JP2023130631A - Prize management system, management device, and prize management method - Google Patents

Abstract

To replenish prizes for a prize put-out device efficiently.SOLUTION: If a game player inserts a card into a prize management device 60, and executes a prize exchange operation, the prize management device 60 notifies a management device 50 of prize put-out notification (S1). The management device 50 calculates a prize stock quantity using the received put-out notification, and determines whether or not replenishment is required for the notified prize (S2). The management device also determines whether or not replenishment is recommended for other prizes (S3). If it is determined that there is a prize required to be replenished or there is a prize recommended to be replenished, the management device displays a list of the prizes (S4). For example, a list is displayed for indicating that a replenishment quantity "80" is required for a prize name "big prize" of a prize management device ID "SPOS12" as the prize required to be replenished, and indicating that a replenishment quantity "1105" is recommended for a prize name "small prize" of the prize management device ID "POS11" as the prize recommended to be replenished.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a prize management system, a management device, and a prize management method that can efficiently replenish prizes to a prize dispensing device.

BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, in game parlors such as pachinko parlors, players associate the number of game media they have won through games with a storage medium such as a card, and bring this storage medium to a prize counter. When the player hands over the storage medium to the employee at the prize counter, the number of game media associated with the storage medium is exchanged for a prize by the operation of the employee.

Here, since the prize dispensing device pays out prizes, if there is a shortage of prizes in the prize dispensing device, business will be hindered. Therefore, an employee checks the number of prizes in stock in the prize dispensing device at a predetermined timing and replenishes the necessary number of prizes. At this time, the prize replenishment process is performed by operating the prize dispensing device or the prize management device that manages the prize dispensing device. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for suppressing erroneous processing such as redundant prize replenishment processing from both a prize management device and a prize payout device.

JP2019-017561A

However, in Patent Document 1, although it is possible to accurately grasp the number of prizes in stock, employees must check the total number of stocks and then decide whether or not it is necessary to replenish the prizes. This places a heavy burden on employees.

Furthermore, recently, self-operated games have been implemented in which players can exchange prizes through their own operations. When performing such self-operation, the prize management device and the prize dispensing device may be distributed at multiple locations within the game store, so the challenge is how to efficiently replenish the prize dispensing device with prizes. There is.

The present invention has been made in order to solve the problems of the prior art described above, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a prize management system, a management device, and a prize management method that can efficiently replenish prizes to a prize dispensing device. purpose.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a management device that manages the number of gaming media acquired by playing games on a gaming machine in association with identification information of a storage medium, and a management device that manages the number of gaming media obtained by playing games on a gaming machine in association with identification information of a storage medium; A prize management system comprising a plurality of prize management devices that exchange game media for prizes, and a prize dispensing device attached to the prize managing device, wherein the management device exchanges prizes from the prize dispensing device. acquisition means for acquiring payout information indicating payout status and replenishment information indicating replenishment status of prizes for the prize payout device from the plurality of prize management devices; and based on the payout information and the replenishment information acquired by the acquisition means. a determination means for making a determination regarding the replenishment of prizes, and a display control means for controlling display on a predetermined display section of information regarding the replenishment of prizes to the prize dispensing device according to at least a determination result by the determination means. It is characterized by being equipped.

Further, in the above invention, the present invention provides the display control means with information on replenishment of the prize to the prize payout device according to the determination result by the determination means, the payout information acquired by the acquisition means, and the replenishment information. information on the predetermined display section.

Further, in the above invention, the present invention provides that the determining means determines whether or not replenishment of the prize is necessary for the prize dispensing device and whether replenishment is recommended, based on the payout information and the replenishment information acquired by the acquisition means. It is characterized by determining the presence or absence.

Further, in the above invention, the present invention provides that the determination means calculates the number of stocks for each prize managed by the prize management device based on the payout information and the replenishment information acquired by the acquisition means, If the inventory quantity is less than or equal to a first predetermined value, it is determined that prizes need to be replenished, and if the inventory quantity is less than or equal to a second predetermined value, it is recommended that prizes be replenished. It is characterized in that it is determined that the

Further, in the above invention, the present invention provides at least the name of the prize and the number of replenishments for which the determination means determines that replenishment of the prize is necessary, and the determination means that determines that replenishment of the prize is recommended. The present invention is characterized in that at least one of the awarded prize name and the number of replenishments is controlled to be displayed on the predetermined display section for each prize management device.

Further, in the above invention, the present invention provides a first display control unit that displays the number of replenishments, the number of replenishments, and the number of payouts for each prize managed by the prize management device, regarding the payout information and the replenishment information. The present invention is characterized in that the display mode and the second display mode displaying the number of replenishments, the number of replenishments, and the payout amount are selectively controlled.

Further, in the above invention, the display control means displays the status for 10 days from the business day to the past 9 days with respect to the payout information and the replenishment information, and also displays the status of each weekday in the 10 days. It is characterized by controlling the display of the average value and the average values of Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, respectively.

The present invention also provides a management device that manages the number of gaming media acquired through gaming on a gaming machine by associating it with identification information of a storage medium, and includes payout information and payout information indicating the payout status of prizes from a prize payout device. an acquisition unit that acquires replenishment information indicating the status of replenishment of prizes for the prize payout device from a plurality of prize management devices; and a determination regarding replenishment of the prize based on the payout information and the replenishment information acquired by the acquisition unit. The present invention is characterized by comprising a determining means for performing the above determination, and a display control means for controlling display on a predetermined display section of at least information regarding replenishment of prizes to the prize dispensing device according to the determination result by the determining means.

The present invention also provides a management device that manages the number of game media acquired by playing games on a gaming machine in association with identification information of a storage medium, and a management device that manages the number of game media obtained by playing games on a gaming machine in association with identification information of a storage medium; A prize management method in a prize management system including a plurality of prize management devices that perform exchange processing and a prize dispensing device attached to the prize management device, the management device an acquisition step of acquiring payout information indicating the situation and replenishment information indicating the replenishment status of prizes for the prize payout device from the plurality of prize management devices; a determination step of making a determination regarding replenishment of prizes based on replenishment information, and the management device displays information regarding replenishment of prizes to the prize dispensing device at least in accordance with the determination result of the determination step on a predetermined display section. and a display control step of controlling the display.

According to the present invention, the prize dispensing device can be efficiently replenished with prizes.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an overview of a prize management system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the system configuration of the prize management system according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the external configuration of the inter-machine card processing machine and gaming machine shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the inter-machine card processing machine shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the own device status data and card data shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the gaming machine shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of the management device shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the card management data, device management data, and member management data shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the storable number data, replenishment threshold data, and prize value data shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the prize payout data shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prize management device shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the holding value data and prize inventory data shown in FIG. 11. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prize payout device shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the prize inventory data shown in FIG. 13. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example (part 1) of a display screen related to prize payout in the management device. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example (part 2) of a display screen related to prize payout in the management device. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example (Part 3) of a display screen related to prize payout in the management device. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for determining and displaying supplementary prizes in the management device.

[Embodiment]
Below, the prize management system, management device, and prize management method according to this embodiment will be described in detail.

In this specification, "balls held" is data indicating game media that a player has acquired in a game, and can only be used again during the same day (before the closing time of the game parlor). Refers to what is possible. Note that the "number of balls held" refers to the number of gaming media that the player has acquired through playing the game. Furthermore, "stored balls" refers to data indicating gaming media deposited by a player at a gaming parlor, which can be used again for gaming on the next day or later (time after the closing time of the gaming parlor). Note that the "number of stored balls" refers to the number of gaming media deposited by the player at the gaming parlor. The balls can be used by both general players and member players, and are used when the gaming machine is moved. In principle, the accumulated balls can only be used by member players, and are used when the acquired game media are used for games on the gaming machine from the next day onwards. In addition, the "number of game balls" refers to the number of playable balls that can be used by the player in a game. Furthermore, the "prize" is a prize for which the number of game media acquired by the player can be exchanged.

<Overview of prize management system according to embodiment>
First, an overview of the prize management system according to this embodiment will be explained. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an overview of the prize management system according to the present embodiment.

When the player inserts a card into the prize management device 60 and performs a prize exchange operation, the prize management device 60 notifies the management device 50 of a prize payout notification (S1).

The management device 50 calculates the number of prizes in stock using the received payout notification, and determines whether or not the notified prizes need to be replenished (S2). Furthermore, it is determined whether replenishment is recommended for other prizes (S3).

If it is determined that there are prizes that require replenishment or recommended replenishment, a list thereof is displayed (S4). For example, as a prize that requires replenishment, for the prize name "Grand Prize" with the prize management device ID "SPOS12", the number of replenishments is "80", and as a recommended replenishment prize, the prize management device ID "POS11" For the prize name "Small Prize", a list is displayed that recommends the number of replenishments of "1105".

In this way, the prize management system according to the present embodiment replenishes the prize to the prize dispensing device by determining whether replenishment of the prize is necessary or recommended according to the dispensation of the prize. It can be done efficiently.

<System configuration>
Next, the system configuration of the prize management system according to this embodiment will be explained. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the system configuration of the prize management system according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of gaming machines 20 and an inter-machine card processing machine 10 provided corresponding to each gaming machine 20 are installed in the gaming parlor. The inter-machine card processing machine 10 is connected to a communication line, which is an in-store network, via an island controller 30. An island controller 30, a management device 50, a prize management device 60, a self-prize management device 70, and a prize payout device 80 are connected to the communication line. The prize management device 60 and the prize payout device 80a are associated with each other, and the self-prize management device 70 and the prize payout device 80b are associated with each other. Note that, hereinafter, the prize dispensing devices 80a and 80b will simply be collectively referred to as the prize dispensing device 80.

