can communicate with the gaming machine, and the gaming facility device. In a gaming management device configured to include a communicable management computer (for example, management computer 30), the gaming machine has unique information (for example, unique information 1) that can uniquely determine the gaming machine. To 3), a gaming machine storage means (for example, ROM 153), and a gaming machine transmission means (for example, information output circuit 167) capable of transmitting the unique information to the management computer. The equipment device is a gaming equipment device transmission means (for example, a call lamp 110) capable of transmitting a machine number capable of specifying an installation location of the gaming machine to the management computer. And a management computer receiving means capable of receiving at least the machine number and the unique information (for example, the communication unit 39), and the unique information received by the management computer receiving means, Registration means (for example, processing for storing unique information in step S504 of the unique information matching process shown in FIG. 12) registered in the management computer storage means (for example, the gaming machine management database of the storage means 36) in association with the machine number; It is provided with the game management apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned.

  According to such a game management device, based on information transmitted from a gaming machine or gaming equipment device, the gaming machine installed in the gaming store is automatically registered in the management computer (regardless of manpower). Can do. For this reason, in the new machine registration and the like, the registration work of the gaming machine can be shortened, and registration mistakes and forgotten registration can be prevented in advance.

  Further, the registration means determines in advance whether or not the unique information is stored in association with the machine number (for example, whether or not the unique information has been stored in step S503 of the unique information matching process shown in FIG. 12). If it is determined that it is not stored, the unique information may be stored in association with the machine number (for example, No in the determination in step S503 of the unique information matching process shown in FIG. 12). Process to proceed to).

  With such a configuration, since the unique information is registered only when there is unique information that is not registered in the management computer, the control burden on the management computer can be reduced and the processing speed can be increased. Can do.

  Further, the registration means determines in advance whether or not the unique information is stored in association with the unit number, and stores the specific information in association with the unit number when it is determined that the specific information is stored. (For example, the process proceeds to Yes in the determination in step S503 of the unique information matching process shown in FIG. 12).

  With such a configuration, since it is not necessary to register the unique information registered in the management computer again, the control burden on the management computer can be reduced and the processing speed can be increased.

  The gaming machine transmission means is configured to be capable of transmitting operating information indicating the operating state of the gaming machine (for example, gaming machine operating information such as a batting signal) to the management computer, and the management computer receiving means Is configured to receive the operation information, and the management computer records the operation information received by the management computer reception unit in the management computer storage unit in association with the machine number (for example, 11 is a process of adding 1 to the counter corresponding to the operation signal in step S408 of the packet processing), and whether or not the unique information of the gaming machine that has transmitted the operation information is registered in the management computer storage means The collation means for collating (for example, the unique information collation completion flag is turned on in step S407 of the packet processing shown in FIG. The operation information recording means uses only the operation information of the gaming machine that has been determined that the unique information of the verification means is registered as the unit number. The information may be recorded in the management computer storage means in association with each other.

  With such a configuration, it is possible to record only reliable operation information among the operation information transmitted to the management computer, so it is possible to collect accurate operation information and perform more accurate analysis. It can be performed.

  Further, the gaming machine transmission means may transmit the unique information to the management computer in one direction only once when the gaming machine is powered on.

  With such a configuration, it is possible to register the gaming machine automatically (without manual operation) simply by turning on the gaming machine, so that the registration work of the gaming machine can be shortened, registration errors and Forgetting registration can be prevented. In addition, the amount of communication data and the number of communications between the gaming machine and the management computer can be suppressed, and communication failures can be prevented. For this reason, a gaming machine can be managed appropriately in the management computer, and the reliability of the management computer can be improved.

<Examples of gaming machine management / model exchange>
Next, an example of model exchange of gaming machines will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 17 is a sequence chart showing an example of the flow of packets transmitted from the gaming machine 130 to the management computer 30 when the model change is performed.

  FIG. 15C shows a state in which the model change of one gaming machine 130 has been performed after three gaming machines 130 are newly installed. In this example, when the model change of the gaming machine with the machine number 101 is performed, the unique information 2 (model code) of the gaming machine is changed from A-1 to A-2, and the unique information 3 ( CPU identification information) is changed from CPU1 to CPU8.

  As shown in FIG. 17, in this example, when the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 101 is turned on, the unique number of the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 101 (in this example, the unique information 1 = A, the unique information 2 = A-2, unique information 3 = CPU 8) is transmitted through the route of the call lamp 110 → the computer 70 → the island computer 50 → the management computer 30.

  In addition, since the management computer 30 that has received the packet including the unique information has already stored the unique information 1 to 3 corresponding to the machine number 101, the unique information corresponding to the machine number 101 is stored in the unique information matching process described above. Is stored (registered), and it is determined whether or not the unique information matches.

