JP7335744B2 - Prize exchange management system and prize exchange management method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a prize exchange management system and a prize exchange management method for managing prize exchanges in which game media obtained by players through games are exchanged for prizes.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, amusement arcades provide games through game media. For example, in a pachinko game, game balls are used as game media, and the game is played by hitting the game balls onto the game board surface. A plurality of prize-winning areas (award-winning openings) are provided on the game board surface, and a predetermined number of game balls are provided as prize balls based on the game balls passing through the prize-winning areas. In this way, the number of game media increases or decreases depending on the result of the game, and the player can exchange the obtained game media for prizes.

The game media and prizes are exchanged at a prize counter provided in the game arcade. The prize counter is provided with a prize management device called POS (Point Of Sales), and the clerk uses the prize management device to exchange game media for prizes (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The prize management device holds a prize master in which the number of exchanged game media is associated with each prize, and refers to the prize master when exchanging prizes, and exchanges prizes within the range of the number of acquired game media acquired by the player. doing.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-385

However, in the conventional technology, the player visits the prize counter, selects the desired prize, informs the store clerk of the desired prize, and exchanges the prize. there were. In particular, when the store is closed, the exchange of prizes is carried out intensively, so the longer the time required for the exchange of prizes per player, the greater the burden on the gaming parlor and the lowering of convenience for the players.

For these reasons, how to improve the efficiency of prize exchanges at game parlors, reduce the burden on the amusement parlors, and improve convenience for gamers has become an important issue.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a prize exchange management system and a prize exchange management method that can improve the efficiency of prize exchange. do.

In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention provides a prize management device for managing prize exchange in which game media acquired by a player in a game are exchanged for a prize, and a prize management device for setting a payout target of the device itself. a prize exchange management system comprising a plurality of prize payout devices for paying out prizes of different types, wherein the prize management device includes prize selection receiving means for receiving selection of a prize by the player ; and a first medium ejecting means for ejecting a medium recording information capable of specifying the prize selected by said player, and after accepting selection of a prize by said player , said prize is exchanged for said prize by said plurality of prize payout devices. a prize inventory management means for managing the inventory of the prizes so as to secure the prizes until the game is completed, wherein the plurality of prize payout devices read information capable of identifying the prizes selected by the players from the medium. a reading means; a prize exchanging means for exchanging game media acquired by the player for a prize of a type set as a payout target of the own device selected by the player; and a prize of a type that cannot be paid out from the own device. and second medium ejecting means for ejecting a medium recording information capable of identifying the prize of the type when there is a prize of the type .
In the above invention, the plurality of prize payout devices are a first prize payout device for exchanging predetermined special prizes and a second prize payout device for exchanging predetermined general prizes. and a third prize payout device for exchanging a predetermined edge ball prize.

Further, according to the present invention, in the above invention, the prize inventory management means manages the prize in association with a plurality of states including unselected, selected, and exchanged.

Further, according to the present invention, in the above invention, the prize exchange means executes the prize exchange based on the player's operation.

Further, in the present invention, in the above invention, the prize selection accepting means is capable of accepting selection of prizes on a type-by-type basis by designating the number of exchange media, which is the number of game media required for exchange, and the type of the prize. , wherein the prize inventory management means secures the prizes so that the prizes of the designated number and type of exchange media remain until the execution of the prize exchange, when the prizes are selected on a per-class basis. do.

In the above invention, the present invention is characterized in that the prize exchange means can change the prize received by the prize selection receiving means to another prize.

Further, according to the present invention, in the above invention, the prize inventory management means can cancel the selection of the prize received by the prize selection receiving means.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the prize inventory management means cancels the selection of prizes received by the prize selection receiving means when a predetermined time limit has passed.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that the invention further comprises a replenishment determining means for determining whether or not replenishment of prizes is necessary based on the selection status of prizes managed by the prize inventory management means.

Further, the present invention provides a prize management device for managing prize exchange in which game media acquired by a player through a game are exchanged for prizes, and a plurality of prize management devices for paying out different types of prizes set as payout targets of the device. A prize exchange management method in a prize exchange management system having a prize payout device , wherein the prize management device comprises a prize selection acceptance step for accepting selection of a prize by the player; a first medium ejecting step of ejecting a medium recording identifiable information; and after the prize management device accepts selection of a prize by the player , the plurality of prize payout devices exchange the prize for a prize. a prize inventory management step of managing the inventory of the prizes to secure the prizes until the prizes are obtained; a prize exchanging step in which the plurality of prize payout devices exchanges a prize of a type set as a payout target of the device selected by the player for a game medium acquired by the player ; and a second medium ejection step of ejecting a medium recording information capable of identifying the prize of the type when the prize dispensing device of (1) has a prize of a type that cannot be dispensed from the device. do.

According to the present invention, prize exchange can be made more efficient.

FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a prize exchange management system according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the system configuration of the game parlor. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the prize management device shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the prize master shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the prize inventory data shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the prize payout device shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure for prize selection by the prize management device. FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the processing procedure of prize payout by the prize payout device. FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure for canceling a selected prize based on player's operation. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the procedure for canceling the selected prize when the store is closed. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating prediction of inventory fluctuations. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of the exchange of prizes by type. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a modification of prize selection.

Preferred embodiments of the prize exchange management system and the prize exchange management method according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

In this specification, "balls in possession" refers to game media acquired by a player in a game or data indicating the number of such game media, which can be used again in the game only during the day (time before the store closes). Say what you can. Accumulated balls refer to game media acquired by a player in a game or data indicating the number of such game media, which can be used again in a game from the next day onwards (hours after the store closes). Possessed balls can be used by both general players and member players, and are used when the gaming machine used for the game is changed (so-called machine movement). The accumulated balls are normally usable only by the member players, and are used when the obtained game media are used in the game from the next day onwards. A predetermined fee may be charged for use of accumulated balls.