The game machine 20 is a device that plays games by hitting game balls sealed inside the device onto a game board surface. Note that these game balls are physical "balls" used in games, and are different from "game balls" that the gaming machine 20 handles as data. A plurality of winning areas (winning holes) are provided on the game board surface of this gaming machine 20, and a predetermined number of game balls are awarded as prizes based on the game balls passing through the winning areas. It has become. Further, a predetermined number of starting areas (starting ports) are provided on the game board surface, and a predetermined lottery is to be performed based on the passage of game balls through the starting areas. If the lottery results in a jackpot, a predetermined movable member or the like is operated to perform an operation that is advantageous in terms of gaming, such as improving the probability of passage of game balls to the above-mentioned winning area or other starting area. Note that there may be an area that serves as both a starting area and a winning area.

A winning sensor is provided in the winning area to detect the passage of a game ball into the winning area, and the winning sensor detects the passage (winning) of a game ball hit into the winning area. ing. Further, the control unit of the gaming machine 20 has a prize memory that stores how many game balls are given as prizes for each winning area, and a playable number memory that indicates the number of game balls. Further, the control unit of the gaming machine 20 periodically transmits the number of game balls to the inter-machine card processing machine 10.

When receiving a deposit from a player, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 associates a prepaid value corresponding to the deposited amount with a card ID stored within the machine itself. This prepaid value can be used for lending game balls. Further, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 can accept the insertion of a card associated with a prepaid value, balls held, accumulated balls, etc. At the end of the game, the card associated with the prepaid value, balls held, accumulated balls, etc. is ejected and returned to the player. Further, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 transmits the history of operations such as deposit, card insertion, and card ejection to the management device 50.

The game machine 20 transmits out data to the inter-machine card processing machine 10 when a predetermined number of game balls have been hit onto the game board surface. Furthermore, the game machine 20 transmits safe data to the inter-machine card processing machine 10 when the game ball passes through the winning area (so-called winning) and a predetermined number of prize balls are added to the game ball. Furthermore, if a special state such as a jackpot occurs during the game, special prize data indicating the occurrence of such a state is transmitted to the inter-machine card processing machine 10.

The out data corresponds to the number of balls hit, which is the number of balls hit onto the game board by the player. The safe data corresponds to the number of prize balls obtained by winning. Moreover, the special prize data indicates the state of the gaming machine 20, such as a jackpot. Each data is sent to the management device 50 via the inter-machine card processing machine 10, and the management device 50 stores the operation history of the gaming machine 20 by accumulating out data, safe data, and special prize data as operation information. Obtainable.

The inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts deposits, lends game balls, and communicates with the management device 50 and the gaming machine 20. When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives banknotes inserted by the player, it sends a deposit notification including the deposited amount to the management device 50, so that the prepaid value corresponding to the deposited amount is transferred to the prepaid card managed by the management device 50. Add to value. When a predetermined ball lending operation is performed, a ball lending request is sent to the management device 50, the prepaid value managed by the management device 50 is subtracted, and a number corresponding to the subtracted prepaid value is sent to the gaming machine 20. will be notified and added to the number of game balls.

When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the card insertion, it transmits a card insertion notification to the management device 50. Moreover, when the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the balance of prepaid value, retained balls, or accumulated balls from the management device 50, it stores the balance. When the balance of balls held is received and stored, the balance of balls managed by the management device 50 (the number of balls held) is set to zero by sending a request for subtraction of balls held to the management device 50. clear.

When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the operation to replay the balls it owns, it subtracts a predetermined number from the number of balls it owns, and notifies the gaming machine 20 of the number corresponding to the subtracted number of balls it has, Add it to the number of game balls. In addition, when the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the stored ball replay operation, it sends a stored ball replay request to the management device 50 to subtract a predetermined number from the number of stored balls managed by the management device 50, A number corresponding to the subtracted number of stored balls is notified to the game machine 20, and the number is added to the number of game balls.

When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the card return operation, it sends a request to add the number of balls it has to the management device 50, causes the management device 50 to add the number of balls it has, and then sends a card ejection notification. is transmitted to the management device 50, and card ejection is controlled. Note that if a counting operation is received from the gaming machine 20 before the card return operation, the number of game balls is added to the number of balls held.

The inter-machine card processing machine 10 has a function of acquiring a gaming machine ID from the gaming machine 20 and authenticating the gaming machine 20 using the acquired gaming machine ID and the authentication key received from the management device 50. This authentication is performed at the time of store opening processing, etc., and the gaming machine 20 becomes capable of playing games on the condition that the authentication is successful.

The inter-machine card processing machine 10 performs various display controls based on the status of the gaming machine 20 and transmits the status of the gaming machine 20 to the management device 50. The inter-machine card processing machine 10 stores the number of game balls notified from the gaming machine 20, and periodically notifies the management device 50 of the number of game balls and the number of balls held.

The island controller 30 is a device that bundles a group of gaming machines 20 and inter-machine card processing machines 10 provided on the gaming island, and relays various information to the management device 50.

When the management device 50 receives the card insertion notification from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, it manages the card ID of the inserted card in association with the inter-machine card processing machine 10, and manages the prepaid card associated with the card ID. The value and the balance of the balls held are transmitted to the inter-machine card processing machine 10. Moreover, when the card ID shown in the card insertion notification is the card ID of a membership card, the stored ball replay data is transmitted to the inter-machine card processing machine 10.

Further, when the management device 50 receives a request to subtract the balls held from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, it clears the balance of the balls to zero, and when it receives a request to add the balls held from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the management device 50 clears the balance of the balls held to zero. , the number of balls indicated in the ball holding addition request is added to the ball balance.

Further, when the management device 50 receives a ball lending request from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the management device 50 subtracts a prepaid value associated with the card ID by a predetermined value, and transmits a ball lending permission to the inter-machine card processing machine 10. do. When the stored ball replay request is received, the stored ball replay data is transmitted to the inter-machine card processing machine 10.

Furthermore, the management device 50 acquires the gaming machine ID from the inter-machine card processing machine 10 and manages the gaming machines 20 installed in its own store. Then, an authentication key for authenticating the gaming machine 20 set in the own parlor is obtained from an authentication key management center (not shown) outside the gaming parlor, and distributed to the inter-machine card processing machine 10.

Furthermore, the management device 50 manages member management data of members registered as members at the game parlor. Specifically, the number of accumulated balls, points, password, name, etc. are managed in association with the card ID of the membership card issued to the member.

When the management device 50 receives the card insertion notification from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the management device 50 transmits the ball storage replay data including the balance of the ball storage and the password corresponding to the card ID indicated in the card insertion notification to the machine. The data is then sent to the card processing machine 10. Further, when the management device 50 receives a stored ball replay request from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, it subtracts a predetermined number from the balance of stored balls associated with the card ID indicated in the stored ball replay request, and after the subtraction, The stored ball replay data including the remaining ball balance is transmitted to the inter-machine card processing machine 10.

Further, when the management device 50 receives the card ID of the general card from the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70, the management device 50 stores the number of balls and prepaid value associated with this card ID in the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70. The self-prize management device 70 is notified. In addition, if this card ID is the card ID of a membership card, the number of balls held, the number of stored balls, and the prepaid value associated with this card ID are notified to the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70. do.

Further, when the management device 50 receives a payout notification from the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70, it adds the number of payouts included in the payout notification to the number of payouts on the day in the prize payout data, and also adds the payout amount Calculate and update.

In addition, when the management device 50 receives a replenishment notification from the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70, it adds the replenishment number included in the replenishment notification to the number of replenishments for the day in the prize payout data, and Add 1 to the number of times data is replenished on that day.

Furthermore, when the prize payout data for the current day is updated, the management device 50 recalculates and updates the average values for weekdays, weekends, and holidays. The reference date for calculating the average value for weekdays, weekends, and holidays can be a predetermined date, such as every Monday. Further, any date set by the employee can be used as the reference date. Note that the average value can be recalculated each time the prize payout data is updated. When the management device 50 receives the instruction to display the prize payout status, it displays the prize payout data.

Furthermore, when the number of prizes to be paid out on the day in the prize distribution data is updated, the management device 50 calculates the inventory quantity from the updated number of replenishments and the number of prizes to be paid out on that day. Then, the ratio of this calculated stock quantity to the storable quantity is calculated, and based on this calculated ratio, the prizes that require replenishment and the prizes that are recommended for replenishment are determined. When the management device 50 determines that there are prizes requiring replenishment and prizes recommended for replenishment, the management device 50 calculates and displays the number of replenishments for each.

The prize management device 60 is a terminal device for prize exchange that is attached to the prize exchange counter in the game parlor, and performs the prize exchange process for the balls that the player has and the balls that have been saved by the operation of an employee. The prize management device 60 has a one-to-one correspondence with the prize dispensing device 80 installed side by side.

Further, when the prize management device 60 reads the card ID from the member card, it transmits the card ID to the management device 50 and requests the number of balls held, the number of stored balls, and the balance of prepaid value of the card ID.

Furthermore, upon reading the card ID from the general card, the prize management device 60 transmits the card ID to the management device 50 and requests the number of balls held by the card ID and the balance of the prepaid value. When the prize management device 60 receives the number of balls held, the number of stored balls, and the prepaid value associated with the card ID from the management device 50, it stores the number of balls held, the number of stored balls, and the prepaid value in the held value data.

In addition, upon receiving the prize inventory data from the prize dispensing device 80, the prize management device 60 stores the received data in the prize inventory data, and also stores the prize management device ID, prize code, and storage capacity of its own device. The management device 50 is notified as possible number information.

