JP7010515B2 - Platform machine - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a platform machine attached to a game machine in a game hall.

A plurality of gaming machines are arranged in the gaming hall, and a platform machine is provided at a side position of the gaming machine in a one-to-one correspondence with the gaming machine. When a player temporarily leaves the game table due to a restroom break, a smoking break, a meal break, etc., the recording medium inserted into the table machine can be used as a key to allow the player to leave the table for a predetermined period of time. There is known a technique for occupying a game machine in a game-prohibited state.

As an example of the technique related to this technique, the technique of the card unit disclosed in Patent Document 1 will be mentioned.
When the card is inserted while the occupancy information is not stored in the card unit, the identification information read from the card is stored in the card unit as occupancy information (S109 in FIG. 12 of Patent Document 1), and the use prohibition information is stored in the card. Is written (S111).
When a break instruction is input in that state (when a signal indicating that the break button is pressed is input from the pachinko machine), the card is ejected and playing on the pachinko machine is prohibited (Patent Document). 1 in FIG. 13 (S131).
After that, when the card is inserted with the occupancy information stored in the card unit, if the identification information read from the card matches the occupancy information stored in the card unit, the game on the pachinko machine is permitted. (S121 in FIG. 12 of Patent Document 1).
Further, when the card in which the use prohibition information is written is inserted into another pachinko machine, the card is ejected (S115 in FIG. 12 of Patent Document 1).

Further, as another technique, the technique disclosed in Patent Document 2 is mentioned.
When the player presses the "break button" on the touch panel of the CR unit (4741 of FIG. 27-2 of Patent Document 2), the breakable time is set (4905 of FIG. 28 of Patent Document 2), and "unique to the gaming machine". Discharge the absentee card recording "identification information", "prohibited information", etc. (4911 in FIG. 28 of Patent Document 2), and display the remaining break time on the own machine (FIG. 25-2 (e) in Patent Document 2). ), 4913 in FIG. 28).
The set absentee mode is automatically canceled when the absentee card is inserted (4709 of FIG. 27-1 of Patent Document 2) "before the lapse of restable time" (4710 of FIG. 27-1 of Patent Document 2). To.
Further, the leave mode is automatically canceled even when the "invalid time elapses" (5041 in FIG. 32 of Patent Document 2) after the "elapsed restable time" (5021 in FIG. 31 of Patent Document 2). However, it is not possible to continue playing with a break-away card.
In addition, the absentee card in which "prohibited information" is recorded cannot be used in other gaming machines (Patent Document 2, FIG. 27-1-4714).

Further, as another technique, the technique of the platform machine disclosed in Patent Document 3 is mentioned.
The clerk can set the vacant mode by operating the clerk to leave the table, and (1) the clerk can operate the remote control, or (3) accept the same card (card ID). Disclosed (FIG. 28 of Patent Document 3).
Further, a configuration for notifying the management computer of the state of leaving the table is shown in Example 4 of Patent Document 3 (FIG. 45 of Patent Document 3).

Japanese Patent No. 5998327 Japanese Patent No. 5809886 Japanese Patent No. 5719509

However, the ones described in Patent Documents 1 to 3 are other than the machine other than the machine other than the machine after the time when the machine is allowed to leave the seat has elapsed in the machine which has been changed to the seat leaving mode according to the instruction of the player. Even if the card was inserted into the machine, the game could not be played on the other game machine attached to the other machine. In order to play a game with the other gaming machine, it was necessary for the hall staff to operate the card information (such as erasing the use prohibition information from the card), which was troublesome. In addition, when the card is inserted into the other machine, the time until the end time of the leave mode is displayed, and the machine number of the gaming machine attached to the machine that has switched to the leave mode is displayed. There was a problem that the display and the set away mode could not be released remotely from other machines, resulting in a decrease in the operating rate of the gaming machine.

The present invention has been made under such circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a platform machine that simplifies the procedure related to the temporary leaving of a player and improves the convenience of the player. It is in. Another object of the present invention is to provide a pachinko machine that does not reduce the operating rate of the gaming machine after the end time of the pachinko machine has elapsed by automatically canceling or remotely canceling the seat leaving mode of the pachinko machine.

In order to solve the above problems, the platform machine (10, 10A, 10C) according to the present invention is installed in a game machine (pachislot machine 2A, medalless game machine 2B, pachinko machine 2C, enclosed pachinko machine 2D). A reader / writer (card reader / writer 40) that is a stand-up machine capable of managing a player's absence during a game and that reads and writes information recorded on a recording medium (card or the like). ), An instruction acquisition means (display unit 50, etc.) for acquiring instructions by the player, a leave mode management means (information processing unit 101) for managing the leave state of the player, and the leave state. It is provided with a storage means (RAM 103) for storing information and the end time of leaving the seat, a time measuring means (information processing unit 101) for measuring the elapsed time, and a current time acquisition means (RTC105, CPU102) for acquiring the current time. When the leave mode management means acquires the operation information of the leave button 52 from the instruction acquisition means, the own machine shifts to the leave mode, and the storage means indicates that the own machine has shifted to the leave mode. The information indicating the away mode is stored in association with the unit number of the gaming machine attached to the own machine, the time is started by the time measuring means, and the leader / writer is notified of the away mode information and the above. The departure mode end time obtained by adding the departure end time to the departure mode start time or the departure mode start time after shifting to the departure mode and the unit number are recorded on the recording medium and discharged. It is characterized by instructing.

As shown in the state flow chart of FIG. 4A, when the unit leaving mode management means of the inter-unit machine (own machine) acquires the operation information of the leaving button 52 (step S170), the leaving mode management means leaves the own machine. The mode is changed (step S172), and the storage means stores the information of the leaving mode indicating that the machine has changed to the leaving mode and the machine number of the gaming machine attached to the own machine in association with each other (step S172). Step S174), the time counting by the timekeeping means is started, and the leaving mode information, the leaving mode start time (leaving mode end time), and the unit number are recorded on the card for the reader / writer (step S180). ) Discharge (step S182).

With this configuration, when the leaving mode information, the leaving mode start time (leaving mode end time), and the machine number are recorded on the recording medium in the machine (own machine), the machine (others). When the machine) reads the recording medium, is it possible to use the recording medium only by processing the machine (other machine) without making an inquiry to the host management device (for example, even when offline)? It becomes possible to judge whether or not. Therefore, it is possible to omit the procedure such as erasing the information of the recording medium by the hall staff to play the game with the machine (other machine). In addition, it is possible to improve the operating rate of the gaming machines installed in the gaming hall.

Further, the platform machine (10, 10A, 10C) according to the present invention is attached to a game machine (pachislot machine 2A, medalless game machine 2B, pachinko machine 2C, enclosed pachinko machine 2D), and is used by the player during the game. A reader / writer (card reader / writer 40) that is a stand-up machine capable of managing the absence state and that reads and writes information recorded on a recording medium (card), and instructions by a player. The instruction acquisition means (display unit 50, etc.) for acquiring the information, the leave mode management means (information processing unit 101) for managing the player's absence state, and the information regarding the departure state and the departure end time. The storage means (RAM 103) for storing and the current time acquisition means (RTC105, CPU102) for acquiring the current time are provided, and the leave mode management means acquires the operation information of the leave button 52 from the instruction acquisition means. Then, the own machine is shifted to the leaving mode, and the storage means is provided with the leaving mode information indicating that the own machine has shifted to the leaving mode, the leaving mode start time of shifting to the leaving mode, or the leaving. The leaving mode end time, which is the sum of the seat mode start time and the leaving end time, is stored in association with the unit number of the gaming machine attached to the own machine, and the leader / writer is notified of the leaving mode information. It is characterized by instructing that the departure mode start time or the departure mode end time and the unit number are recorded on the recording medium and discharged.

As shown in the state flow chart of FIG. 4A, when the unit leaving mode management means of the platform machine (own machine) acquires the operation information of the leaving button 52 (step S170), the leaving mode management means leaves the own machine. After shifting to the mode (step S172), the storage means includes the leaving mode information indicating that the platform machine has shifted to the leaving mode, the leaving mode start time (leaving mode end time), and the attachment to the own machine. It is stored in association with the machine number of the game machine to be played (step S174), and the leaving mode information, the leaving mode start time (leaving mode end time), and the machine number are recorded on the card for the reader / writer. (Step S180) is instructed to discharge (step S182).

In this way, by recording the departure mode information, the departure mode start time (the departure mode end time), and the unit number on the recording medium in the platform unit (own aircraft), the platform unit (other aircraft) can perform. Whether or not the recording medium can be used only by processing the machine (other machine) when reading the recording medium, without making an inquiry to the host management device (for example, even when offline). It becomes possible to make a judgment. Therefore, it is possible to omit the procedure such as erasing the information of the recording medium by the hall staff to play the game with the machine (other machine). In addition, it is possible to improve the operating rate of the gaming machines installed in the gaming hall.

In this case, the leave mode management means means that the own machine has shifted to the leave mode and the timed elapsed time is after the leave end time, or the current time is the leave mode end time. After that, it is preferable to cancel the leaving mode.

As shown in the state flow diagram of FIG. 4 (c), as for the leaving mode management means of the inter-unit machine (own machine), the own machine has shifted to the leaving mode, and the time measured is the time when the leaving mode ends. When it is after (leaving time + excess time of leaving) (step S107), or when the current time is after the end time of leaving mode (starting time of leaving mode + leaving time + excess time of leaving). (Step S107) cancels the leave mode (step S110).

With this configuration, it is possible to automatically cancel the stand-up machine, which has been prohibited from being used after shifting to the leave mode, immediately after the end time (time) has passed, and open it to other players. .. Therefore, it is possible to prevent one player from securing a plurality of gaming machines, and it is possible to improve the operating rate of the gaming machines installed in the gaming hall.

In this case, in the leave mode management means, the recording medium (away card) in which the stand-off mode information is recorded is inserted into the reader / writer. If the current time is after the end time of the leave mode, the recording medium is accepted and can be used, and the current time is before the end time of the leave mode. In that case, it is preferable to prohibit the use of the recording medium and return it.

As shown in the state flow chart of FIG. 5 (e), the seat-leaving mode management means of the table-to-machine machine (other machine) is such that the table-to-machine machine (other machine) has not changed to the seat-leaving mode. When a card on which information is recorded (leaving card) is inserted into the reader / writer (step S204), and when the current time is after the end time of the leaving mode (step S210), the leaving card Is accepted and can be used (step S240).

With this configuration, the leave mode is automatically canceled when the end time of the leave mode has elapsed in the platform machine (own machine) that has been shifted to the leave mode, and the leave card is used. It is possible to play with other machines (other machines). Therefore, when the player plays a game using the machine (other machine), the procedure such as erasing the information on the recording medium by the hall staff can be omitted, and the convenience of the player can be improved. .. In addition, it is possible to prevent one player from securing a plurality of gaming machines, and it is possible to improve the operating rate of the gaming machines installed in the gaming hall.

Further, as shown in the state flow diagram of FIG. 5 (d), the stand-off mode management means of the stand-to-stand machine (other machine) is such that the stand-to-stand machine (other machine) has not changed to the leave mode and is released. When the seat card is inserted into the reader / writer (step S204) and the current time is before the end time of the leave mode (step S210), the use of the leave card is prohibited and returned (step S210). Step S216).