  In this determination, it is determined whether or not the unique information corresponding to the machine number stored in the RAM 33 in the packet processing described above matches the unique information stored in the corresponding storage area of the gaming machine management database. In the example, the unique information newly received by the management computer 30 is the unique information 1 = A, the unique information 2 = A-2, and the unique information 3 = CPU 8, whereas the unique information is the machine number 101 in the gaming machine management database. The unique information stored correspondingly is unique information 1 = A, unique information 2 = A-1, and unique information 3 = CPU1. In this example, since the two pieces of unique information do not match, the unique information change flag is set to ON in the unique information matching process described above.

  Subsequently, since the unique information change flag is on, the management computer 30 performs the unique information confirmation process in the above-described table movement determination process. In this unique information confirmation process, using the display device 38 or the like, the machine number (101 in this example), the island number (1 in this example), the corresponding unique information (in this example, unique information 1 = A, Display unique information 2 = A-2, unique information 3 = CPU 8), display that the unique information has changed, and the like.

  By performing such display, the manager of the game shop can easily grasp that the unique information 2 and 3 has changed in the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 101. It is possible to take action according to the situation, such as visually checking the model of the machine 130. Further, by displaying the unique information, a more appropriate response can be performed, and for example, the number of the same model can be easily grasped.

  Similarly, for the gaming machine with the machine number 102, the unique number of the gaming machine with the machine number 102 (in this example, the unique information 1 = B and the unique information 2 = B-1) when the power to the gaming machine is turned on. , The packet including the unique information 3 = CPU 2) is transmitted through the route of the call lamp 110 → the computer 70 → the island computer 50 → the management computer 30. In this example, the unique information newly received by the management computer 30 is the unique information 1 = B, the unique information 2 = B−1, and the unique information 3 = CPU2, whereas the machine number 102 in the gaming machine management database. The unique information stored corresponding to is unique information 1 = B, unique information 2 = B−1, unique information 3 = CPU 2 and the two unique information matches. The unique information change flag is set off.

  Subsequently, since the unique information change flag is off, the management computer 30 performs unique information matching display processing in the above-described table movement determination processing. In this unique information matching display process, the display device 38 or the like is used to set the machine number (102 in this example), the island number (1 in this example), and the corresponding unique information (in this example, unique information 1 = B The unique information 2 = B-1 and the unique information 3 = CPU 2) are displayed, and the newly received unique information is matched with the unique information stored in the gaming machine management database. By performing such a display, the manager of the game shop can easily confirm that there is no abnormality in the gaming machine 130, so that convenience can be improved. In addition, about the gaming machine of the machine number 103, since the process similar to the gaming machine of the machine number 102 is performed, the description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In this example, the example of model change is shown. For example, when the ROM of the gaming machine with the machine number 101 is exchanged from the regular ROM to the unauthorized ROM by an unauthorized act, the unique information 3 (CPU identification) of the gaming machine is changed. For example, a case where only (information) is changed from the CPU 1 to the CPU 10 can be considered.

  In this case, in the unique information confirmation processing, using the display device 38 or the like, the machine number (101 in this example), the island number (1 in this example), the corresponding unique information (in this example, unique information 1 = A, unique information 2 = A-1, unique information 3 = CPU 10), and a display indicating that the unique information has changed.

  By performing such a display, the manager of the gaming store can easily grasp that the unique information 3 has changed in the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 101. For example, the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 101 It is possible to take measures according to the situation, such as visually checking the ROM. In addition, by displaying the unique information, it is possible to take a more appropriate response, for example, it is possible to find a fraudulent act such as replacing the legitimate ROM of the gaming machine 130 with a fraudulent ROM, and prevent fraud can do.

<Examples of gaming machine management / car replacement>
Next, with reference to FIG. 15 (d) and FIG. FIG. 18 is a sequence chart illustrating an example of a flow of packets transmitted from the gaming machine 130 to the management computer 30 when the table replacement is performed.

  FIG. 15D shows a state in which two gaming machines 130 are replaced after three gaming machines 130 are newly installed. In this example, the exchange of the gaming machine with the machine number 101 and the gaming machine with the machine number 102 causes the unique information corresponding to the machine number 101 and the unique number corresponding to the machine number 102 to be switched.

  As shown in FIG. 18, in this example, when the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 101 is turned on, the unique number of the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 101 (in this example, the unique information 1 = B, the unique information 2 = B−1, unique information 3 = CPU 2) is transmitted through the route of the call lamp 110 → the computer 70 → the island computer 50 → the management computer 30.

  In addition, since the management computer 30 that has received the packet including the unique information has already stored the unique information 1 to 3 corresponding to the machine number 101, the unique information corresponding to the machine number 101 is stored in the unique information matching process described above. Is stored (registered), and it is determined whether or not the unique information matches.

  In this determination, it is determined whether or not the unique information corresponding to the machine number stored in the RAM 33 in the packet processing described above matches the unique information stored in the corresponding storage area of the gaming machine management database. In the example, the unique information newly received by the management computer 30 is the unique information 1 = B, the unique information 2 = B−1, and the unique information 3 = CPU2, whereas the unique information 1 = B-1 and the unique information 3 = CPU2 in the gaming machine management database. The unique information stored correspondingly is unique information 1 = A, unique information 2 = A-1, and unique information 3 = CPU1. In this example, since the two pieces of unique information do not match, the unique information change flag is set to ON in the unique information matching process described above.