Furthermore, upon receiving the payout notification from the prize payout device 80, the prize management device 60 subtracts the number of payouts from the inventory quantity of the prize inventory data corresponding to the prize code included in the payout notification, and The prize management device ID of the own device is added to the prize management device 50, and the management device 50 is notified.

Further, upon receiving a replenishment notification from the prize dispensing device 80, the prize management device 60 adds the replenishment number to the inventory number of the prize inventory data corresponding to the prize code included in this replenishment notification, and also The prize management device ID of the own device is added to the prize management device 50, and the management device 50 is notified.

In addition, the prize management device 60 accepts the selection of prizes based on the prize inventory data within the range of the balance of balls held and stored balls, and notifies the prize payout device 80 of payout instructions including the prize code and number of selected prizes. .

In addition, when the prize management device 60 receives a payout notification from the prize payout device 80, it treats the balance of balls held and stored balls as the number of oddballs, and records the type and number of the paid out prizes and the number of oddballs. Print it out and issue it as a replacement receipt.

The self-prize management device 70 is a terminal device for exchanging prizes installed in the game parlor, and is a device that has been added to the prize management device 60 with a self-function function that allows players to select prizes themselves. The self-prize management device 70 has a one-to-one correspondence with the prize dispensing device 80 installed side by side.

The prize payout device 80 is a device that can store and pay out prizes. When the prize dispensing device 80 is communicably connected to the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70 associated with the device itself, the prize dispensing device 80 informs the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70 of the prize inventory. Notify data.

Furthermore, when the prize dispensing device 80 receives a dispensing instruction including a prize code and the number of payouts from the prize management device 60 or self-prize management device 70 associated with the device itself, the prize dispensing device 80 disburses the prize corresponding to this prize code. Only the number of pieces to be paid out is dispensed from the storage section.

In addition, when the prize is paid out, the prize dispensing device 80 subtracts the number of paid out prizes from the stock number of paid out prizes in the prize inventory data, and also subtracts the number of paid out prizes from the prize inventory data and The prize management device 70 is notified of the payout notification.

In addition, when prizes are replenished in the storage section by an operation of an employee, the prize dispensing device 80 adds the number of replenishments to the number of prizes in stock that has been replenished in the prize inventory data, and A replenishment notification is sent to the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70.

Next, the ball lending process in the prize management system according to this embodiment will be explained. When a player performs a ball lending operation to the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 transmits a message addressed to the local address of the management device 50. This message includes the card ID of the card inserted in the inter-machine card processing machine 10, an address or arbitrary identification information that specifies the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that is the sender, and a ball lending request.

When the management device 50 receives a message including a ball lending request, the management device 50 sets the prepaid value associated with the card ID in the message to a predetermined value (for example, 500 yen representing 500 yen when the number of purchases is 100 yen). The card management data is updated by subtracting the frequency), and the ball lending permission is transmitted to the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that is the transmission source. The inter-machine card processing machine 10 that has received the ball lending permission transmits an addition signal to the gaming machine 20 requesting that a number (for example, "125") corresponding to the subtracted prepaid value be added to the number of game balls.

The gaming machine 20 that has received the addition signal adds up the number of game balls and transmits the added number of game balls to the inter-machine card processing machine 10. The inter-machine card processing machine 10 compares the sum of the number of game balls before addition and the number of balls lent out with the number of game balls after addition, and determines whether the addition of the number of game balls has been appropriately performed. judge.

Next, a description will be given of the ball replay process in the prize management system according to this embodiment. When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the insertion of a general card or a membership card, it transmits a message addressed to the local address of the management device 50. This message contains the card ID of the card inserted in the inter-machine card processing machine 10, an address or arbitrary identification information that specifies the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that is the sender, and the rate of the inter-machine card processing machine 10. information for identifying the card and a card insertion notification.

When the management device 50 receives the card insertion notification from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the management device 50 calculates the balance of the balls with the rate specified by the message among the balls associated with the card ID in the message. This notification is then sent to the card processing machine 10.

The inter-machine card processing machine 10 stores the balance of balls received from the management device 50. Then, a message including information specifying the card ID and rate, and a request for subtraction of balls held is transmitted to the management device 50. When the management device 50 receives the request for subtracting the number of balls held, it clears the balance of the number of balls specified by the card ID and the rate to zero. Moreover, when the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the operation to replay the balls held, it subtracts the balance of the balls held by a fixed number, notifies the gaming machine 20 of the corresponding number, and causes it to be added to the number of game balls.

If the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives a management transfer request from the gaming machine 20 that transfers the management of the number of game balls of the gaming machine 20 to the balls held by the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 requests the management transfer. Add the number of game balls shown in to the number of balls owned by the own device. After that, when the card return operation is accepted, a message including a request for adding up the number of balls held is sent to the management device 50. This message contains the card ID of the card to be ejected, an address or arbitrary identification information for specifying the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that is the sender, information for specifying the rate of the inter-machine card processing machine 10, and information for specifying the rate of the inter-machine card processing machine 10. It includes the balance of balls and a request for addition of balls.

When the management device 50 accepts the request for addition of balls, it receives the balance (number of balls) of the balls at the rate specified by the message among the balls associated with the card ID in the message. Update to value. Thereafter, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 transmits a card ejection notification to the management device 50 and controls the card ejection.

Next, the stored ball replay process in the prize management system according to this embodiment will be explained. When accepting a membership card or reading identification information corresponding to a card ID from a mobile terminal that can be used as a membership card, the inter-stand card processing machine 10 sends a message addressed to the local address of the management device 50. Send. This message contains the card ID of the card inserted in the inter-machine card processing machine 10 (or identification information corresponding to the card ID read from the mobile terminal) and an address that specifies the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that is the sender. Alternatively, it includes arbitrary identification information, information for specifying the rate of the inter-machine card processing machine 10, and a card insertion notification.

The management device 50 transmits accumulated ball replay data including the password associated with the card ID in the message and the balance of accumulated balls at the rate specified by the message among the accumulated balls to the inter-machine card processing machine 10. do.

The inter-machine card processing machine 10 stores the received ball storage replay data, and if the balance of the storage balls indicated in the storage ball replay data is the number of game ball payout units in the storage ball replay (the number of storage ball replay units; for example, "125 If the number of balls is equal to or higher than "balls"), it is possible to accept a ball storage replay operation.

When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives a stored ball replay operation for the first time after storing the stored ball replay data, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 prompts the player to input a PIN number, and the input PIN is used as the stored ball replay data. Check if it matches the PIN number shown.

The inter-machine card processing machine 10 transmits a message addressed to the local address of the management device 50 when the passwords match. This message contains the card ID of the card inserted in the inter-machine card processing machine 10, an address or arbitrary identification information that specifies the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that is the sender, and the rate of the inter-machine card processing machine 10. This includes information for identifying the player, and a request to replay the stored balls.

The management device 50 subtracts a predetermined value from the balance of the accumulated balls at the rate specified by the message from among the accumulated balls associated with the card ID in the message, and transfers the accumulated ball replay data including the balance after the subtraction to the inter-machine card. It is transmitted to the processing device 10.

The inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the stored ball replay data, updates the balance of stored balls, and notifies the gaming machine 20 of a number corresponding to the number of stored ball replay units to add it to the number of game balls. Also, it is determined whether the balance of the ball storage after the update is less than the number of ball storage replay units. If the balance of the ball storage data after the update is equal to or greater than the number of ball storage replay units, it is possible to accept the ball storage replay operation again, and if the ball storage replay operation is accepted, a ball storage replay request is transmitted. Confirmation of the PIN number is not required for the second and subsequent ball storage replay operations. If the balance of the ball storage data after the update becomes less than the number of ball storage replay units, the ball storage replay operation cannot be accepted.

Next, the transition from holding balls to storing balls in the closing process will be explained. The management device 50 checks the balance of balls in the card management data at the time of closing processing, and if there is a ball with a balance greater than "0" associated with the member card, the management device 50 changes the balance of the balls associated with the member card. is added to the ball balance and updated. After that, the management device 50 clears the balance of the balls to zero.

<External configuration of inter-machine card processing machine 10 and gaming machine 20>
Next, the external configuration of the inter-machine card processing machine 10 and gaming machine 20 shown in FIG. 2 will be explained. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the external configuration of the inter-machine card processing machine 10 and gaming machine 20 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. Although the figure shows an inter-machine card processing machine 10 that accepts only banknotes, a unit that can accept electronic money may also be provided.

As shown in FIG. 3, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 includes a status display section 11 that displays the device status of the inter-machine card processing machine 10 by lighting or blinking a lamp of a predetermined color, and a bill insertion slot that accepts various banknotes. 12a, a display/operation unit 13 such as a touch panel display, and a card insertion slot 14a for receiving a card associated with a card ID.

The game machine 20 is provided with a game board surface, a handle 21 used for discharging enclosed game balls onto the game board surface, and a counting button 22.

The counting button 22 subtracts the number of game balls of the gaming machine 20 and adds the corresponding number to the balls held by the inter-machine card processing machine 10, thereby managing the number of balls that can be thrown out from the gaming machine 20. This is an operation button for performing management transfer to the card processing machine 10. This management shift corresponds to a counting process in which the inter-machine card processing machine 10 counts the paid out game balls and adds them to the balls held in the open type gaming machine 20 where actual game balls are paid out upon winning.

<Configuration of inter-stand card processing machine 10>
Next, the configuration of the inter-machine card processing machine 10 shown in FIG. 2 will be explained. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the inter-machine card processing machine 10 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 includes a banknote transport section 12, a display operation section 13, a reader/writer 14, a communication section 15, a storage section 16, a control section 17, and a game management section 18.