First, a prize exchange management system according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a prize exchange management system according to this embodiment. In the amusement arcade according to this embodiment, an inter-machine card processing machine 10 is installed in association with the gaming machine 20 . The inter-machine card processing machine 10 is a device for paying out game balls using prepaid value, owned balls, and stored balls used for lending game balls, and the gaming machine 20 is paid out by the inter-machine card processing machine 10. This is a device that provides a game using game balls. In addition, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 can count the game balls obtained through the game, add them to the balls in hand, and discharge the cards associated with the balls in hand.

A player who has finished the game takes out a card from the inter-machine card processing machine 10 and makes the prize managing device 60 read it. The prize management device 60 is a device for inventory management of prizes that can be exchanged for owned balls and stored balls associated with cards, and can accept operations from players. The player operates the prize management device 60 and selects a desired prize within the range of balls owned and stored.

The prize management device 60 performs inventory management by associating states such as "unselected", "selected", and "exchanged" with prizes. The inventory of physical prizes is the sum of the "unselected" prizes and the "selected" prizes, but the prize management device 60 allows the player to select a prize from the "unselected" prizes and the selected prizes. The selected prize is “Selected”. Then, when the prize exchange is executed, the status is changed from "selected" to "exchanged". That is, the prize selected by the player becomes "selected" and is not available for selection by other players. Therefore, the prize selected by the player is secured until the prize exchange is executed.

The prize management device 60 notifies the prize delivery device 90 of the selected prize, and issues a receipt on which information identifying the selected prize is printed.

The prize payout device 90 is a device that can store and pay out prizes. The prize payout devices 90 are individually provided for special prizes, general prizes, odd ball prizes, and the like. For the sake of convenience, the prize payout device 90 that stores and pays out special prizes will be referred to as a prize payout device 90A. For the sake of convenience, the prize payout device 90 for storing and paying out general prizes will be referred to as a prize payout device 90B. Similarly, for the sake of convenience, the prize payout device 90 that stores and pays out oddball prizes is referred to as a prize payout device 90C.

When notified of the selected prize from the prize managing device 60, the prize dispensing device 90 secures the prize until the prize is exchanged. Then, when the receipt held up by the player is read, among the prizes specified by the receipt, the prizes that can be paid out by the own device are paid out. The prize payout device 90 notifies the prize management device 60 of the payout of the prize, and changes the status of the product to "exchanged". In addition, if the prizes specified by the receipt include prizes that cannot be paid out by the prize dispensing device 90, the prize dispensing device 90 issues a receipt printed with information that can identify the remaining prizes after the prize dispensing device 90 pays out the prizes. do.

Therefore, for example, if a player selects a special prize, a general prize, or a small prize, he/she holds up a receipt to the prize dispensing device 90A, the prize dispensing device 90B, and the prize dispensing device 90C, respectively, and exchanges prizes with each device. It will be.

In this way, the prize management device 60 accepts the selection of a prize by a player, manages the inventory of prizes to secure the prize, and manages the prize inventory from the time the prize selection is received by the player until the prize exchange is executed. A payout device 90 exchanges the prize selected by the player with the ball or stored ball acquired by the player, thereby enabling the player to select the prize in advance, making the prize exchange at the game parlor more efficient, and increasing the efficiency of the game. It is possible to reduce the burden on the store and improve the convenience of the players.

Next, the system configuration of the game parlor will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the system configuration of the game parlor. As shown in FIG. 2, the game parlor is provided with a plurality of gaming machines 20 and inter-machine card processors 10 provided corresponding to the respective gaming machines 20 . The inter-machine card processing machine 10 is connected via an island controller 30 to a communication line, which is a network within the store. The island controller 30, the card management device 40, the member management device 50, the prize management device 60, the checkout machine 80, and the prize payout devices 90A to 90C are connected to the communication line.

The game machine 20 is a device for playing a game by hitting game balls onto a game board. A plurality of winning areas (award winning openings) are provided on the game board surface of the gaming machine 20, and a predetermined number of game balls are awarded as prize balls based on the game balls passing through the winning areas. It's becoming A predetermined number of starting areas (starting openings) are provided on the game board surface, and a predetermined lottery is conducted based on the passage of game balls through the starting areas. If the lottery results in a big hit, an operation that is advantageous in terms of the game is performed by operating a predetermined movable member, etc., such as improving the probability of the game ball passing through the winning area or another starting area. It should be noted that there may be an area that serves as both the starting area and the winning area.

The winning area is provided with a winning sensor for detecting the passage of game balls into the winning area, and the winning sensor detects the passage (winning) of the game balls hit into the winning area. ing. Also, the control unit of the gaming machine 20 has a prize memory for storing how many game balls are given as prizes for each prize area.

Therefore, when the winning sensor detects that the game balls that have been hit pass through the specific winning area, the gaming machine 20 determines the winning balls to be awarded based on the stored contents of the winning ball memory and the number of game balls that have passed through the winning area. The number can be determined, and payout processing can be performed for the determined number of prize balls.

The inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts payment, lends game balls, and communicates with the card management device 40 . When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts the banknotes inserted by the player, it transmits a payment notification including the payment amount to the card management device 40, thereby changing the prepaid value to the prepaid value managed by the card management device 40. - 特許庁add up. When a predetermined ball lending operation is performed, a ball lending request is transmitted to the card management device 40, the prepaid value managed by the card management device 40 is subtracted, and the number of games corresponding to the subtracted prepaid value is played. Payout processing of balls is performed.