With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent one player from securing a plurality of units, and it is possible to improve the operating rate of the game hall.

In this case, the leaving mode management means stores the storage when the own machine has shifted to the leaving mode and the recording medium on which the leaving mode information is recorded is inserted into the reader / writer. The unit number recorded in the means is compared with the unit number recorded in the recording medium inserted in the reader / writer, and if the comparison results match, the absence mode is released. The reader / writer is instructed to delete the away mode information, and the recording medium can be accepted and used. If the comparison results do not match, the use of the recording medium is prohibited. When the recording medium in which the leaving mode information is not recorded is inserted into the reader / writer, the use of the recording medium is prohibited and the recording medium is returned. It is preferable to do so.

As shown in the state flow chart of FIG. 6 (g), when the inter-unit machine (own machine) has shifted to the leave mode and the leave card is inserted into the reader / writer (step S130), it is stored. The unit number stored in the means is compared with the unit number recorded on the card inserted in the reader / writer, and if the comparison results match (step S134), the leave mode is canceled (step S110). ), Instruct the reader / writer to delete the leave mode information (step S114), and accept the leave card so that it can be used.

Further, as shown in the state flow chart of FIG. 6 (f), a card (non-seat card) in which the inter-unit machine (own machine) has shifted to the away-seat mode and the away-seat mode information is not recorded is When it is inserted into the reader / writer (step S130), the use of the non-leaving card is prohibited and the non-leaving card is returned (step S138).

With this configuration, it is possible to prohibit the use of other cards by prohibiting the use of other cards in the away mode, except for the player who has set the leave mode. In addition, since the leaving mode of the platform machine (own machine) can be automatically canceled by inserting the leaving card, the hall staff does not need to check and cancel, improving the convenience of the player. Can be done.

In this case, the display means (display unit 50) for displaying information is provided, and the seat-leaving mode management means does not shift to the seat-leaving mode, and the seat-leaving mode information is recorded. When the recording medium is inserted into the reader / writer, if the current time is before the end time of the leave mode, the person who gives an instruction to display the remaining time of the leave mode on the display means. Is good.

As shown in the state flow chart of FIG. 5 (d), as for the leaving mode management means of the inter-unit machine (other machine), the inter-unit machine (other machine) has not changed to the leaving mode, and the leaving card Is inserted into the reader / writer (step S204), and if the current time is before the end time of the leave mode (step S210), the remaining time of the leave mode is displayed on the display unit (step S212). ).

With this configuration, the remaining time in the leave mode can be displayed on the machine (other machine), so the machine does not have to return to the machine (own machine) in which the leave mode is set. Since the remaining time to leave the seat can be confirmed on the inter-machine (other machine), the convenience of the player can be improved.

In this case, the leave mode management means does not shift to the leave mode, and the recording medium in which the leave mode information is recorded is inserted into the reader / writer. When the current time is before the end time of the absentee mode, it is better to acquire the unit number recorded on the recording medium and display the acquired unit number on the display means. ..

As shown in the state flow chart of FIG. 5 (d), as for the leaving mode management means of the inter-unit machine (other machine), the inter-unit machine (other machine) has not changed to the leaving mode, and the leaving card Is inserted into the reader / writer (step S204), and if the current time is before the end time of the leave mode, the machine number recorded on the leave card is acquired and displayed on the display means. The acquired unit number is displayed (step S212).

With this configuration, the machine number of the machine (own machine) can be displayed on the machine (other machine), so it is possible to return to the machine (own machine) for which the leave mode is set. Since the machine number of the machine (own machine) that was playing the game on the machine (other machine) can be confirmed without it, the convenience of the player can be improved.

In this case, a display means for displaying information and a communication means (communication I / F110) for communicating with a higher-level management device (mochitama / prepaid server 200) are provided, and the leave mode management means obtains the instruction. When the operation information of the leave button 52 is acquired from the means and the own machine is shifted to the leave mode, the communication means is associated with the leave mode information and the unit number to be the higher management device. It is an instruction to transmit, and when the own machine has shifted to the absentee mode and has obtained an instruction to remotely release the absentee mode from the higher management device, the absentee mode is set. It is better to release it.

As shown in the state flow chart of FIG. 4A, when the seat-leaving mode management means of the inter-unit machine (own machine) is shifted to the seat-leaving mode (step S172), the seat-leaving mode information and the unit number are used. Is associated and transmitted to the host management device (step S178). Further, as shown in the state flow diagram of FIG. 7 (h), when the instruction to remotely cancel the leave mode is obtained from the host management device (step S142), the leave mode is canceled (step S110). ..

With this configuration, the host management device can manage the leave mode information, etc., so the history of the leave mode can be confirmed in the host management device, and the operation status of the leave mode can be grasped and automatically canceled. It is possible to suppress troubles at the time. In addition, since the away mode of the pachinko machine can be remotely released by an instruction from the host management device, the convenience of the player can be improved and the operating rate of the game machine installed in the game hall can be improved. Can be improved.

In this case, the leave mode management means does not shift to the leave mode, and the recording medium in which the leave mode information is recorded is inserted into the reader / writer. If the current time is after the end time of the absentee mode, the recording medium is accepted and can be used, and if the current time is before the end time of the absentee mode, the above-mentioned Information for asking the player to determine whether or not to remotely cancel the seating mode of the other machine is displayed on the display means, and the instruction acquisition means displays the seating mode of the other machine. When the remote release instruction is acquired, the instruction to remotely release the leave mode of the other inter-unit machine and the unit number recorded on the recording medium inserted in the reader / writer are transmitted via the communication means. When a recording medium inserted in the reader / writer is received and made usable by being transmitted to a higher-level management device, and an instruction not to remotely release the leave mode of another machine is acquired from the instruction acquisition means, the instruction is obtained. It is better to prohibit the use of the recording medium and return it.

As shown in the state flow chart of FIG. 7 (h), when the inter-vehicle machine (other machine) has not changed to the leave mode and the leave card is inserted into the reader / writer (step S204), the present If the time is before the end time of the leave mode, the display means displays information asking the player to determine whether to remotely cancel the leave mode of the machine (own machine) (own machine). In step S222), when an instruction to remotely cancel the leave mode of the machine (own machine) is acquired from the operation button (step S224), the remote release instruction and the machine number recorded on the card are transmitted via communication means. (Step S228), accept the leave card and enable it (step S240), and obtain an instruction from the operation button not to remotely release the leave mode of the machine (own machine). Then, the use of the leaving card is prohibited and the card is returned.

With this configuration, when the seating card is used on the pachinko machine (other machine), the seating mode of the pachinko machine (own machine) that was in the seating mode can be remotely controlled at the player's discretion. Since it can be released, the operating rate of the gaming machine installed in the gaming hall can be improved. Further, since the procedure such as erasing the information of the leaving card by the hall staff can be omitted when using the inter-unit machine (other machine), the convenience of the player can be improved.

In this case, it is a higher-level management device that manages the history of the unattended state of the inter-unit machine installed in the game machine, and the inter-unit machine has shifted to the identification information unique to the inter-unit machine and the unattended mode. When the identification information peculiar to the recording medium for recording the absentee mode information or the unit number of the gaming machine attached to the inter-unit machine is acquired in association with the disengagement mode information indicating In association with the identification information and the absentee mode information, the identification information peculiar to the recording medium or the unit number is stored in the absentee information, and is associated with an instruction to remotely release the absentee mode from another inter-unit unit. , The identification information peculiar to the recording medium inserted in the other inter-unit machine, the unit number recorded in the recording medium inserted in the other inter-unit machine, or the identification information peculiar to the inter-unit machine is acquired. With reference to the information about leaving the seat, the machine having the identification information peculiar to the recording medium, the number of the machine, or the identification information peculiar to the machine, which is stored in the information about leaving the seat. It is better to send an instruction to remotely release the leave mode.

With this configuration, when the seating card is used on the pachinko machine (other machine), the seating mode of the pachinko machine (own machine), which was in the seating mode at the player's discretion, is remoted. Since it can be released, the operating rate of the gaming machine installed in the gaming hall can be improved. Further, since the procedure such as erasing the information of the leaving card by the hall staff can be omitted when using the inter-unit machine (other machine), the convenience of the player can be improved.

According to the platform machine of the present invention, it is possible to simplify the procedure related to the temporary leaving of the player and improve the convenience of the player. In addition, it is possible to provide a pachinko machine that does not reduce the operating rate of the gaming machine after the end time of leaving the seat has elapsed.

It is a schematic perspective view of the platform machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the hardware in the platform machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a front view of the gaming machine and the platform machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a state flow diagram which shows the process which concerns on the platform machine of this invention. It is a state flow diagram which shows the process which concerns on the platform machine of this invention. It is a state flow diagram which shows the process which concerns on the platform machine of this invention. It is a state flow diagram which shows the process which concerns on the platform machine of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the main processing of the stand-in machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the own machine leaving process of the stand-in machine which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the card acceptance process of the machine. It is a figure which illustrates the screen which is displayed on the display part of the machine. It is a figure which shows an example of the leaving information stored in the possession ball / prepaid server. It is a schematic perspective view of the platform machine which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the hardware in the platform machine which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a front view of the gaming machine and the platform machine which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main processing of the stand-in machine which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the own machine leaving process of the stand-in machine which concerns on 2nd Embodiment.

<First Embodiment>
In the description of the first embodiment, the platform machine 10 that handles the medals of the game medium and the platform machine 10C that handles the balls will be described. Regarding the medalless gaming machine 2B that does not handle these gaming media and the platform machine 10A attached to the enclosed pachinko machine 2D, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described in the second embodiment of the subsequent stage. ..

Further, in the description of the first embodiment, the embodiment in which the "elapsed time" is timed by the time measuring means, and the "elapsed time" is the current time (processing time acquired from the RTC 105 or acquired by the CPU 102 from the host management device). An embodiment for calculating, an embodiment for recording the "leaving mode start time" on the card, and an embodiment for recording the "leaving mode end time" on the card will be described, and the processing differs in each embodiment. Will be described separately for each case.

Hereinafter, the platform machine 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 3A shows a front view of the pachi-slot machine 2A, which is a form of the gaming machine 2, and the platform machine 10. FIG. 3B shows a front view of the pachinko machine 2C and the platform machine 10C, which are one form of the game machine 2. In the gaming hall, a plurality of gaming machines 2 are arranged, and platform machines 10 and 10C are provided side by side of the gaming machine 2 in a one-to-one correspondence with the gaming machine 2. The platform machines 10 and 10C according to the first embodiment supply game media used for the pachi-slot machine 2A and the pachinko machine 2C.

[Explanation of machines 10 and 10C]
The platform machines 10 and 10C will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. FIG. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a platform machine 10 for a pachi-slot machine 2A. FIG. 2 shows a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of hardware in the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C. FIG. 3A shows a front view of the pachi-slot machine 2A and the platform machine 10. FIG. 3B shows a front view of the pachinko machine 2C and the platform machine 10C. The pachi-slot machine 2A and the pachinko machine 2C are a form of the gaming machine 2.

