JP2018011723A - Each-machine device, game medium management system, and method of managing game media - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve convenience of a player when handling a plurality of media such as cards.SOLUTION: An inter-machine processor 10 stores restrictions to aggregation processing for aggregating prepaid values. When receiving an insertion of a new card C2 while a prepaid value is being associated with a card C1 staying inside, the inter-machine processor 10 determines whether or not an aggregation of the prepaid value in the card C1 and a prepaid value in the card C2 infringes the restrictions. Then, if there is no infringement on the restrictions, the prepaid values are aggregated and associated with the card C2, and if there is infringement on the restrictions, a notice is made to a player that the aggregation of the prepaid values cannot be carried out, and the transition itself is cancelled. An option the player can select, such as a transition of only holding balls, is displayed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention is provided in a gaming machine that uses a game medium to perform a game, and performs a process related to the game medium based on a player's operation, a game medium management system and a game medium management method having the respective apparatus About.

  Conventionally, a game store provides a game with a game medium interposed therebetween. For example, in a pachinko game, a game ball is used as a game medium, and a game ball is driven into a game board surface to play a game. A plurality of winning areas (winning openings) are provided on the game board surface, and a predetermined number of gaming balls are awarded as winning balls based on the passing of the gaming balls through the winning area. In this way, the number of game media increases or decreases depending on the result of the game, and the player can exchange the acquired game media for prizes.

  It is common for game machines to be equipped with each device. Each stand device accepts the deposit and performs a game media lending process. In addition, each device manages the number of game media acquired by the game as the number of game media, and performs replay processing for subtracting the number of game media and paying out the game media (see, for example, Patent Document 1). .)

  Further, when the player finishes the game and operates a return button provided on the gaming machine, each device discharges the number of game media managed by the player after associating it with the card. The player can exchange for a prize according to the number of associated game media by presenting the card at the prize counter. The card is also associated with a valuable value that can be used for lending gaming media. The balance of the valuable value remaining at the end of the game can be settled with a settlement machine.

  In addition, games of a plurality of game types are provided at one game store. The game type is a type set for the game medium based on a difference in shape, unit price at the time of lending, and the like. For example, a ball used in a pachinko and a medal used in a slot are set as different game types. Similarly, balls that are rented at a 4-yen rate of 4 yen per ball and balls lent at a 1-yen rate of 1 yen per ball are set as different game types even for balls used for pachinko. The

  In a game store using a plurality of game types, the inside of the store is divided into game types, and the same game type is used to play games in the same division. For example, in a game shop using a 4 yen rate and a 1 yen rate, a 4 yen rate section and a 1 yen rate section are separated. Then, the number of game media to be held is associated with the card for each game type.

JP 2011-131037 A

  However, in the conventional technology, when a player holds a plurality of cards, the valuable value associated with the card and the number of game media cannot be transferred to another card. There was a problem that the property was insufficient. This case will be specifically described.

  There are cases in which a player starts a game using a new card even if he / she carries another card, and the value of the card carried and the value associated with the new card are generated separately. May end up.

  For these reasons, when dealing with a plurality of media such as cards, it has been an important issue to prevent the player from being disadvantaged and to improve convenience.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems and to solve the problems, and it is an object of the present invention to improve convenience for the player.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention is provided in each gaming machine that is attached to a gaming machine that performs a game using a game medium and that performs processing related to the game medium based on a player's operation. And an integration processing means for performing an integration process for integrating a predetermined value associated with the first storage medium and a similar value associated with the second storage medium, wherein the integration processing means comprises the integration If the restriction condition predetermined as the condition for restricting the process is not satisfied, the integration process is executed, and a notification means for performing a predetermined notification when the restriction condition is satisfied is further provided.

  Also, in the present invention according to the above invention, the predetermined value includes a valuable value used for lending the game medium, and the restriction condition includes the valuable value associated with the first storage medium and the second value. It includes a condition relating to time information indicating a time when processing relating to a valuable value associated with a storage medium is performed.

  Further, the present invention is the above invention, wherein the predetermined value includes a valuable value used for lending the game medium, and the restriction condition is a condition relating to an upper limit of the valuable value that can be associated with the recording medium. And

  Further, the present invention is the above invention, wherein the predetermined value includes the number of acquired game media which is the number of game media acquired by the player through the game, and the integrated processing means determines the number of acquired game media as the game type. The restriction condition includes a condition related to the number of game types of the number of acquired game media associated with a single storage medium.

  In the present invention, the predetermined value includes the valuable value used for lending the game media and the number of acquired game media which is the number of game media acquired by the player through the game. The means is characterized in that, even if one of the valuable value and the number of acquired game media meets the restriction condition, one integration process that does not meet the restriction condition can be executed.

  Further, the present invention is the above invention, wherein one of the first storage medium and the second storage medium is a member storage medium associated with member information, and the integrated processing means is the member storage medium. Is received in any order, the result of the integration process is controlled to be associated with the member storage medium.

  In the above invention, the present invention further includes an integration instruction receiving unit for a player to receive an integration instruction in order to perform integration processing by the integration processing unit, and the integration instruction receiving unit is stored in the first storage medium. The integration instruction is received when both the predetermined value associated with the predetermined value and the predetermined value associated with the second storage medium are specified.

  The present invention is also provided in a gaming machine that uses a game medium to perform a game, and performs a process related to the game medium based on a player's operation, and the game apparatus uses the game medium. A game medium management system having a management device for managing a predetermined value used in a possible state, wherein each of the stand devices or the management device has a predetermined value associated with a first storage medium And integrated processing means for performing integration processing for integrating the same type of value associated with the second storage medium, and the integration processing means does not satisfy a predetermined restriction condition as a condition for restricting the integration processing In this case, the integration process is executed, and each of the platform devices includes a notification unit that performs a predetermined notification when the restriction condition is satisfied.

  Further, the present invention is a game medium management method in each device that is attached to a gaming machine that performs a game using a game medium and performs processing related to the game medium based on a player's operation. Whether or not a predetermined restriction condition is satisfied as a condition for restricting the integration process when executing the integration process for integrating the predetermined value associated with the storage medium and the same type of value associated with the second storage medium A determination step for determining whether or not the restriction condition is satisfied by the determination step, an integration processing step for executing the integration process, and a determination step that determines that the restriction condition is satisfied A notification step of performing a predetermined notification in the event of a failure.

  According to the present invention, when performing the integration process for integrating the predetermined value associated with the first storage medium and the same type of value associated with the second storage medium, the condition for restricting the integration process is previously set. If the predetermined restriction condition is not met, the integration process is executed, and if the restriction condition is met, a predetermined notification is performed, so that the convenience of the player can be improved.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of the transfer of valuable value according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram for limiting the movement of the holding balls. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of an operation screen related to the start of migration. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the system configuration of the amusement store. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the external appearance of the inter-card card processing machine. FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the inter-card card processor. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of data stored in the storage unit of the inter-card card processor. FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the card management apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of data stored in the storage unit of the card management apparatus. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the migration process by the inter-card card processor.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of each device, a game medium management system, and a game medium management method will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  In this specification, “mochitama” refers to data indicating the number of game media acquired by the player in the game or the number of the game media, and may be used again for the game only during that day (time before closing). Say what you can do. The stored ball is data indicating the game media acquired by the player in the game or the number of the game media, and can be used again for the game after the next day (time after closing). Mochidama can be used by both general players and member players, and is used when a gaming machine used for gaming is changed (so-called table movement). The stored ball is normally only available to member players, and is used when the acquired game medium is used for games from the next day. A predetermined fee may be imposed on the use of the stored ball. In addition to game balls, medals and the like are used as game media, but in this specification, for the sake of simplicity, they will be referred to as holding balls and storage balls regardless of the shape of the game media.

  First, the transition of the valuable value according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of the transfer of valuable value according to the present embodiment. The inter-card card processing machine 10 shown in FIG. 1 is a stand device that is attached to a gaming machine in a gaming store and performs various processes related to gaming balls such as rental and replay of gaming balls based on the operation of the player. .

  General cards are stocked in the inter-card processing machine 10. When the prepaid value is purchased by depositing in a state where the insertion of the card from the player is not accepted, the purchased prepaid value is associated with one stock card. The prepaid value is a valuable value added by depositing and is subtracted when a game ball is lent. The prepaid value is associated with a purchase date, that is, a date when the prepaid value is purchased by deposit.

  When the game is ended with the prepaid value or the ball acquired by the game remaining, the inter-card card processing machine 10 discharges the general card associated with the prepaid value or the ball. The player uses the discharged general card by inserting it into another inter-card card processing machine 10 or uses it for exchanging prizes or for payment. On the other hand, when the game is finished with all the prepaid value and the possession ball being 0, the general card is stocked again and the card is not discharged.

  In addition to general cards, membership cards are also used at game stores. The member card is a card issued to a member player who has registered as a member of the amusement store, and in addition to the prepaid value and the possession ball, the storage ball is associated. In addition, the membership card is discharged and returned to the player even when the game is terminated with all of the prepaid value, the possession ball, etc. being zero.

