JPH04285577A - Card/receipt issuing machine and pachinko prize exchange system using the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To provide a system for performing exchange of pachinko (Japanese pinball) prize and balls acquired in a play hall on the basis of a card or receipt, which is issued according to the present invention while the number of balls is recorded thereon. CONSTITUTION:A pachinko prize exchange system used in a play hall according to the invention includes a counting machine, which counts the number of playing media, for example balls, cast in by a customer, and a card/receipt issuing machine which selects either of the card and receipt, records the counted value thereon, and releases it to the customer.

Description

[Detailed description of the invention]

0001

[Industrial Application Field] The present invention is a prize system in which the number of acquired game media such as pachinko balls and medals used in a game hall such as a pachinko hall is recorded on a recording medium, and prizes are exchanged based on this recording medium. Concerning exchange systems.

0002

[Prior Art] Conventionally, as a prize exchange system in a game hall, the applicant of the present invention proposed the system disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 59-7259.
There is a prize exchange system described in No. 6. In this prize exchange system, the pachinko balls obtained after playing the game are placed into a ball counting machine installed at the edge of the island where the gaming machines are lined up, the balls are counted, and a receipt is issued with the results printed in barcodes. . When a customer wants to exchange a prize, they take their receipt to the prize exchange counter, the counter operator reads the contents of the receipt received from the customer using a barcode scanner, and exchanges it for a prize within the number of prize balls. It is supposed to be done.

0003

[Problems to be Solved by the Invention] However, in the conventional prize exchange system using receipts, if a failure occurs in a part of the receipt issuing machine or the receipt reader, the prize exchange system may go down or the prize exchange system may fail. There is a problem that the operating rate is greatly reduced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a card/receipt issuing machine and a prize exchange system using the card/receipt issuing machine that can prevent the prize exchange system from going down and the operating rate from decreasing.

[0005]

[Means for Solving the Problems] In order to achieve the above object, the prize exchange system of the present invention includes a record that counts the number of game media acquired by a customer and records counting data including at least the counted value of the game media. In a prize exchange system in which a medium is issued and a prize exchange is made possible by reading the counting data recorded on the issued recording medium, a card on which counting data of the gaming medium is recorded is issued as the recording medium. an issuing means, a receipt issuing means for issuing, as the recording medium, a receipt recording count data of the gaming medium; and selectively operating either the card issuing means or the receipt issuing means in response to a command. The present invention is characterized by comprising a card/receipt issuing mode setting means.

[0006]

[Operation] Cards and receipts are used as recording media for recording counting data in the prize exchange system, and by appropriately switching each issuing means for issuing both, if an abnormality occurs while issuing one of the recording media, the other is used. Switch to prevent system failure. Further, a recording medium to be issued is selected in accordance with the number of game media acquired. For example, a card with a good image and premium quality is issued to a customer who has acquired a large number of game media, and a receipt is issued to a customer who has acquired a small number of game media.

[0007] In this way, system downs related to the issuance of recording media in the prize exchange system are avoided and reliability is increased, and while increasing customer satisfaction through card issuance, the cost of issuing recording media can be reduced by using receipts in combination. It becomes possible to suppress this.

[0008]

Embodiments Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, the system of the game hall will be explained. FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the inside of the game hall, and FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of a prize exchange system within the game hall.

In FIG. 1, money exchange machines CEN1 and CEN2 are arranged near the entrance at the front of the game hall. Types of gaming machines include, for example, a medal gaming machine 1, a pachinko gaming machine 2, etc., and an island is formed by a group of gaming machines arranged in a line. Near each gaming machine, a medal lending machine and an intermachine ball lending machine are provided that provide medals as gaming media in exchange for coins. The medal lending machine and the ball lending machine are controlled by a controller CTR provided on each island. A medal counting machine 3 is placed at the end of the island of the medal gaming machine 1.
The number of inserted medals is counted and the counted value is transmitted to a card/receipt issuing machine 4 arranged adjacent to a medal counting machine 3. A ball counting machine 5 is arranged at the end of the island of the pachinko machine 2, which counts the number of prize balls that have been thrown in, and converts the counted value into a card/receipt issuing machine arranged adjacent to the ball counting machine 5. 4. The card/receipt issuing machine 4 is a card that records the number of medals or balls inserted into a counting machine.
Or issue a receipt.

[0010] A prize exchange counter is provided at the back of the game hall. The prize exchange counter is divided into an unmanned counter 6 and a manned counter 7, and the unmanned counter 6 is
It is composed of a prize dispensing machine 8, a card processing machine 9, and a child management machine 12. In addition, the manned counter 7 is equipped with a prize throwing machine 8.
, a card processing machine 9, a barcode scanner 11, and a master management machine 13.

At the unmanned counter 6, when the prize exchanger inserts a card into the card processing machine 9 and instructs the prize exchange, the prize dispensing machine 8 dispenses a prize corresponding to the counted value. In addition to the card processing machine 9, the manned counter 7 is equipped with a barcode scanner 11, which reads recorded data of issued receipts. At the manned counter 7, in addition to the prizes stored in the prize dispensing machine 8, various kinds of prizes are prepared on display shelves, and various prizes are exchanged. The contents of the entire prize exchange are compiled in the master management machine 13 and used for inventory, shipping management, etc.

