JP5426118B2 - Giveaway system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to, for example, the prize payment decimeter stem for paying out the prize to be exchanged with game media pachinko balls or the like.

  In game facilities such as pachinko parlors, a prize dispensing system is known that includes a prize dispenser (see Patent Documents 1 and 2) and a prize management machine (see Patent Document 3) electrically connected to the prize dispenser. Yes. The prizes handled by the prize dispenser are valuable card bodies that are exchanged according to the number of game media such as pachinko balls acquired by the player at the game facility, and are also called special prizes. This gift is generally a resin card having a thickness of about 1 to 3 mm. In the prize, an object having a predetermined monetary value is built in, and for example, there are three types according to the monetary value such as 200 yen, 1000 yen and 5000 yen.

  In such a prize payout system, game media such as pachinko balls acquired by the player are exchanged for prizes and handed to the player as follows, and the prize received by the player is converted into cash.

  The player puts the game media such as pachinko balls acquired by the player into a counter installed in the game facility. The counter counts the inserted game media and issues a receipt on which a barcode representing the counting result is printed. The player brings the receipt issued by the counter to the prize counter and hands it to the staff. The clerk causes the prize management machine to read the counting result recorded in the barcode on the receipt received from the player. The prize management machine determines the type and number of prizes to be paid out based on the read counting result, and instructs the prize dispenser to pay out prizes according to the determined contents. The clerk hands the prize paid out from the prize dispenser to the player. The player brings the received prize to a prize exchange installed outside the game facility, and exchanges it for cash equivalent to the value of the prize at the prize exchange.

  By the way, since prizes have the same value as cash, it is necessary to strictly manage inventory from the viewpoint of fraud prevention. Conventionally, inventory management is performed as follows.

(A) Warehousing: At the time of preparation for opening a store, the clerk replenishes a free gift dispenser with an empty free gift, and inputs the number of replenishment for each free gift type into the free gift management machine and the free gift dispenser. The prize management machine and the prize dispenser store the inputted number of supplements for each prize type as inventory data.
(B) Delivery (Payout): At the time of prize payout, the prize management machine and the prize dispenser update the inventory data by subtracting the number of prizes (number of delivery) paid out to the player from the inventory data.
(C) Additional warehousing: During business hours, the clerk inputs the number of supplements for each type of prize into the prize management machine and the prize dispenser when the prize is additionally supplemented. The prize management machine and the prize dispenser update the inventory data by adding the input number of supplements for each prize type to the inventory data.
(D) Closing process: After closing the store, the clerk prints out the inventory data by the prize management machine, collects and counts the prize (actual) from the prize dispenser, and compares the inventory data with the actual count result. Collate. After the comparison / collation is completed, the collected giveaway (actual) is stored in a safe or the like, so that the giveaway dispenser becomes empty.

Even during business hours, when the staff in charge of the prize payout system changes, processing similar to the closing process is performed to compare and collate the inventory data with the actual count results. However, in this case, the clerk returns the collected prize (actual item) to the prize dispenser after the comparison / collation is completed.
Japanese Patent No. 3722878 JP 2008-73169A JP 2002-200310 A

  As described above, in the conventional prize dispensing system, in order to manage the inventory of prizes and prevent fraud, the clerk handles the total number of prizes in the prize dispenser at each timing of the opening process, the changing of the clerk, and the closing process. I try to count by work. In this type of prize dispenser, as described in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, generally, a plurality of prize cassettes are stored. Since it is necessary to take out the cassette and count the number of prizes stored in each prize cassette, it takes time and effort. In particular, when performing counting work of the total number of prizes during business hours, such as when a staff member is changed, the player is kept waiting.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a prize dispensing system that can simplify and shorten the prize counting process in the prize dispenser and can reduce the burden on the staff.

The invention according to claim 1, in prize dispensing system comprising a scene product dispensing machine and can communicate prize tiller and the prize dispensing machine prize is housed, the prize dispensing device comprises a unit outlet A cabinet, a unit that is housed in the cabinet so that it can be pulled out, and a unit that includes a casing and a prize storage body that has a drawer portion that is provided in the casing so as to be able to be pulled out. extraction detecting means for detecting whether the counting device for counting the number of prizes that have been housed in the prize housing body, when the first predetermined condition is satisfied, the prize by using the counting device counting processing means for counting the prize number of the container, and provided with an output means for outputting a count result obtained by the counting processing unit, wherein the first predetermined condition When standing, it includes a case where a condition that the drawing unit is detected to be pulled out by the drawer detection means and a case where a counting process command is received from the prize management device are included. When the second predetermined condition is satisfied, the management device communicates with the prize dispenser to cause the prize dispenser to execute a counting process by the counting processing unit, and to issue a counting process command. It is characterized by comprising counting processing instruction means for transmitting to the prize dispenser .

The invention according to claim 2 further includes a time when the power of the prize dispenser is turned on when the first predetermined condition is satisfied in the prize dispensing system according to claim 1 . It is characterized by that.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the premium payout system according to the first or second aspect, the premium payer includes setting means for setting a timer reservation time for performing the counting process. When the predetermined condition is satisfied, the time when the current time is reached at the timer reserved time set by the setting means is further included .

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the premium payout system according to any one of the first to third aspects, the premium management device includes a counting process command input means for inputting a counting process command. When the second predetermined condition is satisfied, it includes a time when a counting process command is input by the counting process command input means .

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the prize dispensing system according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the prize dispensing machine includes the number of prizes in the prize storage unit counted by the counting processing means. Means for transmitting a free gift information to the free gift management machine, wherein the free gift management machine receives the free gift information transmitted from the free gift dispenser and outputs the obtained free gift information; It is characterized by having.

The invention according to claim 6 is the prize dispensing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the prize dispensing machine includes the number of prizes in the prize container counted by the counting processing means. A storage device for storing free gift information transmitting means for transmitting free gift information to the free gift management machine, wherein the free gift management machine stores stock management data relating to free gifts stored in a storage unit of the free gift dispenser And an update means for receiving the premium information transmitted from the premium dispenser and updating the inventory management data stored in the storage device based on the obtained premium information. To do .

According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to simplify and shorten the prize counting process in the prize dispenser and to reduce the burden on the staff.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
[1] Configuration of Management System FIG. 1 shows the overall configuration of the management system provided in the game facility.

  The management system includes a store management computer 101, one or more premium management machines (POS terminals) 102 connected to the store management computer 101, and one or more premium dispensers 103 connected to each premium management machine 102. It is configured. The prize manager 102 and the prize dispenser 103 constitute a prize dispensing system.