Further, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 transmits a card insertion notification to the card management device 40 when the insertion of the card is accepted. Further, when the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the balance of prepaid value, owned balls or accumulated balls from the card management device 40, it stores the balance. Then, when the balance of the balls in hand is received and stored, the balance in the balls in hands managed by the card management device 40 is cleared to zero by transmitting a ball subtraction request to the card management device 40 .

In addition, when the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives a ball replay operation, it subtracts a predetermined number from the number of balls managed by its own device, and performs a payout process of the number of game balls corresponding to the subtracted number of balls. . Further, when the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives a stored ball replay operation, it transmits a stored ball replay request to the card management device 40, thereby subtracting a predetermined number from the number of stored balls managed by the member management device 50, A payout process of game balls corresponding to the number of stored balls that has been subtracted is performed.

Further, when the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives a re-play operation, it subtracts a predetermined number from the number of possessed balls and accumulated balls of other game types, and performs payout processing of the corresponding number of game balls.

Further, when the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the card return operation, it transmits a ball-handed addition request including the number of balls-handed to the card management device 40, and after causing the card management device 40 to add the balls-handed, A card ejection notification is sent to the card management device 40 to control card ejection.

The island controller 30 is a relay device for bundling a group of gaming machines 20 and inter-machine card processing machines 10 provided on a game island. The card management device 40 is a management device that manages the prepaid value of the card, the number of balls held, etc. as card data.

When the card management device 40 receives the card insertion notification from the inter-machine card processor 10, the card management device 40 associates the ID of the inserted card with the inter-machine card processor 10 and manages the prepaid card associated with the card ID. The value and the balance of balls on hand are transmitted to the inter-machine card processing machine 10. - 特許庁In addition, it transmits a card insertion notification to the member management device 50 and transmits accumulated ball replay data and the like received from the member management device 50 to the inter-machine card processing machine 10 .

Further, when receiving a ball-in-hand subtraction request from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the card management device 40 clears the balance of the ball-in-hand to zero, and receives a ball-in-hand addition request from the card processor 10 between machines. In this case, the number of balls indicated in the ball addition request is added to the balance of balls.

Further, when receiving a ball lending request from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the card management device 40 subtracts a predetermined value from the prepaid value associated with the card ID, and sends ball lending permission to the inter-machine card processing machine 10. Send. When the accumulated ball replay request is received, the accumulated ball replay request is transmitted to the member management device 50, and when the member management device 50 outputs the accumulated ball replay data, the accumulated ball replay data is sent to the machine. Send to card processing machine 10 .

Further, when the card ID is received from the prize management device 60, the card management device 40 notifies the prize management device 60 of the number of balls associated with the card ID. Furthermore, when the card ID is received from the payment machine 80, the payment machine 80 is notified of the prepaid value associated with this card ID and the mobile phone Idm.

The member management device 50 is a management device that manages member management data of members registered as members of the amusement arcade. Specifically, the number of stored balls, points, personal identification number, name, etc. are managed in association with the membership card ID issued to the member.

Upon receiving the card insertion notification from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the member management device 50 transmits accumulated ball replay data including the balance of accumulated balls and the personal identification number corresponding to the card ID indicated in the card insertion notification to the machine. Send to card processing machine 10 . Further, upon receiving the accumulated balls replay request from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the member management device 50 subtracts a predetermined number from the balance of accumulated balls associated with the card ID indicated in the accumulated balls replay request. to the inter-machine card processing machine 10. Communication between the inter-machine card processing machine 10 and the member management device 50 is performed via the card management device 40 .

Further, when receiving an inquiry about the number of stored balls from the prize management device 60, the member management device 50 notifies the prize management device 60 of the balance of the stored balls corresponding to the designated card ID.

The prize management device 60 is a device that manages prizes, as already described. Also, the prize payout devices 90A to 90C are devices for storing and paying out prizes, as already explained.

When the card associated with the prepaid value is inserted, the fare adjustment machine 80 transmits the card ID of this card to the card management device 40, acquires the prepaid value associated with the card, and stores the acquired prepaid value. Pay out the equivalent cash.

Ball lending processing when ball lending is performed by the system shown in FIG. 2 will be described. When a player performs a ball lending operation to the inter-machine card processor 10, the inter-machine card processor 10 transmits a message specifying the local address of the card management device 40 as the destination. This electronic message includes the card ID of the card inserted in the inter-machine card processor 10, an address or arbitrary identification information specifying the inter-machine card processor 10 that is the sender, and a ball lending request.

When the card management device 40 receives an electronic message containing a ball lending request, the card management device 40 subtracts a predetermined value (for example, 100 points when 1 yen = 1 point) from the prepaid value associated with the card ID in the electronic message to manage the card. The data is updated, and permission for ball lending is transmitted to the inter-machine card processing machine 10 of the transmission source. The inter-machine card processing machine 10 that has received the ball lending permission performs the payout process of the number of game balls (for example, 25) corresponding to the subtracted prepaid value.

Next, a description will be given of the ball replay processing when the ball is replayed in the system shown in FIG. When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts the insertion of a general card or a membership card, it transmits a message specifying the local address of the card management device 40 as the destination. This electronic message contains the card ID of the card inserted in the inter-machine card processor 10, the address or arbitrary identification information specifying the inter-machine card processor 10 that is the sender, and the rate of the inter-machine card processor 10. and a card insertion notification.

When receiving the card insertion notification from the inter-machine card processor 10, the card management device 40 notifies the inter-machine card processor 10 of the balance of the balls associated with the card ID in the message.

The inter-machine card processing machine 10 stores the balance of balls in hand received from the card management device 40 . Then, it transmits to the card management device 40 a telegram containing information specifying the card ID and a request to subtract the number of balls held. When receiving the ball-on-hand subtraction request, the card management device 40 clears the balance of the ball-on-hand specified by the card ID to zero. In addition, when the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the replay operation of the balls held, the balance of the balls held is subtracted by a constant number, and the corresponding number of game balls are paid out.