  Here, even in the case of a player carrying a membership card, there is a case where the game is started from the deposit. In such a case, the prepaid value and the possession ball are associated with a general card inside the inter-card card processing machine 10. That is, a state in which a prepaid value and a ball are associated with each of the member card and the general card occurs.

  In this way, when the prepaid value and the value such as the ball are associated with each of the member card and the general card, the value is transferred by integrating the prepaid value and the ball and associating it with one card. There is a desire to want.

  In the state shown in FIG. 1A, the inter-card processing machine 10 stores a card C1, which is a general card, in the card C1, and the card C1 has a prepaid value “500” and a holding ball (ball 1) “ 700 "is associated. The possession ball (ball 1) is the possession ball of the game type “ball 1”. This game type will be described later.

  Further, in the state shown in FIG. 1A, the inter-card card processing machine 10 accepts insertion of the card C2, which is a membership card. The prepaid value “1000” and the holding ball (ball 1) “2000” are associated with the card C2.

  In this way, when the insertion of a new card C2 is accepted in a state where the prepaid value and the possession ball are associated with the internal card C1, the inter-card card processing machine 10 transfers the prepaid value and the possession ball of the card C1 to the card C2. Let

  Specifically, the prepaid value of the card C1 and the prepaid value of the card C2 are added together and transferred to the card C2, and the possessed ball of the card C1 and the held ball of the card C2 are added together to be associated with the card C2. The ball will be transferred.

  Here, the sum of the prepaid value is set as a restriction that the purchase date of the prepaid value is the same. The inter-card card processor 10 stores this restriction, and determines whether or not the prepaid value purchase dates of the cards C1 and C2 are the same.

  If the purchase date of the prepaid value is the same, the inter-card card processing machine 10 performs the transfer of the prepaid value and the transfer of the coins. As a result, as shown in FIG. 1B, the card C2 is discharged in association with the prepaid value “1500” and the holding ball (ball 1) “2700”. The card C1 is stored as stock again because the prepaid value and the possession ball are all 0 due to the shift.

  On the other hand, if the purchase date of the prepaid value is not the same, the inter-card card processing machine 10 displays the screen D1. In this screen D1, a message “Purchase value of prepaid value is different. Do you want to move only the possession ball?”, An operation button “Do not transition” and an operation button “Only possession ball” are displayed.

  When an operation is performed on the “do not transfer” operation button, the inter-card card processing machine 10 returns the card C2 without performing the transfer of the prepaid value or the transfer of the possession. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 1C, the card C2 associated with the prepaid value “1000” and the holding ball (ball 1) “2000” is discharged, and the prepaid value “500” and the holding ball are discharged to the card C1. (Ball 1) “700” remains associated.

  When an operation is performed on the operation button of “only possession ball”, the inter-card card processing machine 10 does not perform the prepaid value transition, performs the possession transition, and returns the card C2. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 1D, the card C2 associated with the prepaid value “1000” and the holding ball (ball 1) “2700” is discharged, and the prepaid value “500” and the holding ball are stored in the card C1. (Ball 1) “0” is associated.

  In this way, the inter-card card processing machine 10 stores the restriction on the summing process for adding the prepaid value, and determines whether or not the sum of the prepaid value of the card C1 and the prepaid value of the card C2 violates the restriction. When the limit is not violated, the prepaid value is added together and associated with the card C2, and when the limit is violated, the player is notified that the prepaid value cannot be added. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from leaving the inter-card card processing machine 10 without noticing that the prepaid value has been left on the card C1.

  In addition, when the prepaid value cannot be added, the player can easily select a desired process because the player can select options such as canceling the transfer itself, transferring only the possession ball, etc. Convenience related to the transfer of prepaid value is improved.

  Next, the limitation on the movement of the holding balls will be described. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram for limiting the movement of the holding balls. In the transition of the possession balls, the summing process is performed for each game type. However, when there is an upper limit on the number of game types associated with one card, this upper limit becomes a limitation on the transition of the possession balls. This is because if the total number of game types of the cards C1 and C2 exceeds the upper limit, all of them cannot be associated with one card.

  In FIG. 2A, a card C1 which is a general card is accommodated in the inter-card card processing machine 10, and the card C1 includes a holding ball (ball 1) “700” and a holding ball (ball 2) “800”. It shows a state where balls of a plurality of game types are associated. The holding ball (ball 1) is the holding ball of the game type “ball 1”, and the holding ball (ball 2) is the holding ball of the game type “ball 2”.

  Further, in the state shown in FIG. 2A, the inter-card card processing machine 10 accepts insertion of the card C2, which is a membership card. The card C2 is associated with a plurality of game balls including a ball (ball 1) “2000” and a ball (ball 2) “3000”.

  The inter-card processing machine 10 stores the upper limit “3” of the number of game types associated with one card as a limitation of the movement of the ball, and the total of the game types of the ball C1 and the card C2 Determine whether the number exceeds the upper limit. In this determination, the total number of game types having a balance greater than 0 among the balls associated with the cards C1 and C2 is compared with the upper limit. This is because if the balance is 0, there is no need to associate it with the card.

  If the total number of game types is 3 or less, the inter-card card processing machine 10 shifts the holding ball. As a result, as shown in FIG. 2B, the card C2 is associated with the holding ball (ball 1) “2700”, the holding ball (ball 2) “3800”, and the holding ball (ball 3) “4900”. Discharged. The card C1 is stored as stock again because the prepaid value and the possession ball are all 0 due to the shift.

  On the other hand, if the total number of game types is 4 or more, the inter-card card processing machine 10 displays the screen D2a. On this screen D2a, the message “The total number of possessed balls exceeds the upper limit. Do you want to collect retained balls?”, “Do not move” operation button and “Accumulate” operation button are displayed. The It should be noted that the rate in the message notified to the player is used as a term corresponding to the game type.

  When an operation is performed on the “do not transfer” operation button, the inter-card card processing machine 10 returns the card C2 without performing the transfer of the prepaid value or the transfer of the possession. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 2 (c), a card C2 associated with a plurality of game balls including a ball (ball 1) “2000” and a ball (ball 2) “3000” is discharged. The card C1 remains associated with a plurality of game balls including a ball (ball 1) “700” and a ball (ball 2) “800”.

  When an operation is performed with respect to the operation button of “store balls”, the inter-card card processing machine 10 displays a screen D2b. On this screen D2b, a message “Please select a rate to save” and a game type selection button are displayed. The game type selection buttons are displayed for the game types having a balance greater than 0 among the possessions associated with the card C2, and the selection buttons for “ball 1”, “ball 2”, and “medal” are displayed on the screen D2b. It is displayed.

  When an operation is performed on the game type selection button on the screen D2b, the inter-card card processing machine 10 shifts the possessed ball of the selected game type card C2 to the storage ball. If the number of game types with a balance exceeding 0 is less than or equal to the upper limit of “3” due to the transition to the savings ball, the inter-card processing machine 10 associates all remaining balls with the card C2. To discharge.

  Specifically, when an operation is performed on the “medal” selection button on the screen D2b, as shown in FIG. 2 (d), the inter-card processing machine 10 plays the game type “medal” of the card C2. Is added to the stored ball of the game type “medal” of the card C2, and the held ball of the game type “medal” of the card C2 is updated to “0”.

  Since the number of game types with a balance of more than 0 is less than or equal to the upper limit of “3” due to the transfer of the game type “medal” possession ball to the storage ball, the inter-card processing machine 10 The balls of “ball 1”, “ball 3” and “medal” are added together and associated with the card C2, and the card C2 is discharged. As a result, the card C2 is discharged in association with the holding ball (ball 1) “2700”, the holding ball (ball 2) “3800”, and the holding ball (ball 3) “900”. The card C1 is stored as stock again because the prepaid value and the possession ball are all 0 due to the shift.

  If a game type having a ball in both the card C2 and the card C1 is selected on the screen D2b, the ball in the card C2 is transferred to a storage ball, and the ball in the card C1 becomes a ball in the card C2. Will be migrated. For example, if the game type “ball 1” is selected on the screen D2b, the game ball “2000” of the game type “ball 1” of the card C2 is added to the stored ball, and the game type “ball 1” of the card C2 is held. The ball “700” is associated as the holding ball of the game type “ball 1” of the card C2, and the card C2 is discharged.

  In this manner, the inter-card card processing machine 10 stores the restriction on the summing process for adding up the balls, and determines whether or not the sum of the balls on the cards C1 and C2 violates the restrictions. Then, if the limit is not violated, the possessed balls are added for each game type and associated with the card C2, and if the limit is violated, the player is informed that the transition of the possessed ball cannot be performed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the player from leaving the inter-card card processing machine 10 without noticing that the player has left the ball in the card C1.

  In addition, if the number of game types that can be used cannot be transferred because the number of game types exceeds the upper limit, it is possible to reduce the number of game types below the upper limit by storing a part of the game and move Since it is realizable, the convenience which concerns on the movement of a holding ball can improve.

  Next, an operation screen related to the start of migration will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of an operation screen related to the start of migration. When the inter-card processing machine 10 accepts the insertion card while using the internal card, first, the inter-card processing machine 10 displays an operation screen including the prepaid value of the insertion card, a holding ball, a summation button, and a cancel button.

