JP3841730B2 - Game system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a gaming system using an information medium, and particularly to a gaming system in which unauthorized tampering with an information medium is difficult.
[0002]
[Prior art]
The card issuing machine issues a card according to an issuance processing program relating to card issuance. Conventionally, this issuance processing program is stored in advance in a ROM area, and when issuing a card by a card issuing machine, initial information such as money amount data is written on the card according to the issuance processing program.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in a conventional card issuing machine in which an issuance processing program is stored in the ROM area in advance, if the card issuing machine is stolen, it is possible to illegally issue a card equivalent to a regular card. There was a problem of end. That is, since a card issued from a stolen card issuing machine is issued in accordance with a regular issuance processing program, it is extremely difficult to distinguish it from a regular card.
[0004]
Therefore, in order to prevent an unauthorized card from being issued even if the card issuing machine is stolen, the card issuing process program is not stored in the ROM area in advance, but the power supply to the card issuing machine. At the time of input, the information processing apparatus is requested to issue a processing program, and the issuance processing program transmitted from the information processing apparatus is stored in a volatile memory (for example, a RAM area) to perform the issuing process. Is preferred.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention is for achieving the above-described object, and according to the present invention, an information medium capable of recording at least valuable information, security information, identification information, and expiration date information is provided. ,
An information medium issuing device for issuing the information medium;
A gaming medium lending device that lends gaming media based on the installation of an information medium within the expiration date;
An update device that updates and reissues the information medium based on the loading of the information medium after the expiration date;
An information processing apparatus that collects and manages information medium usage information by electrically contacting the information medium issuing apparatus, the game medium lending apparatus, and the updating apparatus;
A management apparatus that is installed in a management company that manages the issuance of information media, and that determines the management of information media and permission to reissue information media by electrically contacting the information processing devices installed in a plurality of amusement stores When,
With
In the information medium issuing device, when issuing the information medium, at least valuable value information, security information, identification information, and expiration date information are written to issue the information medium,
The game medium lending device transmits information recorded on an information medium attached to the game medium lending device in order to receive a game medium lending permission from the information processing device,
The information processing apparatus includes an in-date card file for managing information on game media issued by the store within an expiration date, searches for the in-time card file, and collates the information medium attached to the gaming medium lending device. A game medium lending permission in the game medium lending device,
The update device transmits information on the information medium attached to the update device in order to receive a reissue permission from the management device of the management company so that an information medium that has expired and is issued by another store can be used in the store. And
The management device includes an expiration card file for managing information on a game medium whose expiration date has passed, searches for the expiration card file, collates the information medium attached to the update device, and updates the update device. Send a reissue permission for game media at
Further, the information medium issuing device and / or the updating device includes a program request unit that requests the information processing device to write a program for writing information on the information medium,
Program storage means for storing the program acquired from the information processing apparatus in the volatile storage area by the program request means;
Execution means for executing a program stored in the program storage means;
A gaming system characterized by comprising:
[0006]
According to a second aspect of the present invention, when power supply to the information medium issuing device and / or the updating device is cut off, the volatile storage area is cleared and the program is forcibly erased. The gaming system according to claim 1.
[0009]
The above-described devices will be specifically described. The above-described information medium is composed of, for example, a paper or plastic card coated with a magnetic material. The information medium may be an IC card capable of electrically recording information.
[0010]
The information processing apparatus described above includes, for example, an external storage device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), an MO (Magneto-Optical Storage Device), a hard disk storage device, and a display. It consists of a computer equipped.
[0011]
The information medium dispensing device described above may be an IC card issuing machine that issues an IC card in addition to a card issuing machine that issues a paper or plastic card.
[0012]
The above-described game value means money amount information, stored ball information that can be used to store the acquired game balls and play games.
[0013]
The program request means described above is constituted by, for example, a microcomputer and a communication control device.
[0014]
The program storage means and execution means described above are composed of, for example, a microcomputer equipped with a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and a program relating to the card 2 issue process is stored in the RAM area.
[0015]
The value information written when issuing the information medium described above means, for example, money amount information such as 3,000 yen, and the security information is, for example, a security code for identifying the authenticity of the information medium. The identification information means information for individually identifying the information medium such as an information medium issue store, an issue date, and an issue number. Further, the expiration date information means, for example, information related to the expiration date of the information medium such as one week.
[0016]
Such information is recorded on the information medium when the information medium is issued. For example, when the information medium is a paper card coated with a magnetic material, such information is magnetically recorded.
[0017]
The above-described information medium issuing device includes, for example, a card issuing machine that issues a paper card coated with a magnetic material.
[0018]
The above-described game medium lending device includes, for example, a card-type ball lending machine that lends pachinko balls. In this case, the game medium means a pachinko ball that plays a game on a pachinko machine.
[0019]
The update device described above includes, for example, an update machine that issues a paper card coated with a magnetic material as an update card.
[0020]
The management device described above includes, for example, a computer having an external storage device such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and hard disk storage device, and a display.
[0021]
The information processing apparatus and the management apparatus described above are electrically connected via a telephone line, for example.
[0022]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an embodiment of a gaming system using an information medium according to the present invention will be described based on the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a gaming system using an information medium, FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram explaining the relationship between each device constituting the gaming system, and FIG. 3 is a diagram between each device constituting the gaming system. It is explanatory drawing explaining the flow of the information in.
[0023]
As shown in FIG. 1, a gaming system 1 using an information medium uses a card 2 as an information medium, and a card company (management device 3) as a management company that manages the issuance of the card 2 allows a plurality of Issuance, use, renewal, etc. of the card 2 at the amusement store 4 are managed.
[0024]
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, each game store 4 is provided with so-called island facilities in which a plurality of gaming machines 5 (for example, pachinko machines) and ball lending machines 6 are arranged in parallel at a plurality of locations. A device 7, a card issuing machine 8, an updating machine 9, an amusement shop management device 10, a prize POS (sales point-of-sales information management) device 11, a ball counter 12 and the like are arranged.
[0025]
As shown in FIG. 1, the ball lending machine 6 arranged in each island facility is in electrical communication with the island relay device 13 through electrical wiring. The information transmission / reception method between the island relay device 13 and the ball lending machine 6 employs, for example, a polling process from the island relay device 13.
[0026]
The information processing device 7 is in electrical communication with the island relay device 13, the card issuing machine 8, and the updating machine 9 via the network line 14 to exchange information. In addition, the game shop management device 10 is in electrical communication with the gaming machine 5, the ball counter 12, and the prize POS device via the network line 15 to exchange information. As a data transmission / reception method on the network lines 14 and 15, for example, a token ring method or an Ethernet (registered trademark) method which is a typical LAN (local area network) connection method is adopted.
[0027]
Further, the information processing device 7 installed in each game store 4 is in electrical communication with the card company management device 3 via the telephone line 16, and the card company management device 3 uses the information processing device 7 in each game store 4. Issuance, use, update, etc. of the card 2 are managed. The card company management device 3 includes, for example, a computer including an external storage device such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, and hard disk storage device.
[0028]
The gaming machine 5 described above is a pachinko machine that is one of typical gaming machines, and can play a game using a pachinko ball as a game medium.