The platform machines 10 and 10C are devices that supply a game medium by inserting coins or inserting a card and enable games on the pachi-slot machine 2A and the pachinko machine 2C. Banknote coin processing device 30, card reader / writer 40, display unit 50, display lamp 60, operation button 51, remote control transmission / reception unit 80, camera 70, payout device 90, counting device 95, and EEPROM. (Not shown).

The control unit 100 is composed of an information processing unit 101, a communication I / F 110, and the like, and controls peripheral devices mounted on the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C, and communicates with an external device.

The information processing unit 101 is composed of a CPU (central processing unit) 102, a RAM 103, a ROM 104, an RTC (real-time clock) 105, and the like. The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102 performs various controls and processes on peripheral devices mounted on the machines 10 and 10C based on a program. Further, the CPU (central processing unit) 102 can transmit information to and from the gaming machine 2, and can acquire the current time (processing time) from a higher-level management device such as a ball / prepaid server 200. can. From the game machine 2, in addition to the operation information of the lending button, the operation information of the card return button, and the IN / OUT information of the game value, the game status information (bonus information, assist time information, probability change information, time saving information, etc.) is acquired. You can also do it. Information on the lighting of the lending button lamp, information on the number of lending balls, and the like can be output to the gaming machine 2. The RAM 103 serves as an operating area for the control program and a temporary data storage area for the program executed by the CPU 102. A control program or the like is stored / stored in the ROM 104. The RTC 105 is a dedicated element capable of continuing to keep track of the current time even when the power of the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C is turned off. The EEPROM contains settings such as leaving time (example: 10 minutes), leaving time (example: 15 minutes), leaving time (example: 25 minutes), automatic cancellation of leaving mode, offline information, etc. Backup storage can be continued even after the power is cut off.

The communication I / F 110 is a port for transmitting and receiving various information to and from a higher-level device (relay board (not shown), ball / prepaid server 200, ball storage server 115, etc.). The information transmitted / received by the communication I / F 110 is, for example, the currency value information of the currency inserted or inserted into the bill coin processing device 30, the card information read by the card reader / writer 40, the writing information written on the card, and the game machine 2. Various output information, various information acquired from the game machine 2, game status information, member information, coin information, lending information, counting information, image information taken by the camera 70, used for the inter-machine machines 10 and 10C. The operation information performed by the person, the status information in the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C, the leaving mode information, the current time (processing time), and other information are included.

The banknote coin processing device 30 identifies the currency such as banknotes and coins inserted by the user, and outputs the currency value and the status information in the banknote coin processing device 30.

The card reader / writer 40 reads information such as identification information, game value, currency value, etc. of the card inserted by the user (or a card held by the user, a recording medium such as a mobile phone), and causes the information processing unit 101 to read the information. Output. Further, the card reader / writer 40 outputs the status information of the card reader / writer 40 to the information processing unit 101. Further, the card reader / writer 40 performs a process of writing various information to the card based on the command of the information processing unit 101. By providing a stock unit for general cards (details will be described later) in the card reader / writer 40, general cards can be issued and collected.

The display unit 50 shows a situation in which bills are inserted, a situation in which coins are inserted, a currency value inserted or inserted, a card reading status, a card type, information recorded on the card, member information, and possession. Information on ball information, information on sharing coins, information on coin storage, information on coin insertion, information on game value that can be used in game machine 2, information on game value acquired from game machine 2, and information on operations performed by the user next. Display, the status of the pachinko machine 10, 10C, communication status, error information, maintenance information, advertisement, guidance, information on leaving the seat, etc. are displayed.

Further, the display unit 50 has a touch panel function, and the user can operate the soft keys by pressing the range of the buttons displayed on the display unit 50. The buttons displayed on the display unit 50 are, for example, a game value lending button, a card return button, a password input button for a membership card, a cancel button, an enter button, a cursor key, a display switching button, a ball sharing button, and a ball storage button. These include an operation button for boarding, a card collection button for maintenance, an information display button, a button for leaving the seat, a reset button, and a button for using / not using the leaving card inserted in the inter-machine machines 10 and 10C.

The payout device 90 discharges a predetermined amount of the game medium from the payout passage 91 toward the game machine 2 based on the operation information of the operation buttons 51 (rental button, payout button).

The counting device 95 counts the number of medals inserted in the insertion passage 96.

The camera 70 is arranged on the display surface side of the display unit 50. By arranging the camera 70 on the display surface side, the display direction and the shooting direction can be matched, so that it becomes easy to acquire an image of the user's face.
Further, by taking a picture while operating the touch panel of the display unit 50, it is possible to take a picture in a state where the user is close to the camera 70, so that the user who has taken a picture can be easily identified.
Shooting with the camera 70 can be performed regularly, and events such as cash insertion, card insertion, card return, error detection, fraud detection, lending button operation, and leaving button 52 operation occur. It is also possible to determine the authentication of the user and the change of the user by using the captured image of the time.
It is also possible to use a configuration in which the captured image is periodically saved and the captured image temporarily saved immediately before the event occurs (such as 2 seconds before) is saved in association with the event.
The image captured by the camera 70 may be read by the information processing unit 101 of the machines 10 and 10C for subsequent processing, or a configuration in which the higher-level camera server 122 manages the captured image may be used.

Further, the information processing unit 101 can read the pressing status of the operation button 51 operated by the user and the contact status of the switch or the like. Further, the information processing unit 101 controls the lighting of the display lamp 60 and the like and the generation of sound. Further, the information processing unit 101 outputs display information to the call button / hall computer 117 and the external display 119, and inputs / outputs information regarding the transportation of banknotes and coins to and from the external banknote / coin transfer device 30. be able to.

The remote controller transmission / reception unit 80 receives a signal transmitted from the remote controller 121 possessed by the hall staff and outputs the signal to the information processing unit 101.

[A brief explanation of the operation of the platform machines 10 and 10C]
When the user plays a game using the gaming machine 2, for example, a bill is inserted into the bill coin processing device 30. The information processing unit 101 of the machines 10 and 10C transfers the currency value and the balance information to the card, and stores the currency value and the balance information in the RAM 103 of the machines 10 and 10C and uses them for display and the like. When the card in which the balance information is recorded is inserted into the machines 10 and 10C by the user, the balance information associated with the card is stored and displayed in the RAM 103 of the machines 10 and 10C. Used for.
In the case of the platform machine 10 for the pachi-slot machine 2A, when the operation button 51 (rental button) is operated by the user, the game medium can be discharged from the payout passage 91 toward the game machine 2.
In the case of the pachinko machine 2C for the pachinko machine 10C, when the user operates the lending button 21 provided on the pachinko machine 2C, the pachinko machine 10C converts the currency value into the game value. Can be generated and output to the pachinko machine 2C. The pachinko machine 2C can rent out a game medium based on the game value information acquired from the pachinko machine 10C. Fractional balls that are less than the predetermined number of rented balls are discharged from the payout passage 91 of the machine-to-machine machine 10C toward the pachinko machine 2C.

Further, when the user inserts a card associated with the ball holding information or the ball storage information into the machines 10 and 10C, or when the user counts the balls using the counting device 95. , You can play the game again by paying out the balls and stored balls.
In the case of the platform machine 10 for the pachi-slot machine 2A, when the operation button 51 (payout button) is operated by the user, a predetermined number of balls or stored balls are directed from the payout passage 91 of the game medium to the game machine 2. Can be discharged.
In the case of the pachinko machine 10C for the pachinko machine 2C, when the user operates the operation button 51 (payout button) of the pachinko machine 10C, the machine 10C converts the balls and stored balls into game value. Game value information can be generated and output to the pachinko machine 2C. In the pachinko machine 2C, the game medium can be paid out based on the game value information acquired from the pachinko machine 10C. Fractional balls that are less than the predetermined number of payout balls are discharged from the payout passage 91 of the machine-to-machine machine 10C toward the pachinko machine 2C.

When the game is over, the user instructs to eject the card.
For example, when the user is playing a game using the pachi-slot machine 2A, the user presses the operation button 51 (card return button) provided on the platform machine 10. Then, the membership card in which the balance information is recorded or the general card in which the balance information and the ball possession information are recorded is ejected from the machine 10.
When the user is playing a game using the pachinko machine 2C, the user presses the card return button 22 provided on the pachinko machine 2C. Then, the membership card in which the balance information is recorded or the general card in which the balance information and the ball possession information are recorded is ejected from the machine 10C.

In the platform machines 10 and 10C according to the present invention, in addition to the above functions, the player or the like operates the leave button 52 displayed on the display unit 50 to leave the platform machines 10 and 10C. It is possible to shift to the mode and eject the leave card (membership card or general card in which the leave mode information is recorded). The leave mode is a type of mode set in the pachinko machine 10, 10C, and shifts to a state in which deposit operation, withdrawal operation, and lending operation are prohibited, and the use of the pachinko machine 10, 10C by another person is performed. By limiting, the use of the gaming machine 2 attached to the inter-machine machines 10 and 10C is restricted. This break-away mode is automatically canceled when the break-away card ejected from the stand-up machines 10 and 10C is reinserted into the card reader / writer 40 of the stand-up machines 10 and 10C, so that a simple operation by the player can be performed. You can leave your seat or take a break with peace of mind. Further, even when the predetermined leaving end time has elapsed, the leaving mode is automatically canceled, so that the operating rate of the gaming machine 2 can be prevented from decreasing and the player can easily move the table. Will be able to do.

[Explanation of leaving time]
The leave-away end time (example: 25 minutes) is the time during which the player is allowed to leave the seat, and is the time during which the platform machines 10 and 10C are shifted to the above-mentioned leave-away mode. When the leaving time has elapsed, the leaving mode can be automatically canceled under predetermined conditions. In the first and second embodiments, the leaving time (eg, 25 minutes) is the sum of the leaving time (eg, 10 minutes) and the over-leaving time (eg, 15 minutes).
The leaving time (eg, 10 minutes) is a time given for a predetermined period from the transition to the leaving mode to the lapse of the leaving time, and for example, a time of 1 minute to 15 minutes is given depending on the setting. As shown in FIG. 11 (4), the remaining time of leaving the seat (petit break) is displayed on the leaving screen.
The excess time for leaving the seat (example: 15 minutes) is the excess time added during a predetermined period from the lapse of the excess time for leaving the seat to the lapse of the excess time for leaving the seat. Will be done. As shown in FIG. 11 (5), the time exceeded from the time of leaving the seat is displayed on the leaving screen.
The hall staff sets an arbitrary time for the leaving time and the over-leaving time, and the set time is stored in the EEPROM and the RAM 103. In the first and second embodiments, the leaving time (example: 25 minutes) is obtained by adding the leaving time (example: 15 minutes) to the leaving time (example: 10 minutes), but the leaving time is exceeded. It may be configured without adding time (example: 15 minutes).

[Explanation of leaving mode end time]
The leave mode end time is the leave mode start time acquired from the RTC 105 when shifting to the leave mode (the processing time acquired from the upper management device such as the possession ball / prepaid server 200 is used as the leave mode start time. It is also possible.) Is the time obtained by adding the above-mentioned leaving time (eg, 25 minutes). In the first and second embodiments, the leaving mode end time is a time calculated by adding the leaving end time (leaving time + excess leaving time) to the leaving mode start time.