The banknote transport unit 12 is a transport unit that determines the denomination and authenticity of a banknote inserted through the banknote insertion slot 12a and transports the banknote to a banknote storage unit (not shown). The display operation unit 13 is an input/output device such as a touch panel display that displays various information such as value and accepts various operations such as ball lending operations.

The reader/writer 14 is a reader that reads a card ID from a card inserted into the card insertion slot 14a. Note that the card inserted into the card insertion slot 14a passes through the reader/writer 14 and is stored in a card storage section (not shown). The communication unit 15 is an interface unit for performing data communication with the management device 50 via the island controller 30.

The storage unit 16 is a storage device consisting of a hard disk device, nonvolatile memory, or the like. The storage unit 16 stores own device status data 16a and card data 16b.

The self-device status data 16a is data indicating the status of the inter-machine card processing machine 10. This own device status data 16a includes an inter-machine card processing machine ID, a gaming machine ID, a game type, and the like. The inter-machine card processing machine ID is identification information for uniquely identifying the inter-machine card processing machine 10 within the gaming arcade. The game type is data indicating the rate set in the inter-machine card processing machine 10. When handling game balls with multiple rates in a game store, game balls with a 4 yen rate are given "ball 1", game balls with a 2 yen rate are given "ball 2", and game balls with a 1 yen rate are given "ball 3". The name of the game type is set and managed for each rate. The inter-machine card processing machine 10 selects a rate to be used for the game from these game types and stores it as the game type. The game type may be fixed for each section where the inter-machine card processing machine 10 is installed, or may be changeable by the player's operation.

The card data 16b is data related to the card being used by the player. The card data 16b includes a card ID, a password, a prepaid value, balls held, accumulated balls, and the like. The card ID is a card ID read by the reader/writer 14. When a card is conveyed from a card storage section (not shown) to the card insertion slot 14a and then ejected, the card data 16b is updated with the card ID read by the reader/writer 14 during the conveyance. Furthermore, even when the card is transported from the card insertion slot 14a to a card storage section (not shown), the card data 16b is updated with the card ID read by the reader/writer 14 during this transport. The prepaid value indicates the balance of the prepaid value that can be used for lending balls, and the balls held and the accumulated balls indicate their respective balances.

The game management unit 18 is a processing unit that performs processing related to authentication and communication with the gaming machine 20. It is desirable that the game management section 18 be formed on a different substrate from the control section 17. The gaming management section 18 includes an authentication processing section 18a, an authentication key management section 18b, and a gaming machine state management section 18c. In reality, by loading and executing these programs into a CPU (Central Processing Unit), the authentication processing section 18a, authentication key management section 18b, and gaming machine state management section 18c are made to execute the corresponding processes. Become.

The authentication processing unit 18a authenticates the gaming machine 20 using the authentication key received from the management device 50. If the authentication is successful, the authentication processing unit 18a transmits operation permission to the gaming machine 20. The authentication processing unit 18a prohibits the use of the gaming machine 20 if the authentication fails. Even if the authentication fails, the operation permission will be sent to the gaming machine 20 if it is within a predetermined period since the last successful authentication, and after the predetermined period has passed since the last successful authentication, the operation permission will be sent to the gaming machine 20. It may be configured such that the use of the gaming machine 20 is prohibited without transmitting the operation permission.

The authentication key management unit 18b is a processing unit that manages authentication keys. A usage time is set for the authentication key, and when the cumulative operating time of the gaming machine 20 reaches the usage time of the authentication key, the authentication key becomes unusable. Specifically, the authentication key management unit 18b uses the energization time of the board on which the game management unit 18 is formed as the operating time of the gaming machine 20, and manages the usage time of the authentication key. When the authentication key becomes unusable, the authentication key management unit 18b obtains a new authentication key from an authentication key management center outside the store via the management device 50, and updates the authentication key.

The gaming machine state management section 18c is a processing section that communicates with the gaming machine 20 and manages the state of the gaming machine 20. Specifically, the gaming machine state management unit 18c acquires the gaming machine ID from the gaming machine 20, sends a request for addition to the number of game balls by loaning balls, and adds the number of balls to the number of game balls from the balls held by replaying the balls held. Sending a management transfer request, sending a request for addition to the number of game balls by replaying stored balls, receiving game results such as the number of balls hit and the number of prize balls on the gaming machine 20, and changing the number of game balls by counting to the number of balls held. Receives management migration requests. Communication between the inter-machine card processing machine 10 and the gaming machine 20 uses encrypted communication using a predetermined encryption method.

In addition, the gaming machine state management unit 18c further acquires the state set for the game of the gaming machine 20, such as the current number of game balls, start, jackpot, jackpot type, and number of drawings. It is desirable that the time interval at which the gaming machine status management unit 18c acquires the status of the gaming machine 20 is set shorter than the interval at which game balls are fired (used) in the gaming machine 20. Furthermore, upon acquiring the number of game balls from the game machine 20, the game machine state management section 18c passes the number of game balls to the control section 17.

Note that the timing at which the gaming machine status management unit 18c newly acquires the gaming machine ID from the gaming machine 20 is not limited to before the opening of the store. When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 is powered on or off, during regular communication, when processing related to the number of game balls (ball lending, replay, counting, etc.), when returning from an offline state, etc. It is possible to obtain a gaming machine ID and to determine whether to replace the gaming machine 20. Further, these timings may be used in combination.

The control unit 17 is a control unit that performs overall control of the inter-machine card processing machine 10. In reality, a process is executed by loading a program corresponding to the control unit 17 into the CPU and executing it. The data management section 17a is a processing section that manages card data 16b.

Specifically, when a card is inserted, the data management unit 17a transmits a card insertion notification including the card ID and the inter-machine card processing machine ID to the management device 50. Further, when data containing value (at least one of prepaid value, retained balls, and accumulated balls) is received from the management device 50, the data management unit 17a updates the card data 16b with the received value.

Further, when a banknote is inserted into the banknote insertion slot 12a, the data management unit 17a transmits a deposit notification including the amount of the inserted banknote, card ID, and inter-machine card processing machine ID to the management device 50.

Furthermore, when a player performs a ball lending operation, the data management unit 17a transmits a ball lending request including a card ID and an inter-machine card processing machine ID to the management device 50. If a ball lending permission is received as a response to this ball lending request, the data management unit 17a subtracts the prepaid value of the card data 16b and adds a predetermined number of balls to the number of playing balls of the gaming machine 20. Instruct the game management section 18.

In addition, when the data management unit 17a receives an operation to replay the balls held, the data management unit 17a subtracts and updates the balls held in the card data 16b, and manages the game so that the corresponding number of balls is added to the number of game balls of the gaming machine 20. 18.

Furthermore, when the balance of the stored balls indicated in the card data 16b is equal to or greater than the number of stored balls replay units, the data management section 17a displays a stored balls replay button on the display operation section 13 and accepts the stored balls replay operation. possible. The data management unit 17a transmits a stored ball replay request including a card ID and an inter-machine card processing machine ID to the management device 50 when a player performs a stored ball replay operation. When the stored ball replay data is received as a response to this stored ball replay request, the ball balance in the card data 16b is updated, and the number of balls corresponding to the number of stored ball replay units is added to the number of game balls of the gaming machine 20. The game management section 18 is instructed to do so. In addition, at the time of the first stored ball replay operation, the input of the password is required, and the condition for transmitting the stored ball replay request is that the password matches the password shown in the card data 16b.

Further, when the game management unit 18 receives a transfer request for game balls from the gaming machine 20, the data management unit 17a adds the number of balls instructed to the game management unit 18 to the balls held in the card data 16b. Update.

Moreover, when the data management unit 17a receives a card return operation, it transmits to the management device 50 a request for adding up the remaining balls, including the card ID, the inter-machine card processing machine ID, and the balance of the remaining balls. After clearing the card data 16b, a card ejection notification is sent to the management device 50, and the card is ejected.

Next, a specific example of data stored in the storage unit 16 of the inter-machine card processing machine 10 shown in FIG. 4 will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the own device status data 16a and card data 16b shown in FIG. 4.

The self-device status data 16a shown in FIG. 5(a) indicates that the ID of the inter-machine card processing machine 10 is "A101", the gaming machine ID of the connected gaming machine 20 is "B201", and the inter-machine card processing machine A state in which "ball 1" is set as the 10 game type is shown.

The card data 16b shown in FIG. 5(b) indicates that the ID of the card inserted into the inter-machine card processing machine 10 is "2015". Note that here, the first digit of the card ID indicates the type of card, and a card whose first digit is "1" is a general card, and a card whose first digit is "2" is a membership card. Further, the card data 16b shows that the password for replaying stored balls is "1234" and the prepaid value is "0".

In addition, the card data 16b shows that the remaining balance of ball 1 is "990", the balance of ball 2 is "0", and the balance of ball 3 is "0". Yes, the balance of the stored balls of ball 1 is "0" balls, the balance of the stored balls of ball 2 is "0" balls, and the balance of the stored balls of ball 3 is "0" balls.

<Configuration of gaming machine 20>
Next, the configuration of the gaming machine 20 shown in FIG. 2 will be explained. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of gaming machine 20 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the gaming machine 20 includes a communication control section 23, an effect control section 24, a game control section 25, and a game ball control section 26. The communication control unit 23 is a control unit for controlling data communication with the inter-machine card processing machine 10. Communication with the inter-machine card processing machine 10 uses encrypted communication using a predetermined encryption method.

When the gaming machine 20 is started, the communication control unit 23 reads the identification information from the control CPU provided in the gaming control unit 25 and/or the gaming ball control unit 26, checks whether the identification information is appropriate, and if appropriate, , establishes communication with the inter-machine card processing machine 10, and enters a standby state. In the standby state, when an operation permission is received from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the production control section 24, the game control section 25, and the game ball control section 26 are activated to make it possible to play.