  The plurality of free gift management machines 102 includes a single parent machine 102_M and another child machine 102_S. In this example, up to two prize dispensers 103 can be connected to each prize management machine 102.

  The store management computer 101 manages the entire gaming facility and is installed in an office in the gaming facility. The store management computer 101 performs, for example, game machine management, sales management, member management, premium management, and the like. The prize dispenser 103 is for giving away prizes, and is installed in a prize counter. The prize dispenser 103 has a counting function for counting the number of prizes in units of cassettes and an inventory management function.

  The prize manager 102 controls the prize dispenser 103 under its control, and is installed in the prize counter. The free gift management machine 102 has a function of performing inventory management of the subordinate prize dispenser 103, and a function of displaying and printing stock management data of the subordinate premium dispenser 103. Note that the master unit 102_M has a function of communicating with other slave units 102_S to acquire inventory management data of the prize dispenser 103 under the control of the slave units 102_S, and the prize dispenser under its control. In addition to the inventory management of 103, it is also possible to perform inventory management of the gift dispenser 103 under the slave.

  The prize 2 handled by the prize dispenser 103 is a valuable card body that is exchanged according to the number of game media such as pachinko balls acquired by the player at the game facility, and is also called a special prize. As shown in FIG. 4B, the giveaway 2 is generally a resin card having a thickness of about 1 to 3 mm. The prize 2 contains an object having a predetermined monetary value. For example, there are three types according to the monetary value, such as 200 yen, 1000 yen, and 5000 yen. In addition, the prize 2 may have a built-in RFID tag or the like for identifying its type, or may be subjected to processing for preventing fraud such as forgery.

  When a game medium such as a pachinko ball acquired by a player is inserted into a counter (not shown) installed in the game facility, the inserted game medium is counted and a receipt printed with a bar code representing the counting result Is issued from the counter. Instead of such a receipt, a magnetic card on which the counting result is magnetically recorded or an IC card including an IC chip on which the counting result is recorded may be issued.

  When the player brings the receipt issued by the counting machine to the prize counter, the attendant causes the prize management machine 102 to read the counting result recorded in the barcode on the receipt. The prize management machine 102 determines the type and number of prizes to be paid out based on the read counting result, and instructs the prize dispenser 103 under the prize to pay out prizes according to the determined contents. To do. The clerk hands the prize paid out from the prize dispenser 103 to the player. The player brings the received prize to the prize exchange and exchanges it for cash corresponding to the value of the prize at the prize exchange.

[2] Mechanism of Premium Dispenser 103 [2-1] Overall Configuration FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the premium dispenser 103 as viewed from the front side (side on which the clerk operates). This figure shows a state in which the door 5 on the side surface of the clerk side is opened in the prize dispenser 103. In FIG. 2, arrows (direction arrows) pointing in the up / down / front / back / left / right directions are shown, and these direction arrows are referred to when specifying the direction (the same applies to each of the drawings after FIG. 1). Here, the left-right direction and the width direction are synonymous. The horizontal direction includes the front-rear direction and the left-right direction.

  The customer who receives the payout of the free gift is located on the rear side of the free gift dispenser 103, and the staff (employee) is located on the front side of the free gift dispenser 103 to serve the customer.

  The prize dispenser 103 includes a substantially rectangular parallelepiped-shaped cabinet 3 that forms an outline thereof, and a plurality of drawer units 4 that are housed in the cabinet 3 so as to be drawable. In FIG. 2, only one drawer unit is illustrated, but actually, seven drawer units 4 are stored in the cabinet 3 in a state of being arranged in the width direction. The seven drawer units 4 housed in the cabinet 3 are referred to as lane 1, lane 2,..., Lane 7 drawer units in order from the left side.

  The plurality of drawer units 4 are housed in the cabinet 3 in a state of being aligned in the width direction. A door open / close detector 308 (see FIG. 9) for detecting the open / closed state of the door 5 is attached to the cabinet 3.

  Each drawer unit 4 accommodates a plurality (four in this example) of premium cassettes 11 (see FIG. 4). In the prize cassette 11, the prizes 2 are stored in a stacked state. In this embodiment, the same type of prize 2 is stored in a plurality of cassettes 11 in one drawer unit 4. For example, the three drawer units 4 in the first to third lanes store 5000 yen prizes, the two drawer units 4 in the fourth to fifth lanes store 1000 yen prizes, and the sixth ~ The two drawer units 4 in the seventh lane store 200 yen prizes.

  A display unit 6 is provided on the upper surface of the cabinet 3. The display unit 6 includes a customer display unit 311 and an attendant display unit 312 (see FIG. 5). Next to the display unit 6, an operation unit 310 including a plurality of operation keys operated to control the operation of the prize dispenser 103 is provided.

  On the upper surface of the cabinet 3, a payout opening 7 is formed at an upper position of each drawer unit 4. A plurality of discharge outlets 7 are formed according to the number of the drawer units 4. Each payout port 7 communicates with the inside of the cabinet 3. Each payout port 7 is provided with a shutter 8. The shutter 8 opens and closes the payout opening 7 by being slid back and forth by a delivery mechanism described later.

[2-2] Drawer unit 4
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the drawer unit 4. FIG. 3A shows a state where the drawer 20 is in the closed position, and FIG. 3B shows a state where the drawer 20 is in the open position. Show. FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the cassette 11, and FIG. 4B shows a state where the prize 2 is fully stored in the cassette 11.

  As shown in FIG. 3A, each drawer unit 4 has a hollow box shape that is slightly thin in the left-right direction. As shown in FIG. 3B, the drawer unit 4 is provided with a casing 10 that forms an outer shell thereof, a drawer part 20 that is provided in the casing 10 so as to be able to be drawn out, and a drawer part 20 that is slidable in the front-rear direction. A carrier 12 and a plurality (four in this example) of cassettes 11 detachably attached to the carrier 12 are provided.

  The drawer 20, the cassette 11, and the carrier 12 are normally housed in the casing 10 as shown in FIG. The carrier 12 integrally holds the four cassettes 11 in a state where they are aligned in the front-rear direction. The four cassettes 11 arranged in the front-rear direction may be distinguished from the cassette 11A, the cassette 11B, the cassette 11C, and the cassette 11D in order from the front.

  A longitudinal opening 21 is formed in the front wall of the casing 10 in the vertical direction. The opening 21 communicates with the inside of the casing 10.

  The drawer 20 includes a front plate 22, a rear plate 23, and a bottom plate 24 integrally. The front plate 22 is long in the vertical direction when viewed from the front side, and has a size that can just block the opening 21 of the casing 10. The rear plate 23 extends continuously from the front plate 22 to the rear side. The bottom plate 24 connects the lower end of the front plate 22 and the lower end of the rear plate 23.