[0029]
Each gaming machine 5 is provided with a ball lending machine 6 which is a gaming medium lending device. This ball lending machine 6 is a device that lends pachinko balls based on the installation of the card 2 (set it in a readable state). When lending pachinko balls, it is a regular card within the expiration date issued by our shop. 2 to determine whether the card is a regular card 2 within the expiration date issued by our shop, the card 2 is sent to the information processing device 7 in order to receive permission to rent a pachinko ball. The pachinko balls are lent out on the condition that the information recorded in is sent and the card 2 is lent from the information processing device 7.
[0030]
The island relay device 13 is a device for relaying transmission / reception of information between the ball lending machine 6 and the information processing device 7.
[0031]
The information processing device 7 collects the usage information of the card 2 and manages it in the game store, determines the permission to use the card 2 and the permission to reissue the card 2 issued by the store, and issues it to other stores. In the case of the card 2, the information of the card 2 is transmitted to the management device 3 of the card company, the reissuance permission of the card 2 and the remaining valuable value information of the card 2 are received from the management device 3, 2 is a device for determining permission for reissuance, and is composed of, for example, a computer equipped with an external storage device such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, MO, or hard disk storage device.
[0032]
The above-described card issuing machine 8 is a device for issuing the card 2, and valuable information, security information, identification information, expiration date information, and the like are recorded on the issued card 2.
[0033]
The above-mentioned renewal machine 9 is a device for renewing the card 2 and reissuing the card 2 for which the valid period has expired or the card 2 issued by another store and renewing the valid period. In order to obtain permission for reissuance of the card 2 when it is determined that the card 2 is an expired regular card 2 and is determined to be a valid card 2 that has expired, The information recorded on the card 2 is transmitted to the information processing device 7, and the reissue permission of the card 2 and the residual value information of the card 2 are received from the information processing device 7 or the management device 3. The card 2 is reissued.
[0034]
The gaming store management device 10 described above is a device for managing these devices by transmitting and receiving information to and from the gaming machine 5, the ball counter 12 and the prize POS device 11 arranged in the gaming store 4. For example, it is composed of a computer equipped with an external storage device such as a CPU, ROM, RAM, MO or hard disk storage device.
[0035]
Next, based on FIG. 2, FIG. 3, the relationship of each apparatus which comprises the game system 1, and the flow of the information between each apparatus are demonstrated.
The information processing device 7 installed in each game store 4 includes an expiration date card file for managing the expiration date card file 2 and an expiration date card file for managing the expiration date card card 2. It has.
[0036]
When the card issuer 8 inserts money and issues the card 2, the issue information of the card 2 is transmitted to the information processing device 7, and the information is stored in the expiration date card file as the expiration date card 2. . Further, the issue amount information of the card 2 is transmitted to the management device 3 of the card company.
[0037]
When the card 2 within the expiration date is attached to the ball lending machine 6, the information processing device 7 checks the card file with the expiration date, and if it is a regular card 2, the ball lending is performed. When ball lending is performed by the card 2, information relating to the ball lending amount is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 7, and information is accumulated in a file relating to the ball lending amount. Further, the ball lending amount information is transmitted to the management device 3 of the card company.
[0038]
When an expiration card is attached to the renewal machine 9, the information processing device 7 determines whether the store card 2 or the other store card 2 is used. And if it is our shop card 2, it will collate with an expiration card file, and if it is a regular card 2, the card 2 which recorded the remaining amount will be reissued. In the case of the other store card 2, the card company verifies the card 2. That is, the card information is transmitted to the card company, checked against the expired card file provided in the card company management apparatus 3, and if it is a legitimate card 2, the new card 2 in which the remaining amount is recorded is restored. publish.
[0039]
Between the card company and each amusement store 4, the payment amount of the card 2 and the ball lending amount by the card 2 are settled. This settlement is performed, for example, as a monthly settlement process.
[0040]
Next, based on FIG. 4, the card | curd 2 used with the above-mentioned game system 1 is demonstrated.
FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the card, FIG. 4 (a) is a front view of the card, and FIG. 4 (b) is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of information recorded on the card.
[0041]
The card 2 is made of a paper card 2 coated with a magnetic material. As shown in FIG. 4A, the information display unit 20 for displaying the issue amount of the card 2, the issuing store, etc. An expiration date display unit 21 for displaying a time limit, a remaining amount display unit 22 for displaying an outline of the remaining amount, and the like are printed, and a data recording unit 23 capable of magnetically storing information is provided.
[0042]
In the remaining amount display section 22 described above, an outline of the remaining amount of the card 2 is displayed by punching holes.
[0043]
As shown in FIG. 4B, the information recorded in the data recording unit 23 includes a security code, an issue store, an issue date, an issue number, a remaining amount, an expiration date, an issue amount, an update count, and the like. Among these pieces of information, the security code is security information for identifying the authenticity of the card 2, and the issuer, issue date, and issue number are identification information for individually identifying the card 2, and the expiration date is It becomes expiration date information, and the issue amount and the remaining amount become valuable value information.
[0044]
Next, based on FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the expiration date card file and the expiration date card file provided in the information processing device 7, and the payment information file transmitted from the information processing device 7 to the card company management device 3 Will be explained.
[0045]
FIG. 5 (a) is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of an in-date card file, FIG. 5 (b) is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of an expired card file, and FIG. 6 shows the configuration of a checkout information file. It is explanatory drawing.
[0046]
As shown in FIG. 5A, the in-date card file includes, for each card 2 in the expiration date, the issuer information, the issue date information, the issue number, the remaining amount, the expiration date, and the card identification number. , And issuance amount and the number of updates. Here, the number of updates is the number of times the card 2 has been updated, and is information that allows the game store to know the game time interval.
[0047]
As shown in FIG. 5 (b), the expired card file includes, for each card 2 whose expiration date has passed, issuance store information, issue date information, issue number, remaining amount, and expiration date, which are card identification numbers. , The issue amount and the number of updates.
[0048]
As shown in FIG. 6, the settlement information file includes the date of creation of the file, the number of cards 2 issued by hourly issue amount, the amount of ball loan, the number of reissues, the amount of reissue, and the total of these values. It consists of and.
[0049]
This settlement information file is transmitted from the information processing device 7 to the card company management device 3 via the telephone line 16 when the game store 4 is closed, for example. In the card company, the settlement relating to the issuance, use and update of the card 2 is performed based on the settlement information file.
[0050]
Next, the card issuing machine 8 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 7 is a front view of the card issuing machine, and FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a relationship between a card issuing machine control device that electrically controls the card issuing machine and each device constituting the card issuing machine.
[0051]
As shown in FIG. 7, the card issuing machine 8 instructs the issue of each card 2 of 3,000 yen, 5,000 yen, and 10,000 yen on the upper part of the front surface of the box-shaped card issuing machine body 30. Issuance switches 31a, 31b, 31c, and a cancel switch 32 for canceling the issuance of the card 2 are provided side by side, and the surface of each of the issuance switches 31a, 31b, 31c and the cancel switch 32 has a light transmitting property. In addition, lamps 33a, 33b, 33c, and 34 for illuminating the switches from the inside are provided inside the issuing switches 31a, 31b, and 31c and the cancel switch 32, respectively.
