JP3720121B2 - Game ball lending device - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a game ball lending device for lending game balls such as pachinko balls, and in particular, it is possible to lend game balls based on stored ball information previously deposited in a game store.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Traditionally, games acquired by players for the purpose of improving services to playersballIs stored on the member card as stored ball information, and a game is played based on the stored ball informationHas been developed.
[0003]
A game ball lending device having a storage ball lending function of storing a game ball acquired by a player as stored ball information on a member card or the like is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 5-146555.
[0004]
In order to receive a game ball loan with a game ball lending device having such a storage ball lending function, first, a member of a member card having a privilege such as a storage ball becomes a member.
[0005]
The game balls acquired by the player in the game are counted by a ball counting device, and the counted number of game balls is recorded on a prize receipt. Then, the player brings the prize receipt to the prize exchange counter, and the number of game balls recorded on the prize receipt is stored in the member card as stored ball information by the operation of the game shop clerk.
As another method for storing balls in other member cards, there is a method in which the number of game balls counted by the ball counting device is directly stored in the member card by the ball counting device.
[0006]
Then, when a member card storing the stored ball information is inserted into a game ball lending device having a stored ball lending function and an operation such as input of a password is performed, a game ball is lent based on the stored memory stored in the member card. Can receive.
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
By the way, when renting game balls based on the stored ball information previously deposited in the game store, if the game balls are rented under the same conditions as normal game ball rental, the profit of the game store is unreasonable There is a problem of being harmed.
[0008]
That is, the game store can obtain a new profit by lending a game ball based on the insertion of banknotes or coins, but if it lends a game ball based on the stored ball information, it obtains a new profit. I can't. For example, when 100 pieces of game balls are used as savings information, if 100 pieces of savings information are used as they are, new profits are not brought to the game store, and there are more payout balls given as prizes than rental balls. May be in the red.
[0009]
Therefore, in order to ensure fair profits between the game store and the player and to play a healthy game, it is necessary to collect a predetermined substantial fee when storing the game balls acquired as a result of the game. Is.
[0010]
On the other hand, in amusement stores, it is often the case that a player likes to play a game that is popular and vice versa, and it is ideal that any model should operate evenly. Needless to say.
[0011]
Therefore, the inventor of the present application pays attention to the fact that there is a size of popularity depending on the type (model) of the gaming machine and that the conditions for conversion from gaming balls to storage balls are different. The fee for converting to a higher than the standard is collected, and on the other hand, for the less popular model, the fee for converting from a game ball to a stored ball is collected less than the standard, and encouragement of games on a less popular model is encouraged We intended to plan.
[0012]
Thus, in order to change the conditions for conversion from game balls to storage balls based on differences in the types of gaming machines, it is necessary to provide means for restricting conversion from game balls to storage balls in the game ball lending device. is there.
[0013]
Therefore, the present invention has been proposed in view of the above-described problems of the prior art, and is provided with means for restricting the conversion from gaming balls to storage balls, so that the gaming balls are based on differences in the types of gaming machines. The purpose of the present invention is to provide a game ball lending device that can change the conditions for conversion from a ball to a storage ball..
[0014]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention has been proposed in order to achieve the above-described object, and the invention according to claim 1 is provided in a gaming machine and is in electrical communication with an information processing apparatus that collects stored ball information, so that a game is played in advance. In the game ball lending device that lends game balls based on the stored ball information about the game balls deposited in the store,
An information medium reading / writing means for reading information from the information medium and writing information to the information medium based on the mounting of the information medium;
Permission information input means for inputting use permission information of the information medium;
A determination unit that determines whether to permit use of the information medium by comparing the use permission information input by the permission information input unit with the information read by the information medium read / write unit;
When it is determined that the use of the information medium is permitted in the determination means, based on the player's operation, a storage ball lending means for lending a game ball within the range of storage ball information recorded on the information medium;
A game ball lending means for lending game balls within the range of the input valuable value based on the input of the valuable value,
Have
The storage ball lending meansIs,
It is equipped with storage ball lending regulation means that regulates the lending of game balls based on the accumulated ball information until a predetermined condition is established in advance.,
The storage ball lending regulation means is:
The number of game balls lent based on the valuable value by the game ball lending means has reached a predetermined value. Provided with storage information usage permission means that permits the lending of game balls from the storage information related to the information mediumIt is characterized by.
[0015]
The above-described means will be specifically described. The gaming machine includes, for example, a pachinko machine that plays a game using pachinko balls.
The game ball lending device described above includes, for example, a pachinko ball lending device that lends pachinko balls.
The information processing apparatus described above includes, for example, a computer including a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and an external storage device (such as a hard disk storage device).
The information medium described above is composed of, for example, an IC card or a magnetic card capable of storing information relating to the member who is the owner, security information, usable money amount information, information relating to the number of game balls, and the like.
The information medium reading / writing means described above is composed of, for example, a card reader / writer.
The permission information input unit described above includes, for example, a display device and a touch circuit.
The determination means described above includes, for example, a microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM.
The above-described storage ball lending means is composed of, for example, a ball dispensing device.
The above-described storage ball lending restricting means includes, for example, a microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM.
The above-mentioned game ball lending means comprises, for example, a ball dispensing device shared with the stored ball lending means.
[0016]
Note that the storage ball is a game ball acquired by the player as a result of the game, not as an actual game ball, but as a storage ball information virtually stored in the game ball, stored in an IC card, a magnetic card, or a computer that is an information processing device. It means to do. The player can rent out game balls based on the stored ball information.