  Subsequently, since the unique information change flag is on, the management computer 30 performs the unique information confirmation process in the above-described table movement determination process. In this unique information confirmation processing, using the display device 38 or the like, the machine number (101 in this example), the island number (1 in this example), the corresponding unique information (in this example, unique information 1 = B, Display of unique information 2 = B-1 and unique information 3 = CPU 2) and display that the unique information has changed.

  By performing such a display, the manager of the game shop can easily grasp that the model of the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 101 has been changed. It is possible to respond according to the situation. Further, by displaying the unique information, a more appropriate response can be performed, for example, the model after the table replacement can be easily grasped, and convenience can be improved.

  As shown in FIG. 18, in this example, when the power to the gaming machine 130 with the unit number 102 is turned on, the unique number of the gaming machine 130 with the unit number 102 (in this example, the unique information 1 = A, the unique number A packet including information 2 = A-1 and unique information 3 = CPU 1) is transmitted through the route of the call lamp 110 → the computer 70 → the island computer 50 → the management computer 30.

  In addition, since the management computer 30 that has received the packet including the unique information has already stored the unique information 1 to 3 corresponding to the machine number 102, the unique information corresponding to the machine number 102 in the unique information matching process described above. Is stored (registered), and it is determined whether or not the unique information matches.

  In this determination, it is determined whether or not the unique information corresponding to the machine number stored in the RAM 33 in the packet processing described above matches the unique information stored in the corresponding storage area of the gaming machine management database. In the example, the unique information newly received by the management computer 30 is the unique information 1 = A, the unique information 2 = A−1, and the unique information 3 = CPU1, whereas the unique information 1 = A-1 and the unique information 3 = CPU1. The unique information stored correspondingly is unique information 1 = B, unique information 2 = B-1, and unique information 3 = CPU2. In this example, since the two pieces of unique information do not match, the unique information change flag is set to ON in the unique information matching process described above.

  Subsequently, since the unique information change flag is on, the management computer 30 performs the unique information confirmation process in the above-described table movement determination process. In this unique information confirmation processing, using the display device 38 or the like, the machine number (102 in this example), the island number (1 in this example), the corresponding unique information (in this example, unique information 1 = A, Display of unique information 2 = A-1 and unique information 3 = CPU 1) and display that the unique information has changed.

  By performing such display, the manager of the game store can easily grasp that the model of the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 102 has been changed. For example, confirmation of the machine replacement, etc. It is possible to respond according to the situation. Further, by displaying the unique information, a more appropriate response can be performed, for example, the model after the table replacement can be easily grasped, and convenience can be improved. In this example, there is no change for the gaming machine with the machine number 103, and the description thereof is omitted.

  As described above, the gaming management device according to the present example includes a gaming machine (for example, the gaming machine 130), a gaming facility device (for example, the call lamp 110) that can communicate with the gaming machine, and the gaming facility device. In a gaming management device configured to include a communicable management computer (for example, management computer 30), the gaming machine has unique information (for example, unique information 1) that can uniquely determine the gaming machine. To 3), a gaming machine storage means (for example, ROM 153), and a gaming machine transmission means (for example, information output circuit 167) capable of transmitting the unique information to the management computer. The equipment device is a gaming equipment device transmission means (for example, a call lamp 110) capable of transmitting a machine number capable of specifying an installation location of the gaming machine to the management computer. And a management computer receiving means (for example, communication unit 39) capable of receiving at least the machine number and the unique information, and the unique information received by the management computer receiving means is Determination means for determining whether the specific information matches or does not match the specific information stored in the management computer storage means in association with the machine number (for example, the determination processing in step S506 of the specific information matching processing shown in FIG. 12); A game management device characterized by comprising:

  According to such a game management device, based on the information transmitted from the gaming machine or the gaming equipment device, whether or not the gaming machine installed in the gaming store matches the gaming machine registered in the management computer. It can be easily confirmed. For this reason, the registration work of the gaming machine can be shortened when replacing the table, and a registration error or forgotten registration can be prevented.

  In addition, a notification unit (for example, a display device 38) capable of notifying the determination result by the determination unit is provided, and the notification unit determines that the coincidence is determined when the unique information of the determination unit does not match. The management computer notifies the management computer storage means in association with the serial number when the management computer reception means notifies the fact that the notification means does not match. Confirmation means for confirming whether or not to store the information (for example, specific information confirmation processing executed in step S603 of the table movement determination processing shown in FIG. 13) may be provided.

  With such a configuration, it is possible to immediately know that the gaming machine installed in the gaming store does not match the gaming machine registered in the management computer, and the unique information of the management computer is stored in the gaming machine. It is possible to make a decision as to whether or not to update to the unique information transmitted from. For this reason, the registration work of the gaming machine can be shortened when replacing the table, and a registration error or forgotten registration can be prevented.