[0052]
In addition, as shown in FIG. 7, a speaker 35 is mounted on the front surface of the card issuing machine body 30 above the 3,000 yen issuing switch 31a, and the card 2 can be issued above the cancel switch 32. The issuance enable lamp 36 that is lit is provided, a call switch 37 for calling a store clerk is provided below the 3,000 yen issue switch 31a, a card issue port 38 is provided below the call switch 37, and the cancel switch 32 A bill insertion slot 39 and a change payment outlet 40 are arranged vertically below.
[0053]
As shown in FIG. 7, a card reader / writer 41 for writing money amount information, expiration date information, etc. to the card 2 is provided in the card issuing machine main body 30 at a position communicating with the card issuing port 38 as shown in FIG. Above the card reader / writer 41, a ticket issuing device 42 for supplying the card 2 to the card reader / writer 41 is provided, and the inserted and rejected bills are connected to the bill insertion port 39 and the change payment outlet 40. A currency device 43 is provided for appraising the amount of money and paying out the necessary change.
[0054]
Although not shown in detail, a long roll paper coated with a magnetic material is stored in the ticket issuing device 42 described above. When the card 2 is issued from the card reader / writer 41, the roll paper is The card 2 is cut to a predetermined length.
[0055]
Further, inside the card issuing machine main body 30, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, a card issuing machine control device 44 for electrically controlling the card issuing machine 8 and an information processing device 7 are provided. A communication control device 45 for controlling communication, an external storage device 46 such as an MO or a hard disk storage device, a reset switch 47 for initializing the card issuing machine 8, and a backup power supply 48 for supplying power in the event of a power failure And a power supply monitoring circuit 49 for monitoring a power failure, a sound generator 50 for generating sound information, and an amplifier 51 for amplifying the sound information generated by the sound generator 50.
[0056]
As shown in FIG. 8, the card issuing machine controller 44 includes a CPU 52, a ROM 53, and a RAM 54 that are in electrical communication with each other, and a clock generator 55 that supplies an operation clock to the CPU 52. .
[0057]
The CPU 52 is in electrical communication with the external storage device 46, the money device 43, the ticket issuing device 42, the card reader / writer 41, and the communication control device 45 via the I / O interface 56. Sending and receiving.
[0058]
In addition, the CPU 52 has a call switch 37, a cancel switch 32,3,000 yen issue switch 31a, a 5,000 yen issue switch 31b, a 10,000 yen issue switch on its input side via the I / O interface 56. 31c, the reset switch 47, and the power supply monitoring circuit 49 are in electrical communication, and receive signals from these devices.
[0059]
In addition, the CPU 52 has an I / O interface 56 and an issuance enable lamp 36, a cancel lamp 34,3,000 yen amount lamp 33a, a 5,000 yen amount lamp 33b, a 10,000 yen amount on the output side. The lamp 33c is in electrical communication and outputs a signal to these devices.
[0060]
Further, the sound generator 50 is in electrical communication with the CPU 52 via the I / O interface 56, and the sound information is generated by the sound generator 50 based on an instruction from the CPU 52. Is generated from the speaker 35.
[0061]
Next, a processing procedure in the card issuing machine 8 will be described with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 9 to FIG. 14 are flowcharts showing a processing procedure in the card issuing machine 8.
[0062]
As shown in FIG. 9, the card issuing machine 8 first performs an initialization process (S 1) for initializing each device constituting the card issuing machine 8, and establishes the network line 14 with the information processing apparatus 7. A line process (S2) as a test is performed.
[0063]
Next, request processing (S3) of an issuance processing program related to issuance of the card 2 is performed on the information processing device 7, and reception processing (S4) of the issuance processing program transmitted from the information processing device 7 is performed and received. It is determined whether the information is normal (S5). The issue processing program includes initial information for writing to the card 2.
[0064]
Here, if the reception information is abnormal, the above-described program request processing (S3) and reception processing (S4) are repeated.
[0065]
On the other hand, if the received information is normal, the received issuance processing program is stored in a volatile memory such as the RAM 54 (S6), and the opening preparation completion information indicating that the opening preparation has been completed is sent to the information processing apparatus 7. It transmits (S7), and waits for a store opening command signal to be transmitted from the information processing device 7 (S8).
[0066]
From the above-described initialization process (S1) to the store opening command signal standby process (S8), processing is performed according to a program stored in the ROM 53 area in advance.
Then, when a store opening instruction signal is transmitted from the information processing device 7, the process proceeds to an issuing process.
[0067]
Further, when the store is closed, an end process is performed. In this end process, as shown in FIG. 10, it is determined whether there is information that has not been transmitted to the information processing apparatus 7 (S9). It transmits with respect to the processing apparatus 7 (S10).
[0068]
Next, end information is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 7 (S11), a volatile memory area such as the RAM 54 storing the issuance processing program is cleared (S12), and the processing in the card issuing machine 8 is terminated. Note that the storage in the volatile memory area is automatically erased when the power is turned off, but in the present embodiment, it is cleared just in case.
[0069]
In the process in the card issuing machine 8 described above, when a power failure occurs, a power failure process is performed.
In this power failure processing, as shown in FIG. 11, when the power supply to the card issuing machine 8 is cut off, the issuing processing program is erased by clearing the volatile memory area such as the RAM 54 storing the issuing processing program. (S13) The processing in the card issuing machine 8 is terminated. Note that the memory in the volatile memory area is automatically erased due to a power failure, but in the present embodiment, it is cleared just in case as described above.
[0070]
In other words, when the power supply to the card issuing machine 8 is illegally cut off, not only at the time of a power failure, the issuing processing program is forcibly deleted, so even if the card issuing machine 8 is illegally taken away, The issue processing program is not stolen.
[0071]
In the issuance process performed following the store opening command signal standby process (S8) described above, as shown in FIG. 12, the stored previous state is read from the external storage device 46 comprising a hard disk storage device (S14), and after the power failure It is determined whether it is a return (S15).
[0072]
Here, if the power is restored after a power failure, the information stored and stored at the time of the power failure is read from the external storage device 46 formed of a hard disk storage device (S16). On the other hand, if it is not a recovery after a power failure, initial setting processing is performed for each device constituting the card issuing machine 8 (S17).
[0073]
Next, a card issuance process for issuing the card 2 is performed (S18), and the process waits for a closing instruction signal to be transmitted from the information processing apparatus 7 (S19).
[0074]
Then, when a closing instruction signal is transmitted from the information processing device 7, the process proceeds to an end process (S9 to S12), and the process in the card issuing machine 8 is ended.
[0075]
Of the above-described issuing processes (S14 to S19), processes other than the card issuing process (S18) are performed according to a program stored in the ROM 53 area in advance. The card issuing process (S18) will be described in detail later.
[0076]
In the above issuance process (S14 to S19), when a power failure occurs, a power failure interrupt process is performed, and when information is received from the information processing apparatus 7, a reception interrupt process is performed.