  The rear plate 23 is supported by a rail (not shown) provided on the inner surface of the left side wall 10A of the casing 10 so as to be slidable in the front-rear direction. Thereby, the drawer | drawing-out part 20 is slidable to the front-back direction. In detail, the drawer | drawing-out part 20 can slide between a closed position (refer Fig.3 (a)) and an open position (refer FIG.3 (b)). As shown in FIG. 3A, when the drawer 20 is in the closed position, the front plate 22 blocks the opening 21 of the casing 10 from the front side. When the drawer 20 in this state is pulled out by a predetermined amount to the front side, the drawer 20 is arranged at the open position shown in FIG. When the drawer portion 20 is in the open position, the front plate 22 is positioned in front of the opening 21 to open the opening 21, and almost all of the rear plate 23 is drawn to the front side. Although not shown, there is provided a drawer detection means for detecting whether the drawer 20 is in the closed position or released from the closed position.

  As shown in FIG. 3B, the carrier 12 is integrally provided with a plurality of partitions 17. These partitions 17 have a plate shape extending in the vertical direction, and are arranged along the front-rear direction with a predetermined interval. Each cassette 11 is held by the carrier 12 by being sandwiched between two adjacent partitions 17. The carrier 12 is supported by the rear plate 23 of the drawer 20 so as to be slidable in the front-rear direction. Here, with respect to the relative position of the carrier 12 with respect to the rear plate 23, the position of the carrier 12 at the most front side is referred to as the front position (see FIG. 5B), and the carrier 12 at the most rear side is positioned. The position is referred to as a rear position (see FIG. 5A).

  As shown in FIG. 3B, a slide mechanism 9 that slides the carrier 12 back and forth is provided below the carrier 12. The slide mechanism 9 is configured by, for example, a rack and pinion mechanism that is driven by a slide motor 305 (see FIG. 9), and is fixed to the bottom plate 24 of the drawer 20.

  As shown in FIG. 4 (a), the cassette 11 is longitudinal in the vertical direction, and its flat cross section has a substantially U shape with the right side cut away. The upper surface and the bottom surface of the cassette 11 are open. The right side surface of the cassette 11 is opened over the entire range in the vertical direction so as to form the above-described substantially U shape, and the opened portion is referred to as an opening portion 25. The opening portion 25 is continuous with both the top surface and the bottom surface opened in the cassette 11. The cassette 11 can store a maximum of, for example, 125 sheets of a plurality of prizes 2 of a predetermined type in a stacked state in which they are stacked in the vertical direction (see FIG. 4B). Therefore, a maximum of 500 prizes 2 can be stored in one drawer unit 4. In order to prevent the prize 2 from falling off from the lower end of the cassette 11, an inward turning portion 26 is formed at the lower end of the cassette 11.

[2-3] Mechanism for Distributing Premiums FIGS. 5A and 5B are diagrams schematically showing a longitudinal section of the premium dispenser 103. FIG.

  As a mechanism for paying out the prize 2 stored in the prize dispenser 103, a prize mechanism 2 for lifting the prize 2 stored in the cassette 11 upward, and a prize 2 lifted by the lift mechanism 27 are paid out. A payout mechanism 14 for paying out to the exit 7 side, a holding part 28 for holding the prize 2 drawn out by the payout mechanism 14 below the payout opening 7, and a prize 2 held in the holding part 28 An elevator mechanism 29 for lifting the prize 2 toward the upper side of the cabinet 3 is provided. The sending mechanism 31 is a mechanism for sliding the shutter 8 described above. As each of these mechanisms, for example, the mechanism disclosed in Patent Document 1 can be used.

  The lift mechanism 27, the feeding mechanism 14, the elevator mechanism 29, and the delivery mechanism 31 are a lift motor 301 (see FIG. 9), a delivery motor 302 (see FIG. 9), an elevator motor 303 (see FIG. 9), and a delivery motor 304, respectively. (See FIG. 9).

  As shown in FIG. 5, two lift mechanisms 27 are provided in the casing 10 with an interval in the arrangement direction (front-rear direction) of the cassettes 11. Each lift mechanism 27 is provided with a lift 13 that can be lifted by placing the prize 2 in the cassette 11 and can be retreated from the cassette 11 to a lower position. The lift 13 is supported by the casing 10 and is moved up and down by the lift motor 301 in the casing 10. The standby position of the lift 13 is near the bottom wall of the casing 10 (see the lift 13 indicated by a dotted line).

  In the casing 10, the feeding mechanism 14 is disposed above each lift mechanism 27. That is, two feeding mechanisms 14 are provided according to the number of lift mechanisms 27. The feeding mechanism 14 is disposed adjacent to the upper wall of the casing 10 and is supported by the casing 10.

  Each feeding mechanism 14 includes a moving body 18 that is slidably supported in the front-rear direction and a pair of feeding rollers 19 that are rotatably supported. The moving body 18 and the feeding roller 19 are driven by a feeding motor 302. On the bottom surface of the moving body 18, a claw 18A protruding downward is integrally provided.

  An opening 15 is formed in a portion located between the two feeding mechanisms 14 on the upper wall of the casing 10. The opening 15 communicates with the inside of the casing 10. In a state where the drawer unit 4 is housed in the cabinet 3, the opening 15 of the casing 10 faces the corresponding outlet 7 in the cabinet 3 from below.

  In each feeding mechanism 14, the feeding roller 19 is disposed at a position closer to the opening 15 than the moving body 18 in the front-rear direction. Here, as described above, regarding the position of the movable body 18 that is slidable in the front-rear direction, the position of the movable body 18 when it is closest to the feeding roller 19 is referred to as the advance position, and the movement when it is farthest from the feeding roller 19. The position of the body 18 is referred to as a retracted position. In FIG. 5, the moving body 18 in the retracted position is shown, and the retracted position becomes the standby position of the moving body 18.

  In the casing 10, a holding portion 28 is formed below the opening 15. The holding unit 28 is provided with the elevator mechanism 29 described above. The elevator mechanism 29 includes an elevator 16 for lifting the prize 2 reserved in the storage unit 28. The elevator 16 is supported by the casing 10 and is moved up and down by the elevator motor 303 in the casing 10. When the elevator 16 is in the standby position, the upper surface of the elevator 16 is at a position lower than the feeding roller 19 of the feeding mechanism 14.

  Next, the payout operation of the prize 2 by the prize dispenser 103 will be described focusing on one drawer unit 4.