When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts the card return operation, it transmits a telegraphic message including a request to add balls to the card management device 40 . This electronic message includes the card ID of the card to be discharged, the address or arbitrary identification information specifying the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that is the sender, the balance of balls in each rate, and a request to add balls to the ball.

When the card management device 40 receives the ball-on-hand addition request, the card management device 40 updates the balance of the ball-on-hand for each rate associated with the card ID in the message to the received value.

Thereafter, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 transmits a card discharge notification to the card management device 40 and controls card discharge.

Next, a description will be given of accumulated ball replay processing in the case of replaying accumulated balls in the system shown in FIG. The inter-machine card processing machine 10 designates the local address of the card management device 40 as a destination when a membership card is inserted or identification information corresponding to the card ID is read from a mobile terminal that can be used as a membership card. send a telegram. This telegram contains the card ID of the card inserted in the inter-machine card processing machine 10 (or identification information corresponding to the card ID read from the portable terminal; hereinafter referred to as card ID) and the inter-machine card processing that is the sender. It includes an address or any identifying information that identifies machine 10 and a card insertion notification.

The card management device 40 transmits a card insertion notification message to the member management device 50 . When the member management device 50 receives a card insertion notification message, the member management device 50 includes the personal identification number associated with the card ID in the message and the balance of the accumulated balls at the rate specified by the message. The accumulated ball replay data is transmitted to the inter-machine card processing machine 10.例文帳に追加

The inter-machine card processing machine 10 stores the received ball replay data, and the balance of the accumulated balls indicated in the accumulated ball replay data is the payout unit number of game balls (the accumulated ball replay unit number. For example, 125 balls). ), it is possible to accept the stored ball replay operation.

After storing the accumulated ball replay data, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 requests the player to enter a personal identification number when receiving the accumulated ball replay operation for the first time. Confirm that it matches the PIN number shown in .

When the personal identification numbers match, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 transmits a message specifying the local address of the card management device 40 as the destination. This electronic message contains the card ID of the card inserted in the inter-machine card processor 10, the address or arbitrary identification information specifying the inter-machine card processor 10 that is the sender, and the rate of the inter-machine card processor 10. and a request to replay the accumulated balls.

The card management device 40 transmits a stored ball replay request message to the member management device 50 . When the member management device 50 receives a telegram requesting replay of accumulated balls, it subtracts a predetermined value from the balance of accumulated balls at a rate specified by the telegram among the accumulated balls associated with the card ID in the telegram, Collected ball replay data including the balance after subtraction is transmitted to the inter-machine card processing machine 10.例文帳に追加

The inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the stored ball replay data, updates the balance of the stored balls, and performs the payout process of the number of game balls corresponding to the number of units of stored ball replay. Also, it is determined whether or not the updated balance of accumulated balls has become less than the number of replay units for accumulated balls. If the updated balance of accumulated ball data is equal to or more than the number of units for replaying accumulated balls, it is possible to accept the operation for replaying accumulated balls again, and when the operation for replaying accumulated balls is accepted, a request for replaying accumulated balls is transmitted. It is not necessary to confirm the personal identification number in the second and subsequent stored ball replay operations. If the balance of the accumulated ball data after updating becomes less than the number of units for replaying the accumulated balls, the operation for replaying the accumulated balls cannot be accepted. Here, the case where the inter-machine card processing machine 10 performs the game ball payout process after the member management device 50 subtracts the balance of the accumulated balls is illustrated, but the game ball payout process is performed based on the accumulated ball replay request. After doing so, the balance of the accumulated balls may be subtracted. This is because the accumulated ball replay data before the accumulated ball replay request indicates whether or not there is a balance necessary for replaying the accumulated balls, and it is not possible to find out that the balance is insufficient after receiving the ball accumulated replay request. be.

Next, a description will be given of the transition from ball possession to ball storage in the closing process. The card management device 40 checks the balance of the balls in the card management data at the time of the closing process, and if there is a ball whose balance is greater than "0", the balance of the balls is displayed as the card ID and the rate. together with notification to the member management apparatus 50 . The member management device 50 updates the balance of accumulated balls specified by the card ID and the rate by adding the notified ball balance. After that, the card management device 40 clears the balance of the balls to zero.

Next, the functional configuration of the prize management device 60 shown in FIG. 2 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of prize management device 60 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the prize management device 60 includes an operation unit 62, a receipt issuing unit 63, a display unit 64, a storage unit 65, a control unit 66, a card reader 67a, a store clerk tag reader 67b, a mobile terminal reader 67c, and a communication unit 68. have

The operation unit 62 is an input interface that accepts operations of game players and store clerks. The receipt issuing unit 63 is a thermal printer or the like, and issues various receipts such as a receipt printed with information specifying the selected prize. The display unit 64 is an output interface that performs display output, and is configured by a liquid crystal display or the like.

The card reader 67a reads the card ID from the player's card. The clerk tag reader 67b reads the clerk ID from the clerk tag of the game clerk. The mobile terminal reader 67c reads information corresponding to the card ID from the mobile terminal when a mobile terminal that can be used as a membership card is held up.

The communication section 68 is an interface section for the prize management device 60 to communicate with other devices via a communication line.

The storage unit 65 is a storage device such as a hard disk drive or a non-volatile memory, and stores a prize master 65a and prize inventory data 65b. The prize master 65a is data used when game balls are exchanged for prizes, and is received from, for example, the member management device 50 and stored. The prize inventory data 65b is data for managing the prize inventory.