[0077]
In the power failure interruption process described above, as shown in FIG. 13A, the current information and the power failure information are saved and stored in the external storage device 46 composed of a hard disk storage device (S20), and the power failure process (S13) is performed. )
[0078]
In the reception interrupt process described above, as shown in FIG. 13B, the reception process from the communication control device 45 is performed (S21), and the process returns.
[0079]
In the card issuing process (S18) described above, as shown in FIG. 14, it is determined whether or not a bill has been inserted into the money device 43 from the bill insertion slot 39 (S18a). To return.
[0080]
On the other hand, when a banknote is inserted into the money device 43 from the banknote insertion slot 39, an amount input process is performed in which the amount and authenticity of the inserted banknote are identified and the input amount is input (S18b). The amount lamps 33a, 33b, 33c corresponding to the amount of money are turned on to display that the issue switches 31a, 31b, 31c incorporating the amount lamps 33a, 33b, 33c are operable (S18c). For example, when 10,000 yen is inserted, the 3,000 yen amount lamp 33a, the 5,000 yen amount lamp 33b, the 10,000 yen amount lamp 33d, and the cancel lamp 34 are turned on.
[0081]
Next, it is determined in this order whether or not any of the cancel switch 32,3,000 yen issue switch 31a, 5,000 yen issue switch 31b, 10,000 yen issue switch 31c is operated and turned on ( S18d-S18g).
[0082]
When the cancel switch 32 is operated and turned on, it is determined whether or not there is change (S18h). If there is change, the change is paid out (S18i), and the process is returned. On the other hand, if there is no change, the process immediately returns.
[0083]
Also, when any of the 3,000 yen issue switch 31a, 5,000 yen issue switch 31b, c, and 10,000 yen issue switch 31c is operated and turned on, the switch is shown in FIG. The initial information and the corresponding amount information are written in the card 2 and the card 2 is issued (S18j).
[0084]
Then, it is determined whether or not there is a change (S18k). If there is a change, the change is paid out (S18l).
[0085]
Next, issuance information is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 7 (S18m), and information equivalent to the issuance information transmitted to the information processing apparatus 7 is recorded in the external storage device 46 composed of MO (S18n). To return. That is, the information processing apparatus 7 and the card issuing machine 8 store the issue information related to the card issue, thereby improving the reliability of the issue information and preventing the loss of the issue information.
[0086]
The card issuing process (S18a to S18n) described above is performed according to the issuing process program received from the information processing apparatus 7 and stored in the volatile memory area (RAM 54).
[0087]
Next, the update machine 9 will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS.
FIG. 15 is a front view of the renewal machine, and FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing the relationship between the renewal apparatus control device that electrically controls the renewal apparatus and each device that constitutes the renewal machine.
[0088]
As shown in FIG. 15, the update machine 9 is provided with a display device 61 made of a liquid crystal display device or the like in the upper part of the front surface of a box-like update machine body 60, and a call switch 62 for calling a store clerk on the left side of the display device 61. A speaker 63 is attached above the call switch 62, an updatable lamp 64 is provided above the display device 61. The renewable lamp 64 is turned on when the renewal is possible. The insertion port 66 is provided side by side on the left and right.
[0089]
As shown in FIG. 15, an issue card reader / writer 67 for writing monetary amount information, expiration date information, etc. to the update card 2 is provided in the update machine main body 60 at a position communicating with the update card issue port 65 as shown in FIG. The renewal ticket issuing device 68 for supplying the renewal card 2 to the issuance card reader / writer 67 is provided above the issuance card reader / writer 67, and the expiry date inserted at a position communicating with the expiry card insertion slot 66 is provided. A recovery card reader / writer 69 for reading information from the card is provided, and a recovery device 70 for recovering the inserted expiration card is provided below the recovery card reader / writer 69.
[0090]
Although not shown in detail, the above-described renewal ticket issuing device 68 contains a long roll paper coated with a magnetic material, and when issuing the renewal card 2 from the issuance card reader / writer 67, The roll paper is cut into a predetermined length to form a card 2.
[0091]
Further, in the update machine main body 60, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, communication between the update machine control apparatus 71 for electrically controlling the update machine 9 and the information processing apparatus 7 is controlled. A communication control device 72, an external storage device 73 composed of an MO, a hard disk storage device, etc., a reset switch 74 for initializing the update machine 9, a backup power supply 75 for supplying power in the event of a power failure, and a power failure monitoring A power monitoring circuit 76 for generating sound information 77 for generating sound information, and an amplifier 78 for amplifying sound information generated by the sound generator 77.
[0092]
As shown in FIG. 16, the updating machine control device 71 includes a CPU 79, a ROM 80, and a RAM 81 that are in electrical communication with each other, and a clock generator 82 that supplies an operating clock to the CPU 79.
[0093]
The CPU 79 includes a communication control device 72, a collection card reader / writer 69, a collection device 70, an issue card reader / writer 67, an update ticket issuing device 68, an external storage device 73, and a display device 61 via the I / O interface 83. They are in electrical communication and exchange information with each other.
[0094]
Further, the CPU 79 is electrically connected to the input side of the call switch 62, the reset switch 74, and the power supply monitoring circuit 76 via the I / O interface 83, and receives signals from these devices. Yes.
[0095]
In addition, an updateable lamp 64 is electrically connected to the output side of the CPU 79 via the I / O interface 83, and a signal is output to the updateable lamp 64.
[0096]
Further, a sound generator 77 is in electrical communication with the CPU 79 via the I / O interface 83, and sound information is generated by the sound generator 77 based on an instruction from the CPU 79, and this sound information is converted into an amplifier 78. And is generated from the speaker 63.
[0097]
Next, a processing procedure in the update machine 9 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIGS. 17 to 22 are flowcharts showing the procedure of processing in the update machine.
[0098]
In the update machine 9, as shown in FIG. 17, first, initialization processing (S30) for initializing each device constituting the update machine 9 is performed, and a test of the network line 14 with the information processing apparatus 7 is performed. A certain line process (S31) is performed.
[0099]
Next, an update process program request process (S32) related to the update of the card 2 is performed on the information processing apparatus 7, and an update process program reception process (S33) transmitted from the information processing apparatus 7 is performed. It is determined whether the information is normal (S34). The update processing program includes initial information for writing on the update card.
[0100]
Here, if there is an abnormality in the reception information, the above-described program request processing (S32) and reception processing (S33) are repeated.
[0101]
On the other hand, if the received information is normal, the received update processing program is stored in the volatile memory such as the RAM 81 (S35), and the opening preparation completion information indicating that the opening preparation is completed is sent to the information processing apparatus 7. It transmits (S36) and waits for a store opening command signal to be transmitted from the information processing device 7 (S37).
[0102]
From the initialization process (S30) to the store opening command signal standby process (S37), the process is performed according to a program stored in the ROM 80 area in advance.
Then, when a store opening instruction signal is transmitted from the information processing device 7, the process proceeds to update processing.
[0103]
Further, when the store is closed, an end process is performed. In this end process, as shown in FIG. 18, it is determined whether there is information that has not been transmitted to the information processing apparatus 7 (S38). It transmits with respect to the processing apparatus 7 (S39).
[0104]
Next, the end information is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 7 (S40), the volatile memory area such as the RAM 81 storing the update process program is cleared (S41), and the process in the update machine 9 is ended. Note that the storage in the volatile memory area is automatically erased when the power is turned off, but in the present embodiment, it is cleared just in case.