[Card description]
The card is a recording medium in which data is read / written by the card reader / writer 40, and there are two types, a membership card and a general card. A membership card is a recording medium such as a magnetic card or IC card that identifies a member, and a general card is a recording of a magnetic card or IC card for the day that identifies a player who has played a game without using the membership card. Refers to the medium. Information such as the balance of currency (currency value) is readable and writable in the membership card and general card (referred to as a card unless otherwise specified), and in an area that cannot be written by the machines 10 and 10C. , The card ID, which is unique identification information, is recorded. The ball holding information is stored in the holding ball / prepaid server 200, and the ball storage information is stored in the ball storage server 115 in association with the card ID. The details will be described later, but the leave card is a card in which the leave mode information is recorded.

[Explanation of possession ball / prepaid server 200]
The block diagram of FIG. 2 shows a ball holding / prepaid server 200 connected to the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C. The possession / prepaid server 200 is a computer that manages the player's card and the number of possessed balls in association with each other based on the information transmitted by the machines 10 and 10C, and is a CPU (central processing unit). ) (Not shown), ROM (not shown), RAM (not shown), communication I / F (not shown), and the like. In addition to the above processing, the possession / prepaid server 200 receives and manages information on leaving the seat, such as information on the leaving mode, card ID, and the number of the machine, transmitted by the machines 10 and 10C.

[Explanation of processing executed by the machines 10 and 10C]
8 to 10 are flowcharts showing the processes executed by the machines 10 and 10C. FIG. 8 shows the main process (step S10) executed by the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C, and FIGS. 9 and 10 show the own machine leaving process (step S100) and card acceptance constituting the main process (step S10) of FIG. The details of the process (step S200) are shown. The processing executed by the machines 10 and 10C is executed by the information processing unit 101 based on the control program stored in the ROM 104.

[Explanation of main process (step S10)]
The flow of the main process (step S10) shown in FIG. 8 will be described.

When the power is turned on, the initialization process (step S20) is executed. In the initialization process (step S20), the information processing unit 101 is connected to the CPU 102, and each peripheral device (banknote coin processing device 30, card reader / writer 40, display unit 50, payout device) in the inter-level machines 10 and 10C is connected. 90, counting device 95, remote control light receiving / receiving unit 80, camera 70, etc.) are initialized. Next, external devices (possessed ball / prepaid server 200, ball storage server 115, call button / hall computer 117, gaming machine 2, external display 119, bill transfer device 120, camera server) connected to the platform machines 10 and 10C. 122 etc.) and information is transmitted. At this time, the possession / prepaid server 200 can transmit the unit number of the gaming machine 2 attached to the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C to the information processing unit 101 (the unit by the possession / prepaid server 200). The transmission of the number may be executed in S800 in the subsequent stage.) The machine number is a unique number assigned to each gaming machine 2 and is information for specifying a place where the gaming machine 2 is installed. The information processing unit 101 stores the transmitted unit number in the RAM 103 and EEPROM.

Then, the process proceeds to the input / output process (step S30). The input / output process (step S30) is performed on each peripheral device (display unit 50, payout device 90, counting device 95, remote controller transmission / reception unit 80, camera 70) in the platform machines 10 and 10C connected to the information processing unit 101. , Display lamp 60, etc.) and input information from each peripheral device. In addition, information is transmitted to external devices (call button / hall computer 117, gaming machine 2, external display 119, bill transfer device 120, camera server 122, etc.) connected to the platform machines 10 and 10C. Information output processing and information input processing are performed. In addition, the input processing of the information transmitted from the remote controller 121 is performed.

Then, the process proceeds to the self-machine leaving process (step S100). In the own machine leaving process (step S100), the player operates to shift to the leaving mode of the platform machines 10 and 10C, and the leaving card is inserted into the platform machines 10 and 10C in the leaving mode. Performs processing such as canceling the leave mode at the time. The details of the own machine leaving process (step S100) will be described later.

Then, the process proceeds to the card acceptance process (step S200). The card acceptance process (step S200) mainly performs a process when a card is inserted into the inter-machine machines 10 and 10C that are not in the away mode. Details of the card acceptance process (step S200) will be described later.

Then, the process proceeds to the lending process (step S300). In the lending process (step S300), the game medium is lent out and paid out based on the pressing of the player's operation button 51 (rental button, payout button).

Then, the process proceeds to the counting process (step S400). In the counting process (step S400), the game medium is counted based on the pressing of the operation button 51 (counting button) or the loading operation of the game medium, and the counted value is added to the number of balls already stored. It is a process to memorize.

Then, the process proceeds to the display process (step S500). The display process (step S500) is a process in which the information processing unit 101 causes the display unit 50 to display information. Display contents include, for example, opening / closing display, maintenance mode display, abnormal reset button display, general card collection button display, offline display, loan unit price display, deposit availability information, member / general card insertion availability information, and leaving the seat. Remaining time display, leaving time exceeded display, other units reserved display, leaving seat button 52 display, counting button display, clerk call button display, balance display, holding ball / number of balls display, ball storage / number of balls stored, Possession / ball sharing card issuance button display, balance return button display, card return condition setting button display, lending unit price change button display, minimum lending button display, specified amount payout button display, coffee service function setting button using mochi balls It is a display, a member authentication condition selection button display, a card information disclosure button display, a ball donation button display, and the like.

Then, the process proceeds to the cash input process (step S600). The cash input process (step S600) is a process executed by the information processing unit 101, which is a process of shifting to a currency value based on the acquisition of deposit information, an error process, and a signal output process to the bill transfer device 120 based on the deposit information. be.

Then, the process proceeds to the card R / W process (step S700). In the card R / W processing (step S700), game value transfer processing, currency value transfer processing, error processing, information writing processing to the card, card issuance, and return processing are performed based on the acquisition of card insertion information. ..

Then, the process proceeds to higher-level communication processing (step S800). In the higher-level communication processing (step S800), the currency value information of the currency inserted or inserted into the bill coin processing device 30, the card information read by the card reader / writer 40, the writing information to be written on the card, the member information, the ball possession information, Lending information, counting information, image information taken by the camera 70, operation information performed by the user for the machine 10C, status information in the machine 10, 10C, machine number, current time (processing). Time) and other information are sent and received between the coin and the prepaid server 200.

After that, the information processing unit 101 repeats the processes of steps S30 to S800 until the power is turned off.

[Explanation of own machine leaving process (step S100)]
With reference to FIG. 9, the details of the own machine leaving process (step S100) shown in FIG. 8 will be described. In the own machine leaving process (step S100), the player operates to shift to the leaving mode of the platform machines 10 and 10C, and the leaving card is inserted into the platform machines 10 and 10C in the leaving mode. Performs processing such as canceling the leave mode at the time.

In step S102 "Are you in the away mode?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the seat is in the away mode. The leave mode is a type of mode set in the pachinko machine 10, 10C, and shifts to a state in which deposit operation, withdrawal operation, and lending operation are prohibited, and the use of the pachinko machine 10, 10C by another person is performed. By limiting, the use of the gaming machine 2 attached to the inter-machine machines 10 and 10C is restricted. The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the user is in the away-seat mode depending on whether or not the leave-of-seat mode information is stored in the RAM 103 of the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C. When in the absentee mode (YES in step S102), the step is performed in a state where either the absentee screen of FIG. 11 (4) or the absentee excess screen of (5) is displayed on the display unit 50. Proceed to S104, otherwise (NO in step S102), either the standby screen of FIG. 11 (1), the standby screen of (2), or the menu screen of (3) is displayed on the display unit 50. The process proceeds to step S152 in the state of being present.

In step S152 "Cash or possession ball or no membership card?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not any of the balance, possession ball, and membership card exists. The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not any of the balance, the ball, and the membership card exists based on the data of the balance, the ball, and the presence / absence of the membership card stored in the RAM 103, and thereby the balance and the ball. , If neither of the membership cards exists, it is possible not to allow the transition to the away mode, so it is prohibited for the same person to secure multiple machines, and the operating rate of the gaming machine 2 in the gaming hall decreases. Can be prevented. If none of the balance, the ball, or the membership card exists (YES in step S152), the process proceeds to step S154, and if not (NO in step S152), the process proceeds to step S156.

When the process passes through step S154 “stand-by screen display”, the stand-by screen shown in FIG. 11 (1) is displayed on the display unit 50. Then, the process returns to the main process.

In step S156 "Is there only a ball and a minimum number of unattended balls?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the minimum number of unattended balls is set when there is only a ball. By providing this treatment, the following acts can be prevented. For example, if it is possible to shift the platform machines 10 and 10C to the leave mode by ejecting the leave card even if the player has only one ball, the plurality of gaming machines 2 are occupied by one person. It's easy to do. Therefore, if it is permitted to shift the platform machines 10 and 10C to the leaving mode only when there are more balls than the minimum number of leaving balls, it is possible to prevent the operating rate of the gaming machine 2 from decreasing in the gaming hall. Can be done. If there is a minimum leaving ball setting (YES in step S156), the process proceeds to step S158, otherwise (NO in step S156), the process proceeds to step S170.

In step S158 "is it less than or equal to the minimum number of unattended balls?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the number of balls held is less than or equal to the minimum number of unattended balls. If the number of balls held is less than or equal to the minimum number of unattended balls (YES in step S158), the process proceeds to step S186, and if not (NO in step S158), the process proceeds to step S170.

In step S170 "operation of the leave button?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the player has operated the leave button 52. When the player presses the "petit break" button 52 (see FIG. 11 (3)) displayed on the display unit 50, the display unit 50 informs the information processing unit 101 that the "petit break" button has been pressed. To send. The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the player has operated the leave button 52 based on the presence or absence of the information. If the player operates the leave button 52 (YES in step S170), the process proceeds to step S172, otherwise (NO in step S170), the process proceeds to step S186.

In step S172 "shifting to the away mode", the information processing unit 101 shifts the platform machines 10 and 10C to the leave mode, prohibits deposit operation, withdrawal operation, lending operation, and counting operation, and the platform machine by another person. The use of the machines 10 and 10C is restricted, and the use of the gaming machine 2 attached to the machines 10 and 10C is restricted. The information processing unit 101 sets the banknote coin processing device 30 in a state in which payment cannot be made, invalidates the information pressed by the operation buttons 51 (lending button, payout button), and pays out the coins. Invalidate and invalidate the operation of lending the game medium from the balance. Then, the process proceeds to step S174.