The control unit 66 is a control unit that controls the entire prize management device 60, and has a prize management unit 66a, a prize selection acceptance unit 66b, a prize inventory management unit 66c, and a replenishment determination unit 66d. In practice, programs corresponding to these functional units are stored in a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (not shown), and these programs are loaded into a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and executed. , the prize selection reception unit 66b, the prize inventory management unit 66c, and the replenishment determination unit 66d are caused to execute corresponding processes.

The prize management unit 66a is a management unit that uses the prize master 65a stored in the storage unit 65 to manage the number of exchange balls for special prizes and general prizes to be handled by the prize management device 60, and the like. The prize management unit 66a acquires the prize master from the member management device 50 and stores it in the storage unit 65 as the prize master 65a.

The prize selection reception unit 66b is a processing unit that selects a prize to be exchanged for a prize. The prize selection accepting unit 66b transmits the card ID read by the card reader 67a or the mobile terminal reader 67c to the card management device 40, and acquires the balance of balls and accumulated balls associated with the card ID. The prize selection accepting unit 66b accepts selection of special prizes and general prizes based on the prize master 65a within the range of the balance of balls and accumulated balls.

Specifically, when a special prize is specified by the operation of the player, the prize selection reception unit 66b asks for a combination of types and numbers of special prizes that can be exchanged within the range of the balance of the balls and the accumulated balls. as a prize of choice. In addition, the prize selection reception unit 66b selects the prize designated by the player through the operation of the operation unit 62 as the general prize. The odd ball prize may be selected by receiving the specification of the player, or may be selected by the prize selection receiving unit 66b according to the balance of the player's own balls and stored balls.

The prize selection reception unit 66b notifies the prize dispensing device 90 of the selected prize, and issues a receipt on which information identifying the selected prize is printed. Specifically, the name of the prize, the number of prizes, the number of exchange balls, etc. are printed. Further, an ID for uniquely identifying the receipt and information for identifying the player may be printed.

The prize inventory management unit 66c stores prize inventory data 65b in the storage unit 65 in association with states such as "unselected", "selected", and "exchanged" for prizes, thereby managing the inventory of prizes. conduct. The inventory of physical prizes is the sum of the "unselected" prizes and the "selected" prizes, but the prize inventory management unit 66c allows the player to select a prize from the "unselected" prizes, The selected prize is "selected". Then, when the prize exchange is executed, the status is changed from "selected" to "exchanged". That is, the prize selected by the player becomes "selected" and is not available for selection by other players. Therefore, the prize selected by the player is secured until the prize exchange is executed.

Also, the prize inventory management unit 66c can perform cancellation processing for canceling the selection of prizes. In this case, the prize inventory management unit 66c changes the "selected" prize to "unselected" and issues a card associated with the number of balls in exchange.

Also, the prize inventory management unit 66c can perform cancellation processing for canceling the selection of prizes when a predetermined time limit has passed. Specifically, if the “selected” prize is not exchanged on the day and the store is closed, the “selected” prize will be changed to “unselected” and the number of exchange balls will be held. Take in the ball and process it. Alternatively, when a member player is associated, the number of balls in possession corresponding to the number of exchange balls may be transferred to stored balls.

The replenishment determination unit 66d refers to the prize inventory data 65b managed by the prize inventory management unit 66c and determines whether or not it is necessary to replenish the prizes. The inventory of physical prizes is the total of "unselected" prizes and "selected" prizes. is used as the predicted stock quantity, and whether or not the prize needs to be replenished is determined based on the predicted stock quantity. If it is determined that replenishment is necessary, the replenishment determination unit 66d places an order for the prize.

Next, a specific example of the prize master 65a shown in FIG. 3 will be described. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the prize master 65a shown in FIG. The prize master 65a shown in FIG. 4 is data that associates a prize code that uniquely identifies a prize with a prize name, a group code, a prize value, and the number of redeemable balls. Here, the group code is identification information for classifying and managing prizes. Group code "01" indicates a special prize that can be transferred for a predetermined value through a certain procedure. Group codes from "02" onward are general prizes including daily necessities other than special prizes.

The prize master 65a stores the prize code "0001", the prize name "grand prize", the group code "01", the prize value "1000", the number of exchange balls for ball 1 "250", and the number of exchange balls for ball 2 "500". ” and the exchange ball number “1000” of the ball 3 are associated.

Also, the prize master 65a stores the prize code "0002", the prize name "small prize", the group code "01", the prize value "100", the number of balls exchanged for ball 1 "25", and the number of balls exchanged for ball 2. "50" and the exchange ball number "100" of the ball 3 are associated.

Also, the prize master 65a stores the prize code "0100", the prize name "M Seven", the group code "02", the prize value "400", the number of exchange balls for ball 1 "100", and the number of exchange balls for ball 2. "200" and the exchange ball number "400" of the ball 3 are associated.

Also, the prize master 65a stores the prize code "0101", the prize name "rack", the group code "02", the prize value "420", the number of exchange balls for ball 1 "105", and the number of exchange balls for ball 2 " 210” and the exchange ball number of the ball 3 “420” are associated with each other.

Also, the prize master 65a stores the prize code "0600", the prize name "end ball candy", the group code "04", the prize value "12", the number of exchange balls for ball 1 "3", and the exchange balls for ball 2. The number "6" and the exchange ball number "12" of the ball 3 are associated.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the prize inventory data 65b shown in FIG. The prize inventory data 65b shown in FIG. 5 is data in which the prize code, prize name, and group code are associated with the total number of stocks and details of the stock. Inventory details show the number of unselected, selected and redeemed items. Total Inventory is the number of physical prizes in stock, equal to the sum of unselected prizes and selected prizes.

In FIG. 5, the prize inventory data 65b includes prize code "0001", prize name "grand prize", group code "01", total inventory "500", unselected "480", selected "20", exchanged associated with "200".