[0017]
The invention according to claim 2The storage ball lending regulation means is
2. The game ball lending device according to claim 1, further comprising a lending number setting means that can be set by changing the lending number of game balls based on a valuable value that is a permission condition in the storage ball information use permission means. .
[0018]
The lending number setting means described above includes, for example, a display device and a touch circuit.
[0019]
Therefore, according to the above-described invention, the following effects are exhibited.
That is, in the invention according to claim 1, the game ball lending device is attached to the gaming machine and is in electrical communication with an information processing device that collects stored ball information, and the game ball lending device lends the game ball. To receive the information, first, when an information medium such as a membership card is attached to the game ball lending device, the information stored in the information medium is read by the information medium reading / writing means.
[0020]
Also, a player who receives a game ball lends the information medium use permission information through the permission information input means.
[0021]
Then, the determination unit compares the use permission information input by the permission information input unit with the information read by the information medium reading / writing unit to determine whether to permit the use of the information medium.
[0022]
The storage ball lending unit lends the game ball within the range of the storage ball information recorded on the information medium based on the player's operation when the determination unit determines that the use of the information medium is permitted.
[0023]
At this time, the storage ball lending restricting means restricts lending of game balls based on the storage ball information until a predetermined condition set in advance is achieved.
[0024]
AndThe game ball lending means can lend the game ball within the range of the input valuable value based on the input of the valuable value.
[0025]
In invention of Claim 2,When regulating the lending of game balls based on the stored ball information by the storage ball lending restricting means, it is related to the information medium on the condition that the number of game balls lent based on the valuable value has reached a predetermined value by the storage ball information use permission means The lending of game balls from the stored ball information is permitted.The number of game balls to be lent based on the valuable value that is a permission condition in the storage ball information use permission means can be changed and set by the loan number setting means.
[0026]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
1 to 6 show an embodiment of a game ball lending device according to the present invention. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a game store in which a game ball lending device is arranged, and FIG. 2 is a game ball lending device. FIG. 3 is a front view of a game ball lending device and a gaming machine, FIG. 4 is a front view of the game ball lending device, FIG. 5 is a plan view of the game ball lending device, and FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of devices constituting the game ball lending device.
[0027]
As shown in FIG. 1, a so-called island facility 3 in which a plurality of gaming machines (pachinko machines) 2 provided with a game ball lending device 1 are installed side by side is provided at a plurality of locations in the game store. Is in electrical communication with the ball counting device 5 and the information processing device 6 via the network line 4. Each game ball lending device 1 and the pachinko machine 2 are electrically connected to the relay device 7 ′ by wiring 7, and the relay device 7 ′ is electrically connected to the network line 4.
[0028]
The relay device 7 ′ is a device for relaying data from the game ball lending device 1 and the pachinko machine 2... In the same island facility 3, and for each game ball lending device 1 and the pachinko machine 2. Data collection by polling processing is performed.
[0029]
The ball counting device 5 described above is a device for counting the number of game balls acquired by the player, and the number of game balls counted is stored in the card 8 as stored ball information or printed on the receipt 9 as a prize exchange ball number. Is done.
[0030]
The information processing apparatus 6 described above is composed of a computer installed in a game room management room or the like, and includes an external storage device such as a hard disk storage device in addition to a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. A card issuing device 10 that issues a card 8 is in electrical communication with the information processing device 6.
[0031]
The card issuing device 10 is a device for issuing a card 8 used in the game ball lending device 1. The card 8 issued by the card issuing device 10 is, for example, a membership card composed of an IC card 8 capable of electrically storing information, and a password for confirming the owner after confirming the identity of the player. A number is stored and issued. In issuing the membership card 8, a predetermined compensation may be collected.
[0032]
The card 8 issued by the card issuing device 10 may be a magnetic card capable of magnetically storing information. However, an IC card is used in view of a large amount of information to be stored and security certainty. Preferably there is.
[0033]
In the information processing apparatus 6 described above, information is transmitted to each island facility 3 and ball counting device 5 through the network line 4, and information is collected from each island facility 3 and ball counting device 5. When transmitting or collecting information, information is transmitted and received by a token ring method or an Ethernet method, which is a typical connection method of a LAN (local area network).
[0034]
Next, based on FIG. 2, an outline of the storage of balls and the like using the above game ball lending device 1 will be described.
In order to store balls in the game ball lending device 1, it is necessary to first receive the card 8 issued by the card issuing device 10.
[0035]
A game ball can be lent by inserting the card 8 into the game ball lending device 1 or inserting cash such as coins.
[0036]
As a result of playing a game with the pachinko machine 2, when a game ball is acquired as an award, the game ball can be temporarily stored in the game ball lending device 1 as a credit ball. When a predetermined operation is performed, a game ball can be lent from the game ball lending device 1 based on the storage of the credit ball, and the game can be continued using the game ball.
[0037]
Also, the game balls acquired as a prize can be counted by the ball counting device 5 and stored as stored ball information in the member card 8 or stored as the number of prize balls in the receipt 9. Then, based on the stored ball information stored in the member card 8, the game ball lending device 1 receives the game balls again, or exchanges them for prizes based on the number of prize balls recorded on the receipt 9.
[0038]
In order to receive a game ball loan from the game ball lending device 1 using the stored ball information stored in the card 8, it is necessary to pay a predetermined service fee for using the stored ball. The stored ball use service fee is set for each game ball lending device 1 or for each group such as an island by remote control from the information processing device 6.
[0039]
Next, the game ball lending device 1 and the pachinko machine 2 will be described with reference to FIGS.