  First, the door 5 of the cabinet 3 is opened, and the drawer unit 4 is exposed to the clerk side (front side) (see FIG. 2). Next, in the drawer unit 4, the drawer 20 is pulled out to the open position as shown in FIG. In this state, four cassettes 11 (see FIG. 4B) that fully store the same type of prize 2 are inserted into the carrier 12 from above and are held by the carrier 12. Then, the drawer | drawing-out part 20 is pushed into a closed position (refer Fig.3 (a)), and is accommodated in the casing 10 with the cassette 11 and the carrier 12. FIG. At this time, the carrier 12 is assumed to be in the rear position (see FIG. 5A). When the door 5 (see FIG. 2) is closed, the prize 2 can be paid out by the prize dispenser 103.

  Thus, when the drawer | drawing-out part 20 exists in a closed position and the carrier 12 exists in a rear position, as shown to Fig.5 (a), two lifts 13 mentioned above are in a standby position (in Fig.5 (a)) (See lift 13 indicated by dotted line). Specifically, among these lifts 13, the bottom surface of the first cassette 11 </ b> A from the front is positioned above the front lift 13, and the top of the third cassette 11 </ b> C from the front is above the rear lift 13. The bottom is located.

  When the carrier 12 moves from this state to the front position, the four cassettes 11 move relative to the front side relative to the lift 13 as shown in FIG. In this case, the bottom surface of the second cassette 11B from the front is located above the front lift 13, and the bottom surface of the fourth cassette 11D from the front is located above the rear lift 13. (Refer to the lift 13 indicated by a dotted line in FIG. 5B).

  When the carrier 12 is in the rear position, the prize 2 can be paid out from either or both of the cassette 11A and the cassette 11C (see FIG. 5A). When the carrier 12 is in the front position, the prize 2 can be paid out from either or both of the cassette 11B and the cassette 11D (see FIG. 5B). From which cassette 11 the prize 2 is paid out can be arbitrarily set.

  Next, taking the cassette 11A as an example, a procedure for paying out the prize 2 from the cassette 11 will be specifically described.

  First, as shown in FIG. 5A, the lift 13 located below the cassette 11A ascends through the inside of the cassette 11A from the opened bottom surface of the cassette 11A, as indicated by a solid line. As a result, the entire prize in the cassette 11 </ b> A is pushed up by the lift 13.

  When the highest prize 2 is pushed up to the feeding mechanism 14, the lift 13 stops rising, and the feeding mechanism 14 delivers the highest prize 2. Specifically, the moving body 18 at the retreat position moves to the advance position. In the case of the cassette 11A, the moving body 18 moves backward toward the advance position. At this time, the claw 18 </ b> A of the moving body 18 is caught by the highest prize 2, and the prize 2 is conveyed between the pair of feeding rollers 19. Thereafter, the moving body 18 immediately returns to the retracted position. Then, the prize 2 is discharged to the elevator 16 (holding portion 28) side at the standby position by a pair of rotating feed rollers 19 and is placed on the upper surface of the elevator 16.

  Then, the lifting of the lift 13 and the feeding of the prize 2 by the feeding mechanism 14 are repeated for each prize 2, and the prizes 2 in the cassette 11 </ b> A are stacked on the elevator 16 in order from the top and temporarily stored in the holding unit 28. Deferred. In addition, the elevator 16 is appropriately lowered from the standby position so that the prize 2 can be stacked on the elevator 16 satisfactorily. Specifically, every time one prize 2 is placed on the elevator 16, the elevator 16 may be lowered, or even if the elevator 16 is lowered after a predetermined number of prizes 2 are stacked on the elevator 16. Good.

  Further, not only the prize 2 of the cassette 11A but also the prize 2 of the cassette 11C may be stacked on the elevator 16 in the same procedure as in the case of the cassette 11A. When there is no prize 2 in the cassette 11A and the cassette 11C, the carrier 12 moves from the rear position to the front position (see FIG. 5B), and the prize 2 in the cassette 11B and the cassette 11D is the same as in the case of the cassette 11A. Are stacked on the elevator 16 by the following procedure.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, when the number of prizes 2 required for payout are stacked on the elevator 16, the corresponding shutter 8 moves to the front side above the elevator 16 on the upper surface of the cabinet 3. Open the outlet 7. Along with this, the elevator 16 rises to the payout opening 7 through the opening 15 of the drawer unit 4. When the elevator 16 is raised until the upper surface of the elevator 16 is flush with the upper surface of the cabinet 3, the shutter 8 moves rearward to close the payout opening 7, and at that time, the elevator 16 is stacked on the upper surface of the elevator 16. The given prize 2 is pushed out to the upper surface of the cabinet 3. Thereby, the prize 2 is paid out to the customer side (rear side).

[2-4] Counting Device FIG. 6 is a view in which the drawer unit 4 is partially cut away so that the inside is exposed in FIG. FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of the inside of the drawer unit 4.

  Each drawer unit 4 is provided with a counting device 30 for counting the number of prizes 2 stored in a stacked state in the cassette 11 for each cassette 11.

  As shown in FIG. 5, in each drawer unit 4, two counting devices 30 are provided at intervals in the front-rear direction. The front counting device 30 is disposed at a position that substantially matches the front lift 13 in the front-rear direction, and the rear counting device 30 is disposed at a position that substantially matches the rear lift 13 in the front-rear direction. Yes. In FIG. 6, only the rear counting device 30 is shown.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the counting device 30 is supported on the inner surface of the right side wall 10B of the casing 10 of the drawer unit 4 so as to be slidable in the vertical direction. The drawer unit 4 is provided with a counting device motor 306 in association with each counting device 30. The timing belt or the like is driven by driving the counting device motor 306, and thereby the corresponding counting device 30 slides in the vertical direction. That is, the counting device motor 306 is a mechanism that relatively displaces the counting device 30 in the vertical direction, and is a part of the counting device 30.

  Further, as described above, while the standby position of the lift 13 is near the bottom wall of the casing 10 (FIG. 7 shows the lift 13 in the standby position), the counting device 30 in the standby position is 7, near the upper wall of the casing 10 and above the lift 13. In addition, since the counting device 30 and the lift 13 are in positions shifted from each other in the left-right direction, the counting device 30 and the lift 13 do not interfere with each other during operation.

  The corresponding lift 13 is also supported on the inner surface of the right side wall 10B, like the counting device 30, and a lift motor 301 for raising and lowering the lift 13 is attached to the right side wall 10B. When the lift motor 301 is driven, a timing belt or the like is driven, whereby the lift 13 moves up and down.

  The counting device 30 is disposed on the right side of the cassette 11 accommodated in the casing 10. As shown in FIG. 6, the counting device 30 faces the open portion 25 (see FIG. 4) of the corresponding cassette 11.