In addition, the prize stock data 65b is for prize code "0002", prize name "small prize", group code "01", total stock "400", unselected "350", selected "50", exchanged "300". ” is associated.

In addition, the prize stock data 65b is for prize code “0100”, prize name “M Seven”, group code “02”, total stock “100”, unselected “90”, selected “10”, exchanged “ 50” are associated.

In addition, the prize stock data 65b includes the prize code “0101”, prize name “rack”, group code “02”, total stock “100”, unselected “100”, selected “0”, exchanged “30”. ” is associated.

In addition, the prize inventory data 65b includes the prize code “0600”, the prize name “Tama-ame”, the group code “04”, the total number of stocks “700”, the unselected “670”, the selected “30”, and the exchanged "300" is associated.

Next, the configuration of the prize dispensing device 90 shown in FIG. 2 will be described. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the prize payout device 90 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 6, the prize dispensing device 90 has a display section 91, an operation section 92, a receipt reading section 93a, a receipt issuing section 93b, a prize storage section 94, a storage section 95, a control section 96 and a communication section 98.

The display unit 91 is a display device that outputs a display to the player who is the operator, and is composed of a liquid crystal display or the like. The operation unit 92 is an operation key or the like that receives an operation input. Alternatively, the display unit 91 and the operation unit 92 may be integrally formed by using a touch panel display or the like.

The receipt reading unit 93a reads the selected prize from the receipt held up by the player. The receipt issuing unit 93b prints a receipt showing the selected prizes remaining after the prize exchange in its own device. The prize storage unit 94 is a storage unit that stores prizes, and can pay out the prizes under the control of the control unit 96 . The communication unit 98 is an interface unit for the prize dispensing device 90 to communicate with devices such as the prize management device 60 via a communication line. The storage unit 95 is a storage device such as a hard disk drive or a non-volatile memory, and stores a prize master 95a and prize inventory data 95b. The prize master 95a and the prize inventory data 95b are the prize master and prize inventory data related to the prizes that can be exchanged with the device itself, and are partial data of the prize master 65a and the prize inventory data 65b managed by the prize management device 60.

The control unit 96 is a control unit that controls the entire prize management device 60, and has a prize inventory management unit 96a and a prize exchange unit 96b. In practice, programs corresponding to these functional units are stored in a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (not shown), and these programs are loaded into the CPU and executed to control the prize stock management unit 96a and the prize exchange unit. 96b will execute the corresponding process.

The prize inventory management unit 96a is a processing unit that manages the inventory of prizes of the own device. The prize inventory management section 96 a manages the inventory of prizes stored in the prize storage section 94 . Specifically, the prize inventory management unit 96a stores the total inventory indicating the number of actual prizes stored in the prize storage unit 94, the number of unselected prizes and the number of selected prizes in the total inventory, and the number of prizes selected. The number of prizes that have been dispensed from the storage unit 94 and have been exchanged is stored in the prize inventory data 95b and managed.

When the prize storage unit 94 is replenished with prizes, the prize inventory management unit 96a updates the total inventory quantity and the unselected quantity, and notifies the prize management device 60 of them. Also, upon receiving a notification of a selected prize from the prize management device 60, the prize inventory management unit 96a changes unselected to selected according to the notification. When the prize exchange unit 96b exchanges the prize, the exchanged prize is changed to the exchanged prize, the total number of stocks is reduced, and the prize management device 60 is notified. When the prize inventory management unit 96a receives a notice of cancellation from the prize management device 60, it changes the selection to unselected according to the notice.

The prize exchange unit 96b is a processing unit that executes prize exchange for exchanging the prize selected by the player for the player's own ball or stored ball. Specifically, the prize exchange unit 96b pays out the prizes that can be paid out by its own device, among the prizes specified by the receipt reading unit 93a by reading the receipt. In addition, if the prizes specified by the prize exchange unit 96b and the receipt include prizes that cannot be paid out by the own device, the prize exchange unit 96b issues a receipt printed with information capable of specifying the remaining prizes after the payment by the own device. .

The prize exchange section 96b can also change the selected prize to another prize. In this case, the selected prize is canceled and another prize is newly selected. The prizes to be newly selected may be limited to prizes that can be paid out by the device itself. When making it possible to newly select a prize that cannot be dispensed by its own device, the inventory status of the other prize dispensing devices 90 is acquired from the prize management device 60, the selection is made within the range of the acquired inventory, and the result of the selection is the prize. The management device 60 is notified.

Next, a processing procedure for prize selection by the prize management device 60 will be described. FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure for selecting a prize by the prize management device 60. As shown in FIG. First, the prize selection reception unit 66b of the prize management device 60 receives a card from the card reader 67a or the portable terminal reader 67c (step S101). Then, the card ID is transmitted to the card management device 40 to acquire the balance of balls and accumulated balls associated with the card ID, and selection of special prizes and general prizes is accepted within the range of the balance of owned balls and accumulated balls (step S102).

When a prize is selected, the prize inventory management unit 66c marks the selected prize as "selected" (step S103). The prize selection receiving unit 66b notifies the prize dispensing device 90 of the selected prize (step S104), issues a receipt printed with information that can identify the selected prize (step S105), and ends the process. .

Next, the processing procedure of prize payout by the prize payout device 90 will be described. FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the processing procedure of prize payout by the prize payout device 90. As shown in FIG. First, the receipt reading unit 93a of the prize dispensing device 90 reads the receipt presented by the player (step S201).

The prize exchange unit 96b displays the selected prize specified by the receipt on the display unit 91 (step S202). After that, if the confirmation operation by the player is not accepted (step S203; No) and the operation to change the selected prize is accepted (step S204), the changed selected product is displayed (step S202).