  In the operation screen shown in FIG. 3 (a1), the message “Remaining amount / total amount to be added?” Is displayed together with the message “Remaining amount 1000” indicating the prepaid value, and “4 pachis” indicating the residual amount of the game type “Tama 1”. 2000 ", a summation button, and a cancel button are displayed. In addition, in the operation screen shown in FIG. 3 (a2), “2 pachi 3000” indicating the possession of the game type “ball 2” and the game type “medal” together with the message “Do you want to add the remaining amount / holding ball?” “2 pachis 1000” indicating a holding ball of “”, a summation button, and a cancel button are displayed. The operation screen in FIG. 3A1 and the operation screen in FIG. 3A2 are switched at predetermined time intervals.

  When the player operates the summation button on the operation screen of FIG. 3 (a1) or FIG. 3 (a2), the password input screen shown in FIG. 3 (b) is displayed. When the player inputs the password, the summing process is started, and an operation screen indicating that the summing is in progress is displayed as shown in FIG. When the inserted card or the internal card is a membership card, the summation process may be started without displaying the password input screen and the screen shown in FIG. 3C may be displayed.

  In addition, here, the case where the operation screen related to the start of transition is displayed when an inserted card is received while the internal card is in use is shown, but the internal card is being used and the inserted card is received separately from the function. In some cases, it also has a function to integrate card values. For example, when using an internal card (or a received general card) and there is no prepaid value and the number of holding balls is less than or equal to a predetermined number, the insertion of a member card is accepted and the internal card (or received) The value of the general card) can be integrated into the membership card. Here, it is determined that the number of holding balls is equal to or less than a predetermined number, but it may be determined that the number is less than a predetermined number. The predetermined number is a value that is set in advance by the card management device 40, which is a higher-level device by an employee, and distributed to the card processing device 10. Further, in this case, the same restrictions (such as the number of rates) as in the case of accepting the integration operation may be imposed.

  Next, the system configuration of the amusement store will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the system configuration of the amusement store. As shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of gaming machines 20 and an inter-card card processing machine 10 provided corresponding to each gaming machine 20 are installed in the gaming store. The inter-card processing machine 10 is connected to a communication line, which is an in-store network, via the island controller 30. The island controller 30, the card management device 40, the member management device 50, the prize management device 60, and the checkout machine 80 are connected to the communication line.

  The gaming machine 20 is a device that plays a game by driving game balls into the game board surface. The gaming board surface of the gaming machine 20 is provided with a plurality of winning areas (winning openings), and a predetermined number of gaming balls are given as prize balls based on the passing of the gaming balls through the winning area. It has become. In addition, a predetermined number of start areas (start ports) are provided on the game board surface, and a predetermined lottery is performed based on the game balls passing through the start areas. If the lottery is a big win, an operation that is advantageous in terms of game is performed, for example, by increasing the probability of passing the game ball to the winning area or other starting area by operating a predetermined movable member or the like. An area that serves as both a start area and a winning area may be provided.

  The winning area is provided with a winning sensor for detecting the passing of a game ball to the winning area, and the winning sensor detects the passing (winning) of the game ball that has been driven into the winning area. It has become. The control unit of the gaming machine 20 has a prize ball memory that stores the number of game balls to be given as prize balls for each winning area.

  Therefore, when the passing of a game ball that has been struck to a specific winning area is detected by the winning sensor, the gaming machine 20 should be given from the stored contents of the winning ball memory and the number of game balls that have passed the winning area. The number of prize balls can be determined, and the determined number of prize balls can be paid out.

  The inter-card processing machine 10 accepts payment, rents out game balls, and communicates with the card management device 40. When the inter-card processing machine 10 accepts a bill inserted by the player, the inter-card processing device 10 transmits deposit notification data including the amount of the bill to the card management device 40, and the prepaid value managed by the card management device 40. The number corresponding to is added. Then, if a predetermined ball lending operation is performed, the ball lending request data is transmitted to the card management device 40, the prepaid value managed by the card management device 40 is subtracted, and the number corresponding to the subtracted prepaid value A game ball payout process is performed.

  Further, if the inter-card card processing machine 10 accepts the insertion of the card, it transmits the card insertion notification data to the card management device 40. Further, if the inter-card card processing machine 10 receives data including the prepaid value, the number of possessed balls, and the number of stored balls from the card management device 40, it stores the received prepaid value, the number of retained balls, and the number of stored balls. If the number of possessed balls is stored, the inter-card processing machine 10 transmits the retained ball subtraction request data to the card management device 40, thereby reducing the number of retained balls managed by the card management device 40 to zero. clear.

  Also, when the inter-card processing machine 10 accepts the possession ball replay operation, the predetermined number is subtracted from the number of possession balls stored in the own device, and the payout processing of the number of game balls corresponding to the subtracted number of possession balls is performed. Do. In addition, when the inter-card processing machine 10 accepts the stored ball replay operation, it transmits the stored ball replay request data to the card management device 40, thereby subtracting a predetermined number from the number of stored balls managed by the member management device 50. The payout processing of the number of game balls corresponding to the subtracted number of stored balls is performed.

  In addition, when the inter-card processing machine 10 accepts the card return operation, the inter-card processing machine 10 transmits to the card management device 40 the possession ball addition request data including the number of possession balls managed by the own device, and After the number is added, the card discharge notification data is transmitted to the card management device 40 to control the card discharge.

  The island controller 30 is a relay device that bundles a group of gaming machines 20 and inter-card card processing machines 10 provided on the gaming island.

  The card management device 40 is a device that manages the prepaid value of the card, the number of balls, etc. as card data. When the card management device 40 receives the card insertion notification data from the inter-card card processor 10, the card management device 40 manages the card ID of the inserted card and the device ID of the inter-card card processor 10 in association with each other. The prepaid value and the number of possessions associated with are transmitted to the inter-card card processing machine 10. When the card ID indicated in the card insertion notification data is the card ID of the member card, the card management device 40 transmits the card insertion notification data to the member management device 50 and receives it from the member management device 50. The stored ball replay data is transmitted to the inter-card card processing machine 10.

  In addition, when the card management device 40 receives the possession ball subtraction request data from the inter-card processing machine 10, the card management device 40 clears the number of possession balls to zero. In addition, when the card management device 40 receives the ball addition request data from the inter-card processing machine 10, the card management device 40 sets the number of balls included in the ball addition request data to the number of balls managed by the card management device 40. to add.

  Further, when the card management device 40 receives the ball lending request data from the inter-card card processing machine 10, the card management device 40 subtracts a predetermined value from the prepaid value associated with the card ID, and uses the inter-card card processing machine 10 Send to. If the storage ball replay request data is received, the stored ball replay request data is transmitted to the member management device 50. If the member management device 50 outputs the storage ball replay data, Transmit to the card processor 10.

  Further, when the card management device 40 receives the card ID from the prize management device 60, the card management device 40 notifies the prize management device 60 of the number of balls associated with the card ID. Further, when the card ID is received from the settlement machine 80, the prepaid value associated with the card ID is notified to the settlement machine 80.

  The member management device 50 is a management device that manages information related to a player who is registered as a member in the game store as member management data. Specifically, the number of stored balls, the number of points, the password, the name, etc. are managed in association with the member card ID issued to the member.

  When the member management device 50 receives the card insertion notification data from the inter-card processing machine 10, the member management device 50 stores the stored ball replay data including the number of stored balls and the password associated with the card ID indicated in the card insertion notification data. To the inter-card processing machine 10. In addition, when the member management device 50 receives the stored ball replay request data from the inter-card card processor 10, the member management device 50 subtracts a predetermined number from the number of stored balls associated with the card ID indicated in the stored ball replay request data, The stored ball replay data including the number of stored balls after subtraction is transmitted to the inter-card processing machine 10. Note that communication between the inter-card card processor 10 and the member management device 50 is performed via the card management device 40.

  Further, when the member management device 50 receives an inquiry about the number of stored balls from the prize management device 60, the member management device 50 notifies the prize management device 60 of the number of stored balls corresponding to the designated card ID.

  The prize management device 60 is a prize exchange terminal device provided in the prize exchange counter in the amusement store, and performs prize exchange processing for exchanging the acquired balls, the number of stored balls, and the number of held balls for prizes. The prize management device 60 is connected to a card reader that reads a card ID from a card and a prize dispensing device that dispenses prizes. The prize management device 60 transmits the card ID to the card management device 40 when the card ID is read from the general card or the membership card (or when the identification data corresponding to the card ID is read from the portable terminal or the like). Requesting the number of balls with the card ID. When exchanging prizes for the number of stored balls, the member management device 50 is requested for the number of stored balls.

  When the card associated with the prepaid value is inserted, the checkout machine 80 transmits the card ID of the card to the card management device 40 and receives the response data to obtain the prepaid value associated with the card. And pays out money according to the acquired prepaid value.

  Next, the ball lending process of the gaming system shown in FIG. 4 will be described. When the player performs a ball lending operation on the inter-card card processing machine 10, the inter-card card processing machine 10 transmits the ball lending request data to the card management device 40. The ball lending request data includes a card ID of a card inserted in the inter-card card processing machine 10 and an address or arbitrary identification data for specifying the inter-card card processing machine 10 that is a transmission source.