[0105]
When a power failure occurs in the processing in the above-described updating machine 9, a power failure process is performed.
In this power failure process, as shown in FIG. 19, when the power supply to the update machine 9 is cut off, the volatile memory area such as the RAM 81 storing the update process program is cleared (S42), and the process in the update machine 9 is performed. Exit. Note that the memory in the volatile memory area is automatically erased by a power failure, but in the present embodiment, it is cleared just in case.
[0106]
That is, not only at the time of a power failure, but also when the power supply to the update machine 9 is illegally cut off, the update process program is forcibly erased, so even if the update machine 9 is taken away illegally, the update process program Will not be stolen.
[0107]
In the update process performed following the store opening command signal standby process (S37) described above, as shown in FIG. 20, the stored previous state is read from the external storage device 73 comprising a hard disk storage device (S43), and after the power failure It is determined whether it is a return (S44).
[0108]
Here, if the power is restored after a power failure, the information stored and stored at the time of the power failure is read from the external storage device 73 formed of a hard disk storage device (S45). On the other hand, if it is not a recovery after a power failure, an initial setting process is performed for each device constituting the update machine 9 (S46).
[0109]
Next, a card update process for updating the card 2 is performed (S47), and the process waits for a closing instruction signal to be transmitted from the information processing apparatus 7 (S48).
Then, when a closing instruction signal is transmitted from the information processing apparatus 7, the process proceeds to an end process (S38 to S41), and the process in the card issuing machine 8 is ended.
[0110]
Of the update processes (S43 to S48) described above, processes other than the card update process (S47) are performed according to a program stored in the ROM 80 area in advance. The card update process (S47) will be described in detail later.
[0111]
In the above issuance process (S43 to S48), when a power failure occurs, a power failure interrupt process is performed, and when information is received from the information processing apparatus 7, a reception interrupt process is performed.
[0112]
In the power failure interruption process described above, as shown in FIG. 21A, the current information and the power failure information are saved and stored in the external storage device 73 including a hard disk storage device (S49), and the power failure process (S42) is performed. )
[0113]
In the reception interrupt process described above, as shown in FIG. 21B, the reception process from the communication control device 72 is performed (S50), and the process returns.
[0114]
In the card update process described above, as shown in FIG. 22, it is determined whether or not the expiration card 2 has been inserted into the collection card reader / writer 69 from the expiration card insertion port 66 (S47a). If there is no, return the process.
[0115]
On the other hand, when an expired card 2 is inserted into the collection card reader / writer 69 from the expired card insertion port 66, information is read from the inserted expired card 2 (S47b), and the security of the inserted expired card 2 is read. It is determined whether the card 2 is normal and the expiration date has passed (S47c).
[0116]
Here, if the security information is abnormal or the card 2 is within the expiration date, the card 2 is ejected from the collection card reader / writer 69 (S47d), and the process is returned.
[0117]
On the other hand, if the security information is normal and the card 2 has expired, the read card information is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 7 (S47e), and the update determination from the information processing apparatus 7 is performed. Is received (S47f).
Then, it is determined whether or not the update determination transmitted from the information processing apparatus 7 permits the update (S47g).
[0118]
Here, when the update is permitted, the issue card reader / writer 67 writes the remaining amount information received from the information processing apparatus 7 and the initial information included in the transmitted update processing program into the update card 2 ( S47h), issuance information indicating that the update card 2 has been issued is transmitted to the information processing device 7 (S47i), and the data recording unit 23 of the expired card 2 is punched to make the expired card 2 unusable. After that, the expiration card 2 is recovered by the recovery device 70 (S47j), and the process is returned.
[0119]
On the other hand, if the update is not permitted, the card 2 is ejected from the collection card reader / writer 69 (S47d), and the process is returned.
[0120]
The card update processing (S47a to S47j) described above is performed according to the update processing program received from the information processing device 7 and stored in the volatile memory area (RAM 81).
[0121]
Further, as will be described in detail later, the update determination of the card 2 issued by the store is performed by the information processing device 7, and the update determination of the card 2 issued by another store is performed by the card company management device 3 via the information processing device 7. Do.
[0122]
Next, based on FIG. 23 and FIG. 24, the gaming machine 5 and the ball lending machine 6 attached thereto will be described in more detail.
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the gaming machine 5 and the ball lending machine 6, and FIG. 24 is a block diagram showing the relationship between the ball lending machine control device 103 that electrically controls the ball lending machine 6 and each device constituting the ball lending machine 6. FIG.
[0123]
As shown in FIG. 23, the gaming machine 5 is a pachinko machine, and is configured to play a game by renting a pachinko ball using the card 2, and the card 2 is inserted on the left side of the gaming machine 5. The ball lending machine 6 for performing the lending operation | movement of the pachinko ball by doing is provided.
[0124]
As shown in FIG. 23, the gaming machine 5 is provided with a game board 90 on the front surface thereof, and below the game board 90 is provided a ball supply tray (upper plate) 91 for storing pachinko balls used for gaming. Below the ball supply tray 91, a ball storage tray (lower plate) 92 for storing pachinko balls discharged as a prize and a firing operation handle 93 of the hitting ball launcher are provided side by side.
[0125]
Further, on the front surface of the above-described ball supply tray 91, a card remaining amount display 94 composed of a 7-segment display for displaying the balance of the card 2 inserted in the ball lending machine 6 and a ball lending operation are instructed. A ball lending switch 95 for this purpose and a return switch 96 for instructing the discharge of the card 2 inserted in the ball lending machine 6 are provided side by side.
[0126]
As shown in FIG. 23, the ball lending machine 6 provided in the gaming machine 5 has a card insertion slot 100 for inserting the gaming card 2 on the front surface thereof and a lamp 101 for displaying the state of the ball lending machine 6. Provided inside the ball lending machine 6 is a card reader / writer 102 that reads the valuable value stored in the card 2 at a position communicating with the card insertion slot 100, and subtracts the valuable value used and stores it again in the card 2. Is provided.
[0127]
Further, as shown in FIG. 24, the ball lending machine 6 includes a ball lending machine control device 103 for electrically controlling the ball lending machine 6, an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable ROM), and the like. The communication control device 105 that controls communication between the storage device 104 and the island relay device 13, the reset switch 106 for initializing the ball lending machine 6, and the number of balls lent out in one ball lending operation A setting switch 107 for setting is provided.
[0128]
As shown in FIG. 24, the above-described ball lending machine control device 103 includes a CPU 108, a ROM 109, and a RAM 110 that are in electrical communication with each other, and a clock generator 111 that supplies an operation clock to the CPU 108. .
[0129]
The CPU 108 is in electrical communication with the external storage device 104, the card reader / writer 102, and the communication control device 105 made of an EEPROM via the I / O interface 112 to exchange information with each other.
[0130]
Further, a reset switch 106 and a setting switch 107 are electrically connected to the input side of the CPU 108 via the I / O interface 112, and signals are received from these devices.
[0131]
In addition, the lamp 101 is in electrical communication with the output side of the CPU 108 via the I / O interface 112 to control lighting and extinguishing of the lamp 101.