As shown in FIG. 3, each pachinko machine 2 is provided with a game ball lending device 1 adjacent to each other.
[0040]
As shown in FIG. 3, the pachinko machine 2 is provided with a game board 20 on the front surface thereof, and below the game board 20 is provided a ball supply tray (upper plate) 21 for storing pachinko balls to be used for games, Below the ball supply tray 21, a ball storage tray (lower tray) 22 for storing pachinko balls discharged as prize balls and a firing operation handle 23 of the hitting ball launching device are provided.
[0041]
As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the game ball lending device 1 is rotatably attached to a display device 31 on the upper part of the front surface of the box-shaped main body 30, and below the operation state of the game ball lending device 1. Lamps and LEDs (light emitting diodes) 32 are provided, and a card insertion slot 33 and a coin insertion slot 34 are provided vertically below, and below that, a ball lending outlet 35 communicates with the ball. A ball lending rod 36 that guides the ball to the ball supply tray 21 is rotatably attached, and a premium receipt issuing port 37 is provided below the ball lending rod 36, and below that, a game ball collecting rod for collecting the acquired game balls is provided. 38 is rotatably mounted.
[0042]
Then, inside the game ball lending device 1, as shown in FIG. 4, a card reader / writer for reading information from the card 8 and writing information to the card 8 at a position communicating with the card insertion slot 33. 39 is provided, a coin device 40 is provided at a position communicating with the coin insertion slot 34, and a coin dispensing device 41 is provided at a position communicating with the ball lending outlet 35. A receipt issuing device 42 for issuing a receipt 9 on which the number of prizes is printed is provided at a position communicating with the receipt issuing port 37.
[0043]
In the game ball lending device 1, a card reader / writer control device 43 for electrically controlling the card reader / writer 39, a communication control device 44 for controlling communication with the relay device 7 ', A setting switch 45 for setting the storage condition and a touch circuit 46 electrically connected to the touch panel are provided (FIG. 6).
[0044]
In addition to the above-described devices, a common card reader / writer that can read and write information on a common card 8 that can be used in common at a plurality of game stores may be provided. When the common card can be used in this way, the versatility of the game ball lending device 1 can be enhanced and the convenience of the player can be enhanced. Furthermore, the accounting process in the amusement store can be clarified by using the common card.
[0045]
The display device 31 described above is composed of a liquid crystal display device or the like, and as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the front surface of the game ball lending device 1 is provided by a rotation shaft 50 provided on one side (the side opposite to the pachinko machine 2). The free end projects from the front surface of the pachinko machine 2. A rotating damper 51 for restricting the rotation of the display device 31 is provided at the upper portion of the rotating shaft 50, and the free end side of the display device 31 is lightly placed on the pachinko machine 2 side at the lower portion of the rotating shaft 50. An urging member 52 is provided that urges the screen so that the screen is directed toward the player and is substantially parallel to the game ball lending device 1.
[0046]
For example, the rotary damper 51 has a rotating plate in a casing filled with silicon oil.ImmersionHowever, the rotation of the rotating plate is regulated by the flow resistance of silicon oil. With this rotary damper 51, it is possible to prevent the display device 31 from rotating rapidly and prevent the display device 31 from being damaged. Moreover, the above-described urging member 52 is formed by, for example, housing a winding spring in a casing. Due to the urging force of the urging member 52, the free end side of the display device 31 is always lightly pressed against the pachinko machine 2 side so that the screen faces the player.MakeThe visibility of the display device 31 can be improved.
[0047]
Then, when the front frame is opened around the axis on the game ball lending device side in order to inspect or repair the pachinko machine 2, the display device 31 is centered on the rotation shaft 50 in accordance with the opening operation of the front frame. Thus, it rotates against the urging force of the urging member 52, so that the front frame can be greatly opened without hindrance. On the other hand, when the work is finished and the front frame is closed, the display device 31 can return to the initial position with the lower surface facing the player side by the urging force of the urging member 52, and gently by the action of the rotary damper 51. Turn back. Therefore, it is possible to reliably prevent the display device 31 from being damaged. For this reason, even if a part of the display device 31 is located in front of the pachinko machine 2, the pachinko machine 2 can be maintained, inspected, repaired, and replaced by rotating according to the opening and closing operation of the front frame. It does not occur. The display device 31 is urged toward the pachinko machine 2 side and the screen is directed toward the player side. However, the rotation axis is set so that the free end side of the display device 31 does not come into contact with the front surface of the pachinko machine 2. It is desirable to provide a stopper (rotation angle restricting portion) for the display device on 50, the rotary damper 51, and the like. Providing such a stopper prevents the display device 31 from coming into contact with the pachinko machine 2, thereby preventing both of them from being damaged. If the front frame is opened, the display device 31 is pressed against the front frame and the display device 31 is biased by the biasing member 52. Because it rotates against the urging force, there is no problem.
[0048]
If the operation surface (front surface) of the game ball lending device 1 is wide, that is, if the width is wide, the display device 31 can be mounted in a state of being accommodated in the operation surface, while the gaming machine for one island is widened. The number of installed (Pachinko machines 2) will decrease. However, as described above, the display device 31 is attached to the front surface of the game ball lending device 1 through the rotation shaft 50 in a rotatable state, and the screen of the display device 31 is attached so as to face the player side. When urged by the urging force of the urging member 52, a display device 31 wider than the width of the game ball lending device 1 is attached to improve visibility, and even if one side of the display device 31 protrudes to the gaming machine side, the gaming machine When the front frame is opened and closed, the display device 31 rotates according to the opening angle of the front frame, so that it does not get in the way. Further, since it is not necessary to widen the game ball lending device 1, it is possible to provide multi-functionality without causing inconveniences such as reducing the number of installed gaming machines, thereby improving the service to the player. Can be planned.