  FIG. 5B shows a state in which the carrier 12 holding the cassette 11 is in the front position. In this state, the front-side counting device 30 coincides with the second cassette 11B from the front in the front-rear direction. The counter unit 30 can be opposed to the opening part 25 of the lever 11B, and the counter device 30 on the rear side can be opposed to the opening part 25 of the cassette 11D so as to coincide with the fourth cassette 11D from the front in the front-rear direction.

  When the carrier 12 moves from the front position to the rear position, as shown in FIG. 5A, the four cassettes 11 move relative to the counter device 30 to the rear side. Therefore, in this state, the front-side counting device 30 can coincide with the first cassette 11A from the front in the front-rear direction and can face the open portion 25 of the cassette 11A. The first cassette 11C can be opposed to the open portion 25 of the cassette 11C in the front-rear direction.

  Here, the front-rear direction position of the cassettes 11A to 11D when the carrier 12 is at the rear position is defined as the first position (see FIG. 5A), and the front-rear direction of the cassettes 11A to 11D when the carrier 12 is at the front position. The position is set as the second position (see FIG. 5B). As the carrier 12 slides in the front-rear direction between the rear position and the front position, the cassettes 11A to 11D are integrated with each other with respect to the counting device 30 between the first position and the second position. Move relative to the front and back.

  When the counting device motor 306 is driven, the counting device 30 slides up and down while facing the opening portion 25 of the corresponding cassette 11. At this time, the counting device 30 counts the number of prizes 2 (see FIG. 4B) exposed from the opening 25 in the cassette 11. Specifically, when the cassettes 11A to 11D are in the first position (see FIG. 5A), the counting device 30 counts the number of the prizes 2 stored in the cassettes 11A and 11C, and the cassettes 11A to 11D When it is in the second position (see FIG. 5B), the number of prizes 2 stored in the remaining cassettes 11 (that is, cassettes 11B and 11D) is counted. Therefore, the number of prizes 2 stored in all four cassettes 11 can be counted by the two counting devices 30 without increasing the number of counting devices 30 according to the number of cassettes 11. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced. Since each counting device 30 counts the number of prizes 2 for each cassette 11, it is possible to grasp how many prizes 2 are stored in which cassette 11.

An example of the counting device 30 will be described.
FIG. 8A is a perspective view of the counting device 30. FIG. 8B is a diagram for explaining how the counting device 30 counts the number of prizes 2.

  As shown in FIG. 8A, the counting device 30 includes a frame 35, a pair of front and rear alignment rollers 36 (alignment mechanism) rotatably supported by the frame 35, and a photoelectric detector attached to the frame 35. 307.

  The pair of front and rear alignment rollers 36 are disposed on the left side of the frame 35 (the side facing the opening 25 of the cassette 11), and are rotatably supported on the frame 35 via a shaft extending in the front-rear direction. Has been.

  The photoelectric detector 307 is attached to the left side surface of the frame 35 above the alignment roller 36. The photoelectric detector 307 is a so-called reflective sensor, and includes a light-emitting element (not shown) and a light-receiving element (not shown) that receives light reflected by a detected object out of light emitted from the light-emitting element.

  The counting operation by the counting device 30 will be described. Referring to FIG. 8B, first, the counting device 30 slides downward from the standby position. Here, the right side surface 2A of all the prizes 2 stored in the cassette 11 in a stacked state is collectively referred to as a stacked side surface 2B. When the counting device 30 slides downward, the aligning roller 36 contacts the prize 2 stacked on the cassette 11 in order from the upper prize 2 from the right side through the opening portion 25 of the cassette 11. Thereby, the prize 2 is pressed against the inner surface of the left wall of the cassette 11 in order from the prize 2 on the upper side. At this time, the photoelectric detector 307 is opposed to the stacked side surface 2B from the right side with a predetermined interval.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 8B, when the counting device 30 moves downward until the aligning roller 36 has contacted all the prizes 2, the right edge of the prize 2 adjacent to the upper and lower sides in the cassette 11 is aligned with the aligning roller. 36, they are aligned in a straight line along the vertical direction.

  Thereafter, the counting device 30 slides upward toward the standby position. As the counting device 30 slides upward, the photoelectric detector 307 rises in a state of facing the laminated side surface 2B of the prize 2 from the right side at a predetermined interval. In the process in which the photoelectric detector 307 is raised, the light emitting element of the photoelectric detector 307 projects in order from the lower prize 2 toward the right side 2A of the prize 2, and on the right side 2A of the prize 2 The reflected light that is reflected is received by the light receiving element of the photoelectric detector 307. When the light from the light emitting element is applied to the boundary X of the right side 2A of the prize 2 adjacent to the top and bottom, the amount of reflected light (received light) received by the light receiving element compared to the case where the light is applied to the right side 2A of the prize 2 Amount) changes. Therefore, in the photoelectric detector 307, every time the amount of light received by the light receiving element changes, the counting device 30 counts that there is one prize 2. In this manner, the counting device 30 counts the prizes 2 one by one in order from the lower prize 2, counts the number of prizes 2, and when returning to the standby position, counts all prizes 2 in the cassette 11. To complete.

[3] Electrical configuration of the prize dispenser 103 FIG. 9 shows an electrical configuration of the prize dispenser 103.

  The prize dispenser 103 includes a control unit 300 that performs management of prize stock quantity, prize dispense control, communication with the prize manager 102, and the like. The control unit 300 includes a lift motor 301 included in the lift mechanism 27, a supply motor 302 included in the supply mechanism 14, an elevator motor 303 included in the elevator mechanism 29, and the delivery mechanism 31. A feed motor 304, a slide motor 305 included in the slide mechanism 9, a counting device motor 306, a photoelectric detector 307, a door open / close detector 308, a communication unit 309, an operation unit 310, a customer display unit 311, An attendant display unit 312, a clock unit 313, a storage unit 314, and the like are connected. The control unit 300 includes a payout control unit 300a that executes a payout process for a prize and a count control unit 300b that executes a process for counting a prize when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

  The storage unit 314 stores a “type of prize type table for each lane (each drawer unit 4)” and a “cassette” that stores the number of prizes in each lane (each drawer unit 4). A separate inventory number table, a “lane inventory number table” that stores the number of premium inventory for each lane, and a “stock number table by premium type” that stores the number of premium inventory for each premium type are provided.

[4] Electrical Configuration of the Premium Manager 102 FIG. 10 shows an electrical configuration of the premium manager 102.