[0132]
Further, the ball lending switch 95, return switch 96, card remaining amount display 94, and discharge control device 97 provided on the ball supply tray 91 of the gaming machine 5 are electrically connected to the CPU 108 via the I / O interface 112. is doing.
[0133]
When the card 2 is inserted into the card reader / writer 102, the remaining valuable value stored in the card 2 is displayed on the card remaining amount display 94, and when a ball lending switch 95 is operated, a predetermined number of pachinko balls are displayed. Is lent out in the ball supply tray 91. At this time, the ball lending information is transmitted from the CPU 108 to the discharge control device 97, and when the discharge of the pachinko balls is completed, the ball lending completion information is transmitted from the discharge control device 97 to the CPU 108.
[0134]
When the return switch 96 is operated, the card 2 is ejected from the card reader / writer 102.
[0135]
Next, a processing procedure in the ball lending machine 6 will be described with reference to FIG.
In the ball lending machine 6, as shown in FIG. 25, first, initialization processing (S60) for initializing each device constituting the ball lending machine 6 is performed, and the network line 14 with the information processing apparatus 7 is connected. A line process (S61) as a test is performed.
[0136]
Then, it waits for the store opening command signal to be transmitted from the information processing device 7 (S62), and when the store opening command signal is transmitted, it waits for the card 2 to be inserted into the card reader / writer 102 (S63).
[0137]
When the card 2 is inserted into the card reader / writer 102, the card information stored in the card 2 is read (S64), whether the security information is normal, whether it is the card 2 issued by the shop, within the expiration date. It is determined whether or not the card 2 (S65).
[0138]
Here, when the security is normal, the card 2 is issued by the store, and the card 2 is within the expiration date, the read card information is transmitted to the information processing device 7 and the information from the information processing device 7 is transmitted. The ball lending permission judgment is received (S67).
[0139]
Next, it is determined whether or not the ball lending permission determination transmitted from the information processing device 7 permits ball lending (S68).
[0140]
If ball lending is permitted, ball lending processing is performed (S69), and the processing returns to card 2 insertion determination processing (S63). In this ball lending process, each time the ball lending switch 95 is turned on, a predetermined number of pachinko balls are discharged, and when the return switch 96 is turned on, the updated valuable value is written into the card 2 and the card reader / writer 102 is written. Eject card 2 from inside. Further, the update information is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 7 when the card 2 is ejected or every operation such as ball lending.
[0141]
In the above-described card 2 determination process (S65), if there is any abnormality in the security information, the other store card 2 or the expiration date has passed, the card reader / writer 102 The card 2 is ejected (S70), and the process returns to the card 2 insertion determination process (S63).
[0142]
Next, a processing procedure in the information processing apparatus 7 will be described with reference to FIGS.
As shown in FIG. 26, the information processing apparatus 7 first performs an initial setting process for each device constituting the information processing apparatus 7 (S80), and issues a store opening request to the card company (S81).
[0143]
Next, it is determined whether there is untransmitted card information for the card company (S82). If there is untransmitted card information, the untransmitted card information is transmitted to the card company (S83).
[0144]
Next, waiting for a store opening instruction signal from the card company (S84), if the store opening instruction signal is not transmitted, a store opening error is notified (S85), and the process is terminated.
[0145]
Then, when the opening instruction signal is transmitted from the card company, does the signal from the card company include expiration card usage information indicating that the expired card 2 issued at this store has been reissued at another store? If the expiration card use information is included, the corresponding expiration card information is erased from the expiration card file of the information processing device 7 (S87).
[0146]
In this way, by arranging the expired card files of the information processing device 7, the search load on the information processing device 7 can be reduced.
[0147]
Next, line processing (S88), which is a test of the network line 14 between each terminal device in contact with the information processing device 7, is performed, and it is determined whether or not there is a request for sending the issuance processing program from the card issuing machine 8. (S89).
[0148]
Here, when there is a request for sending an issuance processing program from the card issuing machine 8, the issuing process program is sent to the card issuing machine 8 (S90), and the opening of the store is completed from the card issuing machine 8. It is determined whether or not the signal has been transmitted (S91).
[0149]
If a store opening completion signal is not transmitted from the card issuing machine 8, a program transmission error is notified (S92), and the process is terminated.
[0150]
On the other hand, when there is no request for the issuance process program in the issuance process program request determination process (S89) from the card issuing machine 8 described above, and in the above-mentioned store opening preparation end information determination process (S91), the store opening preparation end information is If it has been transmitted, it waits for a request for transmission of the update processing program from the update machine 9 (S93).
[0151]
Then, when there is a request for transmission of the update processing program from the update machine 9, as shown in FIG. 27, the update process program is transmitted to the update machine 9 (S94), and the update machine 9 has completed preparation for opening a store. It is determined whether or not the signal has been transmitted (S95). Note that the issue processing program and the update processing program include initial information to be written on the card.
[0152]
Here, if a store opening preparation end signal is not transmitted from the renewal machine 9, a program transmission error is notified (S96), and the process is terminated.
[0153]
On the other hand, when the store opening preparation end signal is transmitted from the renewal machine 9, it waits for the store opening switch which is the store opening instruction in the information processing apparatus 7 to be turned on (S97).
When the store opening switch is turned on, a store opening command signal is transmitted to each terminal device that communicates with the information processing device 7 (S98).
[0154]
Next, it is determined whether or not a closing switch that is a closing instruction in the information processing device 7 is turned on (S99).
[0155]
Here, when the store closing switch is turned on, as shown in FIG. 31, an end information signal is transmitted to each terminal device in contact with the information processing device 7 (S100), and the end information is transmitted from each terminal device. It is determined whether or not (S101).
[0156]
Here, when the end information is transmitted from each terminal, the above-described end information signal transmission and end information reception processing (S100, S101) is repeated until the end information is transmitted from all the terminal devices. (S102).
[0157]
On the other hand, if end information is not transmitted from each terminal device, it is determined whether operation information has been transmitted from each terminal device (S103).
[0158]
When operation information is transmitted from each terminal device, the corresponding file is updated (S104), and the process returns to the end information determination process (S101). On the other hand, if the operation information is not transmitted from each terminal device, the process returns to the end information determination process (S101) without performing the file update process (S104).
[0159]
When the end information is received from all terminal devices (S102), the file is rearranged, such as moving a newly expired card to an expired card file, and waiting for information collection from the card company (S105). ). The arrangement of the expired card file is not limited to the above-described time point, and may be performed in accordance with the determination of the presence / absence of expired card information (S109), which will be described later, or when the store is opened the next day.
[0160]
If there is a contact for information collection from the card company, if the contact from the card company is a request for collecting information on the current day card (S106), the card company is notified of the day card information (for example, as shown in FIG. 6). File) (S107). If it is a request for collecting information on an expired card (S108), it is determined whether there is expired card information (S109). If there is expired card information, the expired card information (for example, FIG. 5 (b) (expired card file) is delivered (S110). For example, a method of transmitting the file through a telephone line 16 with a card company is used for the delivery of information.