  Upon receiving the ball lending request data, the card management device 40 subtracts a predetermined value from the prepaid value associated with the card ID of the ball lending request data. Then, the card management device 40 transmits the ball lending permission data to the inter-card card processing machine 10 that is the transmission source. The inter-card card processing machine 10 that has received the ball lending permission data performs payout processing of the number of game balls corresponding to the subtracted prepaid value.

  Next, a description will be given of the ball replay process in the case of replaying the ball in the gaming system shown in FIG. When the inter-card processing machine 10 accepts the insertion of the general card or the membership card, it transmits the card insertion notification data to the card management device 40. This card insertion notification data includes the card ID of the card inserted in the inter-card card processor 10, an address or arbitrary identification data for identifying the inter-card card processor 10 that is the transmission source, and the inter-card card processor Data for specifying 10 rates.

  When the card management device 40 receives the card insertion notification data from the inter-card card processor 10, the card management device 40 gives the inter-card card processor 10 the number of balls held at each rate associated with the card ID in the card insertion notification data. Notice.

  The inter-card processing machine 10 stores the number of balls received from the card management device 40. Then, the card ID, the data specifying the rate, and the holding ball subtraction request data indicating that the number of holding balls is cleared to zero are transmitted to the card management device 40. When the card management device 40 receives the possession ball subtraction request data, the card management device 40 clears the number of possessions at each rate specified by the card ID to zero. Further, when the inter-card processing machine 10 accepts a holding ball replay operation and performs a holding ball replay, the predetermined number is subtracted from the stored number of holding balls, and a payout process for the corresponding number of gaming balls is performed. .

  When the inter-card card processing machine 10 accepts the card return operation, the inter-card card processing machine 10 transmits the possession ball addition request data to the card management device 40. This possession ball addition request data includes the card ID of the card to be returned, the address or arbitrary identification data that identifies the inter-card processor 10 that is the transmission source, and the number of possessions at each rate. .

  When the card management device 40 accepts the possession ball addition request data, the card management device 40 adds the possession number included in the possession ball addition request data to the number of possessions at each rate associated with the card ID. Thereafter, the inter-card card processor 10 transmits the card ejection notification data to the card management device 40 and controls the ejection of the card.

  Next, the stored ball replay process in the gaming system shown in FIG. 2 will be described. When the inter-card card processor 10 reads the card ID from the membership card or the portable terminal that can be used as the membership card, it transmits the card insertion notification data to the card management device 40. This card insertion notification data includes the card ID of the card inserted in the inter-card card processor 10, an address or arbitrary identification data for identifying the inter-card card processor 10 that is the transmission source, and the inter-card card processor Data for specifying 10 rates.

  The card management device 40 transmits the card insertion notification data received from the inter-card card processor 10 to the member management device 50. When the member management device 50 receives the card insertion notification data, the membership number associated with the card ID in the card insertion notification data and the number of stored balls at the rate specified by the card insertion notification data among the stored balls. Then, the stored ball replay data including the possible number of stored ball replays is transmitted to the inter-card processing machine 10. The possible number of pool replays indicates the number of balls that can be replayed. The possible number of replays of the stored balls is a multiple of the number of payout units of game balls in the replay of stored balls. If an upper limit is set for the replay of stored balls, the maximum value within the range of the number of stored balls and the upper limit is the possible number of replay of stored balls. In addition, you may use the frequency | count in which the stored ball replay is possible instead of the possible number of the stored ball replay as the stored ball replay frequency. The stored ball replay frequency is a quotient obtained by dividing the number of stored balls by the number of payout units of game balls in the stored ball replay. However, in the case where an upper limit is set for the stored ball replay, the upper limit of the stored ball replay frequency is limited by this upper limit.

  The inter-card processing unit 10 stores the received stored ball replay data, and allows the stored ball replay operation to be accepted when the possible number of stored ball replays indicated in the stored ball replay data is 1 or more.

  When the storage card replay data is stored for the first time after the storage ball replay data is stored, the inter-card processing machine 10 requests the player to input a password, and the input password is the stored ball replay data. It is determined whether or not it matches the password shown in FIG.

  The inter-card card processing machine 10 transmits the stored ball replay request data to the card management device 40 when the passwords match. This storage ball replay request data includes the card ID of the card inserted in the inter-card card processing machine 10, the address or arbitrary identification data for specifying the inter-card card processing machine 10 that is the transmission source, and inter-card processing. Data for specifying the rate of the machine 10.

  The card management device 40 transmits the stored ball replay request data to the member management device 50. When the member management apparatus 50 receives the stored ball replay request data, the member management device 50 subtracts a predetermined value from the stored ball associated with the card ID in the stored ball replay request data at a rate specified by the message. Then, recalculate the possible number of replays of the stored ball. Then, stored ball replay data including the balance after subtraction and the possible number of stored ball replays is transmitted to the inter-card card processing machine 10.

  The inter-card processing machine 10 updates the number of stored balls to be stored, and performs a payout process for the number of game balls corresponding to the number of payout units for storing replay. In addition, it is determined whether the number of possible replays of the renewed stored ball is 1 or more. If the possible number of pool replays is 0, the storage ball replay operation cannot be accepted. If the number of possible replays of stored balls after renewal is 1 or more, the replay operation of stored balls can be accepted again. In the second and subsequent replays, it is not necessary to confirm the password. Note that the password may be confirmed every time. Moreover, although the case where the member management device 50 subtracts the balance of the stored ball and then the inter-card card processing machine 10 performs the game ball payout process is illustrated here, the game ball payout process is performed based on the stored ball replay request. After doing so, the balance of the stored ball may be subtracted. This is because the storage ball replay data before the storage ball replay request indicates the possible number of storage ball replays, and it does not become a situation where the balance shortage is found after receiving the storage ball replay request.

  Next, the transition from the holding ball to the storage ball in the closing process will be described. The card management device 40 checks the number of balls in the card management data during the closing process, and if there is a card ID associated with a number of balls larger than zero, the card ID, the number of balls and the rate are registered as members. Notify the management device 50. The member management device 50 adds the number of balls informed from the card management device 40 to the number of balls specified by the card ID and rate. Thereafter, the card management device 40 clears the number of possessed balls to zero.

  Next, the transition of prepaid value and possession will be described. First, when the inter-card card processing machine 10 accepts insertion of the card C2 that is a membership card in a state where the prepaid value and the possession ball are associated with the card C1 that is a general card, the inter-card card processing machine 10 receives the card management device 40. To obtain the prepaid value and the ball associated with the card C2.

  When the card management device 40 notifies the inter-card card processing machine 10 of the possession of the card C2, the card management device 40 clears the possession of the card C2 managed by the own device to zero.

  The inter-card processing machine 10 adds the prepaid value and the possession ball acquired from the card management device 40 with the prepaid value and the possession ball of the card C1 managed by the own device. Then, the card management device 40 is notified of the prepaid value and the possession ball after the addition as the prepaid value and the possession ball of the card C2. In addition, the inter-card card processing machine 10 transmits to the card management device 40 a transition notification that identifies the prepaid value and the possession ball that has transitioned from the card C1 to the card C2.

  Upon receiving the notification from the inter-card card processing machine 10, the card management device 40 registers the combined prepaid value and possessed ball as the prepaid value and retained ball of the card C2. Further, the card management device 40 clears the prepaid value and the holding ball of the card C1 to zero. Furthermore, the card management device 40 holds the content of the transfer notification as a transfer history. Then, the inter-card card processing machine 10 controls the discharge of the card C2. The transition history can be displayed on the display unit 41 of the card management device 40 according to a predetermined output instruction, and can be printed out as a form of a predetermined format. In addition, this transfer history includes the transfer source card ID, the ID of the inter-card card processor that has been operated, the transfer destination card ID (member ID if it is a member card), the time when the transfer was performed, The transfer history can be searched by using as a key the time when the transfer destination card becomes valueless due to payment, etc., and these can also be displayed by the card management device 40. It is also possible to access the transition history from the screen of a mobile terminal or the like possessed by the employee and display the transition history on the screen of the mobile terminal.

  Note that the transfer history held by the card management device 40 can be used for evaluating the prepaid value and the usage status of the transfer of the coin. In other words, if the prepaid value and the transfer of the ball are used at a high frequency, it can be evaluated that the prepaid value and the transfer of the ball are accepted as a useful service that is highly convenient for the player. On the other hand, if the prepaid value and the transfer of the possession are not utilized more than the amusement store side assumes, it can be a material for considering the termination of the provision of such services. In addition, if the prepaid value and the movement of possession balls for a specific card are concentrated, it is suggested that such a card may be used illegally. The transition history can also be used when determining whether the prepaid value at the amusement store and the balance of the coins are appropriate.

  Next, the external appearance of the inter-card card processing machine 10 shown in FIG. 4 will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the external appearance of the inter-card card processing machine 10. In FIG. 5, the appearance of the inter-card card processing machine 10 connected to the gaming machine 20 is shown as the inter-card card processing machine 10. Moreover, the gaming machine 20 provided side by side is illustrated with a broken line. In FIG. 5, the inter-card processing machine 10 that accepts only banknotes is illustrated, but a unit for accepting coins may be provided.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the inter-card card processing machine 10 includes a state display unit 11, a bill insertion slot 12a, a display operation unit 13, a card insertion slot 14a, a holding unit 14b, a nozzle unit 18a, and a counting unit 18b.