The game control unit 25 is a control unit that controls games by the gaming machine 20. In reality, the process is executed by loading a program corresponding to the game control unit 25 into the CPU and executing it.

Specifically, the game control unit 25 controls the firing of game balls onto the game board surface by detecting handle operation, detects game balls that have entered the winning slot on the game board surface, and calculates random numbers (0 to 1) by game balls that have entered the starting slot. Among the 65535 random numbers, jackpot, small win, and loss numbers are assigned to each predetermined range) acquisition and lottery (special symbols and normal symbols), movable members provided on the game board surface (tulips, etc.) ), display control of the special symbol display device provided on the game board surface, detection of abnormalities that may indicate fraud (front frame open, vibration detected, etc.), and notification to the host device.

A large number of obstacle nails are planted on the game board surface, and game balls that are fired onto the game board surface by operating the handle will fall between the obstacle nails, and will either enter the prize opening or the starting opening, or will not win the prize. It is ejected out of the game board surface from the outlet of the game board surface. A lottery is held when a game ball enters the starting hole, and when a jackpot is achieved, a jackpot game is performed in which a predetermined winning hole on the game board is opened multiple times, and the game ball enters the winning hole. To award prize balls to a player by making it easier.

Further, the jackpot includes a bonus jackpot game in which a predetermined bonus game is given to the player after the jackpot game ends. The bonus jackpot game includes a probability fluctuation jackpot and a time-saving jackpot. The probability variable jackpot and the time-saving jackpot are each provided with a probability variable game and a time-saving game as bonus games after the jackpot. Time-saving games include the variable time (from the start of the lottery process until the result is displayed) of the normal symbol lottery (the above-mentioned opening/closing lottery of the movable member) and/or the special symbol lottery (the above-mentioned jackpot lottery due to the winning of game balls). This is a bonus game that increases the number of drawings per unit time and increases the probability of winning a jackpot per unit time by shortening the amount of time. This bonus game may include a normal symbol probability variation that increases the probability of winning a normal symbol. The time-saving game based on the time-saving jackpot ends when the special symbol lottery is performed a predetermined number of times after the jackpot. The probability fluctuation game will be described later.

The game control unit 25 has a probability variation function. The probability variation function is a control that changes the jackpot random number range used for the next lottery (generally about 10 times) when the lottery result falls within a specified random number range of the jackpot. It is a function. In the probability variation game, a special symbol lottery is performed using the changed probability. The probability variable game continues until the next jackpot is won. Further, the probability fluctuation game and the time saving game may be provided at the same time. However, in order to prevent unexpected damage to the game parlor, if a player acquires a certain amount of game media after starting a probability variable game or a time-saving game, the game will be stopped (eject the card once and request a prize exchange or move of the machine). processing). In this case, the number of game media after entering the probability variable game state is counted by the game machine 20, and when this counted value reaches a predetermined value, game stop control such as stopping the firing of game balls is performed. This can be achieved with

The performance control section 24 is a control section that controls the performance during the game, and includes a performance symbol lottery section 24a and a performance lottery section 24b. Actually, by loading these programs into the CPU and executing them, the effect symbol lottery section 24a and the effect lottery section 24b are caused to execute corresponding processes, respectively.

The performance symbol lottery unit 24a selects a lottery (specifically, finalizes the display) of performance symbols (symbols to be displayed on a performance symbol display device such as a display device within the game board) based on the special symbol lottery performed by the game control unit 25. (such as whether to stop at 7, 7, 7).

The performance lottery section 24b performs a lottery on the type of performance (such as a character appearing and performing a reach performance) before displaying the lottery results based on the performance symbols. The effects are set so that the effects selected are different for the main lottery results.

The performance control unit 24 stores performance data for each performance. Furthermore, the performance control section 24 controls the display of the performance symbol display device, and when performing the performance, displays the performance data by superimposing the performance data on the background pattern data. Furthermore, when the probability changes, background color data different from that in the normal state is set.

The game ball control unit 26 is a control unit that controls the number of game balls. In reality, the process is executed by loading a program corresponding to the game ball control unit 26 into the CPU and executing it. The playable number management unit 26a is a management unit that manages the playable number, that is, the number of game balls.

Specifically, the game ball control unit 26 stores the number of game balls in the playable number memory, subtracts "1" from the number of game balls each time a game ball is fired, and calculates the number of prize balls to be won by winning. is added to the number of game balls. In addition, when the number of balls is notified from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the notified number of balls is added to the number of game balls, and a notification is sent to the inter-machine card processing machine 10 to the effect that it has been added to the number of gaming balls. send a confirmation signal indicating the Further, the game ball control section 26 can also perform cleaning control of the game balls (circulating balls) enclosed in the gaming machine 20.

Further, the game ball control unit 26 periodically transmits the number of game balls stored in the playable number memory to the inter-machine card processing machine 10. In this case, the game ball control unit 26 continues to update the number of game balls according to the game state without zero-clearing the contents of the memory for the number of possible games, and updates the game ball control unit 26 to the inter-machine card processing machine 10 at the time of data acquisition. Send pitch count.

The gaming machine 20 is also provided with a counting button 22, and a signal indicating that the counting button 22 has been pressed is input to the game ball control unit 26. The game ball control unit 26 detects the pressing operation of the counting button 22, and if the time from the rise to the fall of the detection signal is less than a certain time, the game ball control unit 26 counts the number of game balls by a certain number (for example, 100 balls per operation). A management transfer request is sent to the inter-machine card processing machine 10 along with the data. Then, the number of balls transferred to the management of the inter-machine card processing machine 10 is subtracted (invalidated) from the number of game balls. In addition, when the pressing operation of the counting button 22 is detected and the falling edge is not detected for a predetermined period of time after the detection signal rises, a certain number is added each time the detection signal rises for a certain period of time (for example, every 5 seconds). A management transfer request is sent to the inter-machine card processing machine 10 along with data on the number of game balls (200 balls). Then, the number of balls transferred to the management of the inter-machine card processing machine 10 is subtracted (invalidated) from the number of game balls. When subtracting from the number of game balls, there is a method of decrementing the value to be subtracted from the value of 1 stored in memory, or updating the value stored in memory with the value after subtraction and deleting the value before subtraction or using logic. A method such as deleting and invalidating it may be considered, but there is no particular limitation as long as the value after subtraction can be specified.

The game control section 25 and the game ball control section 26 are each configured on separate boards. The game control board in which the game control section 25 is configured and the game ball control board in which the game ball control section 26 is configured each have a unique ID. The gaming machine 20 combines the ID of the gaming control board and the ID of the gaming ball control board, and uses the combination as the gaming machine ID.

<Configuration of management device 50>
Next, the configuration of the management device 50 shown in FIG. 2 will be explained. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of the management device 50 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 7, the management device 50 is connected to a display section 51 and an input section 52, and includes an external network communication section 53, a store network communication section 54, a storage section 55, and a control section 56.

The display unit 51 is a display device such as a liquid crystal panel or a display device. The input unit 52 is an input device such as a keyboard or a mouse. The external network communication unit 53 is an interface unit for data communication with an authentication key management center (not shown) via an external network. The store network communication unit 54 is an interface unit for data communication with the island controller 30, prize management device 60, and self-prize management device 70 via a communication line within the game store.

The storage unit 55 is a storage device such as a hard disk device or a nonvolatile memory, and stores card management data 55a, device management data 55b, member management data 55c, storage capacity data 55d, replenishment threshold data 55e, prize value data 55f, and prizes. Store payout data 55g.

The card management data 55a is data in which the card ID is associated with the balance of prepaid value and the balance of balls held. The device management data 55b is data regarding devices installed at the game parlor. This device management data 55b includes the inter-machine card processing machine ID, installation location, gaming machine number, gaming machine ID, model data of the gaming machine 20, and the like.

The member management data 55c is data in which the member's name, information on accumulated balls, etc. are associated with the card ID of the member card issued to the member. The storable number data 55d is data indicating the type and number of prizes that can be stored in the prize dispensing device 80 managed by the prize management device 60 and the self-prize management device 70.

The replenishment threshold data 55e is data indicating a threshold value for determining that replenishment is necessary or recommended for the storable number in the storable number data 55d. The prize value data 55f is data indicating the value of the prize.

The prize payout data 55g is data indicating the status of prizes being paid out and the status of replenishment in the prize paying out apparatus 80 managed by the prize management apparatus 60 and the self-prize management apparatus 70. The prize payout data 55g is data that shows the situation for 10 days from the business day to the past 9 days out of the past several years of data that has been separately accumulated, and shows the average value for weekdays, weekends, and holidays during that time. ing. In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the situation is for 10 days, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the situation may be for example, for one month, three months, etc.

The control unit 56 is a control unit that performs overall control of the management device 50, and includes a card management unit 56a, a device management unit 56b, a member management unit 56c, a setting management unit 56d, a prize payout management unit 56e, a replenishment determination unit 56f, and a display. It has a control section 56g. Actually, by loading and executing these programs on the CPU, the card management section 56a, device management section 56b, member management section 56c, setting management section 56d, prize payout management section 56e, replenishment judgment section 56f, and display This causes the control unit 56g to execute the corresponding processes.

The card management section 56a is a processing section that manages card management data 55a. The card management unit 56a communicates with the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the prize management device 60, and the self-prize management device 70, and updates the prepaid value and balance of balls associated with the card ID. Further, when the card management unit 56a receives a card insertion notification from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, and when it receives a request for value associated with a card from the prize management device 60 and the self-prize management device 70, , the value associated with the card and the balance of balls held are notified.