  In addition, the management computer includes an operation unit capable of accepting an operation, and the management computer receives the specific information received by the management computer reception unit in the unit number when a predetermined operation is performed by the operation unit. The information may be stored in the management computer storage means in association with each other.

  With such a configuration, the unique information of the management computer can be automatically updated (without human intervention) to the unique information transmitted from the gaming machine. For this reason, the registration work of the gaming machine can be shortened when replacing the table, and a registration error or forgotten registration can be prevented.

  In addition, it is possible to provide notifying means capable of notifying the determination result by the determining means, and the notifying means may notify that they match when it is determined that the specific information of the determining means matches. .

  With such a configuration, it is possible to immediately grasp that the gaming machine installed in the gaming store matches the gaming machine registered in the management computer. For this reason, the registration work of the gaming machine can be shortened when replacing the table, and a registration error or forgotten registration can be prevented.

<Examples of gaming machine management / reduction of units>
Next, an example of a decrease in the number of gaming machines will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 19 is a sequence chart showing an example of the flow of packets transmitted from the gaming machine 130 to the management computer 30 when the number of machines decreases.

  FIG. 15 (e) shows a state in which one gaming machine 130 is removed after three gaming machines 130 are newly installed, and the number of gaming machines 130 is reduced from three to two. Yes. In this example, the gaming machine with the machine number 103 is removed.

  As shown in FIG. 19, in this example, when the gaming machine with the machine number 101 is turned on, the unique number of the gaming machine with the machine number 101 (in this example, the unique information 1 = A and the unique information 2 = A −1, unique information 3 = CPU 1), a packet including the call lamp 110 → the computer 70 → the island computer 50 → the management computer 30 is transmitted. Further, since the management computer 30 has received the unique information, the number counter is updated from 0 to 1 by adding 1 to the number counter in the above-described unique information matching process.

  In this example, the unique information newly received by the management computer 30 is the unique information 1 = A, the unique information 2 = A−1, and the unique information 3 = CPU1, whereas the machine number 101 in the gaming machine management database. The unique information stored corresponding to is unique information 1 = A, unique information 2 = A-1, and unique information 3 = CPU1. Since the two unique information matches, the unique information matching process described above is performed. The unique information change flag is set off.

  Subsequently, since the unique information change flag is off, the management computer 30 performs unique information matching display processing in the above-described table movement determination processing. In this unique information matching display process, the display device 38 or the like is used to set the machine number (101 in this example), the island number (1 in this example), the corresponding unique information (in this example, unique information 1 = A The unique information 2 = A-1 and the unique information 3 = CPU 1) are displayed, and the newly received unique information is matched with the unique information stored in the gaming machine management database. By performing such a display, the manager of the game shop can easily confirm that there is no abnormality in the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 101, so that convenience can be improved.

  Subsequently, in this example, when the gaming machine with the machine number 102 is turned on, the unique number of the gaming machine with the machine number 102 (in this example, the unique information 1 = B, the unique information 2 = B-1, the unique machine number) A packet including information 3 = CPU 2) is transmitted along the route of the call lamp 110 → the computer 70 → the island computer 50 → the management computer 30. Further, since the management computer 30 has received the unique information, the number counter is updated from 1 to 2 by adding 1 to the number counter in the above-described unique information matching process.

  In this example, the unique information newly received by the management computer 30 is the unique information 1 = B, the unique information 2 = B−1, and the unique information 3 = CPU2, whereas the machine number 102 in the gaming machine management database. The unique information stored corresponding to is unique information 1 = B, unique information 2 = B−1, unique information 3 = CPU 2 and the two unique information matches. The unique information change flag is set off.

  Subsequently, since the unique information change flag is off, the management computer 30 performs unique information matching display processing in the above-described table movement determination processing. In this unique information matching display process, the display device 38 or the like is used to set the machine number (102 in this example), the island number (1 in this example), and the corresponding unique information (in this example, unique information 1 = B The unique information 2 = B-1 and the unique information 3 = CPU 2) are displayed, and the newly received unique information is matched with the unique information stored in the gaming machine management database. By performing such a display, the manager of the game shop can easily confirm that there is no abnormality in the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 102, so that convenience can be improved.

  On the other hand, in this example, since the gaming machine 130 with the unit number 103 is removed, the unique information corresponding to the unit number 103 is not transmitted to the management computer 30, but the value of the unit counter is 2, “unit number counter Since the value of “−1” is 3 (the value of the number counter <the value of “unit number counter-1”), the number decrease confirmation process is executed in the number change determination process described above.