  The status display unit 11 displays the status of the inter-card card processor 10 by lighting or blinking a lamp of a predetermined color. The banknote insertion slot 12a is an insertion slot for various banknotes necessary for lending game balls. The display operation unit 13 is a touch panel type liquid crystal display or the like, and is a device that displays various information and operation buttons and accepts an input operation using the operation buttons.

  The card insertion slot 14a is an insertion slot for cards possessed by the player. The holding part 14b is a part that holds the portable terminal used for member registration. When the portable terminal is held over the holding part 14b, data such as a unique ID (for example, IDm) of the portable terminal is read from the portable terminal. The nozzle unit 18 a is a mechanism for throwing out game balls to the gaming machine 20. The counting unit 18b is a mechanism for counting game balls dropped from the lower plate of the gaming machine 20.

  Next, the configuration of the inter-card card processing machine 10 shown in FIG. 4 will be described. FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the inter-card card processing machine 10 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the inter-card card processing machine 10 includes a banknote transport unit 12, a display operation unit 13, a reader / writer 14, a holding unit 14 b, a communication unit 15, a storage unit 16, and a control unit 17. And a nozzle unit 18a and a counting unit 18b.

  The banknote conveyance part 12 is a conveyance part conveyed to the banknote storage part which is not shown in figure, discriminating the money type and authenticity of the banknote inserted from the banknote insertion port 12a. The display operation unit 13 is an input / output device such as a touch panel type liquid crystal display that displays various information such as a prepaid value that can be used for ball lending, the number of balls held, and the number of balls stored, and accepts various operations such as ball lending operations. It is.

  The reader / writer 14 is a device that reads a card ID from a card inserted into the card insertion slot 14a. The card inserted into the card insertion slot 14a is stored in a card storage section (not shown) through the reader / writer 14. The holding unit 14b is an interface unit that reads various kinds of information such as a unique ID (for example, IDm) of the portable terminal by short-range wireless communication when the portable terminal is held over. The reader / writer 14 also issues a new card by associating value data such as a ball or a prepaid value indicated in the card data 16b with a card stored in the card storage unit in response to a player's return operation. Also have. However, when the prepaid value shown in the card data 16b is 0 and the number of possessed balls is less than a certain number (minimum holding number), control is performed so that the card is not returned even if a return operation is performed. This is a control for preventing a loss in a game store caused by discarding a card associated with a small amount of balls. As a certain number, for example, the value obtained by multiplying the number of balls held by the lending unit price per ball can be set so that the value of the card or the prize at the lowest price in the game store is not limited to this. Can be set freely according to store policy. In addition, when controlling to not return the card even if there is a return operation, you can pay out the stored ball, but display that the card can not be returned and prompt the player to replay the ball May be.

  The communication unit 15 is an interface unit for performing data communication between the gaming machine 20 and the island controller 30. The nozzle unit 18a is used for part or all of the payout when the game balls are paid out by lending or replaying balls. The counting unit 18b is a unit that counts game balls.

  The storage unit 16 is a storage device including a hard disk device, a nonvolatile memory, and the like. The storage unit 16 stores its own device state data 16a, card data 16b, and migration restriction data 16c.

  The own device status data 16a is data indicating the status of the inter-card card processing machine 10. The own device status data 16a includes the device ID of the inter-card processing machine and the game settings. The device ID of the inter-card card processing machine is identification data for uniquely identifying the inter-card card processing machine 10 within the amusement store. The game setting is data indicating a game type or the like set in the inter-card card processing machine 10. When handling multiple rate game balls in a game store, “ball 1” for 4 yen game balls, “ball 2” for 2 yen game balls, “ball 3” for 1 yen rate game balls The game type name is set and managed for each rate, such as “medal” for a 20-yen rate medal. The inter-card processing machine 10 selects a rate used for the game from these game types and stores it as a game setting.

  The card data 16b is data relating to a card that is being used by a player. The card data 16b includes a card ID, a prepaid value, a holding ball, a stored ball, a possible number of stored ball replays, and the like. There are data for each game type (rate) for the possession balls and storage balls. The card ID is a card ID read by the reader / writer 14. When a card is transported from a card storage section (not shown) to the card insertion slot 14a and the card is ejected, the card data 16b is updated with the card ID read by the reader / writer 14 during the transport. Also, when a card is transported from the card insertion slot 14a to a card storage unit (not shown), the card data 16b is updated with the card ID read by the reader / writer 14 during the transport. The transfer restriction data 16c is data indicating restrictions on the transfer of the prepaid value and the transfer of the possession ball.

  The control unit 17 is a control unit that controls the entire inter-card card processing machine 10, and includes a data management unit 17a, a counting processing unit 17b, a migration restriction determination unit 17c, a summation processing unit 17d, and a notification control unit 17e.

  When the card is inserted, the data management unit 17a transmits card insertion notification data including the device ID of the device status data 16a and the card ID of the card data 16b to the card management device 40. Further, when the data management unit 17a receives data including value data (at least one of prepaid value, number of possessions and number of balls) from the card management device 40, the data management unit 17a updates the card data 16b with the received value data. . The data management unit 17a appropriately controls the display operation unit 13 to display the prepaid value, the number of possessed balls, and the number of stored balls indicated in the card data 16b.

  Moreover, if a banknote is inserted in the banknote insertion slot 12a, the data management part 17a will transmit the payment notification data containing the money amount of inserted banknote, card ID, and inter-card processing machine ID to the card management apparatus 40. FIG.

  Further, the data management unit 17a transmits the ball lending request data including the card ID and the device ID to the card management device 40 when the ball lending operation is performed by the player. If the ball lending permission data is received as a response to the ball lending request data, the data management unit 17a performs a predetermined number of game ball payout processing.

  The data management unit 17a subtracts a predetermined number from the number of possessed balls indicated in the card data 16b when the player performs a possession replay operation, and performs a payout process for the corresponding number of game balls. Do.

  In addition, when the possible number of reclaimed balls indicated in the card data 16b is 1 or more, the data management unit 17a displays a replay button for reclaimed balls on the display operation unit 13 and can accept a replay operation for reclaimed balls. And The data management unit 17a transmits the stored ball replay request data including the card ID and the inter-card card processing machine ID to the member management device 50 when the stored ball replay operation is performed by the player. If the stored ball replay data is received as a response to the stored ball replay request data, the number of stored balls in the card data 16b is updated, and a game ball payout process for the number of payout units of the stored ball replay is performed. At the time of the first re-playing operation of the stored ball replay, the user is requested to input a password, and the stored ball re-play request data is transmitted on condition that the password matches the password shown in the card data 16b.

  In addition, when the card return operation is performed by the player, the data management unit 17a transmits to the card management device 40 the ball addition request data including the card ID, the device ID, and the number of balls, and the card data 16b. After clearing the number of holding balls to zero, the card discharge notification data is transmitted to the card management device 40, and the card is discharged.

  When the game ball is inserted into the counting unit 18b, the counting processing unit 17b causes the counting unit 18b to count the game ball and performs a process of adding the counting result to the number of balls in the card data 16b.

  The transition restriction determination unit 17c is a processing unit that refers to the transition restriction data 16c and performs a process of determining whether or not the prepaid value transition and the possession transition conflict with the restrictions. This determination indicates that the card ID of the card data 16b is a general card, and is received when insertion of a member card is accepted in a state where either the prepaid value or the possession ball of each game type is greater than 0. .

  Specifically, if the transfer restriction data 16c sets the restriction that the purchase date is the same for the transfer of the prepaid value, the transfer restriction determination unit 17c sets the prepaid value indicated in the card data 16b. It is determined whether or not the purchase date, that is, the purchase date of the internal card is the same as the purchase date of the prepaid value of the newly inserted card, that is, the inserted card. If the purchase date of the prepaid value is the same, the transfer of the prepaid value is permitted to satisfy the restriction, and if the purchase date of the prepaid value is different, the transfer of the prepaid value is prohibited to violate the restriction.

  Further, if the transfer restriction data 16c is set as a restriction that the prepaid value after addition is less than the upper limit (for example, 11000) for the transfer of the prepaid value, the transfer restriction determination unit 17c determines the prepaid value of the internal card. And whether the total prepaid value of the inserted card is equal to or less than the upper limit value. If the total prepaid value is less than or equal to the upper limit, the transfer of the prepaid value is permitted to satisfy the limit, and if the total prepaid value exceeds the upper limit, the transfer of the prepaid value is prohibited to violate the limit. .

  Further, if the transfer restriction data 16c sets the upper limit number “3” of the game type of the possession ball for the single card as the restriction for the transfer of the possession ball, the transition restriction determination unit 17c indicates the card data 16b. It is determined whether or not the sum of the number of game types with a balance greater than 0 among the held balls and the number of game types with a balance greater than 0 among the possessions of the inserted card exceeds the upper limit number “3”. . If the total number of game types with a balance of more than 0 is less than or equal to the upper limit, the transfer of possessions is permitted to satisfy the limit, and the total number of game types with a balance of more than 0 If it exceeds the upper limit, it is prohibited to move the ball to violate the limit.