In step S174 "memory of information related to leaving the seat", the information processing unit 101 has information indicating that the mode has been changed to the leaving mode (leaving mode information) and a card which is unique identification information recorded on the card. The ID is associated with the unit number received from the ball / prepaid server 200 and stored in the RAM 103. In the present invention, it is not essential for the information processing unit 101 to store the card ID in the RAM 103, and it is not essential for the second embodiment as well. Then, the process proceeds to step S176.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the timekeeping means is used in the own machine)
When adopting a configuration in which the elapsed time (variable) from the time of transition to the absentee mode is timed by using a timekeeping means, it is not essential to memorize the absentee mode start time or the absentee mode end time. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the leaving mode end time is stored in the RAM 103 in addition to the leaving mode start time by using the method shown in the following embodiment.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the RTC is also used in the own machine and the departure mode start time is recorded on the card)
When adopting a configuration in which the elapsed time (variable) from the time of transition to the absentee mode is calculated using the current time acquired from RTC105 or the like, and when the absentee mode start time is recorded on the card. , The current time (the time when step S174 is executed) is acquired from the RTC 105, and the acquired current time is stored in the RAM 103 as the departure mode start time. This acquired current time can be recorded on the card together with the leaving mode information as the leaving mode start time.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the RTC is also used in the own machine and the end time of the leaving mode is recorded on the card)
When adopting a configuration in which the elapsed time (variable) from the time of transition to the leave mode is calculated using the current time acquired from RTC105 or the like, and when the end time of the leave mode is recorded on the card. , The current time (time when step S174 is executed) is acquired from RTC105, etc., and the acquired current time is stored in the RAM 103 as the departure mode start time, and the departure end time (example: 25 minutes) is stored at this current time. ) Is added, and the time when the leaving mode ends is stored in the RAM 103. The departure mode end time can be recorded on the card together with the departure mode information.

In step S176 "away time set", the information processing unit 101 sets the away time. As described above, the leave time (eg, 10 minutes) is the time constituting the first half of the leave end time (eg, 25 minutes). When the process of step S176 is completed, the process executed by the information processing unit 101 proceeds to step S178.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the timekeeping means is used in the own machine)
When adopting a configuration in which the elapsed time (variable) from the time when the mode is changed to the away mode is timed by using the measuring means, the information processing unit 101 starts measuring the elapsed time (variable) by the timer. , Set the leaving time (example: 10 minutes) to be compared when determining the passage of the leaving time and the passing of the leaving time.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the RTC is used even in the own machine)
When adopting a configuration in which the elapsed time (variable) from the time of transition to the absentee mode is calculated using the current time acquired from the RTC 105 or the like, the information processing unit 101 has elapsed the absentee time and exceeded the absenteeism. Set the leaving time (example: 10 minutes) to be compared when judging the passage of time. When adopting a configuration in which the elapsed time (variable) is calculated using the current time acquired from RTC105 or the like, the elapsed time (variable) is calculated by subtracting the departure mode start time from the current time.

In step S178 "notification of shift to away mode to higher management device", the information processing unit 101 transmits the mode change of the platform machines 10 and 10C due to the shift to the leave mode to the ball / prepaid server 200. The information processing unit 101 transmits the leave mode information, the card ID, the unit number, etc. stored in the RAM 103 to the ball / prepaid server 200. As shown in FIG. 4A, the possession / prepaid server 200 records the received leaving mode information, card ID, unit number, etc. together with the processing time, and responds to the leaving mode information and the processing time. Is transmitted to the machines 10 and 10C. FIG. 12 shows an example of the absence information transmitted from the platform machines 10 and 10C to the possession ball / prepaid server 200 and accumulated in time series. Reference numerals Nо1, 4, 6, and 8 in FIG. 12 are information transmitted from the platform machines 10 and 10C to the ball holding / prepaid server 200 in step S178. Next, the process executed by the information processing unit 101 proceeds to step S180.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the departure mode start time is recorded on the card)
In step S180 "recording information on the card", the information processing unit 101 sets a flag for the card reader / writer 40 to record the leave mode information, the leave mode start time, the unit number, and the like on the card (card). Writing to is performed by the card R / W process (step S700). As described above, the time when step S174 is executed can be used as the departure mode start time. Further, the processing time included in the response transmitted by the ball / prepaid server 200 in S178 can also be used. A card in which the leaving mode information is recorded by the card reader / writer 40 is referred to as a leaving card. Next, the process executed by the information processing unit 101 proceeds to step S182.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the end time of the leaving mode is recorded on the card)
When recording the leave mode end time on the card in step S180, a flag for recording the leave mode end time on the card is set instead of the above-mentioned leave mode start time.

In step S182 "discharging the absentee card", the information processing unit 101 sets a flag for ejecting the absentee card (the abandoned card is ejected in the card R / W process (step S700)). Then, the process proceeds to step S184.

In step S184 "displaying the screen from the seat", the information processing unit 101 calculates the time obtained by subtracting the elapsed time (variable) from the time to leave the seat (example: 10 minutes), and displays the time on the display unit 50 as shown in FIG. 11 (4). The time calculated together with the seat screen is displayed as the remaining time. Then, the process returns to the main process.

When the process passes through step S186 "standby screen display", the standby screen shown in FIG. 11 (1) is displayed on the display unit 50. Next, the process executed by the information processing unit 101 returns to the main process.

In step S104 "Elapsed seat leaving time?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the elapsed time (variable) has elapsed the leaving time (eg, 10 minutes). If the elapsed time has passed the leaving time (YES in step S104), the process proceeds to step S106, otherwise (NO in step S104), the leaving screen of FIG. 11 (4) is displayed on the display unit. The process proceeds to step S120 in the displayed state. In step S120, the information processing unit 101 calculates the time obtained by subtracting the elapsed time (variable) from the leaving time (example: 10 minutes), and using the calculated time as the remaining time, the leaving screen in FIG. 11 (4). To display.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the elapsed time is timed by using the timekeeping means in the own machine)
When adopting a configuration in which the elapsed time (variable) from the time of transition to the absentee mode is timed using a timekeeping means, the timed elapsed time (variable) elapses from the absentee time (example: 10 minutes). Determine if you are doing it.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the elapsed time is calculated by using the RTC even in the own machine)
When adopting a configuration in which the elapsed time (variable) from the time of transition to the away mode is calculated using the current time acquired from RTC105 or the like, the current time is acquired from RTC105 or the like and the acquired current time is adopted. Calculated by subtracting the departure mode start time from the time. Then, it is determined whether or not the calculated elapsed time (variable) has elapsed the leaving time (example: 10 minutes).

In step S106 "Is the overtime leaving time set?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the overtime leaving time (eg, 15 minutes) has been set. Specifically, the information processing unit 101 determines in step S122, which will be described later, whether or not the overtime (eg, 15 minutes) has already been set as the comparison target of the elapsed time (variable). As described above, the excess time for leaving a seat (eg, 15 minutes) is the time constituting the latter half of the end time for leaving a seat (eg, 25 minutes). The reason for dividing the leaving time (example: 25 minutes) into the leaving time (example: 10 minutes) and the leaving time (example: 15 minutes) is that the leaving mode is automatically canceled immediately after the predetermined time has elapsed. If this happens, there may be a problem between the new user who started the game after the automatic cancellation and the original player who returned a few minutes later, so the leave time notified in advance (example: 10) This is to give the player a psychological buffering effect by adding a time for excess leaving the seat (eg, 15 minutes) after the minute). If the overtime leaving time has already been set (YES in step S106), the process proceeds to step S107, and if not (NO in step S106), the process proceeds to step S122.

In step S107 "Elapsed overtime of leaving the seat?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the elapsed time (variable) has elapsed the time of leaving the seat (example: 10 minutes) and the excess time of leaving the seat (example: 15 minutes). To judge. If the excess time for leaving the seat has passed (YES in step S107), the process proceeds to step S108, and if not (NO in step S107), the process proceeds to step S126.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the elapsed time is timed by using the timekeeping means in the own machine)
When adopting a configuration in which the elapsed time (variable) from the time of transition to the absentee mode is timed using a timekeeping means, the timed elapsed time (variable) is "away time + overtime" ( Judge whether or not the leave time) has passed.
When the leave mode end time is used instead of the leave excess time to be compared, the time (corresponding to the current time) obtained by adding the elapsed time (variable) to the leave mode start time is the leave mode. It is determined whether or not the end time (starting time of leaving mode + leaving time + excess leaving time) has passed.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the elapsed time is calculated by using the RTC even in the own machine)
When adopting a configuration in which the elapsed time (variable) from the time of transition to the away mode is calculated using the current time acquired from RTC105 or the like, the current time is acquired from RTC105 or the like and the acquired current time is adopted. The elapsed time (variable) is calculated by subtracting the departure mode start time from the time. Then, it is determined whether or not the calculated elapsed time (variable) has elapsed the "leaving time + over-attending time" (leaving end time).
When the leave mode end time is used instead of the leave excess time to be compared, the current time is acquired from RTC105 or the like, and the acquired current time is the leave mode end time (separation mode start time). + Judge whether or not the time has passed.

In step S108 "Is there a setting to automatically cancel the seat leaving mode?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not there is a setting to automatically cancel the seat leaving mode. The setting for automatically canceling the leave mode is a setting for automatically canceling the leave mode of the own machine when the leave end time (leave time + excess time) has elapsed. By setting the automatic cancellation of the leaving mode, the leaving mode is automatically canceled without bothering the hall staff. If the leave mode automatic cancellation is set (YES in step S108), the process proceeds to step S110, otherwise (NO in step S108), the process proceeds to step S126. If the leave mode is automatically canceled, there is a possibility that a dispute may occur between another player who has started using the gaming machine 2 and the original player who has returned from the break, so every time. There are also pachinko halls that wish to cancel the breakout mode after the operation of the hall staff. Therefore, in the embodiment of the present invention, a configuration is adopted in which it is possible to select whether or not to automatically cancel the seat leaving mode by the game hall.

In step S110 "Release of absentee mode", the information processing unit 101 cancels the absentee mode. Specifically, the information processing unit 101 deletes the away mode information, the card ID, etc. stored in the RAM 103. Then, the process proceeds to step S112.

In step S112 "notifying the upper management device of the release of the leave mode", the information processing unit 101 transmits information, a card ID, and a unit number indicating that the leave mode has been canceled to the possession / prepaid server 200. .. As shown in FIG. 4C, the possession / prepaid server 200 records the transmitted leave mode information, card ID, and unit number. FIG. 12 shows an example of the absence information transmitted from the platform machines 10 and 10C to the possession ball / prepaid server 200 and accumulated in time series. In FIG. 12, Nо3 (automatic cancellation due to the passage of excess time due to the processing of step S108), Nо5 (cancellation by inserting the leaving card by the processing of step S134), Nо7 (forced cancellation by the processing of step S140), Nо10 (step). The remote release by the process of S142) is the information transmitted from the platform machines 10 and 10C to the ball holding / prepaid server 200 in step S112. Next, the process executed by the information processing unit 101 proceeds to step S114.

In step S114 "Delete card information", the information processing unit 101 records to the card reader / writer 40 the leaving mode information, the unit number, the leaving mode start time, etc. recorded on the leaving card. Set the flag to delete (writing to the away card is performed by the card R / W process (step S700)). Next, the process proceeds to step S116 “standby (standby) screen display”, and after displaying either the standby screen of FIG. 11 (1) or the standby screen of FIG. 11 (2) on the display unit 50, the process returns to the main process. ..

In step S120 "update of remaining time for leaving screen", the information processing unit 101 calculates and updates the time obtained by subtracting the elapsed time from the leaving time (example: 10 minutes). Then, the process proceeds to step S130. In the display process of step S500 later, the information processing unit 101 causes the display unit 50 to display the leaving screen shown in FIG. 11 (4), and the calculated time is used as the remaining time to display the leaving screen in FIG. 11 (4). Display on the seat screen.