  In this number decrease confirmation process, a display indicating that the number of gaming machines 130 has decreased is performed using the display device 38 or the like. By performing such a display, the manager of the gaming store can easily grasp that the number of gaming machines 130 has decreased, so that the number of gaming machines 130 installed can be confirmed again. Can respond. Note that the gaming machine management data including the specific information corresponding to the removed gaming machine 130 (the gaming machine 130 with the machine number 103 in this example) may be deleted from the gaming machine management database. The management computer 30 determines that the gaming machine has been removed by turning on the deletion flag provided corresponding to the gaming machine management data without deleting the gaming machine management data of the gaming machine that has been played. You may comprise.

<Examples of gaming machine management / increase units>
Next, an example of an increase in the number of gaming machines will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 20 is a sequence chart showing an example of the flow of packets transmitted from the gaming machine 130 to the management computer 30 when the number of machines increases.

  FIG. 15 (f) shows a state in which one gaming machine 130 is further installed after three gaming machines 130 are newly installed, and the number of gaming machines 130 is increased from three to four. ing. In this example, a gaming machine with the machine number 104 is newly installed.

  As shown in FIG. 20, in this example, when the machine number 101 is turned on, the unique number of the machine number 101 (in this example, unique information 1 = A, unique information 2 = A −1, unique information 3 = CPU 1), a packet including the call lamp 110 → the computer 70 → the island computer 50 → the management computer 30 is transmitted. Further, since the management computer 30 has received the unique information, the number counter is updated from 0 to 1 by adding 1 to the number counter in the above-described unique information matching process.

  In this example, the unique information newly received by the management computer 30 is the unique information 1 = A, the unique information 2 = A−1, and the unique information 3 = CPU1, whereas the machine number 101 in the gaming machine management database. The unique information stored corresponding to is unique information 1 = A, unique information 2 = A-1, and unique information 3 = CPU1. Since the two unique information matches, the unique information matching process described above is performed. The unique information change flag is set off. Subsequently, since the unique information change flag is off, the management computer 30 performs unique information matching display processing in the above-described table movement determination processing.

  Subsequently, in this example, when the gaming machine with the machine number 102 is turned on, the unique number of the gaming machine with the machine number 102 (in this example, the unique information 1 = B, the unique information 2 = B-1, the unique machine number) A packet including information 3 = CPU 2) is transmitted along the route of the call lamp 110 → the computer 70 → the island computer 50 → the management computer 30. Further, since the management computer 30 has received the unique information, the number counter is updated from 1 to 2 by adding 1 to the number counter in the above-described unique information matching process.

  In this example, the unique information newly received by the management computer 30 is the unique information 1 = B, the unique information 2 = B−1, and the unique information 3 = CPU2, whereas the machine number 102 in the gaming machine management database. The unique information stored corresponding to is unique information 1 = B, unique information 2 = B−1, unique information 3 = CPU 2 and the two unique information matches. The unique information change flag is set off. Subsequently, since the unique information change flag is off, the management computer 30 performs unique information matching display processing in the above-described table movement determination processing.

  Subsequently, in this example, when the gaming machine with the machine number 103 is turned on, the unique number of the gaming machine with the machine number 103 (in this example, the unique information 1 = C, the unique information 2 = C-1, the unique machine number) A packet including information 3 = CPU 3) is transmitted through the route of the call lamp 110 → the computer 70 → the island computer 50 → the management computer 30. Further, since the management computer 30 has received the unique information, the number counter is updated from 2 to 3 by adding 1 to the number counter in the above-described unique information matching process.

  In this example, the unique information newly received by the management computer 30 is the unique information 1 = C, the unique information 2 = C−1, and the unique information 3 = CPU 3, whereas the machine number 103 in the gaming machine management database. The unique information stored corresponding to is unique information 1 = C, unique information 2 = C-1, unique information 3 = CPU 3, and since the two unique information matches, The unique information change flag is set off. Subsequently, since the unique information change flag is off, the management computer 30 performs unique information matching display processing in the above-described table movement determination processing.

  Subsequently, in this example, when the gaming machine with the machine number 104 is turned on, the unique number of the gaming machine with the machine number 104 (in this example, the unique information 1 = D, the unique information 2 = D-1, the unique machine number) A packet including information 3 = CPU 4) is transmitted through the route of the call lamp 110 → the computer 70 → the island computer 50 → the management computer 30. In addition, the management computer 30 that has received the packet including the unique information has not yet stored (registered) the unique information 1 to 3 corresponding to the machine number 104, and therefore manages the unique information corresponding to the machine number 104. While storing in the database, the number counter is updated from 3 to 4 by adding 1 to the number counter.

  In this way, in this example, the unique information of the newly installed gaming machine 130 can be automatically registered (without manual operation), so that manual registration work is unnecessary and convenience is improved. it can.

  Further, in this example, since the gaming machine 130 with the unit number 104 is newly installed, the value of the number counter is 4, and the value of the “unit number counter-1” is 3 (the value of the number counter> the “unit number counter”). Therefore, the number increase confirmation process is executed in the above-described number change determination process.

  In the number increase confirmation process, display indicating that the number of gaming machines 130 has increased is performed using the display device 38 or the like. By performing such a display, the manager of the game shop can easily grasp that the number of gaming machines 130 has increased, and can therefore respond according to the situation.