  The summation processing unit 17d is a processing unit that performs processing of adding the prepaid value and the possession ball and discharging them in association with the inserted card when the transition is permitted by the transition restriction determination unit 17c. Specifically, when the sum of the prepaid value is permitted, the summation processing unit 17d sums the prepaid values of the internal card and the insertion card, associates them with the insertion card, and clears the prepaid value of the internal card to zero. At this time, the summation processing unit 17d issues a prepaid value addition request including the card ID of the inserted card and the prepaid value addition, and a prepaid value subtraction request for zero clearing of the card ID and the prepaid value of the internal card. Send to. Further, the summation processing unit 17d sums up the internal cards and the inserted cards held for each game type and associates them with the inserted cards when the addition of the held balls is permitted, and associates the held balls of each game type of the internal cards. Clear to zero. Furthermore, the summation processing unit 17d transmits to the card management device 40 a transition notification that identifies the prepaid value and the possession ball that has been transitioned from the internal card to the insertion card.

  The notification control unit 17e is a processing unit that notifies the player when the transition processing unit 17d is prohibited from shifting by the transition restriction determination unit 17c.

  Specifically, when the transfer of the prepaid value is prohibited, the notification control unit 17e controls the display operation unit 13 to display a message indicating that the transfer of the prepaid value cannot be performed. The display operation unit 13 controls display of an operation button for canceling all the transitions and an operation button for shifting only the possession balls. At this time, the reason why the prepaid value cannot be transferred (the purchase date of the prepaid value is different and exceeds the upper limit after the addition) may be further displayed.

  If the operation indicating that the prepaid value and the transfer of the possession ball are all canceled is received, the notification control unit 17e discharges the inserted card without performing the summing process by the summing processing unit 17d. In this case, the prepaid value and the holding ball of the inserted card and the internal card are maintained as they are.

  If the operation indicating that only the possession ball is transferred is received, the notification control unit 17e causes the addition processing unit 17d to perform the addition processing of the possession ball. In this case, the addition processing unit 17d performs the addition processing of the holding balls, and the inserted card is discharged. Therefore, the prepaid value of the internal card remains as it is, and all possessions are zero. However, the combined processing of the holding balls is performed on condition that the transfer of holding balls is permitted.

  In a case where the transition of the possessed ball is prohibited, the notification control unit 17e controls the display operation unit 13 to display a message indicating that the transition of the retained ball cannot be performed, and cancels all the prepaid value and the transition of the retained ball. The display operation unit 13 controls display of the operation buttons and the operation buttons for storing balls. At this time, you may further display the reason (the total number of game types of a possession ball exceeds an upper limit) that cannot carry a possession ball.

  If the operation indicating that the prepaid value and the transfer of the possession ball are all canceled is received, the notification control unit 17e discharges the inserted card without performing the summing process by the summing processing unit 17d. In this case, the prepaid value and the holding ball of the inserted card and the internal card are maintained as they are.

  If an operation indicating that the ball is stored is received, the notification control unit 17e controls the display operation unit 13 to display an operation button for selecting a game type to be stored. Specifically, operation buttons are displayed for game types with a balance greater than 0 among the balls associated with the inserted card.

  When the selection operation of the game type to be stored is performed, the notification control unit 17e shifts the possession ball of the selected game type to the storage ball. Specifically, the member management device 50 is notified of the card ID of the insertion card, which is a membership card, the selected game type, and the number of possessions of the game type. At this time, the number of balls to be notified is the number of balls in the insertion card. The member management device 50 adds the number of possessed balls notified from the notification control unit 17e to the number of stored balls specified by the card ID and the game type. Thereafter, the notification controller 17e clears the selected game type possession ball to zero. If the number of game types having a balance with a balance greater than 0 becomes equal to or less than the upper limit due to the shift to the storage ball, the notification control unit 17e causes the summation processing unit 17d to perform the summation process of the ball. In this case, the addition processing unit 17d performs the addition processing of the holding balls, and the inserted card is discharged.

  Next, an example of data stored in the storage unit 16 of the inter-card card processing machine 10 will be described. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of data stored in the storage unit 16 of the inter-card card processing machine 10.

  The own apparatus state data 16a shown in FIG. 7A indicates a state in which the ID of the inter-card card processing machine 10 is “3001” and “ball 1” is set as the game type of the inter-card card processing machine 10. ing.

  The card data 16b shown in FIG. 7B shows a state where the ID of the internal card of the inter-card card processing machine 10 is “1002”. Here, the first digit of the card ID indicates the type of card, the card with the first digit “1” being a general card, and the card with the first digit “2” being a membership card. The card data 16b shows a state where the prepaid value is “2000 degrees” and the purchase date of the prepaid value is “2016/06/20”. Here, the frequency of prepaid value is equivalent to 1 yen per frequency. Further, the card data 16b indicates that the number of balls of the game type “ball 1” is “700”, the number of balls of the game type “ball 2” is “800”, and the number of balls of the game type “ball 3” is “900”. ”, The game type“ medal ”has a number of possessed balls of“ 0 ”.

  In the card data 16b, the password for replaying the stored ball, the possible number of replayed balls, and the stored ball of each game type are all “None”. This is because the internal card is a general card. Although not shown, the card management device 40 also stores ON / OFF of a “lock” flag indicating validity / invalidity of the card in addition to the holding ball, the saving ball, and the prepaid value in association with the card ID. When a card theft is detected, it is turned ON by an employee operation. These data are also stored in the card data 16b. Furthermore, this “lock” flag can be set for each function (“use of stored ball”, etc.), for example, only the function of “use of stored ball” is targeted for “lock” according to the player's request to prevent erroneous operation. It can also be used.

  The transfer restriction data 16c shown in FIG. 7 (c) shows restrictions on the transfer of prepaid value and the transfer of holding balls. Specifically, in FIG. 7C, “the purchase date is the same” and “the balance after the transfer is the upper limit (1100) or less” are set as restrictions on the transfer of the prepaid value. In addition, as the restriction on the transfer of the possession ball, “the upper limit number“ 3 ”of the possession game types for a single card is set.

  Next, the configuration of the card management device 40 shown in FIG. 4 will be described. FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the card management device 40 shown in FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the card management device 40 includes a display unit 41, an input unit 42, an external network communication unit 43, a store network communication unit 44, a storage unit 45, and a control unit 46.

  The display unit 41 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display device. The input unit 42 is an input device such as a keyboard or a mouse. The external network communication unit 43 is an interface unit for data communication via a network outside the game store. The store network communication unit 44 is an interface unit for performing data communication with the island controller 30, the member management device 50, the prize management device 60, and the checkout machine 80 via a communication line in the amusement store.

  The storage unit 45 is a storage device such as a hard disk device or a nonvolatile memory, and stores game type setting data 45a, card management data 45b, and device management data 45c.

  The game type setting data 45a is data in which the lending rate and the display name are associated with the game type. The card management data 45b includes a prepaid value, a purchase date of the prepaid value, the number of balls of each game type, and a use destination device ID indicating the device ID of the inter-card processing machine 10 in which the card is inserted. Data associated with the card ID. The device management data 45c is data relating to a device placed in the amusement store. The device management data 45c includes the device ID of the inter-card card processing machine, the address of the inter-card card processing machine 10, the installation location, the gaming machine ID and model data of the attached gaming machine.

  The control unit 46 is a control unit that controls the entire card management device 40, and includes a game type setting management unit 46a, a card management unit 46b, and a device management unit 46c. Actually, a program corresponding to these functional units is stored in a ROM or a non-volatile memory (not shown), and these programs are loaded into a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and executed to thereby execute a game type setting management unit. 46a, the card management unit 46b, and the device management unit 46c execute corresponding processes.

  The game type setting management unit 46a is a processing unit that manages the game type used in the game store, the rate, and the display name in association with each other as the game type setting data 45a.

  The card management unit 46b is a processing unit that manages the card management data 45b. Specifically, when the card management unit 46b receives the card insertion notification data from the inter-card processing machine 10, the card management unit 46b also notifies the card insertion notification of the used device ID of the card ID indicated in the card insertion notification data. The device ID shown in the data is assumed. In addition, the prepaid value associated with the card ID indicated in the card insertion notification data and the number of possessions at each rate are notified to the inter-card processing machine 10 as value data. If the inserted card is a member card, card insertion notification data is transmitted to the member management device. When the card management unit 46b receives the ball subtraction request data from the inter-card processing machine 10, the card management unit 46b clears the number of balls having the rate indicated in the ball subtraction request data to zero.

  Further, when receiving the ball lending request data including the card ID from the inter-card processing machine 10, the card management unit 46b determines whether or not the prepaid value associated with the card ID is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. . If the prepaid value is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, the card management unit 46b subtracts the predetermined value from the prepaid value stored in the card management data 45b and includes the updated prepaid value in the inter-card card processor 10. Send ball lending permission data. On the other hand, when the prepaid value is less than the predetermined value, the card management unit 46b notifies the inter-card card processing machine 10 of the ball lending impossibility data.

  In addition, when the card management unit 46b receives payment notification data including the amount of money inserted from the inter-card processing machine 10, the card ID, and the device ID, the card management unit 46b notifies the payment to the prepaid value associated with the card ID. Add the prepaid value for the amount shown in.