  The free gift management machine 102 manages the free gift inventory of the subordinate free gift dispenser 103, the free giveout control for the free giveaway machine 103, the free giveaway machine 103, the other free gift management machines 102, and the store management computer 101. A control unit 200 that performs communication and the like is provided. When the free gift management machine 102 is the parent machine, the control unit 200 communicates with the free gift management machine 102 of another child machine to acquire inventory management information, or is subordinate to the free gift management machine 102 of the other child machine. The premium inventory quantity of the premium dispenser 103 is also managed. Connected to the control unit 200 are a communication unit 201, a barcode reader 202, a printing unit 203, a storage unit 204, an operation unit 205, a customer display unit 206, a staff display unit 207, and the like. The control unit 200 includes a payout control unit 200a that causes the prize payer 103 to execute a prize payout process, or a count control part 200b that causes the prize payer 103 to execute a prize counting process when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Is included.

  The storage unit 204 stores, for each subordinate prize dispenser 103, an inventory quantity table of the same type as the inventory quantity table provided in the prize dispenser 103 ("stock quantity table by cassette", "stock quantity table by lane", “Inventory table by type of prize”) is provided. Further, the storage unit 204 is provided with an “integrated prize type inventory quantity table” that stores the inventory quantity for each prize type for the entire prize dispenser under the prize management machine 102. When the free gift management machine 102 is a parent machine, a similar stock quantity table is also provided for free gift dispensers managed by other child machines.

[5] Processing by the prize dispenser 103 and the prize management machine 102 The operation unit 310 of each prize dispenser 103 is provided with an inventory confirmation key. Similarly, an inventory confirmation key is provided on the operation unit 205 of each premium management machine 102.

  The prize dispenser 103 performs a process for paying out prizes (a prize payout process), a process for managing inventory (inventory management process), and the like.

  The free gift management machine 102 performs “free gift payout control processing”, “first stock management control processing”, “second stock management control processing”, and the like. “Premium payout control process” is a process executed when the number of game media recorded in the barcode on the receipt is read. The “first inventory management control process” is a process executed when an inventory confirmation key on the operation unit 205 of the prize management machine 102 is operated. The “second inventory management control process” has received the inventory management data from the prize dispenser 103 when the “premium dispensing control process” and the “first inventory management control process” are not executed. It is a process executed in this case.

  The prize management machine 102 has a function of printing the inventory management data of the subordinate prize dispenser 103 using the printing unit 203 based on the operation of the staff.

  Further, the premium management machine 102_M of the parent device has a function of communicating with the premium management machine 102_S of the other child devices and acquiring inventory management data of the gift dispenser 103 under the control of those child devices, In addition to inventory management of the prize dispenser 103 under its own control, it is also possible to perform inventory management of the prize dispenser 103 under the slave. Thereby, even in a gaming facility where a plurality of prize management machines 102 and prize dispensers 103 are installed, the stock status of prizes can be managed collectively.

[5-1] Processing by the prize dispenser 103 FIG. 11 shows a procedure of processing executed by the prize dispenser 103.

  When the power is turned on (step S1), an inventory confirmation process for inventory management is performed (step S2). The inventory confirmation process is a process involving an automatic counting process using the counting device 30. Details of the inventory confirmation process will be described later.

  When the stock confirmation processing in step S2 is completed, it is determined whether or not a prize dispensing command from the prize management machine 102 has been received (step S3), and whether or not the door 5 of the prize dispensing machine 103 has been closed from the open state is detected. (Step S4), whether the time set by the timer reservation setting (timer reservation time) has come (step S5), whether an inventory check command has been input (step S6), stock from the prize management machine 102 It is monitored whether or not a confirmation command has been received (step S7). Such monitoring is performed until the power is turned off. If the power is shut off (YES in step S10), the process ends.

  The prize payout command from the prize management machine 102 in step S3 is due to the fact that the number of game media recorded in the barcode on the receipt is read by the prize management machine 102 that manages the prize delivery machine 103. Sent from the prize manager 102. This prize payout command includes information regarding the type and number of prizes to be paid out. Whether or not it is detected that the door 5 has been closed from the open state in step S4 is determined based on the output of the door opening / closing detector 308. The timer reservation setting in step S5 is a function that allows reservation setting of the time for performing the inventory check process, and is performed by an operator operating the operation unit 310 of the gift dispenser 103.

  The stock confirmation command in step S6 is input by operating the stock confirmation key on the operation unit 310 of the gift dispenser 103. The stock confirmation command in step S <b> 7 is transmitted from the prize management machine 102 due to the operation of the stock confirmation key on the operation unit 205 of the prize management machine 102 that manages the prize dispenser 103.

  When a prize payout command is received from the prize management machine 102 (YES in step S3), a prize payout process is performed (step S8). This prize payout process is almost the same as in the prior art. Details of the premium payout process will be described later. When the premium payout process in step S8 ends, the process proceeds to step S4.

  When it is detected that the door 5 of the gift dispenser 103 is closed from the open state (YES in step S4), when the current time is the timer reservation time (YES in step S5), an inventory confirmation command is input. Time (YES in step S6), or when an inventory confirmation command is received from the prize management machine 102 (YES in step S7), inventory confirmation processing is performed (step S9). This inventory confirmation process is the same as the inventory confirmation process in step S2, and details thereof will be described later. When the inventory confirmation process in step S9 is completed, the process proceeds to step S10.

  By the way, at the time of preparation for opening a store, if the warehousing is performed with the power off, the inventory check process in step S2 is performed when the power is turned on. The number of goods received) is confirmed. At the time of preparation for opening a store, if the warehousing is performed with the power turned on, when the warehousing operation is completed and the door 5 is closed from the opened state, the inventory check process in step S9 is performed. The number of stocks (number of warehousing) is confirmed by the gift dispenser 103. That is, the number of prizes replenished to each cassette from the empty state at the time of opening preparation is automatically counted and acquired by the time of opening.

  When additional warehousing is performed during business hours, when the additional warehousing operation is completed and the door 5 is closed from the open state, the inventory confirmation process in step S9 is performed. Is completed, the number of stocks after additional warehousing is confirmed by the prize dispenser 103.

  Conventionally, in the tightening process that was performed after closing the store or the tightening process that was performed due to the change of the staff during business hours, the staff performed the counting work manually. Then, in order to reduce labor and time, the counting device 30 automatically performs counting. For this reason, in the present embodiment, at the timing when the conventional tightening process is to be performed, the clerk operates the inventory confirmation key provided on the operation units 310 and 205 of the prize dispenser 103 or the prize management machine 102. Then, input the inventory check command. As a result, at the timing at which the conventional tightening process is to be performed, the answer is YES in step S6 or step S7, and the inventory confirmation process in step S9 is performed.