  As described above, the gaming management device according to the present example includes a gaming machine (for example, the gaming machine 130), a gaming facility device (for example, the call lamp 110) that can communicate with the gaming machine, and the gaming facility device. In a gaming management device configured to include a communicable management computer (for example, management computer 30), the gaming machine has unique information (for example, unique information 1) that can uniquely determine the gaming machine. To 3), a gaming machine storage means (for example, ROM 153), and a gaming machine transmission means (for example, information output circuit 167) capable of transmitting the unique information to the management computer. The equipment device is a gaming equipment device transmission means (for example, a call lamp 110) capable of transmitting a machine number capable of specifying an installation location of the gaming machine to the management computer. And a management computer receiving means (for example, the communication unit 39) capable of receiving at least the machine number and the unique information, and counting the number of the gaming machines that have transmitted the unique information. The counting means (for example, the process of adding 1 to the number counter in step S505 of the unique information matching process shown in FIG. 12) is compared with the number of the gaming machines counted by the counting means and the maximum value of the machine number. And a comparison means (for example, comparison processing in steps S701 and S702 of the number change determination process shown in FIG. 14).

  According to such a game management device, an increase or decrease in the number of gaming machines installed in the gaming store can be grasped on the management computer side based on information transmitted from the gaming machine or gaming equipment device. For this reason, when adding or removing gaming machines, the registration work of gaming machines can be shortened, and registration errors and forgetting registration can be prevented.

  The comparison means may determine that the number of gaming machines has increased when the number of gaming machines counted by the counting means is larger than the maximum value of the machine numbers (for example, in FIG. Processing for determining Yes in step S702 of the number change determination processing shown).

  With such a configuration, since the management computer can confirm the increase in the number of gaming machines installed in the gaming store, the registration work of gaming machines can be shortened in the addition of gaming machines, Registration mistakes and forgotten registration can be prevented.

  Also, registration means for registering the unique information transmitted by the gaming machine exceeding the maximum value of the machine number in the management computer storage means in association with the machine number (for example, step S703 of the number change determination process shown in FIG. 14). (Number increase confirmation processing executed in step 1).

  With such a configuration, in the addition of gaming machines, it is possible to shorten the registration work of gaming machines and to prevent registration mistakes and forgetting to register.

  Further, the comparison means may determine that the number of gaming machines is decreased when the number of gaming machines counted by the counting means is smaller than the maximum value of the machine numbers (for example, in FIG. 14). Processing for determining No in the determination in step S702 of the number change determination processing shown).

  With such a configuration, since the management computer can confirm the decrease in the number of gaming machines installed in the gaming store, the removal of gaming machines can shorten the registration work of gaming machines, Registration mistakes and forgotten registration can be prevented.

  Moreover, you may provide the alerting | reporting means (for example, display apparatus 38) which can alert | report the determination result by the said comparison means.

  With such a configuration, it is possible to easily check the increase or decrease in the number of gaming machines installed in the gaming store, so it is possible to shorten the registration work of gaming machines when adding or removing gaming machines. Registration errors and forgotten registrations can be prevented.

<< Second Embodiment >>
Next, a game management device according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In addition, in order to avoid duplicate description, in the present embodiment, only the configuration different from the game management device 10 according to the first embodiment will be described.

<Management computer / main processing>
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of the management computer main process according to the second embodiment. In the management computer main process according to the second embodiment, steps S304 and S305 are deleted from the management computer main process shown in FIG. 10, and the database update process in step S310 surrounded by a dotted line is performed immediately after step S303. Newly added.

  In the newly added step S310, database update processing is performed. This database update process is configured to perform various updates of the gaming machine management database described below by operating the input device 37.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of database update in the case of (a) model change, (b) vehicle replacement, (c) vehicle decrease, and (d) vehicle increase. When changing the model shown in FIG. 15C, the unique information 1 to 3 corresponding to the machine number 101 can be changed by operating the input device 37. For example, FIG. As shown, the unique information 2 (model code) corresponding to the machine number 101 is changed to the model code (A-2 in this example) corresponding to the new machine, and the unique information 3 ( CPU identification information) is changed to CPU identification information corresponding to the new model (CPU 8 in this example).

  In addition, when performing the table replacement shown in FIG. 15 (d), the gaming machine management data corresponding to the machine number 101 and the gaming machine management data corresponding to the machine number 102 are obtained by operating the input device 37. For example, as shown in FIG. 22B, a part or all of the gaming machine management data corresponding to the machine number 101 is replaced with a part or all of the gaming machine management data corresponding to the machine number 102. To change a part or all of the gaming machine management data corresponding to the machine number 102 to a part or all of the gaming machine management data corresponding to the machine number 101.