  In addition, when the stored card replay request data is received from the inter-card card processing machine 10, the card management unit 46 b transfers the stored ball replay request data to the member management device 50. Also, response data from the member management device 50 to the stored ball replay request data is also transferred to the inter-card card processing machine 10.

  In addition, when the card management unit 46b receives the possession ball addition request data, the card management unit 46b adds the possession number included in the possession ball addition request data to the number of possessions at the corresponding rate. Further, when the card management unit 46b receives the card discharge notification data, the card management unit 46b deletes the used device ID of the card ID.

  Further, when the card management unit 46b receives the card ID from the prize management device 60, the card management unit 46b notifies the prize management device 60 of the number of possessions of each rate associated with the card ID. Further, when the card management unit 46b receives the card ID from the payment machine 80, the card management unit 46b notifies the payment machine 80 of the prepaid value associated with the card ID.

  When the card management unit 46b receives the prepaid value addition request from the inter-card card processor 10, the card management unit 46b adds the prepaid value of the card ID indicated in the prepaid value addition request to the prepaid value addition request. The value of the minutes is added to update the card management data 45b. Further, when the card management unit 46b receives the prepaid value subtraction request from the inter-card card processor 10, the card management data 46b is updated by clearing the prepaid value of the card ID indicated in the prepaid value subtraction request to zero. To do.

  In addition, when the card management unit 46b receives the transfer notification from the inter-card card processor 10, the card management unit 46b updates the card management data 45b based on the contents indicated in the transfer notification. Further, the card management unit 46b holds the content of the transfer notification as a transfer history. The migration history may be stored in the storage unit 45, for example, or may be stored in an external storage device.

  The device management unit 46c is a processing unit that manages the device management data 45c. The device management unit 46c generates and updates the device management data 45c based on the device ID acquired from the inter-card card processing machine 10, the address of the inter-card card processing machine 10, the installation location, and the gaming machine ID.

  Next, an example of data stored in the storage unit 45 of the card management device 40 illustrated in FIG. 8 will be described. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of data stored in the storage unit 45 of the card management device 40.

  The game type setting data 45a shown in FIG. 9A associates the rate “4 yen” and the display name “4 pachis” with the game type name “ball 1”. In addition, the game type setting data 45a associates the rate “2 yen” and the display name “2 pachis” with the game type name “ball 2”. Further, the game type setting data 45a associates the rate “1 yen” and the display name “1 pachi” with the game type name “ball 3”. Further, the game type setting data 45a associates the rate “20 yen” and the display name “20 slot” with the game type name “medal”.

  In the card management data 45b shown in FIG. 9B, the prepaid value “2500”, the prepaid value purchase date “2016/06/20”, the number of balls 1 “1500”, and the card ID “1001”, The number of balls 2 “2300”, the number of balls 3 “900”, and the number of medals 0 are associated with each other. That is, the card with the card ID “1001” is not inserted into the inter-card processing machine 10, and the management of the possession balls is performed by the card management device 40.

  Further, in the card management data 45b shown in FIG. 9B, the card ID “1002” has a prepaid value “500”, a prepaid value purchase date “2016/06/20”, the number of coins “0” for each rate, The destination device ID “3004” is associated. That is, the card with the card ID “1002” is inserted in the inter-card card processing machine 10 with the device ID “3001”, and the management shifts to the inter-card card processing machine 10 regarding the number of balls. For this reason, the number of balls in each rate is zero.

  Further, in the card management data 45b shown in FIG. 9B, the prepaid value “1000”, the prepaid value purchase date “2016/06/18”, the number of balls 1 “1000” is stored in the card ID “2004”. The number of balls “2000” of the ball 2, the number of balls “0” of the ball 3, and the number of balls 1000 of the medal are associated with each other. That is, the card with the card ID “2004” is not inserted into the inter-card card processing machine 10, and the management of the holding balls is performed by the card management device 40.

  In the device management data 45c shown in FIG. 9C, the network address of the inter-card processor 10 with the device ID “3001” is “AB.CD.EF.GH”, and the installation location is “Island 1- 1, the ID of the connected gaming machine 20 is “A0012X4233”, the game type is “ball 1”, and the model of the connected gaming machine 20 is “EV01”. It also shows that this gaming machine 20 is in use.

  Next, the prepaid value and the possession ball transfer processing by the inter-card processing machine 10 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the migration process by the inter-card card processor 10. This processing procedure indicates that the card ID of the card data 16b is a general card, and when insertion of a membership card is accepted in a state where either the prepaid value or the possession ball of each game type is greater than zero. Start.

  When the process is started, first, the migration restriction determination unit 17c reads value data (prepaid value, purchase date of prepaid value, and number of balls of each game type) from the inserted card (step S101). Similarly, the migration restriction determination unit 17c reads value data (prepaid value, purchase date of prepaid value, and number of possessions of each game type) from the internal card (step S102).

  The migration restriction determination unit 17c determines whether the purchase date of the prepaid value of the internal card is the same as the purchase date of the prepaid value of the inserted card (step S103). If the purchase date of the prepaid value is the same (step S103; Yes), the transition restriction determination unit 17c determines whether or not the prepaid value after the addition is equal to or less than the upper limit (step S104). If the prepaid value after the addition is equal to or less than the upper limit (step S104; Yes), the transition restriction determination unit 17c permits the addition of the prepaid value (step S105).

  If the purchase date of the prepaid value is different (step S103; No), the notification control unit 17e notifies the player of the mismatch of the purchase date of the prepaid value (step S106). If the combined prepaid value exceeds the upper limit (step S104; No), the notification control unit 17e notifies the player that the combined prepaid value exceeds the upper limit (step S107). In step S106 and step S107, the display operation unit 13 performs display control of an operation button for canceling all the prepaid value and the transition of the possessed ball and an operation button for performing the transition of the possessed ball only.

  If the operation indicating that the prepaid value and the transfer of all the balls are canceled is not performed without transferring only the holding ball (step S108; No), the inserted card is discharged as it is (step S115), and the prepaid value and End the transfer process of the holding ball.

  When an operation indicating that only the possession ball is to be transferred is accepted (step S108; Yes), or after the end of step S105, the transition restriction determination unit 17c has a balance greater than 0 among the possession balls of the internal card and the insertion card. It is determined whether or not the total with the number of game types is equal to or less than the upper limit number “3” (step S109).

  If the sum of the internal card and the number of game types with the balance of the inserted card exceeds the upper limit number “3” (step S109; No), the notification control unit 17e determines the game type of the internal ball. The player is notified that the number exceeds the upper limit (step S110). In addition, the display operation unit 13 controls display control of an operation button for canceling all of the prepaid value and the transition of the possessed ball and an operation button for storing the retained ball.

  If the operation indicating that the prepaid value and the transfer of all the balls are canceled without performing the transition of the holding ball to the storage ball is accepted (step S111; No), the inserted card is discharged as it is (step S115), and the prepaid is performed. The transfer process of value and possession is finished.

  If the operation indicating that the holding ball is transferred to the storage ball is received (step S111; Yes), the notification control unit 17e controls the display operation unit 13 to display an operation button for selecting a game type to be stored. When the selection operation of the game type to be stored is performed, the notification control unit 17e shifts the possessed ball of the selected game type to the storage ball (step S112).

  After the number of game types with a balance greater than 0 falls below the upper limit due to the transition to the stored ball in step S112, or the number of game types with a balance greater than 0 among internal cards and inserted cards Is the upper limit number “3” or less (step S109; Yes), the transition restriction determination unit 17c permits the transition of the holding ball (step S113).

  After step S113, the summation processing unit 17d performs summation of the prepaid value permitted by the transition restriction determination unit 17c and the balls of each game type, and associates the summation result with the inserted card (step S114). Then, the inserted card is discharged (step S115), and the process is terminated.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the restriction on the summation process for summing the value data such as the prepaid value and the holding ball is stored, and the sum of the value data of the internal card and the value data of the insertion card violates the restriction. Determine whether or not. Then, the summation process of the value data is executed on the condition that it is determined that the restriction is not violated, and when it is determined that the restriction is violated, the player is notified. For this reason, it is possible to prevent a disadvantageous situation for the player such as leaving the value data on the internal card while leaving the inter-card processing machine 10, and to improve the convenience of the player.

  Further, when the value data cannot be summed up, the options that the player can take are presented, so that the player can easily select a desired process, and convenience related to the transfer of the value data is improved.

  In addition, when the number of balls in a general card is less than a certain number (minimum number of held), it is controlled not to return the card even if there is a return operation, but by using the sum of the balls, It is possible to eliminate the situation where the card is not returned due to the lack of the number of balls.

  In the present embodiment, the purchase date of the prepaid value is the same and the prepaid value after the addition is equal to or less than the upper limit is set as a restriction on the sum of the prepaid value, and the number of game types of holding balls is equal to or less than the upper limit. In the above description, the case where the limitation of the sum of the coins is used as an example has been described.