The device management section 56b is a processing section that manages the device management data 55b. The device management unit 56b generates and updates device management data 55b based on the inter-machine card processing machine ID, installation location, and gaming machine ID acquired from the inter-machine card processing machine 10.

The member management section 56c is a processing section that manages member management data 55c. The member management unit 56c communicates with the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the prize management device 60, and the self-prize management device 70, and updates the balance of accumulated balls associated with the card ID. Further, when receiving a member registration request, the member management unit 56c updates the member management data 55c to add a member.

Here, the stored ball replay processing by the member management section 56c will be explained. When the member management unit 56c receives the accumulated ball replay request data from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the member management unit 56c calculates the balance of accumulated balls at the payout destination rate among the accumulated balls associated with the card ID in the accumulated ball replay request data. is withdrawn by the number of payout units, and the possible number of stored balls to be replayed is recalculated. Then, the stored ball replay data including the balance after the subtraction and the possible number of stored ball replays is transmitted to the inter-machine card processing machine 10.

The setting management unit 56d is a processing unit that manages the storage capacity data 55d, the replenishment threshold data 55e, and the prize value data 55f. When the setting management unit 56d receives the storable number information from the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70, it stores this storable number information in the storable number data 55d. When the setting management unit 56d receives the replenishment necessary threshold and the replenishment recommended threshold from the input unit 52, it stores the received data in the replenishment threshold data 55e. When the setting management section 56d receives the prize value from the input section 52, it stores the received data in the prize value data 55f.

The prize payout management unit 56e is a processing unit that manages prize payout data 55g. When the prize payout management unit 56e receives a payout notification from the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70, the prize payout management unit 56e determines the payout on the day of the prize payout data 55g corresponding to the prize management device ID and prize code included in this payout notification. The number of payouts included in the payout notification is added to the number, and the payout amount is calculated and updated.

In addition, upon receiving a replenishment notification from the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70, the prize payout management unit 56e also updates the prize payout data 55g corresponding to the prize management device ID and prize code included in the replenishment notification on the same day. The number of replenishments included in the replenishment notification is added to the number of replenishments in , and 1 is added to the number of replenishments on the day in the prize payout data 55g.

Furthermore, when the prize payout data 55g for the current day is updated, the prize payout management unit 56e recalculates and updates the average values for weekdays, weekends, and holidays.

The replenishment determination unit 56f is a processing unit that determines whether replenishment of prizes is necessary or not, and whether replenishment of prizes is recommended. When the prize payout management unit 56e updates the number of prizes to be paid out on the day in the prize payout data 55g, the replenishment determining unit 56f calculates the inventory quantity from the updated number of replenishments and the number of paid out prizes on the day. Then, in the storable quantity data 55d, the proportion of this calculated stock quantity to the corresponding storable quantity is calculated, and if this calculated proportion is equal to or less than the replenishment necessary threshold of the replenishment threshold data 55e, replenishment is necessary. It is judged as a prize. Also, the difference between the storable number and the stock number is the replenishment number.

Further, if the replenishment determination unit 56f determines that there is a prize that requires replenishment, it calculates the inventory quantity from the number of replenishments and the number of payouts on that day for all the prizes in the prize payout data 55g. Then, in the storable quantity data 55d, the proportion of this calculated inventory quantity to the corresponding storable quantity is calculated, and if this calculated proportion is less than or equal to the replenishment recommendation threshold of the replenishment threshold data 55e, replenishment is recommended. It is judged as a prize. Also, the difference between the storable number and the stock number is the replenishment number. Note that determination processing is not performed for prizes that have already been determined to require replenishment.

The display control unit 56g is a processing unit that controls the display of information regarding prize payout and replenishment. When the display control unit 56g receives an instruction to display the prize payout status from the input unit 52, it displays the prize payout data 55g on the display unit 51.

Further, if the display control unit 56g receives an operation to switch the display while displaying the prize payout status, the display control unit 56g switches and displays the number of payouts/the payout amount. If the display control unit 56g receives an operation for selecting a prize management device ID while displaying the prize payout status, it displays only the prize payout status corresponding to the selected prize management device ID.

Further, if the replenishment determination unit 56f determines that there is a prize that requires replenishment, the display control unit 56g displays the prize management device ID, prize name, number of replenishments, etc. corresponding to the replenishment required prize on the display unit 51. . If the replenishment determination unit 56f determines that there is a recommended replenishment prize, the display control unit 56g displays the prize management device ID, prize name, number of replenishments, etc. corresponding to this recommended replenishment prize on the display unit 51.

Next, an example of data stored in the storage unit 55 of the management device 50 shown in FIG. 7 will be described. 8 to 10 show examples of the card management data 55a, device management data 55b, member management data 55c, storage capacity data 55d, replenishment threshold data 55e, prize value data 55f, and prize payout data 55g shown in FIG. FIG.

In the card management data 55a shown in FIG. 8(a), the card ID "1001" is associated with the prepaid value "0" frequency, the balance of balls of each rate "0", and the destination ID "A101". . That is, the card with the card ID "1001" has been inserted into the inter-machine card processing machine 10 with the device ID "A101", and the management of the balls has been transferred to the inter-machine card processing machine 10. Therefore, the balance of balls at each rate becomes zero.

Further, in the card management data 55a, the card ID "2015" is associated with the prepaid value "0". Further, as the balls held, ball 1 has a balance of "990" balls, ball 2 has a balance of "0" balls, and ball 3 has a balance of "0" balls. However, there is no correspondence between usage IDs. That is, the card with the card ID "2015" is not inserted into the inter-machine card processing machine 10, and the management device 50 manages the balls held.

The device management data 55b shown in FIG. 8(b) indicates that for the inter-machine card processing machine 10 with the ID "A101", its installation location is "Island 1-1", and the ID of the connected gaming machine 20 is "B201". ”, the game machine number is “11”, the game type is “ball 1”, the model of the game machine 20 is “EV01”, and the serial number is “a”. It also shows that this gaming machine 20 is in use.

Furthermore, the device management data 55b indicates that for the inter-machine card processing machine 10 with the ID "A201", its installation location is "Island 2-1", the ID of the connected gaming machine 20 is "B506", and the gaming machine number. is "21", the game type is "ball 3", the model of the gaming machine 20 is "DX03", and the serial number is "g". It also shows that this gaming machine 20 is in use.

The member management data 55c shown in FIG. 8(c) shows the name, accumulated balls, etc. that are associated with the card ID. Specifically, the member management data 55c includes, for the card ID "2015", the name "Tokyo Taro", the balance of balls for "ball 1" is "0" balls, and the balance of balls for "balls 2" is "0". This shows a state where the balance of the stored balls of "balls 3" is "0" balls.

The storable number data 55d shown in FIG. 9A indicates the storable number of prizes managed by the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70. Specifically, in the prize management device ID "POS11", the prize code "0001", the prize name "Grand Prize", the group code "01", and the number of items that can be stored "300" are associated, and the prize code "0002", The prize name "medium prize", the group code "01", and the number of items that can be stored are "900", and the prize code is "0003", the prize name is "small prize", the group code is "01", and the number of items that can be stored is "1500". are mapped.

In addition, the storable number data 55d associates the prize code "0001", the prize name "Grand Prize", the group code "01", and the storable number "100" with the prize management device ID "SPOS12", and the prize code "0002", prize name "medium prize", group code "01", number of items that can be stored is "300", prize code "0003", prize name "small prize", group code "01", number of items that can be stored "500" items are associated with each other.

The replenishment threshold data 55e shown in FIG. 9(b) indicates that the replenishment necessary threshold is "20%" and the replenishment recommendation threshold is "30%". The prize value data 55f shown in FIG. 9(c) associates the prize code "0001", the prize name "Grand Prize", the group code "01", the value "1000" yen, the prize code "0002", the prize name " "Medium prize", group code "01" and value "500" yen are associated with each other, and prize code "0003", prize name "small prize", group code "01" and value "100" yen are associated with each other.

The prize payout data 55g shown in FIG. 10 shows that the average (weekday) number of replenishments is "5" and the number of replenishments is "105" for the prize code "0001" and the prize name "Grand Prize" in the prize management device ID "POS11". '' pieces, number of payouts: ``92'' pieces, payout amount: ``92,000 yen'', average number of refills (on weekends, holidays): ``8'', number of refills: ``162'', number of payouts: ``153'', payout amount: ``153,000'' Yen is associated with the number of replenishments "6", the number of refills "110", the number of payouts "90", and the payout amount "90000" yen on "2022/02/24 (Thursday)".

In addition, the prize payout data 55g shows that the average (weekday) number of replenishments is "4" and the number of replenishments is "54" for the prize code "0001" and the prize name "Grand Prize" in the prize management device ID "SPOS12". , the number of payouts is ``49'', the payout amount is ``49,000 yen'', the average number of refills (on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays) is ``5'', the number of refills is ``74'', the number of payouts is ``65'', and the payout amount is ``65,000 yen.'' , "2022/02/24 (Thursday)", the number of replenishments is "5", the number of replenishments is "60", the number of payouts is "52", and the payout amount is "52,000 yen".

<Configuration of prize management device 60>
Next, the configuration of the prize management device 60 shown in FIG. 2 will be explained. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prize management device 60 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 11, the prize management device 60 is connected to a card reader/writer 61 and a receipt issuing section 62, and includes a display operation section 64, a communication section 65, a storage section 66, and a control section 67.

Although not shown here, a clerk tag reader may be provided to read the identification code of the clerk tag carried by the clerk. The employee who operates the prize management device 60 is identified by this identification code. Furthermore, a mobile terminal reader may be provided to read the ID from the mobile terminal of a registered player.