  Further, when performing the table reduction shown in FIG. 15 (e), all the gaming machine management data corresponding to the table number 103 is displayed by operating the input device 37, for example, as shown in FIG. 22 (c). When the number of units shown in FIG. 15 (f) is increased, the game corresponding to the unit number 104 can be performed by operating the input device 37, for example, as shown in FIG. 22 (d). Machine management data can be added. In the example of FIG. 22C, an example is shown in which all the gaming machine management data corresponding to the machine number 103 is deleted. However, the gaming machine management data corresponding to the machine number 103 is not deleted, and the gaming machine management data is deleted. It may be configured such that the management computer 30 can determine that the gaming machine has been removed by turning on a deletion flag provided corresponding to the management data.

<Management computer / packet processing>
FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of packet processing according to the second embodiment. In the packet processing according to the second embodiment, immediately after step S407 of the packet processing shown in FIG. 11, the processing of step S450 surrounded by a dotted line is newly added.

  In newly added step S450, it is determined whether a unique information error flag described later is on or off. If the unique information error flag is off, the process proceeds to step S408, and if it is on, the process proceeds to step S409.

  That is, in this example, the corresponding various counters are updated only for the gaming machine 130 in which the unique information matching process is completed and the unique information has no abnormality. With such a configuration, the reliability of game information collected by the management computer 30 can be improved, and appropriate game management can be performed.

<Management computer / unique information matching process>
FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of unique information matching processing according to the second embodiment. The unique information matching process according to the second embodiment is a process in which steps S550 to S552 surrounded by a dotted line are newly added in place of the processes of steps S507 to S508 of the unique information matching process shown in FIG. is there.

  In this example, the unique information of the gaming machine management data updated in the above-described database update process is compared with the unique information received from the gaming machine 130, and if the two match, the information is stored in the RAM 33 in step S550. Set the specific information error flag to off. On the other hand, if they do not match, the unique information error flag is set to ON in step S551, and then error display processing is performed in the next step S552.

  In this error display, using the display device 38 or the like, the display of the machine number, island number, and corresponding unique information did not match the newly received unique information and the unique information stored in the gaming machine management database. A message to the effect is displayed. By performing such display, the manager of the game store can easily confirm that there is an abnormality in the machine replacement work, model change work, expansion work, removal work, etc. of the gaming machine 130. Management of the machine 130 can be performed appropriately.

  As described above, the gaming management device according to the present example includes a gaming machine (for example, the gaming machine 130), a gaming facility device (for example, the call lamp 110) that can communicate with the gaming machine, and the gaming facility device. In a gaming management device configured to include a communicable management computer (for example, management computer 30), the gaming machine has unique information (for example, unique information 1) that can uniquely determine the gaming machine. To 3), a gaming machine storage means (for example, ROM 153), and a gaming machine transmission means (for example, information output circuit 167) capable of transmitting the unique information to the management computer. The equipment device is a gaming equipment device transmission means (for example, a call lamp 110) capable of transmitting a machine number capable of specifying an installation location of the gaming machine to the management computer. And a management computer receiving means (for example, communication unit 39) capable of receiving at least the machine number and the unique information, and the machine number and the unique information in the management computer storage means. Change means capable of changing the association (for example, the database update process executed in step S310 of the management computer main process shown in FIG. 21), and after the change of the association by the change means, the management computer receiving means Determination means for determining whether the received unique information matches or does not match the unique information stored in the management computer storage means in association with the machine number (for example, the unique information matching process shown in FIG. A game characterized by comprising: a determination process in step S506) It is a management apparatus.

  According to such a game management device, it is possible for the management computer side to grasp whether or not the registered content on the management computer side is correct based on information transmitted from the gaming machine or the gaming equipment device. For this reason, when changing the model of the gaming machine, replacing the base, adding or removing the gaming machine, it is possible to shorten the registration work of the gaming machine and prevent registration mistakes and forgetting to register.

  In addition, the gaming management device according to the present example includes a gaming machine (for example, the gaming machine 130), a gaming facility device (for example, the call lamp 110) that can communicate with the gaming machine, and a management that can communicate with the gaming facility device. In a gaming management device configured to include a computer (for example, a management computer 30), the gaming machine has unique information (for example, unique information 1 to 3) that can uniquely determine the gaming machine. A gaming machine storage means (for example, ROM 153) that can be stored, and a gaming machine transmission means (for example, information output circuit 167) that can transmit the unique information to the management computer. A gaming facility device transmission means (for example, a transmission means for the call lamp 110) capable of transmitting a machine number capable of specifying the installation location of the gaming machine to the management computer. The management computer can change the unique information stored in the management computer storage means and the management computer receiving means (for example, the communication unit 39) capable of receiving at least the serial number and the unique information. Change means (for example, the database update process executed in step S310 of the management computer main process shown in FIG. 21), and after the change of the association by the change means, the unique information received by the management computer receiving means is A determination means for determining whether the specific information matches or does not match the specific information stored in the management computer storage means in association with a machine number (for example, the determination process in step S506 of the specific information matching process shown in FIG. 24); It is provided with the game management apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned.