  It should be noted that at any timing other than the timing at which the conventional tightening process is to be performed, when an attendant confirms a stock confirmation command by operating an inventory confirmation key provided on the prize dispenser 103 or the prize management machine 102, Even when the timer reservation time set in advance by the attendant is reached, the inventory check process in step S9 is performed, so that the giveaway machine 103 can check the inventory quantity at an arbitrary timing or at a preset reservation time. .

[5-1-1] Giveaway Disbursement Process FIG. 12 shows the procedure of the giveaway payout process executed in step S8 of FIG.

  In the prize payout process, first, based on the number of payouts for each type of prize sent from the prize management machine 102, one or a plurality of cassettes to which the prizes are to be paid out, and the number of payouts from each cassette are determined. The prize is paid out according to the determined content (step S21).

  Thereafter, the inventory management data is updated based on the number of payouts for each prize type sent from the prize management machine 102 and the number of payouts for each cassette from which the prize is paid out (step S22). Specifically, the contents of the “cassette stock quantity table”, “lane stock quantity table” and “gift type stock quantity table” are updated.

  Next, the updated inventory management data, that is, the updated data of the “cassette inventory table”, the “lane inventory table”, and the “product type inventory table” is transmitted to the prize manager 102. (Step S23). When the prize manager 102 receives these data, it updates the contents of the corresponding table. Furthermore, the prize management machine 102 also updates the contents of the “integrated prize type inventory quantity table” based on the received data. When the process of step S23 ends, the process returns to step S4 of FIG.

[5-1-2] Stock Check Process FIG. 13 shows the procedure of the stock check process executed in step S2 or step S11 of FIG.

  In the inventory confirmation process, first, a prize counting process is performed (step S31). In other words, using the counting device 30, the number of premium inventory for each lane cassette is counted. When the counting process is completed, the inventory management data is updated (step S32). In other words, based on the “quantity inventory quantity for each lane cassette” obtained by the counting process, “the prize inventory quantity for each lane” is calculated, and “the prize inventory quantity for each lane cassette” and “for each lane” Based on the contents of the “prize type table”, “the number of premium stocks by premium type” is calculated. Further, the contents of the “stock quantity table for each cassette” are updated based on the “stock quantity stock for each cassette in each lane”. Further, the content of the “lane stock quantity table” is updated based on the calculated “lane prize premium quantity”. Also, the contents of the “stock quantity table by prize type” are updated based on the calculated “stock quantity by prize type”.

  Next, the inventory management data display process (step S33) is performed. In this display process, the updated display section 312 displays the updated “Premium inventory quantity for each cassette in each lane”, “Premium inventory quantity by lane”, or “Premium inventory quantity by prize type”. Is possible. These three types of inventory management data may be displayed at the same time, or these three types of inventory management data may be switched and displayed based on the operation of the staff.

  Next, the updated inventory management data, that is, the updated data of the “cassette inventory table”, the “lane inventory table”, and the “product type inventory table” is transmitted to the prize manager 102. (Step S34). When the prize manager 102 receives these data, it updates the contents of the corresponding table. Furthermore, the prize manager 102 also updates the contents of the “integrated prize type inventory quantity table” based on the received data.

  If the current inventory confirmation process is the inventory confirmation process in step S2 in FIG. 11, the process returns to step S3 in FIG. 11 after the process in step S34. If the current inventory confirmation process is the inventory confirmation process in step S9 in FIG. 11, the process returns to step S10 in FIG. 11 after the process in step S34.

  It should be noted that, as a key for inputting an inventory confirmation command at a timing at which the conventional tightening process is to be performed, a dedicated key (hereinafter referred to as a tightening process timing key) is a prize dispenser 103 and a prize management machine 102. By operating the tightening process timing key, an inventory confirmation command for the tightening process is input to the prize dispenser 103, or an inventory confirmation command for the tightening process is issued by the prize management machine. In the case where it is sent from 102 to the gift dispenser 103, the prize dispenser 103 executes the inventory check process similar to the above step S2 or S9, but the inventory management data obtained by this inventory check process, If the previous inventory management data does not match, the previous inventory management data and the inventory management data after the current inventory check will be consistent with the warning display, warning sound, etc. It may be notified to the staff that you do not.

[5-2] Processing by the free gift management machine 102 As described above, the free gift management machine 102 performs the “free gift payout control process”, the “first stock management control process”, and the “second stock management control process”. ”Etc. Hereinafter, these processes will be described.

[5-2-1] Control process for giving out a prize FIG. 14 shows a procedure of control process for giving out a prize.

  The prize payout control process is executed when the number of game media recorded on the receipt is read. The number of game media is acquired by reading the barcode printed on the receipt (step S61). Next, the number of payouts for each prize type is determined based on the acquired number of game media (step S62). Then, a prize payout command including the determined contents is transmitted to the prize payer 103 for paying out the prize (step S63). The prize dispenser 103 that has received this prize dispensing command performs the prize dispensing process described with reference to FIG.

  When the processing in step S63 is completed, the process waits for inventory management data to be sent from the gift dispenser 103 that has transmitted the gift dispensing command (step S64). When the inventory management data from the prize dispenser 103 is received (YES in step S64), the inventory management data for the prize dispenser 103 is updated (step S65). That is, the contents of each table for the gift dispenser 103 are updated based on the received inventory management data. Specifically, based on the received inventory management data, the “stock quantity table by cassette”, “stock quantity table by lane” and “gift type” related to the corresponding gift dispenser 103 in the storage unit 204 of the prize management machine 102. The contents of the “stock number table by different prize type” are updated, and the contents of the “stock quantity table by integrated prize type” are updated based on the received prize management data. Then, the present prize payout control process ends.

[5-2-2] First Inventory Management Control Process FIG. 15 shows the procedure of the first inventory management control process.

  The first inventory management control process is executed when an inventory confirmation key on the operation unit 205 of the prize management machine 102 is operated. In this example, a case will be described in which when a stock confirmation key on the operation unit 205 of the prize management machine 102 is operated, an inventory confirmation command is sent to all the prize dispensers 103 under the prize management machine 102. Note that it is also possible to cause a staff member to select a specific gift dispenser 103 from among the gift dispensers 103 under its control, and to send an inventory confirmation command only to the prize dispenser 103 selected by the staff member.

  When the inventory confirmation key on the operation unit 205 is operated, an inventory confirmation command is transmitted to the subordinate prize dispenser 103 (step S71). The prize dispenser 103 that has received the inventory confirmation command performs the inventory confirmation process described with reference to FIG. When the process of step S71 is completed, the process waits for inventory management data to be sent from the gift dispenser 103 that has transmitted the inventory confirmation command (step S72).