The card reader/writer 61 is a processing unit that reads a card ID from a player's card, and can also write data to the card if necessary. The receipt issuing unit 62 is a thermal printer or the like, and issues various types of receipts, such as receipts on which information specifying the selected prize is printed.

The display operation unit 64 is an input/output device such as a liquid crystal touch panel, and the communication unit 65 is an interface unit through which the prize management device 60 communicates with the management device 50 and the prize payout device 80 via a communication line.

The storage unit 66 is a storage device such as a hard disk drive or a non-volatile memory, and stores held value data 66a and prize inventory data 66b.

The held value data 66a is data indicating the value associated with the card read by the card reader/writer 61. The prize inventory data 66b is data for managing the inventory of prizes in the attached prize dispensing device 80.

The control unit 67 is a control unit that controls the entire prize management device 60, and includes a holding value management unit 67a, a prize inventory management unit 67b, a prize selection control unit 67c, and a receipt issuing processing unit 67d. Actually, programs corresponding to these functional units are stored in a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (not shown), and by loading these programs into the CPU and executing them, the retained value management unit 67a and the prize inventory management This causes the section 67b, the prize selection control section 67c, and the receipt issuing processing section 67d to execute corresponding processes, respectively.

The held value management unit 67a is a processing unit that manages held value data 66a. When the card ID is read by the card reader/writer 61, the held value management unit 67a requests the management device 50 for the balance of value associated with the card ID, the number of balls held, and the number of balls stored. When the held value management unit 67a receives the balance of value, the number of balls held, and the number of stored balls associated with the card ID from the management device 50, the held value management unit 67a converts the balance of value, the number of balls held, and the number of stored balls into held value data. 66a.

The prize inventory management unit 67b is a processing unit that manages prize inventory data 66b. When the prize inventory management unit 67b receives the prize inventory data from the prize dispensing device 80, it stores the received data in the prize inventory data 66b, and also stores the prize management device ID of its own device, the prize code, and the number that can be stored. The management device 50 is notified as possible number information.

In addition, upon receiving the payout notification from the prize payout device 80, the prize inventory management unit 67b subtracts the number of payouts from the stock number of the prize stock data 66b corresponding to the prize code included in the payout notification, and The prize management device ID of the own device is added to the payout notification and the notification is sent to the management device 50.

In addition, upon receiving a replenishment notification from the prize dispensing device 80, the prize inventory management unit 67b adds the replenishment number to the inventory quantity in the prize inventory data 66b corresponding to the prize code included in the replenishment notification, and The prize management device ID of the own device is added to the replenishment notification, and the notification is sent to the management device 50.

The prize selection control unit 67c is a processing unit that selects a prize to be exchanged for a prize. The prize selection control unit 67c accepts prize selection based on the prize stock data 66b within the range of the balance of balls held and balls stored. When a prize is selected, the prize selection control unit 67c notifies the prize dispensing device 80 of a dispensing instruction including the prize code and number of the selected prize.

In addition, upon receiving the payout notification from the prize payout device 80, the prize selection control unit 67c treats the balance of the balls held and the accumulated balls as the number of oddballs, and displays the type and number of the paid out prizes, as well as the number of oddballs. is delivered to the receipt issuing processing section 67d.

The receipt issuing processing section 67d is a processing section that issues an exchange receipt. Upon receiving the type and number of selected prizes and the number of oddballs from the prize selection control section 67c, the receipt issuing processing section 67d prints the received data on an exchange receipt and issues it as an exchange receipt.

Next, an example of data stored in the storage unit 66 of the prize management device 60 shown in FIG. 11 will be described. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the holding value data 66a and the prize inventory data 66b shown in FIG. 11.

The held value data 66a shown in FIG. 12(a) is data indicating the value associated with the read card, such as the number of balls held, the number of stored balls, and the prepaid value. The holding value data 66a shows that the number of balls held by ball 1 is "990" balls, the number of balls held by ball 2 is "0" balls, the number of balls held by ball 3 is "0" balls, and the number of balls stored for ball 1 is "990" balls. The number of stored balls of ball 2 is "0" balls, the number of stored balls of ball 3 is "0" balls, and the prepaid value is "0" degrees.

The prize inventory data 66b shown in FIG. 12(b) is data in which the prize code is associated with the prize name, group code, storable quantity, and inventory quantity. The prize inventory data 66b associates the prize code "0001" with the prize name "Grand Prize", the group code "01", the number of items that can be stored "100", and the number of items in stock "20", and creates a prize code "0002". , the prize name "medium prize", group code "01", storage capacity "300", inventory number "150" are associated, and the prize code "0003" is associated with the prize name "small prize", This shows a situation in which the group code "01", the number of items that can be stored is "500", and the number of items in stock is "230".

<Prize payout device 80>
Next, the prize payout device 80 shown in FIG. 2 will be explained. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of the prize payout device 80 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 13, the prize payout device 80 includes a display operation section 84, a communication section 85, a storage section 86, and a control section 87.

The display operation unit 84 is an input/output device such as a liquid crystal touch panel. The communication unit 85 is an interface unit for communicating with the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70 via a communication line.

The storage unit 86 is a storage device such as a hard disk device or a nonvolatile memory, and stores prize inventory data 86a. The prize inventory data 86a is data for managing the inventory of prizes stored in a storage section (not shown).

The control section 87 is a control section that controls the entire prize dispensing device 80, and includes a prize inventory management section 87a and a dispensing control section 87b. In reality, programs corresponding to these functional units are stored in a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (not shown), and these programs are loaded into the CPU and executed, thereby controlling the prize inventory management unit 87a and the payout control unit. 87b to execute the corresponding processes.

The prize inventory management unit 87a is a processing unit that manages prize inventory data 86a. When the prize inventory management unit 87a is communicably connected to the prize management device 60 or self-prize management device 70 associated with the own device, the prize inventory management section 87a stores prizes for the prize management device 60 or self-prize management device 70. Inventory data 86a is notified.

In addition, when the prize is paid out by the payout control unit 87b, the prize inventory management unit 87a subtracts the number of paid out prizes from the stock number of the paid out prizes in the prize inventory data 86a, and also subtracts the number of paid out prizes from the inventory number of prizes paid out in the prize inventory data 86a. A notification of payout is sent to the prize management device 60 or self-prize management device 70 that has received the prize.

In addition, when prizes are replenished in the storage section through an operation by an employee, the prize inventory management section 87a adds the number of replenishments to the number of prizes in stock that has been replenished in the prize inventory data 86a, and also associates them with the own device. A replenishment notification is sent to the prize management device 60 or self-prize management device 70 that has received the replenishment.

The payout control unit 87b is a processing unit that controls the payout of prizes. When the payout control unit 87b receives a payout instruction including a prize code and the number of payouts from the prize management device 60 or self-prize management device 70 associated with its own device, the payout control unit 87b controls the number of payouts of the prize corresponding to this prize code. Take out the number of items from the storage section.

Next, an example of data stored in the storage unit 86 of the prize payout device 80 shown in FIG. 13 will be explained. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of prize inventory data 86a shown in FIG. 13.

The prize inventory data 86a shown in FIG. 14 is data in which the prize code is associated with the prize name, group code, storable quantity, and inventory quantity. The prize inventory data 86a associates the prize name "Grand Prize", the group code "01", the number of items that can be stored with "100", and the number of items in stock with "20" with the prize code "0001", and creates the prize code "0002". , the prize name "medium prize", group code "01", storage capacity "300", inventory number "150" are associated, and the prize code "0003" is associated with the prize name "small prize", This shows a situation in which the group code "01", the number of items that can be stored is "500", and the number of items in stock is "230".

<An example of a display screen related to prize payout on the management device 50>
Next, an example of a display screen related to prize payout on the management device 50 will be explained. 15 to 17 are diagrams showing examples of display screens regarding prize payout in the management device 50.

As shown in FIG. 15, the prize payout status is displayed on the display unit 51 by the operation of the employee. In the prize payout status, for each prize managed by the prize management device 60 or self-prize management device 70, the status for 10 days from the business day to the past 9 days is displayed, as well as the average value for weekdays, weekends, and holidays during that time. Display.

Specifically, for each prize (prize code, prize name) managed by the prize management device 60 or self-prize management device 70 corresponding to the prize management device ID, the number of replenishments, the number of replenishments, and the number of payouts are displayed. .

For example, for the prize code "0001" and the prize name "Grand Prize" in the prize management device ID "POS11", the average number of refills (on weekdays) is "5", the number of refills is "105", and the number of payouts is "92". , the average number of replenishments (Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays) is "8", the number of replenishments is "162", the number of payouts is "153", the number of replenishments on "2022/02/24 (Thursday)" is "6", the number of replenishments is " 110'', the number of payouts is ``90'', the number of replenishments on ``2022/02/15 (Tue)'' is ``4'', the number of refills is ``80'', and the number of payouts is ``70''.

In addition, for the prize code "0001" and the prize name "Grand Prize" in the prize management device ID "SPOS12", the average number of refills (on weekdays) is "4", the number of refills is "54", and the number of payouts is "49". , the average number of replenishments (Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays) is "5", the number of replenishments is "74", the number of payouts is "65", the number of replenishments on "2022/02/24 (Thursday)" is "5", the number of replenishments is " 60'' pieces, the number of payouts is ``52'', the number of refills on ``2022/02/15 (Tue)'' is ``3'', the number of refills is ``40'', and the number of payouts is ``35''.