[0049]
Although not shown in detail, a touch switch panel for giving a desired instruction by touching a player's finger or the like is attached to the surface of the display device 31.
[0050]
As shown in FIG. 5, the above-described game ball collection basket 38 has a ball collection port 60 on the upper surface at a position facing a ball discharge port (not shown) provided on the lower surface of the ball storage tray 22. The upstream end of the ball collection path 61 is communicated with the ball collection port 60, and the downstream end of the ball collection path 61 is communicated with a counting device 62 provided below the game ball lending device 1.
[0051]
Therefore, when the ball outlet of the ball storage tray 22 is opened and the game balls are pulled out, the game balls are guided from the ball collection port 60 to the counting device 62 through the ball collection path 61 and counted by the counting device 62. It becomes a credit ball described later.
[0052]
In addition, the game ball collecting basket 38 is rotatable to the left and right with the attachment portion to the game ball lending device 1 as a fulcrum. Therefore, when the pachinko machine 2 or the like is replaced and installed, the game ball collecting basket 38 can be rotated to eliminate interference between the pachinko machine 2 and the game ball collecting basket 38.
Note that the above-described game ball collecting basket 38 may be provided in a so-called top plate disposed in front of the pachinko machine 2. In this case, the ball collection port 60 is provided on the top plate.
[0053]
Next, based on FIG. 6, the relationship between the game ball lending control device 70 that electrically controls the game ball lending device 1 and each device constituting the game ball lending device 1 will be described.
[0054]
As shown in FIG. 6, the game ball lending control device 70 is a microcomputer including a CPU 71, a ROM 72, and a RAM 73 that are electrically connected to each other, and a clock generator (clock) 74 that supplies an operation clock to the CPU 71. It is configured.
[0055]
The CPU 71 and the like are connected to the display device 31, the touch circuit 46 electrically connected to the touch panel, the card reader / writer control device 43, the money device 40, the ball dispensing device 41, and the counting device via the interface 75. The device 62, the receipt issuing device 42, the communication control device 44, the lamp and LED 32, and the setting switch 45 are in electrical communication to transmit and receive information.
[0056]
The above-described card reader / writer 39 (card reader / writer control device 43) functions as an information medium reading / writing means, and the display device 31 and the touch circuit 76 are permission information input means, loan burden information setting means, loan number setting means. The ball paying device 41 functions as a storage ball lending device, a game ball lending device, and a credit ball lending device, the counting device 62 functions as a counting device, and the receipt issuing device 42 functions as a recording medium issuing device. The display device 31 functions as a sign notification unit and game information display unit, and the card 8 functions as a storage unit.
[0057]
The above-described game ball lending control device 70 functions as a determination unit, a storage ball lending regulation unit, a collection unit, and a storage ball information use permission unit.
[0058]
The RAM 73 of the game ball lending control device 70 described above functions as a credit ball number storage means.
[0059]
The game ball lending control device 70 and the communication control device 44 described above function as use permission confirmation means.
[0060]
In addition, you may comprise the above-mentioned determination means by the information processing apparatus 6 with the stored ball information management means. Further, the ball storing means may be configured by the information processing device 6. The lending load information setting unit and the lending number setting unit may be configured to be remotely operated from the information processing apparatus 6, respectively.
[0061]
Next, based on FIG. 7 to FIG. 21, the processing procedure in the above-described game ball lending apparatus 1 will be described with particular emphasis on processing related to stored balls.
FIGS. 7 to 10 are explanatory diagrams showing examples of display on the display device 31, and FIGS. 11 to 21 are flowcharts showing a procedure of processing in the game ball lending device 1.
[0062]
As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, when the process in the game ball lending device 1 is started, first, initialization processing (S1) for initializing each device constituting the game ball lending device 1 is performed.
Then, it is determined whether or not the setting switch 45 is on (S2).
[0063]
Here, when the setting switch 45 is turned on, a storage ball use condition setting process (S3) is performed. That is, in order to perform the storage ball use condition setting process (S3), the game ball lending device 1 may be turned on with the setting switch 45 being turned on. This storage ball use condition setting process (S3) will be described in detail later.
[0064]
Next, line processing (S4), which is a line test with the relay device 7 ', is performed, and when the line processing (S4) ends (S5), it is necessary to change initial values such as a service fee for using a stored ball. It is determined whether or not there is (S6), and if the initial value is to be changed, the initial value is reset (S7), and a waiting for the opening instruction signal from the information processing device 6 is transmitted (S8).
[0065]
Although the above-described change of the initial value may be performed in the game ball lending device 1, it can also be performed by remote operation from the information processing device 6.
[0066]
When the store opening instruction signal is transmitted from the information processing device 6, it is determined whether or not the card 8 is inserted in the card reader / writer 39 (S9).
[0067]
Here, when the card 8 is not inserted, a credit ball number process (S10) for lending a game ball with a credit ball is performed. This credit ball number processing (S10) will be described in detail later.
[0068]
On the other hand, if the card 8 is inserted in the card reader / writer 39, the security information stored in advance in the card 8 is read to determine whether the security is normal (S11).
[0069]
Here, if there is an abnormality in security, there is a possibility that the card is an unauthorized card, so the card 8 is ejected from the card reader / writer 39 (S12), and the process returns to the card 8 insertion determination process (S9).