[0161]
Next, it is determined whether or not a power-off request signal is transmitted from the card company (S111). If a power-off request signal is transmitted, the information processing apparatus 7 is turned off (S112), and the process is performed. finish.
[0162]
On the other hand, until the power-off request signal is transmitted from the card company, the processing (S106 to S110) after the above-mentioned day card information collection request determination processing is repeated.
[0163]
In the above-described closing switch determination process (S99), when the closing switch is not turned on, as shown in FIG. 27, information collection processing for collecting information from each terminal device until the closing switch is turned on, as shown in FIG. (S120), a card verification process (S130) for responding to the verification of the card 2 from the ball lending machine 6, and an information management process (S160) regarding information display and the like are sequentially performed. The information collection process (S120) and the card verification process (S130) will be described in detail later.
[0164]
In the information collection process (S120) described above, as shown in FIG. 28, it is determined whether or not the ball lending information has been transmitted from the ball lending machine 6 (S121). The ball lending information is stored in the external storage device 104 such as a hard disk storage device (for example, stored in the term card file shown in FIG. 5A) (S122).
[0165]
In addition, it is determined whether or not issue information or reissue information has been transmitted from the card issuing machine 8 or the update machine 9 (S123). Is stored in the external storage device 104 (for example, stored in the in-date card file shown in FIG. 5A) (S124).
[0166]
Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has passed (S125). If the predetermined time has passed, each card information is stored in the external storage device 104 such as MO based on the time information (for example, FIG. 6). (S126). That is, information is collected every predetermined time to construct a file.
[0167]
In the information collection process (S120), after the above-described processes (S121 to S126) are performed, the process returns.
[0168]
In the above-described card verification process (S130), as shown in FIG. 29, it is determined whether or not it is verification of an expired card (S131). It is determined whether or not the card 2 is collated (S132).
Here, if it is not the collation of the card 2 from the ball lending machine 6, the process is returned.
[0169]
On the other hand, in the case of collation of the card 2 from the ball lending machine 6, the in-date card file is searched based on the card identification number of the received card information (S133).
[0170]
Then, it is determined whether or not the searched card 2 exists (S134). If the card 2 exists, the card 2 is checked (S135), and it is determined whether or not the use of the card 2 is permitted (S136). ).
[0171]
Here, when permitting the use of the card 2, a ball lending permission signal is transmitted to the corresponding ball lending machine 6 (S137), and the process is returned.
[0172]
On the other hand, when the use of the card 2 is not permitted, a ball lending non-permission signal is transmitted to the corresponding ball lending machine 6 (S138), and an abnormal record is recorded in the history file (S139), and the process is performed. Return.
[0173]
In addition, in the above-described card 2 presence determination process (S134), when the searched card 2 does not exist, a ball lending non-permission signal is transmitted to the corresponding ball lending machine 6 (S138), and the history. Abnormal recording is performed on the file (S139), and the process is returned.
[0174]
In the expiration card verification determination process (S131), if it is an expiration card, it is determined whether or not it is a card 2 issued by the store (S140) as shown in FIG.
[0175]
Here, in the case of the card 2 issued by our shop, the expired card file is searched based on the card identification number of the received card information (S141).
[0176]
Then, it is determined whether or not the searched card 2 exists (S142). If the card 2 exists, the card 2 is checked (S143), and it is determined whether or not the update of the card 2 is permitted (S144). ).
[0177]
Here, when the update of the card 2 is permitted, an update permission signal and residual value information are transmitted to the corresponding update machine 9 (S145), and the information for the card identification number is deleted from the expiration file. The history is recorded in the reissue file (S147), and the process is returned.
[0178]
On the other hand, when the update of the card 2 is not permitted, an update non-permission signal is transmitted to the corresponding update machine 9 (S148), an abnormality is recorded in the history file (S149), and the process is returned.
[0179]
If it is determined in the above-described determination process (S140) of the store card 2 that the card 2 is issued by another store, a line (for example, telephone line 16) with the card company is connected (S150), The card information is transmitted to the company (S151), and the verification result from the card company is received (S152).
[0180]
Then, when reception of the collation result from the card company is completed (S153), the line with the card company is disconnected (S154).
[0181]
Next, it is determined whether or not an update permission has been given by the card company (S155). If the update permission has been granted, an update permission signal and residual value information are transmitted to the corresponding updating machine 9 (S156). The history is recorded in the reissue file (S147), and the process is returned.
[0182]
On the other hand, when the card company does not permit the update, an update non-permission signal is transmitted to the corresponding update machine 9 (S157), an abnormal record is recorded in the log file (S158), and the process is returned. .
[0183]
Next, based on FIG. 32 and FIG. 33, the procedure of the process in the management apparatus 3 of a card company is demonstrated.
In the card company management device 3, as shown in FIG. 32, first, initialization processing for initializing each device constituting the management device 3 is performed (S200). Verification processing (S201) and card information management processing (S102). The above collation process (S201) will be described in detail later.
[0184]
Then, it is determined whether or not a collection switch, which is an information collection command for each game store 4, is turned on (S203). When the collection switch is turned on, card information collection processing for each game store 4 is performed (S204). ), The process returns to the collation process (S201).
[0185]
On the other hand, if the collection switch is not turned on, the card information collection process (S204) is not performed, and the process returns to the collation process (S201).
[0186]
In the above collation process (S201), as shown in FIG. 33, it is determined whether or not there is a connection request for a line (for example, telephone line 16) from each game store 4 (S201a). To return.
[0187]
On the other hand, if there is a line connection request from any of the game stores 4, the line is connected (S201b), and card information and the like from the game store 4 is received (S201c).
[0188]
Then, when the reception process is completed (S201d), it is determined whether or not the expiration card is verified (S201e).
[0189]
On the other hand, if it is verification of an expired card, the expired card file is searched based on the card identification number of the received card information (S201f).
[0190]
Then, it is determined whether or not the searched card 2 exists (S201g). If the card 2 exists, the card 2 is verified (S201h), and it is determined whether or not the use of the card 2 is permitted (S201i). ).
[0191]
Here, when the use of the card 2 is permitted, an update permission signal and remaining valuable value information are transmitted to the corresponding game store 4 (S201j), and the information for the card identification number is deleted from the expiration file. (S201k), the history is recorded in the reissue file (S201l), and the process is returned. As described above, the information on the reissued file becomes the usage information of the expired card indicating that it has been reissued at another store.
[0192]
On the other hand, when the card information does not exist in the expired card file or when the update of the card 2 is not permitted, an update non-permission signal is transmitted to the corresponding game store 4 (S201m), and the log file is also recorded. Abnormal recording is performed (S201n), and the process is returned.
[0193]
In the above-described embodiment, a pachinko machine has been described as an example of the representative gaming machine 5; It can also be applied to slot machines and the like.
[0194]
In addition to the ball lending machine 6 that lends pachinko balls, the game medium lending device may be a device that lends medals or coins that are game media.
[0195]
【The invention's effect】
Since this invention consists of an above-described structure, there exists an effect which is demonstrated below.