In step S122 "excessive leaving time set / excess leaving screen set", the information processing unit 101 sets the excess leaving time. Specifically, the information processing unit 101 sets the excess time for leaving the seat (example: 15 minutes) to be compared when determining the passage of the excess time for leaving the seat (note that the end time for leaving the seat = the time for leaving the seat). + There is a relationship of the over-attendance time.), Set the over-attendance screen shown in FIG. 11 (5). Then, the process proceeds to step S124. In the display process of step S500 later, the information processing unit 101 displays the over-attendance screen set in step S122 and displays the time overrun (FIG. 11 (5)).

In step S124 "notification of excess attendance to the host management device", the information processing unit 101 transmits to the possession / prepaid server 200 that the state of excess attendance has been reached. As shown in FIG. 4B, the information processing unit 101 transmits the leaving mode information, the card ID, and the unit number to the possession / prepaid server 200 in accordance with the notification of excess leaving. FIG. 12 shows an example of the absence information transmitted from the platform machines 10 and 10C to the possession ball / prepaid server 200 and accumulated in time series. Nо2 in FIG. 12 is information transmitted from the platform machines 10 and 10C to the ball holding / prepaid server 200 in step S124. Next, the process executed by the information processing unit 101 proceeds to step S130.

In step S126 "Overtime update for overtime screen", the information processing unit 101 subtracts the time away from the desk (example: 10 minutes) from the elapsed time (variable), and the screen overtime away from home in FIG. 11 (5). Update the time of overtime (variable) displayed in. Then, the process proceeds to step S130. In the display process of step S500 later, the information processing unit 101 displays the updated time overtime on the overtime screen shown in FIG. 11 (5).

In step S130 "card insertion?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not a card is inserted in the card reader / writer 40. Specifically, the information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the card insertion information has been received from the card reader / writer 40. If a card is inserted (YES in step S130), the process proceeds to step S132, otherwise (NO in step S130), the process proceeds to step S140.

In step S132 "Away card?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the inserted card is a leave card. Specifically, the information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the leaving mode information is recorded in the inserted card. If the card is an unattended card (YES in step S132), the process proceeds to step S134, otherwise (NO in step S132), the process proceeds to step S138.

In step S134 "Matching the unit number?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the unit number recorded on the card and the unit number stored in the RAM 103 match. If they match (YES in step S134), the process proceeds to step S110 to cancel the leave mode, and if not (NO in step S134), the process proceeds to step S136.

In step S136 "displaying that the away mode is set by another machine", the information processing unit 101 displays on the display unit 50 that "another game console is being secured" (FIG. 11 (FIG. 11). 6) Display the securing screen shown in). Further, as shown in the lower part of the securing screen of FIG. 11 (6), the information processing unit 101 can display the unit number read from the absentee card and the "remaining time" or "time exceeded". Next, the process executed by the information processing unit 101 proceeds to step S138.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the departure mode start time is recorded on the card)
The "remaining time" can be calculated by subtracting the current time (obtained from RTC105, etc.) from the time obtained by adding the leaving time (example: 10 minutes) to the leaving mode start time described on the leaving card. .. Further, as "time exceeded", the time obtained by subtracting the leaving mode start time and the leaving time from the current time can be displayed.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the end time of the leaving mode is recorded on the card)
The "remaining time" can be calculated by subtracting the overtime (eg, 15 minutes) and the current time (obtained from RTC105, etc.) from the end time of the leaving mode described on the leaving card. Further, as "time exceeded", the time obtained by subtracting the leaving mode end time described on the leaving card from the time obtained by adding the leaving time (eg, 15 minutes) to the current time can be displayed.

In step S138 "card return processing", the information processing unit 101 sets a flag for ejecting the card or the leaving card to the card reader / writer 40 (actual card return is performed by card R / W processing (step S700)). conduct). Then, the process proceeds to step S140.

In step S140 "forced release of the leave mode?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the information that the operation "forced release of the leave mode" of the remote controller 122 by the hall staff has been acquired has been acquired. If it is acquired (YES in step S140), the process proceeds to step S110, otherwise (NO in step S140), the process proceeds to step S142.

In step S142 "instruction to remotely release the leaving mode?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not an instruction to remotely release the leaving mode has been obtained from the ball / prepaid server 200. If it is acquired (YES in step S142), the process proceeds to step S110, otherwise (NO in step S142), the process proceeds to step S144.

In the state in which the process of step S144 "displaying the over-attendance (excess) screen" is passed, the display unit 50 displays the away-attend screen shown in FIG. 11 (4) or the over-attend screen shown in FIG. 11 (5). It is in a state of being. Next, the process executed by the information processing unit 101 returns to the main process.

[Explanation of card acceptance process (step S200)]
The details of the card acceptance process (step S200) shown in FIG. 8 will be described with reference to FIG. The card acceptance process (step S200) is mainly a process when the card is inserted into the inter-machine machines 10 and 10C that are not in the away mode.

In step S202 "Are you in the away mode?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the user is currently in the away mode. Specifically, the information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the leave mode information is stored in the RAM 103 of the machines 10 and 10C. If it is in the away mode (YES in step S202), it returns to the main process, and if not (NO in step S202), it proceeds to step S204.

In step S204 "card insertion?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not a card is inserted in the card reader / writer 40. Specifically, the information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the card insertion information has been received from the card reader / writer 40. If a card is inserted (YES in step S204), the process proceeds to step S206, otherwise (NO in step S204), the process proceeds to step S244.

In step S206 "Away card?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the inserted card is a leave card. Specifically, the information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the leaving mode information is recorded in the inserted card. If the card is an unattended card (YES in step S206), the process proceeds to step S208, otherwise (NO in step S206), the process proceeds to step S240.

In step S208 "Is there a setting to automatically cancel the seat leaving mode?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not there is a setting to automatically cancel the seat leaving mode. The setting for automatic cancellation of the leave mode in step S208 is such that when the leave card is inserted into another machine 10 or 10C (other machine) other than the machine 10, 10C that ejects the leave card, the seat leave mode is set. If it is after the end time, even the leave card can be accepted by other machines 10 and 10C (other machines). By providing the setting for automatic cancellation of the leaving mode, it is not necessary to call the hall staff to cancel the leaving mode when moving the table after the end time of the leaving mode. If the leave mode automatic cancellation is set (YES in step S208), the process proceeds to step S210, and if not (NO in step S208), the process proceeds to step S212.

In step S210 "Elapsed of the leave mode end time?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the leave mode end time has elapsed. If the leave mode end time has elapsed (YES in step S210), the process proceeds to step S229, otherwise (NO in step S210), the process proceeds to step S212. In the above embodiment, the embodiment in which the process proceeds to step S212 in the case of NO in step S210 has been described. However, as shown by the route (Z) in FIG. 10, a configuration in which the process proceeds to step S216 may be adopted. can. Further, as shown by the route (X) in FIG. 10, it is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the process proceeds to step S220.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the departure mode start time is recorded on the card)
When the leaving mode start time is recorded in the leaving card, the information processing unit 101 has the leaving mode start time read from the leaving card and the leaving mode start time stored in the RAM 103 (example: 25). Minutes) are added to calculate the leave mode end time, and it is determined whether or not the current time acquired from the RTC105 or the like has passed this leave mode end time.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the end time of the leaving mode is recorded on the card)
When the leaving mode end time is recorded on the leaving card, the information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the current time acquired from the RTC 105 or the like has passed the leaving mode end time read from the leaving card. Judge.

In step S212 "display that other game consoles are being secured", the information processing unit 101 displays on the display unit 50 that "other game consoles are being secured" (on the securing screen shown in FIG. 11 (6)). Display). Further, as shown in the lower part of the securing screen of FIG. 11 (6), the information processing unit 101 can display the unit number read from the absentee card, the "remaining time", and the "time exceeded". .. Next, the process executed by the information processing unit 101 proceeds to step S214.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the departure mode start time is recorded on the card)
The "remaining time" can be calculated by subtracting the current time (obtained from RTC105, etc.) from the time obtained by adding the leaving time (example: 10 minutes) to the leaving mode start time described on the leaving card. .. Further, as "time exceeded", the time obtained by subtracting the leaving mode start time and the leaving time from the current time can be displayed.

(Explanation of the embodiment in which the end time of the leaving mode is recorded on the card)
The "remaining time" can be calculated by subtracting the overtime (eg, 15 minutes) and the current time (obtained from RTC105, etc.) from the end time of the leaving mode described on the leaving card. Further, as "time exceeded", the time obtained by subtracting the leaving mode end time described on the leaving card from the time obtained by adding the leaving time (eg, 15 minutes) to the current time can be displayed.

In step S214 "Communication offline?", The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the communication status with the possession / prepaid server 200 is offline. The information processing unit 101 can communicate with the ball / prepaid server 200 due to the existence of a state (some kind of failure (failure, disconnection, etc.)) between the machines 10 and 10C and the ball / prepaid server 200. If communication is not possible with or is blocked), it is determined to be offline. If it is offline (YES in step S214), the process proceeds to step S216, otherwise (NO in step S214), the process proceeds to step S220.

In step S216 "card return processing", the information processing unit 101 sets a flag for ejecting the leaving card (actual ejection of the leaving card is performed in the card R / W processing (step S700)). Then, the process proceeds to step S218.

In step S218 "stand-by screen display", the information processing unit 101 causes the display unit 50 to display the standby screen shown in FIG. 11 (1). Then, the process returns to the main process.

In step S220 "Is the machine that has ejected the leave card currently in the leave mode?" to decide. The information processing unit 101 determines whether or not the leave mode has already been forcibly canceled (YES in step S140) by the operation of the hall staff in the stand-up machines 10 and 10C from which the leave card has been ejected. Contact 200 to make a decision. If the machines 10 and 10C that have ejected the leave card are in the leave mode (YES in step S220), proceed to step S222 "Do you want to use the leave card on this stand?" After displaying the open input screen shown in FIG. 11 (7) on the display unit 50, the process proceeds to step S224, otherwise (NO in step S220), the process proceeds to step S229.

In step S224 "Use a leave card?", The information processing unit 101 asks the player whether or not to use the leave card. When the "use" button is pressed (YES in step S224) while the open input screen shown in FIG. 11 (7) is displayed on the display unit 50, the information processing unit 101 proceeds to step S228 and proceeds to ". If the "Return" button is pressed (NO in step S224), the process proceeds to step S216.

In step S228 "notifying the upper management device of the remote release of the leaving mode", the information processing unit 101 gives an instruction to remotely release the leaving mode of the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C (own machine) that have ejected the leaving card. , The platform machine 10, 10C (other machine) in which the departure card is inserted notifies the possession ball / prepaid server 200. The information processing unit 101 transmits the leave mode information (remote release notification), the card ID, the unit number, etc. acquired from the leave card to the possession / prepaid server 200. As shown in FIG. 7 (h), the possession / prepaid server 200 identifies the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C (own machines) that have ejected the leaving card by the transmitted unit number, and the inter-unit machine. An instruction to remotely cancel the leave mode is sent to 10 and 10C (own machine). Upon receiving the instruction, the platform machine 10, 10C (own machine) proceeds with the flow of YES in step S142 “instruction to release remote mode remote from seat?”. Next, the process executed by the information processing unit 101 proceeds to step S230.