[0070]
On the other hand, if the security is normal, the personal identification number processing (S13) for confirming the personal identification number, the credit ball number processing for renting game balls with credit balls (the same processing as S10 described above), A storage ball process (S14) for storing balls is performed in order, game information relating to the pachinko machine 2 provided therewith is transmitted to the display device 31 (S15), and the processes following the credit ball number process (S10 to S15) are repeated.
[0071]
Next, based on FIG. 13, the interruption process with respect to the main process in the above-mentioned game ball lending apparatus 1 is demonstrated.
Interrupt processing (I1 to I3) is performed at a predetermined timing in the main processing (S1 to S15) in the game ball lending apparatus 1 described above.
[0072]
In this interruption process, as shown in FIG. 13, the recovered ball processing (I1) when counting the game balls acquired by the counting device 62 provided in the pachinko machine 2 and the coin device 40 detects the insertion of coins. Then, a money lending payout process (I2) when a game ball is lent by this money and a reception process (I3) that is a reception interruption from the communication control device 44 are performed.
[0073]
Next, based on FIG.7 and FIG.14, the procedure of the above-described storage ball use condition setting process (S3) will be described in more detail.
In the storage ball use condition setting process (S3), screens as shown in FIGS. 7A to 7D are displayed on the display device 31, and setting is performed by touch input from the touch panel.
[0074]
In the storage ball use condition setting process (S3), as shown in FIG. 14, it is determined whether or not the game ball is lent based on the storage ball information (S3a). At this time, the storage device setting screen is displayed on the display device 31 (FIG. 7A).
[0075]
Here, when “setting to withdraw from the stored ball” is selected by touch input, a setting value input screen is displayed on the display device 31 (FIG. 7B). Then, the number of game balls to be withdrawn from the stored ball is input by touch input (S3b), and the determination switch waits for the touch input to be turned on (S3c).
[0076]
When the confirmation switch is turned on, a setting end screen is displayed on the display device 31 (FIG. 7D). Then, the setting value is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 6 (S3d), and a touch input from the end screen is determined (S3e).
[0077]
Here, when “Yes” is touch-inputted, the setting is completed and the processing is resumed.
[0078]
On the other hand, when “return” is touch-inputted, the process returns to the storage setting determination process (S3a).
[0079]
When the game balls are lent out using the stored balls, the number of game balls set here is withdrawn from the stored balls.
[0080]
In the above-described storage setting determination process (S3a), if “use permission is set by input amount” (FIG. 7A) is specified by touch input (S3f), a setting value input screen is displayed on the display device 31. (FIG. 7C). Then, the input amount is input by touch input (S3g), and it waits for the confirmation switch to be input by touch input (S3h).
[0081]
When the confirmation switch is turned on, a setting end screen is displayed on the display device 31 (FIG. 7D). Then, the set value is transmitted to the information processing device 6 (S3i), and a touch input from the end screen is determined (S3j).
[0082]
Here, when “Yes” is touch-inputted, the setting is completed and the processing is resumed.
[0083]
On the other hand, when “return” is touch-inputted, the process returns to the storage setting determination process (S3a).
[0084]
When a game ball is rented using a stored ball, the use of the stored ball is permitted after the game ball is rented using the amount of cash set here.
[0085]
If “cancel” (FIG. 7A) is designated by touch input in the above-described storage ball setting determination process (S3a) (S3k), the process ends and returns.
[0086]
Next, based on FIG. 8, FIG. 15, and FIG. 16, the procedure of the above-described personal identification number processing (S13) will be described in more detail.
In the first embodiment of the personal identification number process (S13), as shown in FIG. 15, the player waits for the personal identification number to be input (S13a, S13b). At this time, a numeric keypad screen for inputting a password is displayed on the display device 31 (FIG. 8A).
[0087]
Here, when the input of the personal identification number is completed by touch input (S13b), it is determined whether or not the personal identification number read from the card 8 matches the input personal identification number (S13c).
[0088]
And when both PIN numbers correspond, processing is returned and credit ball number processing (S10), storage ball processing (S14), etc. are performed as mentioned above.
[0089]
On the other hand, if the two passwords do not match, the card 8 is ejected from the card reader / writer 39 (S13d), and the process returns to the card 8 insertion determination process (S9).
[0090]
In the case of performing the personal identification number processing (S13) according to the first embodiment, it is preferable to use the IC card 8 from the viewpoint of security certainty and the like.
[0091]
In the second embodiment of the personal identification number process (S13), as shown in FIG. 16, it waits for the personal identification number to be input by the player (S13e, S13f). At this time, a numeric keypad screen for inputting a password is displayed on the display device 31 (FIG. 8A).
[0092]
Here, when the input of the personal identification number is completed by touch input (S13f), the card information read from the card 8 (card number, storage ball information, etc.) and the input personal identification number are transmitted to the information processing device 6 (S13g). ). Then, the information equivalent to the card recorded in the information processing device 6 is compared with the transmitted information to make a determination.
[0093]
Next, the authentication sent from the information processing device 6 is judged (S13h).
Here, when it is determined that the card is a proper card and the use of the card 8 is authenticated, the processing is returned to perform the credit ball number processing (S10), the ball processing (S14) and the like as described above.
[0094]
On the other hand, if it is determined that the card is inappropriate and the use of the card 8 is not authenticated, the card 8 is ejected from the card reader / writer 39 (S13i) and the process returns to the card 8 insertion determination process (S9).