That is, a program request means for requesting an information processing apparatus a program for writing information on an information medium to an information medium dispensing apparatus and / or an updating apparatus , and a program acquired from the information processing apparatus by the program request means is volatile storage Since the program storage means stored in the area and the execution means for executing the program stored in the program storage means are provided , the issue processing program stored in the volatile memory is cleared when the power is turned off. . Thus, the information medium issuing apparatus, and / or even if the update device is stolen, the information medium issuing apparatus stolen, and / or can not be performed issuing updating apparatus in the regular information medium, regular It is possible to prevent an unauthorized issue of an information medium equivalent to a simple information medium.
[0196]
Also, the information medium issuing device writes and issues the expiration date information on the information medium, and the game medium lending device can receive the rental of the game medium only with the information medium within the expiration date. Therefore, it becomes easy to improve the safety of the information medium by setting the expiration date.
[0197]
Information media (including information media issued by other stores) whose expiration date has passed can be used at the game store by being updated by an updating machine. Therefore, even if the expiration date is set, there is no disadvantage to the player.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a gaming system.
FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram for explaining a relationship between devices constituting the gaming system.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a flow of information between devices included in the gaming system.
4A is a front view of a card, and FIG. 4B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of information recorded on the card.
5A is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of an in-date card file, and FIG. 5B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of an expired card file.
FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration of a settlement information file.
FIG. 7 is a front view of the card issuing machine.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a relationship between a card issuing machine control device for electrically controlling the card issuing machine and each device constituting the card issuing machine.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a procedure from a process start to a store opening preparation process in the card issuing machine.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure of end processing in the card issuing machine.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a procedure of power failure processing in the card issuing machine.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a procedure of issuing processing in the card issuing machine.
FIG. 13A is a flowchart showing a procedure of a power failure interrupt process in the card issuing machine, and FIG. 13B is a flowchart showing a procedure of a reception interrupt process in the card issuing machine.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a procedure of card issuing processing in the card issuing machine.
FIG. 15 is a front view of the renewal machine.
FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a relationship between an updater control device that electrically controls the updater and each device that constitutes the updater.
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a procedure from the start of processing in the update machine to opening store preparation processing;
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a procedure of termination processing in the update machine.
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a procedure of power failure processing in the renewal machine.
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a procedure of update processing in the update machine.
FIG. 21A is a flowchart showing a procedure of a power failure interrupt process in an updating machine, and FIG. 21B is a flowchart showing a procedure of a reception interrupt process in the updating machine.
FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a procedure of card update processing in the update machine.
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a gaming machine and a ball lending machine.
FIG. 24 is a block diagram showing a relationship between a ball lending machine control device that electrically controls the ball lending machine and each device constituting the ball lending machine.
FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the ball lending machine.
FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the information processing apparatus.
FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure in the information processing apparatus.
FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a procedure of information collection processing shown in FIG. 27;
FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing a procedure of card verification processing shown in FIG. 27;
30 is a flowchart showing a procedure of card verification processing shown in FIG. 27. FIG.
FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure when the store closing switch is turned on in the information processing apparatus.
FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the card company management apparatus.
33 is a flowchart showing a procedure of the collation process shown in FIG. 32. FIG.
[Explanation of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Game system 2 Card 3 Management apparatus 4 Game shop 5 Game machine 6 Ball lending machine 7 Information processing apparatus 8 Card issuing machine 9 Renewal machine 10 Game shop management apparatus 11 Premium POS apparatus 12 Ball counter 13 Island relay apparatus 14 Network line 15 Network line 16 Telephone line (card)
20 Information display unit 21 Expiration date display unit 22 Remaining amount display unit 23 Data recording unit (card issuing machine)
30 Card issuing machine 31 Issue switch a 3,000 yen b 5,000 yen c 10,000 yen 32 Cancel switch 33 Issue lamp a 3,000 yen b 5,000 yen c 10,000 yen 34 Cancel lamp 35 Speaker 36 Issuable lamp 37 Call switch 38 Card issuing port 39 Bill insertion port 40 Change payout port 41 Card reader / writer 42 Ticket issuing device 43 Money device 44 Card issuing device control device 45 Communication control device 46 External storage device 47 Reset switch 48 Backup power source 49 Power source Monitoring circuit 50 Sound generator 51 Amplifier 52 CPU
53 ROM
54 RAM
55 Clock generator 56 I / O interface (update machine)
60 Update Machine Body 61 Display Device 62 Call Switch 63 Speaker 64 Updatable Lamp 65 Update Card Issuing Port 66 Expiring Card Insertion Port 67 Issuing Card Reader / Writer 68 Renewing Ticket Issuer 69 Collecting Card Reader / Writer 70 Collecting Device 71 Updating Machine Control Device 72 Communication control device 73 External storage device 74 Reset switch 75 Backup power supply 76 Power supply monitoring circuit 77 Sound generator 78 Amplifier 79 CPU
80 ROM
81 RAM
82 Clock generator 83 I / O interface (game machine)
90 Game board 91 Ball supply tray 92 Ball storage tray 93 Firing operation handle 94 Card balance display 95 Ball lending switch 96 Return switch 97 Discharge control device (ball lending machine)
100 Card insertion slot 101 Lamp 102 Card reader / writer 103 Ball lending machine control device 104 External storage device 105 Communication control device 106 Reset switch 107 Setting switch 108 CPU
109 ROM
110 RAM
111 RAM
112 I / O interface

Claims (2)

An information medium capable of recording at least valuable information, security information, identification information, and expiration date information;
  An information medium issuing device for issuing the information medium;
  A gaming medium lending device that lends gaming media based on the installation of an information medium within the expiration date;
  An update device that updates and reissues the information medium based on the loading of the information medium after the expiration date;
  An information processing apparatus that collects and manages information medium usage information in electrical contact with the information medium issuing apparatus, the game medium lending apparatus, and the updating apparatus;
  A management apparatus that is installed in a management company that manages the issuance of information media, and that determines the management of information media and permission to reissue information media by electrically contacting the information processing devices installed in a plurality of amusement stores When,
  With
  In the information medium issuing device, when issuing the information medium, the information medium is issued by writing at least valuable information, security information, identification information, and expiration date information,
  The game medium lending device transmits information recorded on an information medium attached to the game medium lending device in order to receive a game medium lending permission from the information processing device,
  The information processing apparatus includes an in-date card file for managing information on game media issued by the store within an expiration date, searches for the in-time card file, and collates the information medium attached to the gaming medium lending device. A game medium lending permission in the game medium lending device,
  The update device transmits information on the information medium attached to the update device in order to receive a reissue permission from the management device of the management company so that an information medium that has expired and is issued by another store can be used in the store. And
  The management device includes an expiration card file for managing information on a game medium whose expiration date has passed, searches for the expiration card file, collates the information medium attached to the update device, and updates the update device. Send a reissue permission for game media at
  Further, the information medium issuing device and / or the updating device includes a program request unit that requests the information processing device to write a program for writing information on the information medium,
  Program storage means for storing the program acquired from the information processing apparatus in the volatile storage area by the program request means;
  Execution means for executing a program stored in the program storage means;
  A gaming system characterized by comprising: 2. The gaming system according to claim 1, wherein when the power supply to the information medium issuing device and / or the updating device is cut off, the volatile storage area is cleared and the program is forcibly erased. .

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