In step S229 "temporarily displaying the opening of another game table", the information processing unit 101 displays on the display unit 50 the opened screen shown in FIG. 11 (8) (the following game table secured has been released. ) Is displayed. Further, the information processing unit 101 causes the display unit 50 to display the unit number read from the absentee card and the display of the remaining time of 0 minutes at the lower part of the opened screen of FIG. 11 (8). Next, the process executed by the information processing unit 101 proceeds to step S230.

In step S230 "Delete card information", the information processing unit 101 tells the card reader / writer 40 that the leave mode information, the unit number, and the leave mode start (end) time recorded on the leave card. Set a flag to delete the record such as (writing to the away card is performed by the card R / W process (step S700)). Then, the process proceeds to step S240 “Card acceptance”, and the inserted card is set in a usable state. Then, the process proceeds to step S242.

In step S242 "standby screen display", the information processing unit 101 displays the currency balance recorded on the card, the ball holding information / ball storage information acquired from the ball holding / prepaid server 200, and the ball storage server 115 on the display unit 50. Display (standby screen shown in FIG. 11 (2)). Then return to the main procedure.

When the process passes through step S244 "stand-by screen display", the stand-by screen shown in FIG. 11 (1) is displayed on the display unit 50. Then return to the main procedure.

[Explanation of the action and effect of the machines 10 and 10C]
Regarding the platform machines 10 and 10C according to the first embodiment, the information processing unit 101 of the platform machines 10 and 10C acquires the operation information of the leave button 52 of the display unit 50 (step S170), and causes the own machine. After shifting to the away mode (step S172), the RAM 103 is associated with the away mode information indicating that the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C have changed to the away mode and the unit number of the gaming machine attached to the own machine. (Step S174), the time counting by the information processing unit 101 is started, and the leaving mode information, the leaving mode start (end) time, and the unit number are recorded on the card for the card reader / writer 40. (Step S180) is instructed to discharge (step S182).

With this configuration, when the departure mode information, the departure mode start (end) time, and the unit number are recorded on the card in the units 10C, the units 10 and 10C (other units) When reading the card, the card can be used only by processing the machines 10 and 10C (other machines) without making inquiries to the ball / prepaid server 200 (for example, even when offline). It becomes possible to judge whether or not. Therefore, it is possible to omit the procedure such as erasing the card information by the hall staff to play the game on the machines 10 and 10C (other machines). Therefore, according to the platform machines 10 and 10C of the first embodiment, it is possible to simplify the procedure related to the temporary leaving of the player and improve the convenience of the player. In addition, the operating rate of the gaming machine 2 installed in the gaming hall can be improved.

Further, in the information processing unit 101 of the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C, the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C (own machine) have shifted to the seat leaving mode (step S102), and the timed time is after the seat leaving end time. If there is (step S107), the leave mode is canceled (step S110).

With such a configuration, the platform machines 10 and 10C, which were prohibited from being used in the seat leaving mode, can be automatically released immediately at the end time of leaving the seat and opened to other players. Therefore, it is possible to prevent one player from securing a plurality of gaming machines 2, and it is possible to improve the operating rate of the gaming machines 2 installed in the gaming hall.

Further, in the information processing unit 101 of the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C, the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C (other machines) have not shifted to the leave mode (step S202), and the leave card is inserted into the card reader / writer 40. If the current time is after the end time of the leave mode (step S210), the leave card is accepted and can be used (step S240).

With this configuration, the leave mode is automatically canceled when the end time of the leave mode has elapsed in the platform machine (own machine) that has been shifted to the leave mode, and the leave card is used. It is possible to play with other machines (other machines). Therefore, when the player plays a game using the machines 10 and 10C (other machines), the procedure such as erasing the information of the leaving card by the hall staff can be omitted, and the convenience of the player is improved. can do. In addition, it is possible to prevent one player from securing a plurality of gaming machines 2, and it is possible to improve the operating rate of the gaming machines 2 installed in the gaming hall.

Further, in the information processing unit 101 of the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C, the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C (other machines) have not shifted to the leave mode (step S202), and the leave card is inserted into the card reader / writer 40. If the current time is before the end time of the leave mode (step S210), the use of the leave card is prohibited and the card is returned (step S216).

With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent one player from securing a plurality of units, and it is possible to improve the operating rate of the game hall.

Further, when the stand-to-stand machines 10 and 10C (own machine) have shifted to the leave mode (step S102) and the leave card is inserted into the card reader / writer 40 (step S130), it is stored in the RAM 103. The machine number is compared with the machine number recorded on the card inserted in the card reader / writer 40, and if the comparison results match (step S134), the leave mode is canceled (step S110). The card reader / writer 40 is instructed to delete the leaving mode information (step S114), and the inserted leaving card is accepted and used.

Further, the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C (own machine) have shifted to the leave mode (step S102), and a card (non-away card) on which the leave mode information is not recorded is inserted into the card reader / writer 40. In that case (step S130), the use of the non-leaving card is prohibited and the card is returned (step S138).

With this configuration, it is possible to prohibit the use of other cards by prohibiting the use of other cards in the away mode, except for the player who has set the leave mode. In addition, since the leaving mode of the platform machine (own machine) can be automatically canceled by inserting the leaving card, the hall staff does not need to check and cancel, improving the convenience of the player. Can be done.

Further, in the information processing unit 101 of the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C, the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C (other machines) have not shifted to the leave mode (step S202), and the leave card is inserted into the card reader / writer 40. If the current time is before the end time of the leave mode (step S210), the remaining time of the leave mode is displayed on the display unit 50 (step S212). ..

With this configuration, the remaining time in the leave mode can be displayed on the machine (other machine), so the machine does not have to return to the machine (own machine) in which the leave mode is set. Since the remaining time to leave the seat can be confirmed on the inter-machine (other machine), the convenience of the player can be improved.

Further, in the information processing unit 101 of the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C (other machine), the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C (other machine) have not shifted to the leave mode (step S202), and the leave card is a card reader. When the machine is inserted into the writer 40 (step S204) and the current time is before the end time of the leave mode (step S210), the machine number recorded on the leave card is acquired. The display unit 50 displays the acquired unit number (step S212).

With this configuration, the player can know by displaying the machine number of the machine machine 10, 10C (own machine) that was playing the game in the machine machine 10, 10C (other machine). It is possible to improve the convenience of.

Further, when the information processing unit 101 of the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C (own machine) shifts to the seat-leaving mode (step S172), the seat-leaving mode information and the machine number are associated with the ball / prepaid server 200. Transmit (step S178). Further, when the instruction to remotely cancel the leaving mode is obtained from the possession / prepaid server 200 (step S142), the leaving mode is canceled (step S110).

With this configuration, the possession / prepaid server 200 can manage the leave mode information and the like, so that the possession / prepaid server 200 can check the history of the leave mode and the operation status of the leave mode. It is possible to suppress troubles when grasping and automatically canceling. In addition, since the away mode of the pachinko machines 10 and 10C (own machine) can be remotely canceled by the instruction from the ball / prepaid server 200, the convenience of the player can be improved and the game hall can be used. It is possible to improve the operating rate of the gaming machine 2 installed in.

Further, when the inter-unit machines 10 and 10C (other machines) have not shifted to the leave mode (step S202) and the leave card is inserted into the card reader / writer 40 (step S204, step S206), the present When the time is before the end time of the leave mode, the information on the display unit 50 asks the player to determine whether to remotely cancel the leave mode of the platform machines 10 and 10C (own machine). Is displayed (step S222), and when an instruction to remotely cancel the leave mode of the stand-up machine 10 and 10C (own machine) is acquired from the operation button of the display unit 50 (step S224), the remote release instruction and the card are recorded. The machine number is transmitted to the ball / prepaid server 200 via the communication I / F 110 (step S228), the inserted leave card is accepted and made usable (step S240), and the operation button 51 is used. When the instruction not to remotely release the leave mode of the machines 10 and 10C is obtained, the inserted leave card is prohibited from being used and returned.

With this configuration, when the seat-leaving card is used on the machine-mounted machines 10, 10C (other machine), the seat-leaving mode of the machine-mounted machines 10, 10C (own machine), which was in the seat-leaving mode, can be changed. Since the remote release can be performed at the discretion of the player, the operating rate of the game machine 2 installed in the game hall can be improved. Further, since it is possible to omit the procedure such as erasing the information of the absentee card by the hall staff when using the platform machines 10 and 10C (other machines), the convenience of the player can be improved.

<Second Embodiment>
In the above-mentioned first embodiment, the seat-leaving mode of the platform machines 10 and 10C that handle the gaming medium has been described, but the seat-leaving mode according to the present invention is a medalless gaming machine 2B or an enclosed type using a circulating ball. It can also be mounted on the platform machine 10A attached to the pachinko machine 2D. In the description of the platform machine 10A of the second embodiment, only the differences from the platform machine 10 of the first embodiment described above will be described below, and the description of the same configuration, operation, and effect will be omitted. ..

Hereinafter, the platform machine 10A according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 15A shows a front view of the medalless gaming machine 2B and the platform machine 10A. FIG. 15B shows a front view of the ball circulation type pachinko machine 2D and the platform machine 10A. In the gaming hall, a plurality of gaming machines 2 and a platform machine 10A are provided side by side of the gaming machine 2 in a one-to-one correspondence with the gaming machine 2. The platform machine 10A according to the second embodiment has a configuration that does not handle game media such as balls and medals.

[Explanation of the platform machine 10A]
The platform machine 10A will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 15. FIG. 13 shows a schematic perspective view of the platform machine 10A. FIG. 14 shows a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of hardware in the platform machine 10A. 15 (a) and 15 (b) show a front view of the platform machine 10A. The platform machine 10A is a device that transmits game value information to the game machine 2 by inserting coins or inserting a card, and enables the game to be played on the game machine 2. The control unit 100A and a banknote. The machine 10 described in the first embodiment, comprising a coin processing device 30, a card reader / writer 40, a display unit 50, an indicator lamp 60, a camera 70, and a remote control light receiving / receiving unit 80. Common with 10C. The platform machine 10A of the second embodiment is structurally different in that the payout device and the counting device do not exist. Further, since the platform machine 10A can be installed on either the right side or the left side of the gaming machine 2 as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, the display unit 50 (see FIG. 13). The display direction of is rotatable so that the direction can be changed to either the right direction or the left direction. Further, the display unit 50 has a structure that can be held at an arbitrary angle so that the player can adjust the display unit 50 to a position where it is easy to see.

The control unit 100A is composed of an information processing unit 101A, a communication I / F 110, a game value management unit 111, and the like, and performs various controls and processes on peripheral devices mounted on the platform machine 10A based on a program.

The game value management unit 111 transmits / receives information to / from the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D. When the game value management unit 111 transmits the game value information to the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D, the game can be executed on the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D that has received the game value information. Become. When the game is completed in the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D, the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D outputs the game value information, and the game value management unit 111 outputs the game value information. Receive. In addition, the game value management unit 111 has game machine information (model information, performance information, installation information, game value IN / OUT information, fraud monitoring information, etc.) of the connected medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D. ) And game status information (bonus information, assist time information, probability change information, time saving information, etc.) can also be acquired.

In addition to the transmission / reception information in the first embodiment, the information transmitted / received by the communication I / F 110 includes the game value information output by the game value management unit 111 to the medalless gaming machine 2B, the enclosed pachinko machine 2D, and the game value management unit 111. It includes game value information and game machine information acquired from the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D.