After the selected prize is displayed, if the confirmation operation is received (step S203; Yes), the prize exchange unit 96b pays out the prize from the prize storage unit 94 (step S205), and sets the prize to "exchanged" (step S206). ). Then, the exchanged prize is notified to the prize management device 60 as a prize to be exchanged (step S207), and it is determined whether or not there are any prizes to be exchanged with other devices (step S208).

If there are prizes left to be exchanged with another device (step S208; Yes), the prize exchange unit 96b issues a receipt on which information identifying the remaining prizes is printed (step S209), and ends the process. . On the other hand, if there are no prizes remaining to be exchanged with another device (step S208; No), the process is terminated.

Next, a processing procedure for canceling a selected prize based on player's operation will be described. FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure for canceling a selected prize based on player's operation. Upon receipt of the receipt (step S301), the prize inventory management unit 66c displays the selected prize specified in the receipt on the display unit 64 (step S302). Thereafter, the player's cancel operation is accepted (step S303), the "selected" prize is changed to "unselected" (step S304), and the canceled prize is notified to the prize dispensing device 90 as a canceled prize (step S304). S305). Then, a card associated with the number of balls to be exchanged for the canceled prize is issued (step S306), and the process ends.

Next, the processing procedure for canceling the selected prize when the store is closed will be described. FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the procedure for canceling the selected prize when the store is closed. The prize inventory management unit 66c refers to the prize inventory data 95b and determines whether or not there is a prize in the "selected" state when the amusement arcade is closed (step S401).

If there is no "selected" prize (step S402; No), the prize inventory management unit 66c terminates the process. On the other hand, if there is a "selected" prize (step S402; Yes), the prize inventory management unit 66c changes the "selected" prize to "unselected" (step S403). The canceled prize is notified as a canceled prize (step S404), and the process ends.

Next, prediction of inventory fluctuation will be described. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating prediction of inventory fluctuations. The game parlor refers to the prize inventory data 65b of the prize management device 60 and predicts the inventory fluctuation (1). The inventory of physical prizes is the total of "unselected" prizes and "selected" prizes. The number of stocks is the forecast inventory quantity. By judging the necessity of replenishment of prizes based on the predicted inventory rather than the actual inventory, and placing an advance order with the prize wholesaler (2), delivery from the prize wholesaler is made before the actual inventory runs out. (3).

Next, exchange of prizes by type will be described. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of the exchange of prizes by type. In the explanation so far, the case where the player specifies and selects the desired prize has been explained as an example. That is, the selected prize is uniquely identified on the prize master 65a, and inventory can be managed. However, there are cases where, for example, when multiple types of juice are registered in the prize master 65a, the type of prize is specified, such as "one bottle of juice".

When a prize is selected by specifying the type in this way, as shown in FIG. 12, the prize management device 60 stores type-selected prize data 65c specifying the type and the number of redeemable balls. Then, the prizes are secured so that the prizes satisfying the type and the number of exchange balls indicated in the type selection prize data 65c remain until the execution of the prize exchange.

For example, if "Type: Juice" and "Number of balls to be exchanged: 1 x 25 balls" are specified and Juice J1, Juice J2, and Juice J3 are applicable, any one of these may remain.

Next, a modification of prize selection will be described. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a modification of prize selection. Selectable prizes include special prizes, general prizes, and oddball prizes, as already described. When the player designates a special prize, the prize management device 60 searches for a combination of the types and numbers of special prizes that can be exchanged within the balance of the balls and accumulated balls based on the list of special prizes. Automatically select prizes.

On the other hand, for general prizes, the prize management device 60 accepts selection operations by the player from the general prize list. That is, the general prize is selected by the player himself.

The odd ball prize is exchanged with the remaining ball after selecting the special prize or the general prize. When the game clerk operates the prize management device 60, the player is prompted to select a prize desired by the player from the list of odd ball prizes.

However, when the player himself/herself operates the prize management device 60, it is cumbersome and burdensome for the player to select the odd ball prize just to consume the remaining balls. Therefore, the prize management device 60 can automatically select the odd prize.

Specifically, among the odd ball prizes included in the odd ball product list, a specific prize is designated as the odd ball prize for automatic selection, and if it is specified to be exchanged for the odd ball prize, the remaining The number of odd ball prizes for automatic selection may be determined according to the number of balls held.

Alternatively, if you set multiple odd ball prizes with different numbers of exchange balls as odd ball prizes for automatic selection, and if you specify to exchange with odd ball prizes, you can automatically select according to the remaining balls you have. It is sufficient to determine the combination of the edge ball prizes.

As described above, in the system according to the present embodiment, it is possible to accept the selection of prizes by players, and the inventory of prizes is managed to secure the prizes from the time the selection is accepted until the prize exchange is executed. Then, the secured prize is exchanged for the game medium (balls and stored balls) acquired by the player. Therefore, it is possible for the player to select a prize in advance, to improve the efficiency of prize exchange at the game parlor, to reduce the burden on the amusement shop, and to improve the convenience for the player.

In addition, in this embodiment, prizes can be secured by managing prizes in association with a plurality of states including unselected, selected, and exchanged.

Also, in this embodiment, the exchange of prizes can be executed based on the player's operation.

Also, in this embodiment, a receipt printed with information that can identify the selected prize can be issued, and the information printed on the receipt can be read to execute the prize exchange.

In addition, in the present embodiment, it is possible to receive selection of prizes in units of types specifying the number of exchange media, which is the number of game media required for exchange, and the type of prize. , the prizes can be secured so that the prizes of the designated number and type of exchange media remain until the execution of the prize exchange.

Also, in this embodiment, the selected prize can be changed to another prize. In addition, it is possible to cancel the selected product. The selected product can be canceled based on the player's operation, or when a predetermined period of time has passed.

Further, in this embodiment, it is possible to determine whether or not the prize should be replenished based on the state of prize selection.