  According to such a game management device, it is possible for the management computer side to grasp whether or not the unique information on the management computer side is correct based on information transmitted from the gaming machine or the gaming equipment device. For this reason, when changing the model of the gaming machine, replacing the base, adding or removing the gaming machine, it is possible to shorten the registration work of the gaming machine and prevent registration mistakes and forgetting to register.

  The gaming machine transmission means is configured to be capable of transmitting operating information indicating the operating state of the gaming machine (for example, gaming machine operating information such as a batting signal) to the management computer, and the management computer receiving means Is configured to receive the operation information, and the management computer records the operation information received by the management computer reception unit in the management computer storage unit in association with the machine number (for example, 22), in which the operation information recording means receives the unique information received by the management computer reception means by the determination means. Is determined to match the unique information stored in the management computer storage means (for example, The operation information may be stored in a case where the packet processing shown in FIG.

  With such a configuration, it is possible to record only reliable operation information among the operation information transmitted to the management computer, so it is possible to collect accurate operation information and perform more accurate analysis. It can be performed.

  Note that the configuration of the game management device according to the present invention is not limited to the configuration of the above-described game management device. For example, the game equipment that can transmit the machine number to the management computer is limited to the call lamp 110. Instead, other game equipment may be used.

  In addition, the management computer is configured to be able to receive related device operation information indicating an operation state of a related device (for example, the inter-machine 90) provided corresponding to the gaming machine, and is associated with the machine number and stores the management computer You may comprise so that it may record on.

  Further, the “gaming machine” according to the present invention is not limited to a pachinko machine, and may be, for example, a slot machine, an enclosed game machine, or a medalless slot machine.

  In addition, the actions and effects described in the embodiments of the present invention are only the most preferable actions and effects resulting from the present invention, and the actions and effects according to the present invention are described in the embodiments of the present invention. It is not limited to things. In addition, the effect described in one configuration among the plurality of configurations described in the embodiment of the present invention may be further enhanced by applying the content described in one configuration to another configuration. In some cases, the effect can be further enhanced by applying the configuration described in one embodiment to the configuration described in another embodiment.

  A game management apparatus according to the present invention is used in a game store where a game machine represented by a ball game machine (pachinko machine), a spinning machine (slot machine), an enclosed game machine or a medalless slot machine is installed. Can be widely used.

NW network 10 Game management device 30 Management computer 31, 51, 71 CPU
32, 52, 72 ROM
33, 53, 73 RAM
34 recording medium 35 external storage drive 36 storage device 37 input device 38 display device 39 communication unit 41 timer 50 island computer 55 management computer communication unit 56 computer communication unit 70 computer 75 island computer communication unit 76 game equipment communication unit 90 units Machine 91 Bill insertion slot 92 IC coin insertion slot 93 IC coin ejection slot 94 Member card insertion slot 95 Lamp 110 Calling lamp 130 Game machine 131 Game board surface 132 Liquid crystal display device 133 General winning slot 134 General figure start slot 135 Special figure start slot 136 Variable prize opening 137 Fine plate 150 Main control unit 152 CPU
153 ROM
167 Information output circuit 170 Sub control unit

Claims (5)

In a gaming management device configured to include a gaming machine, a gaming facility device capable of communicating with the gaming machine, and a management computer capable of communicating with the gaming facility device,
The gaming machine includes a gaming machine storage unit capable of storing unique information capable of uniquely determining the gaming machine, and a gaming machine transmission unit capable of transmitting the unique information to the management computer,
The gaming equipment device includes a gaming equipment device transmitting means capable of transmitting a machine number capable of specifying an installation location of the gaming machine to the management computer,
A management computer receiving means capable of receiving at least the machine number and the unique information; and registration for registering the unique information received by the management computer receiving means in the management computer storage means in association with the machine number Means,
A game management device characterized by that. In the game management device according to claim 1,
The registration unit determines in advance whether or not the unique information is stored in association with the unit number, and if it is determined that the unique information is not stored, stores the unique information in association with the unit number,
A game management device characterized by that. In the game management device according to claim 1 or 2,
The registration unit determines in advance whether or not the unique information is stored in association with the unit number, and when it is determined that the unique information is stored, the registration unit does not store the unique information in association with the unit number;
A game management device characterized by that. In the game management device according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The gaming machine transmission means is configured to be able to transmit operating information indicating an operating state of the gaming machine to the management computer,
The management computer receiving means is configured to receive the operation information,
The management computer includes an operation information recording unit that records the operation information received by the management computer receiving unit in the management computer storage unit in association with the machine number, and the unique information of the gaming machine that has transmitted the operation information Checking means for checking whether or not is registered in the management computer storage means,
The operating information recording means records only the operating information of the gaming machine, which is determined by the collating means that the unique information is registered, in the management computer storage means in association with the machine number.
A game management device characterized by that. In the game management device according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The gaming machine transmission means transmits the unique information to the management computer in one direction only once when the gaming machine is powered on.
A game management device characterized by that.