[0095]
Note that when the personal identification number processing (S13) according to the second embodiment is performed, the personal identification number and the like are confirmed by the information processing apparatus 6, and thus security is assured. Therefore, the card 8 to be used is not limited to the IC card 8 and may be a magnetic card 8 or the like.
[0096]
Next, based on FIG. 9, FIG. 10, FIG. 17, the procedure of the above-described credit ball number processing (S10) will be described in more detail.
In this credit ball number processing (S10), a screen as shown in FIGS. 9A to 9D or 10A to 10C is displayed on the display device 31, and an instruction is given by touch input from the touch panel. Done.
[0097]
In the credit ball number process (S10), as shown in FIG. 17, it is determined whether there is a credit ball temporarily stored in the game ball lending device 1 (S10a).
[0098]
Here, if there is a credit ball, whether it is an automatic ball loan that automatically lends the ball based on a predetermined condition (S10b), or a manual ball that lends the ball manually based on an instruction from the player It is determined whether it is a loan (S10e). Note that the player can select in advance whether to use automatic ball lending or manual ball lending by touch input of the display device 31 (FIG. 9A).
[0099]
Here, in the case of automatic ball lending, automatic ball lending processing (S10c) for automatically lending the ball based on a predetermined condition is performed, and the credit ball number information is transmitted to the display device 31 (S10d). Return processing.
[0100]
In this automatic ball lending process (S10c), for example, when a supply ball sensor is attached to the ball outflow path of the ball supply tray 21 and the supply ball sensor no longer detects a game ball, the ball lending is automatically performed. Thus, the game balls are discharged to the ball supply tray 21.
[0101]
On the other hand, in the case of manual ball lending, manual ball lending processing (S10f) for manually lending the ball based on the player's instruction is performed, and the credit ball number information is transmitted to the display device 31 (S10d). Return processing.
[0102]
In this manual ball lending process (S <b> 10 f), for example, ball lending is performed by touch-inputting “100 manual ball lending” on the display device 31, and game balls are discharged to the ball supply tray 21.
Alternatively, the ball lending may be performed each time a ball lending switch provided on the surface of the ball supply tray 21 is operated, and the game balls may be discharged to the ball supply tray 21.
[0103]
In the credit ball number determination process (S10a) described above, when it is determined that there is no credit ball number, or when it is determined that neither automatic ball lending nor manual ball lending (S10b, S10e), the end switch is turned on. It is determined whether or not (S10h). The end switch is displayed on the display device 31 and is turned on by touch input (FIG. 9A).
[0104]
Here, when the end switch is not turned on, the credit ball number information is transmitted to the display device 31 (S10d), and the process is returned. At this time, the display device 31 that has received the credit ball number information displays the number of credit balls numerically and displays a picture of a large ball box (so-called dollar box) one by one for 1,000 credit balls ( FIG. 9A).
In this way, when the acquired balls are displayed in an analog manner, the amount of acquisition can be sensuously notified to the player, the recognition rate can be improved, and appeal to the surrounding players can be made, increasing the player's satisfaction. It is done.
[0105]
On the other hand, if the end switch is turned on, it is determined whether there is a credit ball number (S10h).
[0106]
Here, if there is no credit ball number, it is determined whether or not the card 8 is inserted in the card reader / writer 39 (S10i).
[0107]
If the card 8 is inserted in the card reader / writer 39, the current number of balls is written in the card 8, the card information is transmitted to the information processing device 6 (S10j), and a signal indicating the end is sent. The data is transmitted to the display device 31 (S10k), the card 8 is ejected from the card reader / writer 39 (S10l), and the process returns to the card 8 insertion determination process (S9).
[0108]
On the other hand, if the card 8 is not inserted in the card reader / writer 39, the process immediately returns to the card 8 insertion determination process (S9) without performing the above-described processes (S10j to S101).
[0109]
If it is determined that there is a credit ball number in the credit ball number determination process (S10h), it is determined whether the card 8 is inserted in the card reader / writer 39 as shown in FIG. 18 (S10m). ). At this time, the screen shown in FIG. 9B is displayed on the display device 31.
[0110]
If the card 8 is not inserted in the card reader / writer 39, “all prizes” on the display device 31 is touch-inputted to determine whether or not all credit balls are exchanged for prizes (S10n).
[0111]
Here, if the “all prize” on the display device 31 is not touch-input, the process returns to the card 8 insertion determination process (S10m). That is, when the card 8 is not inserted into the card reader / writer 39, all credit balls can only be exchanged for prizes. In this case, only the “all prize” switch may be displayed on the display device.
[0112]
On the other hand, when “all prizes” on the display device 31 is touch-inputted, a receipt 9 in which the number of prize balls is printed (recorded as concealed information that cannot be tampered with, such as a barcode) is issued from the receipt issuing apparatus 42 (S10o). The premium receipt information is transmitted to the information processing device 6 (S10p), a signal indicating completion is transmitted to the display device 31 (S10z), and the process returns to the card 8 insertion determination processing (S9). At this time, an end screen shown in FIG. 9C is displayed on the display device 31.
[0113]
When the card 8 is inserted in the card reader / writer 39 in the above-described card 8 insertion determination process (S10m), the “all storage balls” of the display device 31 is touch-inputted (FIG. 9B), It is determined whether or not all credit balls are stored (S10q).
[0114]
Here, when “all storage balls” of the display device 31 is touch-inputted, the number of storage balls is written in the card 8 (S10r), the card information is transmitted to the information processing device 6 (S10s), and the card 8 is stored in the card reader. While discharging from the writer 39, the storage ball flag is cleared (S10y), a signal indicating the end is transmitted to the display device 31 (S10z), and the process returns to the card 8 insertion determination process (S9). At this time, an end screen shown in FIG. 9D is displayed on the display device 31.