In this embodiment, the prize management device 60 selects all the prizes in advance, but some of the prizes may be settled after they are selected. For example, as for the odd ball prize, the player may select a prize in a predetermined area, subtract the number of balls for the selected prize, and leave the area.

In this embodiment, the prize management device 60, which manages the inventory of prizes, receives selection of prizes by players. A configuration may be adopted in which selection of a prize by a customer is accepted.

Further, in the present embodiment, a receipt is issued on which information that can identify the selected prize is printed, and the information printed on the receipt is read to exchange the prize. The information that can identify the prize can be output by any method. For example, the information that can identify the selected prize is encoded into a two-dimensional code and output, the player's mobile terminal device (such as a smartphone) stores the two-dimensional code, and the two-dimensional code is displayed on the display unit of the mobile terminal device. may be read by the prize dispensing device 90 while is displayed. Information that can identify the selected prize is associated with a terminal ID that uniquely identifies the mobile terminal device of the player, and the prize delivery device 90 selects the prize based on the terminal ID received from the mobile terminal device. Identifiable information may be obtained.

Also, in the above-described embodiment, a detailed description of the form of the card, which is the medium associated with the number of game media, has been omitted, but such cards include magnetic cards, IC cards, and the like. In addition, although the "card" is used as an example for convenience of explanation, the present invention can also be applied to a case where a chip, a stick, a portable terminal, or the like is used other than such a card.

Also, each illustrated configuration is a functional schematic, and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the form of distribution/integration of each device is not limited to the illustrated one, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed/integrated in arbitrary units according to various loads and usage conditions. Can be configured.

As described above, the prize exchange management system and prize exchange management method according to the present invention are suitable for improving the efficiency of prize exchange.

10 inter-machine card processing machine 20 game machine 30 island controller 40 card management device 50 member management device 60 prize management device 62, 92 operating unit 63, 93b receipt issuing unit 64, 91 display unit 65, 95 storage unit 65a, 95a prize master 65b, 95b Prize inventory data 66 Control unit 66a Prize management unit 66b Prize selection reception unit 66c, 96a Prize stock management unit 66d Replenishment determination unit 67a Card reader 67b Sales clerk tag reader 67c Mobile terminal reader 68, 98 Communication unit 80 Payment machine 90, 90A , 90B, 90C Prize dispensing device 93a Receipt reading unit 94 Prize storage unit 96b Prize exchange unit

Claims (10)

A prize management device for managing the exchange of prizes for game media acquired by players through games, and a plurality of prize payout devices for paying out different types of prizes set as payout targets of the device itself. A prize exchange management system comprising :
The prize management device
prize selection receiving means for receiving selection of a prize by the player;
a first medium ejecting means for ejecting a medium recording information capable of identifying the prize selected by the player;
prize inventory management means for managing the inventory of the prizes so as to secure the prizes from the reception of the selection of the prizes by the player to the execution of the exchange of the prizes by the plurality of prize payout devices;
with
The plurality of prize dispensing devices are
reading means for reading information capable of identifying the prize selected by the player from the medium;
a prize exchanging means for exchanging a prize of a type set as a payout target of the own device selected by the player for a game medium acquired by the player;
a second medium ejecting means for ejecting a medium recording information capable of specifying a prize of a type when there is a prize of a type that cannot be dispensed from the device;
A prize exchange management system comprising: The plurality of prize dispensing devices are
A first prize payout device for exchanging prescribed special prizes, a second prize payout device for exchanging prescribed general prizes, and a third prize payout device for exchanging prescribed oddball prizes. 2. A prize redemption management system as recited in claim 1, comprising: 3. The prize exchange management system according to claim 1 , wherein said prize inventory management means associates and manages a plurality of states including unselected, selected, and exchanged for said prize. 4. The prize exchange management system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein said prize exchange means executes said prize exchange based on the player's operation. The prize selection receiving means is capable of receiving selection of prizes in units of types, specifying the number of exchange media, which is the number of game media required for exchange, and the type of the prize,
The prize inventory management means is characterized in that, when the prizes are selected on a per-type basis, the prizes are secured so that the prizes of the designated number and type of exchange media remain until the prize exchange is executed. A prize exchange management system according to any one of claims 1 to 4. 6. The prize exchange management system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said prize exchange means can change the prize received by said prize selection reception means to another prize. 7. The prize exchange management system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein said prize inventory management means can cancel selection of a prize received by said prize selection reception means. 8. A prize exchange management system according to claim 7, wherein said prize inventory management means cancels the selection of prizes received by said prize selection reception means when a predetermined time limit has passed. 9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising replenishment determining means for determining whether or not replenishment of prizes is necessary based on the selection of prizes managed by said prize inventory management means. prize redemption management system. A prize management device for managing the exchange of prizes for game media acquired by players through games, and a plurality of prize payout devices for paying out different types of prizes set as payout targets of the device itself. A prize exchange management method in a prize exchange management system comprising :
a prize selection receiving step in which the prize management device receives selection of a prize by the player;
a first medium ejection step of ejecting a medium recording information capable of identifying the prize selected by the player;
The prize inventory for managing the inventory of the prizes so as to secure the prizes from when the prize management device accepts the selection of the prizes by the player until the plurality of prize payout devices exchange the prizes for prizes. a management step;
a reading step in which the plurality of prize payout devices reads information capable of identifying the prize selected by the player from the medium;
a prize exchanging step in which the plurality of prize payout devices exchanges a prize of a type set as a payout target of the device selected by the player and a game medium acquired by the player ;
a second medium ejecting means step of ejecting a medium recording information capable of identifying a prize of a type when the plurality of prize payout devices have a prize of a type that cannot be dispensed from the device;
A prize exchange management method, comprising:

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