It should be noted that if a display switching operation is received while the prize payout status is being displayed, the number of payouts/payout amount will be switched and displayed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, for the prize code "0001" and the prize name "Grand Prize" in the prize management device ID "POS11", the average number of payouts (on weekdays) is "92", and the average ( The number of payouts on Saturdays, Sundays, holidays) is ``153'', the number of payouts on ``2022/02/24 (Thursday)'' is ``90'', and the number of payouts on ``2022/02/15 (Tuesday)'' is ``70''. The average payout amount (weekdays) is "92,000 yen," the average (weekday) payout amount is "153,000 yen," the payout amount on "2022/02/24 (Thursday)" is "90,000 yen," and the "2022/ The payout amount for ``02/15 (Tuesday)'' is displayed as ``70,000 yen''.

Further, as shown in FIG. 17, if it is determined that there are prizes that require replenishment and prizes that are recommended for replenishment, a list of prizes that require replenishment and are recommended is displayed. In the Replenishment Required/Recommended Prize List, the required or recommended number of replenishments is displayed for each Replenishment Required Prize and Replenishment Recommended Prize.

Specifically, as a prize that requires replenishment, the prize name "Grand Prize" and the inventory number "20" in the prize management device ID "SPOS12" are displayed, and the number of replenishments "80" is displayed, and the number of replenishments is "80". SPOS13'', the prize name is ``medium prize'' and the number of items in stock is ``58'', while the number of replenishments is ``242''.

In addition, as recommended prizes for replenishment, the number of replenishments "1105" is displayed for the prize name "Small Prize" and the stock number "395" in the prize management device ID "POS11", and the number of replenishment "1105" is displayed in the prize management device ID "SPOS14". The prize name is "medium prize" and the number of items in stock is "83", while the number of replenishments is "217".

<Processing procedure for determining and displaying supplementary prizes in the management device 50>
Next, a processing procedure for determining and displaying supplementary prizes in the management device 50 will be explained. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for determining and displaying supplementary prizes in the management device 50.

As shown in FIG. 18, when the management device 50 receives a payout notification from the prize management device 60 or the self-prize management device 70 (step S101; Yes), it stores the received data in the prize payout data 55g (step S102).

It is determined whether or not the prize included in the received payout notification requires replenishment (step S103). For example, if the number of items in stock is 20% or less, it will be determined that replenishment is necessary. If it is determined that replenishment is necessary (step S103; Yes), the prize that requires replenishment is displayed on the display section 51 (step S104), and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined that replenishment is not necessary (step S103; No), it is determined whether replenishment is recommended (step S105). For example, if the number of items in stock is 30% or less, it will be determined that replenishment is recommended. If it is determined that there are no prizes for which replenishment is recommended (step S105; No), the process ends. On the other hand, if it is determined that there is a prize for which replenishment is recommended (step S105; Yes), the recommended replenishment prize is displayed on the display unit 51 (step S106), and the process ends.

As described above, the prize management system according to the present embodiment determines whether replenishment of the prize is necessary or recommended according to the payout of the prize, and based on the result of this determination, the prize management system determines whether the replenishment of the prize is necessary or recommended. Since the system is configured to display prizes that require replenishment and prizes that are recommended for replenishment, it is possible to efficiently replenish the prize dispensing device with prizes.

In the above embodiment, the configuration for displaying the prize disbursement status has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, but displays the number of prizes in stock on the business day, and displays the prizes that need to be replenished and the prizes that are recommended to be replenished. It is also possible to configure the display to be conspicuous by changing the color or the like.

Further, in the above embodiment, a configuration was described in which the prize payout status is displayed on the management device, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the prize payout status is displayed on the prize management device so that the employee can operate It can also be configured to accept and print.

Further, in the above embodiment, a configuration was described in which the prize disbursement status is displayed on the management device, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention is not limited to this. Accordingly, it is also possible to display records regarding prize replenishment on the business day for the selected prize management device. It is also possible to configure the prize management device to display records regarding this prize replenishment. Furthermore, it is also possible to calculate the number of expected exchanges based on the player's ball information and to guide the player to a device that is short on the number of prizes.

Further, in the above embodiment, a configuration was described in which the prizes that require replenishment and the recommended replenishment prizes are displayed based on the prize payout status, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention is not limited to this. It is also possible to predict prize exchange based on the number of prizes and to display prizes that need to be replenished and prizes that are recommended to be replenished.

Furthermore, although the term "acquisition" in the above embodiment assumes the case of receiving and storing some data from the partner device, it may also refer to the case of going to the partner device to retrieve data.

Furthermore, each configuration illustrated in the above embodiments is a functional schematic, and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the form of dispersion/integration of each device is not limited to the one shown in the diagram, but all or part of it can be functionally or physically distributed/integrated in arbitrary units depending on various loads and usage conditions. Can be configured.

The prize management system, management device, and prize management method according to the present invention are suitable for efficiently replenishing the prize dispensing device with prizes.

10 Inter-machine 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 15 Communication unit 16 Storage unit 16a Own device status data 16b Card data 17 Control unit 17a Data management unit 18 Game management section 18a Authentication processing section 18b Authentication key management section 18c Gaming machine state management section 20 Gaming machine 21 Handle 22 Counting button 23 Communication control section 24 Production control section 24a Production symbol lottery section 24b Production lottery section 25 Game control section 26 Game Ball control unit 26a Gameable number management unit 30 Island controller 50 Management device 51 Display unit 52 Input unit 53 External network communication unit 54 Store network communication unit 55 Storage unit 55a Card management data 55b Device management data 55c Member management data 55d Number of storage units Data 55e Replenishment threshold data 55f Prize value data 55g Prize payout data 56 Control unit 56a Card management unit 56b Device management unit 56c Membership management unit 56d Settings management unit 56e Prize payout management unit 56f Replenishment determination unit 56g Display control unit 60 Prize management device 61 Card reader/writer 62 Receipt issuing section 64 Display operation section 65 Communication section 66 Storage section 66a Possession value data 66b Prize inventory data 67 Control section 67a Possession value management section 67b Prize inventory management section 67c Prize selection control section 67d Receipt issuing processing section 70 Self Prize management device 80, 80a, 80b Prize payout device 84 Display operation section 85 Communication section 86 Storage section 86a Prize stock data 87 Control section 87a Prize stock management section 87b Payout control section

Claims (9)

a management device that manages the number of game media acquired by playing games on a gaming machine in association with identification information of a storage medium; and a plurality of management devices that manage at least the number of game media associated with the identification information of the storage medium for prizes. A prize management system comprising a prize management device and a prize dispensing device attached to the prize management device,
The management device includes:
acquisition means for acquiring payout information indicating the status of prize payouts from the prize payout device and replenishment information indicating the status of replenishment of prizes to the prize payout device from the plurality of prize management devices;
a determination means for determining replenishment of prizes based on the payout information and the replenishment information acquired by the acquisition means;
A prize management system comprising: display control means for controlling the display of information related to replenishment of prizes to the prize dispensing device on a predetermined display section according to at least a determination result by the determination means. The display control means includes:
Display control is performed on the predetermined display section to display information on replenishing the prize to the prize dispensing device according to a determination result by the determining means, and the dispensing information and the replenishment information acquired by the acquiring means. The prize management system according to claim 1. The determining means is
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein it is determined whether replenishment of the prize to the prize dispensing device is necessary and whether replenishment is recommended based on the payout information and the replenishment information acquired by the acquisition means. Prize management system. The determining means is
If the number of stocks for each prize managed by the prize management device is calculated based on the payout information and the supplementary information acquired by the acquisition means, and the number of stocks is less than or equal to a first predetermined value; According to claim 3, it is determined that it is necessary to replenish prizes, and when the inventory quantity is less than or equal to a second predetermined value, it is determined that replenishment of prizes is recommended. Prize management system. The display control means includes:
At least one of the prize name and the number of replenishments determined by the determination means to require replenishment of the prize, and the prize name and the number of replenishment determined by the determination means to be recommended for replenishment of the prize, the prize management device 4. The prize management system according to claim 3, wherein the prize management system controls display on the predetermined display section each time a prize is awarded. The display control means includes:
Regarding the payout information and the replenishment information, a first display mode displays the number of replenishments, the number of replenishments, and the number of payouts for each prize managed by the prize management device, and a second display mode displays the number of replenishments, the number of replenishments, and the payout amount. 2. The prize management system according to claim 1, wherein the prize management system controls display in a manner that allows selection of two display modes. The display control means includes:
Regarding the payout information and the replenishment information, the status for 10 days from the business day to the past 9 days is displayed, and the average value on weekdays and the average value on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during the 10 days are displayed respectively. The prize management system according to claim 3, characterized in that the prize management system controls prizes. A management device that manages the number of gaming media acquired through gaming on a gaming machine by associating it with identification information of a storage medium,
acquisition means for acquiring payout information indicating the status of prize payouts from the prize payout device and replenishment information indicating the status of replenishment of prizes to the prize payout device from a plurality of prize management devices;
a determination means for determining replenishment of prizes based on the payout information and the replenishment information acquired by the acquisition means;
A management device comprising: display control means for displaying, on a predetermined display section, information related to replenishment of prizes to the prize dispensing device according to at least a determination result by the determination means. a management device that manages the number of game media acquired by playing games on a gaming machine in association with identification information of a storage medium; and a plurality of management devices that manage at least the number of game media associated with the identification information of the storage medium for prizes. A prize management method in a prize management system having a prize management device and a prize dispensing device attached to the prize management device,
an acquisition step in which the management device acquires, from the plurality of prize management devices, dispensing information indicating the status of prize dispensing from the prize dispensing device and replenishment information indicating the status of replenishing the prizes to the prize dispensing device;
a determination step in which the management device makes a determination regarding replenishment of prizes based on the payout information and the replenishment information acquired in the acquisition step;
A display control step in which the management device controls display of information regarding replenishment of prizes to the prize dispensing device on a predetermined display section according to at least the determination result of the determination step. .

Images