[0115]
On the other hand, when “all storage balls” on the display device 31 is not touch-inputted, “partial storage balls” on the display device 31 are touch-inputted (FIG. 9B), and whether or not some of the credit balls are stored. Is determined (S10t).
[0116]
Here, in the case of not performing partial storage, a touch input of “all prizes” on the display device 31 is performed to determine whether or not to exchange all credit balls for prizes (S10n). Processing (S10o, S10p, S10z) for exchanging for a prize is performed.
[0117]
On the other hand, when the “partial storage ball” of the display device 31 is touch-inputted, a numeric keypad is displayed on the display device 31 (FIG. 10A). When the number of balls to be stored is input by touching the numeric keypad (S10u), the number of stored balls is written to the card 8 (S10v), and the number of premium balls is printed from the receipt issuing device 42 (barcode etc. cannot be tampered with) The receipt 9 recorded as information) is issued (S10w), the card information and the prize receipt information are transmitted to the information processing device 6 (S10x), the card 8 is ejected from the card reader / writer 39, and the storage flag is cleared ( S10y), a signal indicating the end is transmitted to the display device 31 (S10z), and the process returns to the card 8 insertion determination process (S9). At this time, an end screen shown in FIG. 10B is displayed on the display device 31.
[0118]
Further, when the “information” shown in FIG. 9A is touch-input during the game, the game information of the pachinko machine 2 provided is displayed as shown in FIG. 10C. The game information display screen displays the number of jackpots in the pachinko machine 2 provided, the number of winnings at the starting opening, the starting opening winning rate, the number of rotations of the special symbol display device 31, and the like, as well as the pachinko machines from the opening to the present. 2 working hours and the current time are displayed. On this game information display screen, “return” is displayed, and when this “return” is touch-inputted, it is possible to return to the previous screen.
[0119]
Next, based on FIG.8 and FIG.19, the procedure of the above-mentioned ball storage process (S14) is demonstrated in more detail.
In the accumulated ball processing (S14), as shown in FIG. 19, it is determined whether there is a number of accumulated balls (S14a).
[0120]
On the other hand, if there is a number of stored balls, it is determined whether or not a stored ball flag is set (S14b).
[0121]
Here, if the storage ball flag is not set, it is determined whether or not to use the storage ball (S14c). At this time, as shown in FIG. 8B, a screen for instructing whether or not to use the storage ball is displayed on the display device 31.
[0122]
Then, when the touch input of “YES” on the display device 31 is performed, the storage ball usage fee processing (S14d) is performed, and the processing is returned. This storage ball usage fee processing (S14d) will be described in detail later.
[0123]
On the other hand, when “NO” of the display device 31 is touch-inputted, the processing is immediately resumed without performing the stored ball usage fee processing (S14d).
[0124]
In the above-described storage flag determination process (S14b), if the storage ball flag is set, is it an automatic ball loan that automatically lends balls based on a predetermined condition (S14e), or the player's Based on the instruction, it is determined whether or not it is a manual ball lending (S10g). Note that the player can select in advance whether to use automatic ball lending or manual ball lending by touch input of the display device 31 (FIG. 8C).
[0125]
Here, in the case of automatic ball lending, an automatic ball lending process (S14f) for automatically lending a ball based on a predetermined condition is performed, and the process is returned.
[0126]
In this automatic ball lending process (S14f), for example, when a supply ball sensor is attached to the ball outflow path of the ball supply tray 21, and this supply ball sensor no longer detects a game ball, the ball lending is automatically performed. Thus, the game balls are discharged to the ball supply tray 21.
[0127]
On the other hand, in the case of manual ball lending, a manual ball lending process (S14h) for manually lending the ball based on the player's instruction is performed, and the process is returned.
[0128]
In this manual ball lending process (S <b> 14 h), for example, ball lending is performed by touch-inputting “100 manual ball lending” on the display device 31, and game balls are discharged to the ball supply tray 21.
Alternatively, the ball lending may be performed each time a ball lending switch provided on the surface of the ball supply tray 21 is operated, and the game balls may be discharged to the ball supply tray 21.
[0129]
Next, based on FIG. 20 and FIG. 21, the above-described stored ball usage fee processing (S14d) will be described in more detail.
In the first embodiment of the storage ball usage fee processing (S14d), as shown in FIG. 20, the number of balls set from the number of storage balls is withdrawn to obtain the number of storage balls (S14d1), the storage ball flag is set (S14d2), and the processing is performed. To return.
[0130]
In the second embodiment of the storage fee usage fee processing (S14d), as shown in FIG. 21, it is determined whether or not the ball lending for the set amount is made with cash (S14d3).
[0131]
Then, when the ball lending for the set amount is made by inserting the cash, the storage ball flag is set (S14d4), and the process is returned.
[0132]
On the other hand, when the ball lending for the set amount is not made with cash, the processing is immediately resumed.
[0133]
In the above-described embodiment, the pachinko machine 2 has been described as an example of a representative gaming machine. However, the present invention is not limited to other gaming machines that use gaming balls, such as arrange ball type gaming machines, so-called sparrows. As well as being applicable to ball game machines, game medals and game coins are included as game balls in a broad sense, so that they can also be applied to game machines using these game medals and game coins, such as pachislot machines Can do. Therefore, the game ball lending device 1 may be not only a device that lends pachinko balls but also a device that lends game medals or game coins.