  For example, an upper limit may be set for the number of possessed balls, and the sum of the number of retained balls may be equal to or less than the upper limit as a restriction on the sum of prepaid values.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the configuration in which the value data transfer process is executed when the internal card is a general card and the insertion card is a membership card has been described as an example, but the present invention is limited to this. It is not a thing.

  For example, both the internal card and the insertion card may be general cards. In this case, it is desirable to provide a predetermined authentication procedure such as issuing a one-time password in advance and confirming that the owner of the internal card matches the owner of the inserted card by inputting the one-time password. . Further, whether or not to allow summation of value data between general cards may be set on the game store side. Furthermore, regarding the summation of the value data of the general cards, a condition different from the summation of the value data of the membership card and the general card may be provided. For example, in the summation of value data between general cards, an upper limit may be provided for the summed value. This is because if the transfer of an excessive value is allowed between general cards in which no player information is registered, the risk of fraud and theft increases.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the configuration has been described in which the value data of the general card is integrated into the membership card when the internal card is a general card and the insertion card is the membership card. However, the internal card is the membership card, When the insertion card is a general card, the value data may be integrated with the membership card that is an internal card.

  Further, in this embodiment, when the purchase date of the prepaid value is different, the configuration in which the prepaid value of the internal card is left is illustrated. However, two prepaid values having different purchase dates are associated with the inserted card, and the prepaid value of the internal card is associated. May be configured to be cleared to zero. Further, the prepaid value of the inserted card and the purchase date of the prepaid value of the internal card may be added together as the prepaid value of one of the purchase dates (for example, the older purchase date) and associated with the inserted card. . Alternatively, the date on which the prepaid value is added may be set as a new purchase date.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, when the total number of the game types of the possession ball exceeds the upper limit, the configuration that allows the transition of the possession ball by storing a part of the possession ball is illustrated. You may make it move a holding ball, leaving a part in an internal card.

  In the present embodiment, the case where the total number of the game types of the possession ball exceeds the upper limit is shown in the case where the possession ball of the inserted card is transferred to the accumulation ball in the storage ball processing. It is also possible to shift to the storage card of the inserted card.

  Further, in the present embodiment, in the storage ball processing when the total number of the game types of the possession ball exceeds the upper limit, the case where the possession ball of the game type selected by the player is transferred to the storage ball is shown. The holding ball may be automatically transferred to a storage ball and a confirmation display may be given to the player.

  Moreover, although the structure which discharges | inserts an insertion card after value data transfer was illustrated in the present Example, you may comprise so that a game can be continued as it is, without discharging an insertion card.

  In this embodiment, value data such as prepaid value and possession ball is not written on the card, but value data such as prepaid value and possession ball may be written on the card and returned.

  Further, in this embodiment, a configuration is shown in which the reason is notified when the prepaid value and the possession cannot be added, but a display that does not indicate the reason such as “cannot be integrated” may be used. Further, instead of notifying the player that the prepaid value or the accumulated ball cannot be added, an error code or the like may be displayed.

  Further, in this embodiment, when one of the prepaid value and the possession ball violates the limit, and the other does not violate the restriction, the value that does not violate the restriction is summed up. If one of the two violates the limit, it may be configured not to add the prepaid value and the added ball. In addition, when one conflicts with the limit, it may be possible to set whether or not the other is allowed to be added.

  Further, in this embodiment, after the insertion of the card has been accepted, the configuration for accepting the operation for performing the summation from the player has been described. However, the operation for performing the summation from the player has been accepted. You may comprise so that insertion of a card may be accepted as conditions.

  Further, in this embodiment, the case where the game medium acquired by the player is managed as a holding ball or a storage ball has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the number of game media that the inter-card processing machine 10 counts and manages in its own device is “each device device possession ball”, and each device count possession ball associated with the card is “current day storage ball”. The number of acquired game media may be managed as “past savings”. In this case, the holding balls in the present embodiment correspond to the total of the holding device holding balls and the same day storage balls.

  Further, in the above embodiment, the embodiment in which the value of the card is integrated into the transfer destination card is shown. However, in addition to the above specifications, a function for integrating the value of the card into the portable terminal possessed by the player is provided. May be. In this case, a member ID corresponding to the IDm of the portable terminal read by the holding unit 14b is specified, and processing is performed so as to associate the total value with the prepaid value and the holding ball associated with the member ID.

  In the above embodiment, detailed description of the form of the card, which is a medium for associating the number of game media, is omitted, but such a card includes a magnetic card, an IC card, and the like. Further, although the “card” has been described as an example here for convenience of explanation, the present invention can also be applied when using an IC chip, a memory stick, a portable terminal, or the like other than the card.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the game ball is used as the game medium has been described as an example, but the present invention can also be applied to the case where a medal for a slot machine is used.

  Further, the present invention may be applied to an enclosed game machine that uses game balls enclosed in a game machine. In enclosed game machines, the number of game balls that can be thrown onto the game board surface is managed as the number of games that can be played, and in the case of ball lending or replaying, the actual game balls are not paid out. And the number of games that can be played is added.

  Moreover, you may comprise so that the card management apparatus 40, the member management apparatus 50, etc. may perform a part of process which concerns on the summation of value data in said Example.

  Each illustrated configuration is schematic in function, and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the form of distribution / integration of each device is not limited to the one shown in the figure, and all or a part thereof may be functionally / physically distributed / integrated in arbitrary units according to various loads and usage conditions. Can be configured.

  As described above, each device, game medium management system, and game medium management method according to the present invention are suitable for improving the convenience of the player.

10 inter-card processing machine 11 status display unit 12 banknote transport unit 12a banknote insertion slot 13 display operation unit 14 reader / writer 14a card insertion slot 14b cover unit 15 communication unit 16, 45 storage unit 16a own device status data 16b card data 16c transition Limit data 17, 46 Control unit 17a Data management unit 17b Count processing unit 17c Transition limit determination unit 17d Addition processing unit 17e Notification control unit 18a Nozzle unit 18b Count unit 20 Game machine 30 Island controller 40 Card management device 41 Display unit 42 Input unit 43 external network communication unit 44 store network communication unit 45a game type setting data 45b card management data 45c device management data 46a game type setting management unit 46b card management unit 46c device management unit 50 member management device 60 prize management Location 80 checkout machine

Claims (9)

Each stand device is attached to a gaming machine that uses a game medium to perform a game, and performs processing related to the game medium based on a player's operation,
An integration processing means for performing an integration process for integrating a predetermined value associated with the first storage medium and a similar value associated with the second storage medium;
The integration processing means executes the integration processing if it does not meet a restriction condition predetermined as a condition for limiting the integration processing,
Each stand apparatus further comprising a notification means for performing a predetermined notification when the restriction condition is satisfied. The predetermined value includes a valuable value used for lending the game medium,
The restriction condition includes a condition relating to time information indicating a time when processing relating to the valuable value associated with the first storage medium and the valuable value associated with the second storage medium is performed. Each stand apparatus of Claim 1. The predetermined value includes a valuable value used for lending the game medium,
The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the restriction condition is a condition related to an upper limit of a valuable value that can be associated with a recording medium. The predetermined value includes the number of acquired game media, which is the number of game media acquired by the player through the game,
The integration processing means distinguishes and integrates the number of acquired game media for each game type,
4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the restriction condition includes a condition related to a number of game types of the number of acquired game media associated with a single storage medium. The predetermined value includes a valuable value used for lending the game medium and the number of acquired game media that is the number of game media acquired by the player through the game,
The integration processing means is capable of executing one integration process that does not satisfy the restriction condition even when one of the valuable value and the number of acquired game media satisfies the restriction condition. Each stand apparatus of Claim 1. One of the first storage medium and the second storage medium is a member storage medium associated with member information;
6. The integration processing means controls to associate the result of the integration processing with the member storage medium regardless of the order in which the member storage medium is received. Each stand apparatus as described in any one of. In order to perform integration processing by the integration processing means, further comprising an integration instruction receiving means for a player to receive an integration instruction,
The integration instruction receiving means receives the integration instruction when both a predetermined value associated with the first storage medium and a predetermined value associated with the second storage medium are specified. Each stand apparatus as described in any one of Claims 1-6 characterized by these. Each stand device that is attached to a gaming machine that uses a game medium to perform a game and performs processing related to the game medium based on a player's operation, and when each stand device makes the game medium usable A game medium management system having a management device for managing a predetermined value used in the game,
Each of the platform devices or the management device includes an integration processing unit that performs an integration process for integrating a predetermined value associated with the first storage medium and a similar value associated with the second storage medium,
The integration processing means executes the integration processing if it does not meet a restriction condition predetermined as a condition for limiting the integration processing,
The game machine management system according to claim 1, wherein each of the platform devices includes a notification unit that performs a predetermined notification when the restriction condition is satisfied. A game medium management method in each device that is attached to a gaming machine that performs a game using a game medium and performs processing related to the game medium based on a player's operation,
When executing the integration process for integrating the predetermined value associated with the first storage medium and the same type of value associated with the second storage medium, a predetermined restriction condition is set as a condition for restricting the integration process. A determination step for determining whether or not this is true,
An integration processing step for executing the integration processing on the condition that the determination step determines that the restriction condition is not satisfied;
A game medium management method comprising: a notification step of performing a predetermined notification when it is determined by the determination step that the restriction condition is satisfied.

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