  When the inventory management data from the prize dispenser 103 is received (YES in step S72), the inventory management data for the prize dispenser 103 is updated (step S73). That is, based on the received data, the contents of each table for the gift dispenser 103 are updated. Specifically, based on the received inventory management data, the “stock quantity table by cassette”, “stock quantity table by lane” and “gift type” related to the corresponding gift dispenser 103 in the storage unit 204 of the prize management machine 102. The contents of the “stock number table by different prize type” are updated, and the contents of the “stock quantity table by integrated prize type” are updated based on the received prize management data. The updated inventory management data may be displayed on the staff display unit 207.

  Then, in the current first inventory management control process, it is determined whether or not inventory management data has been acquired from all subordinate prize dispensers 103 (step S74). If inventory management data has not been acquired from all subordinate prize dispensers 103, the process returns to step S72. If inventory management data has been acquired from all the gift dispensers 103 under its control, the current inventory management control process is terminated.

[5-2-3] Second Inventory Management Control Process FIG. 16 shows the procedure of the second inventory management control process.
The second inventory management control process is executed when the inventory management data from the prize dispenser 103 is received when the premium dispensing control process and the first inventory management control process are not being executed. That is, when the stock confirmation process of step S2 in FIG. 11 is performed by the gift dispenser 103, or when YES in steps S4, S5, and S6 of FIG. 11 and the stock confirmation process of step S9 is performed, When the inventory management data sent from the prize dispenser 103 is received, the second inventory management control process is executed.

  When the stock management data from the free gift dispenser 103 is received when the free gift payout control process and the first stock management control process are not being executed (YES in step S75), the stock management data for the free gift dispenser 103 is obtained. Update (step S76). That is, based on the received data, the contents of each table for the gift dispenser 103 are updated. At this time, the updated inventory management data may be displayed on the clerk display unit 207.

[6] Modification The shape of the prize is not limited to a card shape. The counting mechanism and the counting method are not limited. A method of reading an IC incorporated in a prize may be used.

  When executing the inventory confirmation process, the inventory confirmation process (counting process) is performed for all the lanes, but it is recognized from which lane the prize has been paid out, and the drawer 20 of each lane. Since the withdrawal detection means (not shown) also detects whether or not the item has been withdrawn, the lanes for which there has been no prize payout process since the previous inventory check process and for which the drawer unit 20 has not been withdrawn are performed. The inventory confirmation process (counting process) may be omitted. That is, at the time of the inventory confirmation process, the counting process may be performed only for the lanes where the number of prizes may have changed.

  The counting process is executed based on the opening / closing detection of the door 5 of the prize dispenser 103, but not only the opening / closing detection of the door 5 but also that the drawer 20 is pulled out while the door is opened / closed. You may make it add. That is, the counting process is not executed simply by opening and closing the door 5, but the counting process is executed when it is detected that the door 5 is opened and closed and the drawer 20 is pulled out during that time. May be.

  The present invention can also be applied to a desktop type gift dispenser as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-73169.

It is a block diagram which shows the whole structure of the management system provided in the game facility. It is a perspective view which shows the giveaway machine 103. FIG. It is a perspective view which shows the drawer unit 4. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a cassette 11. FIG. It is a schematic diagram which shows typically the longitudinal cross-section of the prize dispenser 103. FIG. FIG. 4 is a partially cutaway view showing the drawer unit 4. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of the inside of the drawer unit 4. FIG. 8A is a perspective view of the counting device 30, and FIG. 8B is an explanatory diagram for explaining how the counting device 30 counts the number of prizes 2. It is a block diagram which shows the electrical structure of the prize dispenser 103. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of a free gift management machine 102. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process performed by the giveaway machine 103. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the prize payout process performed by FIG.11 S8. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the stock confirmation process performed by step S2 or step S9 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the control process for prize payout. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the control process for 1st inventory management. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the control process for 2nd inventory management.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 102 Prize management machine 103 Prize giver 30 Counting device 200 Control part 201 Communication part 203 Printing part 204 Storage part 205 Operation part 207 Staff display part 300 Control part 308 Door opening / closing detector 309 Communication part 310 Operation part 312 Staff display part 314 storage unit

Claims (6)

In prize dispensing system having a Kay article dispensing machine prize is housed and the prize dispensing machine and can communicate prize tiller,
The prize dispenser is
Cabinet with unit outlet,
A unit that is housed in the cabinet so as to be able to be pulled out, and includes a casing and a prize storage body having a drawer part that is provided in the casing so as to be able to be pulled out.
A drawer detecting means for detecting whether or not the drawer portion is pulled out;
A counting device for counting the number of prizes stored in the prize container;
When the first predetermined condition is satisfied, the count processing unit operable using a counting device for counting the prize number of the prize housing body, and
And an output means for outputting a counting result obtained by the counting processing unit,
When the first predetermined condition is satisfied, when the condition that the withdrawal unit is detected to be pulled out is satisfied, and when the counting process command is received from the prize management device Is included,
When the second predetermined condition is satisfied, the prize management device communicates with the prize dispenser to cause the prize dispenser to perform a counting process by the counting processing means. A prize dispensing system comprising: a counting processing instruction means for transmitting the information to the prize dispenser. The prize payout system according to claim 1, further comprising a time when the prize dispenser is turned on when the first predetermined condition is satisfied. The prize dispenser comprises a setting means for setting a timer reservation time to be counted,
3. The prize according to claim 1, wherein when the first predetermined condition is satisfied, a time when the current time is reached at the timer reserved time set by the setting means is further included. Dispensing system. The prize management device includes a counting process command input means for inputting a counting process command,
The time when a counting process command is input by the counting process command input unit is included when the second predetermined condition is satisfied, according to any one of claims 1 to 3. Free gift system. The prize dispenser comprises a prize information transmitting means for transmitting to the prize management machine premium information including the number of prizes in the prize container counted by the counting processing means;
The said prize management machine is provided with the means to receive the prize information transmitted from the said prize dispenser, and to output the obtained prize information. The free gift delivery system described. The prize payout machine, the prize information including the prize number of the prize housing body which is counted by the counting processing unit, provided with a premium information transmitting means for transmitting to said prize tiller,
The premium management machine
A storage device for storing inventory management data relating to a prize stored in a storage unit of the prize dispenser; and
An update means is provided for receiving premium information transmitted from the premium dispenser and updating inventory management data stored in the storage device based on the obtained premium information. Item 5. The premium dispensing system according to any one of Items 1 to 4 .

Images