[0134]
【The invention's effect】
Since this invention consists of an above-described structure, there can exist an effect which is demonstrated below.
Claim1In the described invention, the game ball lending deviceStorage ball lending regulation meansIn addition,Since it has a storage ball information use permission means that permits the lending of game balls from the storage ball information related to the information medium, provided that the number of game balls lent based on the value has reached a predetermined value,It is possible to eliminate the disadvantages of amusement stores due to unlimited use of stored balls.
[0135]
Also,Claim2In the described invention,LicenseSince it is possible to change and set the number of game balls to be lent based on the valuable value which is a condition, it is possible to vary the conversion conditions from game balls to storage balls based on the difference in the types of gaming machines. Therefore, it is possible to increase the operating rate regardless of the popularity due to the difference in models..
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a game store where game ball lending devices are arranged.
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a procedure for storing balls, credits, and the like in the game ball lending device.
FIG. 3 is a front view of the game ball lending device and the gaming machine.
FIG. 4 is a front view of the game ball lending device.
FIG. 5 is a plan view of the game ball lending device.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of devices constituting the game ball lending device.
FIGS. 7A and 7B are explanatory diagrams showing a display example of a screen of the display device, wherein FIG. 7A is a setting screen for using a storage ball, FIG. 7B is a setting screen for the number of balls to be withdrawn from the storage ball, and FIG. , (D) shows a screen for selecting whether to end the setting.
FIGS. 8A and 8B are explanatory diagrams showing a display example of a screen of the display device, in which FIG. 8A is a screen for inputting a personal identification number when using a stored ball, and FIG. 8B is a selection for deducting a fee ball from the stored ball; Screen (c) shows a screen for selecting automatic ball lending and manual ball lending.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory view showing a display example of a screen of a display device, showing a credit ball use screen and a settlement screen, (a) is a screen for selecting automatic ball lending from a credit ball and manual ball lending; (b) is a screen for selecting whether to exchange or give away credit cards, (c) is a screen that prompts the user to take out the membership card and giveaway receipt when all the prizes are selected, and (d) selects all the stored balls. In this case, the screen prompts the user to remove the membership card.
FIG. 10 is an explanatory view showing a display example of a screen of a display device, showing an input screen and a game information display screen when storing credit balls, (a) an input screen for the number of stored balls, (b) a stored ball A screen prompting to take out the membership card and the prize receipt after inputting the number, (c) is a screen displaying the game information.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the game ball lending device.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the game ball lending device.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a procedure of interrupt processing for processing in the game ball lending device.
14 is a flowchart showing a procedure of a storage ball use condition setting process shown in FIG.
15 is a flowchart showing a procedure of the first embodiment of the personal identification number processing shown in FIG. 12;
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a procedure of a second embodiment of the personal identification number processing shown in FIG. 12;
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the credit ball number processing procedure shown in FIG. 12;
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the credit ball number processing procedure shown in FIG. 12;
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a procedure of the storage ball process shown in FIG. 12;
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a procedure of the first embodiment of the storage fee usage fee processing shown in FIG. 19;
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the second embodiment of the storage fee usage fee processing shown in FIG. 19;
[Explanation of symbols]
1 game ball lending device
2 Pachinko machines
3 Island facilities
4 Network line
5 ball counter
6 Information processing equipment
7 Wiring
7 'repeater
8 cards
9 Receipt
10 Card issuing device
20 Game board
21 Ball supply plate (top plate)
22 ball storage tray (lower plate)
23 Launch control handle
30 body
31 Display device
32 Lamps and LEDs
33 Card insertion slot
34 Coin insertion slot
35 ball exit
36 ball rental
37 Premium receipt issuer
38 game ball collection bowl
39 Card reader / writer
40 Money machine
41 Ball dispenser
42 Receipt issuing device
43 Card reader / writer control device
44 Communication control device
45 Setting switch
46 counter
50 axis of rotation
51 Rotating damper
52 Biasing member
60 balls collection port
61 ball collection path
70 game ball lending control device
71 CPU
72 ROM
73 RAM
74 Clock generator
75 interface
76 Touch circuit

Claims (2)

In the game ball lending device that lends game balls based on the stored ball information related to the game balls that are attached to the gaming machine and electrically connected to the information processing device that collects the stored ball information and deposited in advance in the game store,
An information medium reading / writing means for reading information from the information medium and writing information to the information medium based on the mounting of the information medium;
Permission information input means for inputting use permission information of the information medium;
A determination unit that determines whether to permit the use of the information medium by comparing the use permission information input by the permission information input unit with the information read by the information medium read / write unit;
When it is determined that the use of the information medium is permitted in the determination means, based on a player's operation, a storage ball lending means that lends a game ball within the range of the storage ball information recorded on the information medium;
A game ball lending means for lending game balls within the range of the input valuable value based on the input of the valuable value,
Have
It said貯玉lending means,
A storage ball lending restriction means for restricting lending of game balls based on accumulated ball information until a predetermined condition set in advance is achieved ;
The storage ball lending regulation means is:
Provided with storage ball information use permission means for permitting the lending of game balls from the storage ball information related to the information medium, provided that the number of game balls lent based on the valuable value by the game ball lending means has reached a predetermined value. game ball renting machine, characterized in that. The storage ball lending regulation means is:
2. The game ball lending device according to claim 1, further comprising: a lending number setting unit that can be set by changing a lending number of game balls based on a valuable value which is a permission condition in the storage information use permission unit .

Images