[Summary of operation of machine 10A]
When the user plays a game using the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D, for example, a bill is inserted into the bill coin processing device 30. The information processing unit 101 of the machine 10A transfers the currency value and the balance information to the card, and stores the currency value and the balance information in the RAM 103 of the machine 10A and uses it for display and the like. Next, when the user operates the operation button 51, the platform machine 10A generates game value information obtained by converting the currency value into the game value and outputs the game value information to the medalless game machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D. In the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D, the game can be executed based on the gaming value information acquired from the platform machine 10A.
The platform machine 10A may generate game value information based on the balance information, ball holding information, or ball storage information associated with the card and output it to the medalless game machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D. can.

When the game is completed and the user presses the counting button (not shown) provided on the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D, the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D has the game value information. Is output to the machine 10A. The platform machine 10A converts the game value information acquired from the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D into ball information. When the user presses the card return button, the card containing the balance information is ejected.

In the second embodiment, since the other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment described above, the same parts are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

[Explanation of processing executed by the machine 10A]
16 and 17 are flowcharts showing the processing of the machine 10A. FIG. 16 shows the main process (step S10A) executed by the platform machine 10A, and FIG. 17 shows the detailed process of the own machine leaving process (step S100A) constituting the main process (step S10A). The S400 "counting process" described with reference to FIG. 8 of the first embodiment does not exist in the medalless gaming machine 2B or the platform machine 10A for the enclosed pachinko machine 2D.

[Explanation of main process (step S10A)]

The details of the main process (step S10A) will be described with reference to FIG. After executing the input / output process (step S30), the information processing unit 101A proceeds to the own machine leaving process (step S100A). The details of the own machine leaving process (step S100A) will be described later.

Next, the information processing unit 101A executes the card acceptance process (step S200), and then proceeds to the lending process (step S300A). In the lending process (step S300A), the information processing unit 101A outputs the game value information to the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D based on the pressing of the player's operation button 51 (lending button, payout button). Is.

In the higher-level communication process (step S800A), in addition to the higher-level communication process (step S800) in the first embodiment, the game value information output by the game value management unit 111 to the medalless gaming machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D. , The game value management unit 111 transmits and receives the game value information and the game machine information acquired from the medalless game machine 2B or the enclosed pachinko machine 2D to and from the holding ball / prepaid server 200.

Since the other processes in the main process (step S10A) are the same as those in the first embodiment, the same processes are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted.

[Explanation of own machine leaving process (step S100A)]
The details of the own machine leaving process (step S100A) will be described with reference to FIG. In the own machine leaving process (step S100A), the process of shifting to the leaving mode of the platform machine 10A by the operation of the player, and the leaving when the leaving card is inserted into the platform machine 10A in the leaving mode. Performs seat mode cancellation processing, etc.

In step S172A "shift to the away mode", the information processing unit 101A shifts the machine 10A to the leave mode, prohibits deposit operation, withdrawal operation, and lending operation, and restricts the use of the machine 10A by others. Therefore, the use of the gaming machine 2 attached to the machine 10A is restricted. The information processing unit 101A sets the banknote coin processing device 30 in a state in which it is impossible to deposit money, invalidates the information that the operation button 51 (lending button, payout button, card return button) is pressed, and invalidates the information that the operation button 51 (lending button, payout button, card return button) is pressed. Invalidation of the operation to transfer the game value information to the attached game machine 2, invalidation of the operation to transfer the information converted from the balance to the game value to the attached game machine 2, invalidation of the card return process, etc. do. Then, the process proceeds to step S174.

In the description of the own machine leaving process (step S100A), since the other processes are the same as those in the first embodiment, the same processes are designated by the same reference numerals and the description thereof will be omitted. Further, the card acceptance process (step S200) is the same process as that of the first embodiment, and thus is omitted.

According to the second embodiment, the same action and effect as those of the first embodiment described above are obtained.

In the above-described embodiment, the pachislot machine 2A, the medalless game machine 2B, the pachinko machine 2C, and the enclosed pachinko machine 2D correspond to the "game machine" of the present invention, and the card, mobile phone, or the like corresponds to the "recording medium" of the present invention. The card reader / writer 40 corresponds to the "reader / writer" of the present invention, the display unit 50 corresponds to the "display means, instruction acquisition means" of the present invention, and the information processing units 101 and 101A correspond to the "timekeeping" of the present invention. The means, the away mode management means, the RAM 103 and the ROM 104 correspond to the "storage means" of the present invention, the RTC 105 or the CPU 102 corresponds to the "current time acquisition means" of the present invention, and the communication I / F 110 corresponds to the present. The ball / prepaid server 200 corresponds to the "communication means" of the present invention, and corresponds to the "upper management device" of the present invention. The current time can be acquired from the RTC 105 as described in the above embodiment, but can also be acquired by the CPU 102 from the host management device.
Further, as the machine number according to the present invention, identification information unique to the machine (machine ID) can be assigned, identification information unique to the game machine (game machine ID), and other game machines 2 in the game hall. Information that specifies the installation location of the machine can be used.

As shown in the above-described embodiment, the inventions relating to the transition to and from the absence mode are the pachi-slot machine 2A, the medalless gaming machine 2B, the pachinko machine 2C, the pachinko machine 10 attached to the enclosed pachinko machine 2D, and the like. It can be applied to 10A and 10C.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and examples, and the technical scope of the claims includes various redesigned embodiments within the scope of the gist of the invention.

2 Gaming machine 2A Pachislot machine 2B Medalless gaming machine 2C Pachinko machine 2D Enclosed pachinko machine 10, 10A, 10C Inter-unit machine 40 Card reader / writer (reader / writer)
50 Display unit (display means, instruction acquisition means)
102 CPU (current time acquisition means)
103 RAM (storage means)
104 ROM (storage means)
105 RTC (current time acquisition means)
110 Communication I / F (communication means)
101 Information processing department (seating mode management means, timekeeping means)
200 Possessed ball / prepaid server (upper management device)

Claims (9)

It is a pachinko machine that is attached to the gaming machine and can manage the player's absence during the game.
A reader / writer that reads and writes information recorded on the recording medium,
Instruction acquisition means for acquiring instructions from the player,
A seat-away mode management means for managing the player's seat-away state, and
A storage means for storing information on the state of leaving the seat and the end time of leaving the seat, and
Timekeeping means to measure the elapsed time and
The current time acquisition method for acquiring the current time, and
Equipped with
The away mode management means is
When the operation information of the leave button is acquired from the instruction acquisition means,
Move your aircraft to the leave mode and
In the storage means, the leaving mode information indicating that the own machine has shifted to the leaving mode and the unit number of the gaming machine attached to the own machine are stored in association with each other.
Start timing the time by the timing means,
For the reader / writer, the recording medium is the information on the leaving mode, the leaving mode end time obtained by adding the leaving end time to the leaving mode start time after shifting to the leaving mode, and the unit number. Instruct to record and discharge
A stand-up machine characterized by that. It is a pachinko machine that is attached to the gaming machine and can manage the player's absence during the game.
A reader / writer that reads and writes information recorded on the recording medium,
Instruction acquisition means for acquiring instructions from the player,
A seat-away mode management means for managing the player's seat-away state, and
A storage means for storing information on the state of leaving the seat and the end time of leaving the seat, and
The current time acquisition method for acquiring the current time, and
Equipped with
The away mode management means is
When the operation information of the leave button is acquired from the instruction acquisition means,
Move your aircraft to the leave mode and
The leaving mode information indicating that the own machine has shifted to the leaving mode and the leaving mode start time or the leaving mode start time of the shift to the leaving mode are added to the storage means. The end time of the leaving mode and the machine number of the gaming machine attached to the own machine are associated and memorized.
Instructs the reader / writer to record the leave mode information, the leave mode end time , and the unit number on the recording medium and discharge the information.
A stand-up machine characterized by that. The away mode management means is
The own machine has shifted to the above-mentioned away mode,
If the time measured is after the end time of leaving the seat, or if the current time is after the end time of the leaving mode, the leaving mode is canceled.
The machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the machine is characterized by the above. The away mode management means is
The inter-unit machine has not shifted to the away mode,
When the recording medium on which the away mode information is recorded is inserted into the reader / writer,
If the current time is after the end time of the absentee mode, the recording medium is accepted and can be used.
If the current time is before the end time of the absentee mode, the recording medium is prohibited from being used and returned.
The stand-up machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the machine is characterized by the above. The away mode management means is
The own machine has shifted to the above-mentioned away mode,
When the recording medium on which the away mode information is recorded is inserted into the reader / writer,
The unit number recorded in the storage means is compared with the unit number recorded in the recording medium inserted in the reader / writer.
If the comparison results match, cancel the leave mode and cancel the seating mode.
Instruct the reader / writer to delete the leave mode information,
It accepts the recording medium and makes it usable.
If the comparison results do not match, the use of the recording medium is prohibited and the recording medium is returned.
When a recording medium on which the away mode information is not recorded is inserted into the reader / writer,
Prohibiting the use of the recording medium and returning the recording medium,
The stand-up machine according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the machine is characterized by the above. Equipped with a display means to display information
The away mode management means is
The inter-unit machine has not shifted to the away mode,
When the recording medium on which the away mode information is recorded is inserted into the reader / writer,
If the current time is before the end time of the leave mode, an instruction is given to display the remaining time of the leave mode on the display means.
The stand-up machine according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the machine is characterized by the above. The away mode management means is
The inter-unit machine has not shifted to the away mode,
When the recording medium on which the away mode information is recorded is inserted into the reader / writer,
If the current time is before the end time of the absentee mode,
Obtaining the unit number recorded on the recording medium,
The acquired unit number is displayed on the display means.
The machine according to claim 6, wherein the machine is characterized by the above. Display means for displaying information and
A communication means that communicates with the host management device,
Equipped with
The away mode management means is
When the operation information of the leave button is acquired from the instruction acquisition means and the own machine is shifted to the leave mode,
The communication means is instructed to associate the away mode information with the unit number and transmit the information to the higher-level management device.
The own machine has shifted to the above-mentioned away mode,
When an instruction to remotely cancel the leaving mode is obtained from the higher-level management device, the leaving mode is canceled.
The stand-up machine according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the machine is characterized by the above. The away mode management means is
The inter-unit machine has not shifted to the away mode,
When the recording medium on which the away mode information is recorded is inserted into the reader / writer,
If the current time is after the end time of the absentee mode, the recording medium is accepted and can be used.
If the current time is before the end time of the absentee mode,
Information that asks the player to determine whether or not to remotely cancel the away mode of the other inter-machine machine is displayed on the display means.
When an instruction to remotely release the leave mode of the other platform machine is acquired from the instruction acquisition means, the instruction to remotely release the leave mode of the other platform machine and the recording medium inserted into the reader / writer are used. The unit number recorded in the reader / writer is transmitted to the higher-level management device via the communication means, and the recording medium inserted in the reader / writer can be received and used.
When an instruction is obtained from the instruction acquisition means for not remotely canceling the away mode of another machine, the recording medium is prohibited from being used and returned.
The machine according to claim 8, wherein the machine is characterized by the above.

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