FIG. 3 schematically shows the flow of the game, in which a player purchases game media using a ball lending machine or a medal lending machine (step S1). The player selects an appropriate gaming machine. For example, the number of game media is increased using the pachinko game machine 2 (step S2). Then, the game is stopped and the increased game media is exchanged for prizes. When the player inserts a prize ball into an empty counting machine 5 (step S3), the card or receipt recording the number of prize balls is sent to the card/receipt issuing machine 4.
(Step S4). Bring this card or receipt to the prize exchange counter. When a player inserts a card into the card processing machine 9 or an employee reads a receipt using the barcode scanner 11, the card is sent to the management machine 12.
Or, the number of prize balls is stored in 13 (step S5), and prizes can be exchanged. Players can select their favorite prize, receive the remaining prize balls, and enjoy the game again (
Step S6).

Next, counting of game media and issuing of cards, etc. will be explained. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the ball counting machine 5. When prize balls are thrown into the upper hopper 5a,
Due to the tilt of the hopper 5a, prize balls flow to a counting sensor (not shown) and counting is started. The counting results are displayed on the upper display 5b. A part of the prize balls that have passed through the counting sensor are temporarily stopped by a ball storage mechanism in a ball return section (not shown). This ball storage mechanism stores at least a fraction of the prize balls that are less than the minimum gift ticket exchange unit, and throws them into the ball return port 5c in response to a command to return the remaining balls. Further, the counting results are transmitted to the card/receipt issuing machine 4 via a connection cord (not shown).

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the medal counting machine 3. When medals are thrown into the upper hopper 3a, the medals flow to a counting sensor (not shown) due to the inclination of the hopper 3a and a medal transport mechanism provided at the bottom of the hopper 3a, and counting begins. The counting results are displayed on the upper display 3b. Further, the counting results are transmitted to the card/receipt issuing machine 4 via a connection cord (not shown).

FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the card/receipt issuing machine 4. As shown in FIG. A display section 4a is provided at the upper front of the card/receipt issuing machine 4, and displays the number of gaming media inserted into the counting machine. A receipt issuing port 4b for discharging a receipt is provided at the bottom of the display section 4a.
For example, a journal printer outputs a receipt with predetermined information printed on it. Below the receipt issuing port 4b, there is provided an all button 4g which instructs the player to issue a card or a receipt in which the number of all balls is recorded without returning the remaining balls of the game media inserted by the player. Next to this, a surplus ball return button 4h is provided to return the remaining balls of the game media inserted by the player and issue a card or receipt recording only the number of prizes that can be issued. A card issuing port 4d is provided at the lower front of the card/receipt issuing machine 4 for dispensing a card with the counted number of game media recorded thereon.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram schematically showing the internal structure of the card/receipt issuing machine 4. As shown in FIG. In the figure, a cassette box 4e stores a large number of recycle cards whose printed portions are rewritable as shown in FIG. Predetermined items are visibly printed in the print display field at the top of the card in the vertical direction by a thermal print head, which will be described later. A magnetic stripe is formed on the back of this card on which the above-mentioned predetermined information is electromagnetically recorded.

The card is sent out from the bottom of the cassette box 4e by a pickup roller PR. Roller pairs R1 to R5 are arranged from the pickup roller PR toward the card issuing port 4d to form a card conveyance path. A thermal print head S is installed between the roller pair R2 and R3.
The thermal print head SR is pressed against the print area of the card by the operation of a solenoid (not shown). A plantain roller PL is provided on the opposite surface of the thermal head SR for support. The thermal print head SR displays the above-mentioned predetermined information in the print display field of the card, that is, issue date a, card number b, total number of balls c.
, the divisor d, the remainder e, etc. are visually recorded and displayed. The thermally printed card is conveyed to the magnetic card section MC. Information is recorded on the magnetic stripe of the card by a magnetic stripe reproducing/recording head RW. After the recording is completed, the card is moved in the opposite direction, returned, and conveyed again, and after confirming that information such as the total number of balls is correctly recorded on the magnetic stripe, is sent to the card issuing port 4d. For this reason, the magnetic card section MC
is driven by a motor MT capable of forward and reverse rotation. The other transport paths are driven by a motor STMT that rotates in forward and reverse directions. When reading the card, etc., if the card is determined to be abnormal, the card is sent backwards and the roller
and is accommodated in the reject box 4f. Detection switches S1 to S4 are arranged on the card conveyance path,
Detecting card position. The card dispensing mechanism 4 is operated by the roller pair, drive motor, etc. for card feeding described above.
3, and a card recording mechanism 44 is composed of a thermal print head SR, a magnetic stripe reproducing/recording head RW, and the like.

A journal printer 4c is provided at the top of the housing. The journal printer 4c is composed of a receipt ejecting mechanism 45 that sends the recording roll paper to the receipt issuing port 4b via a printing section, and a receipt printing mechanism 46 that prints the total number of balls etc. on the receipt using numbers or barcodes. . Whether data such as the total number of balls counted is recorded on a card or printed on a receipt using the journal printer 4c can be determined by, for example, setting the card/receipt mode setting switch 47 or by an external software command. can.

The outputs of the detection switches S1 to S7 are supplied to an issuance abnormality detection means 49 formed within the control program of the microprocessor. The issuance abnormality detection means 49 is
The outputs of these sensors are used to determine whether cards or receipts are jammed or out of stock. This determination result is transmitted to the control unit 41
The signal is supplied to the issuance abnormality switching means 41e, which switches the issuance of a card or receipt.

FIG. 9 shows a functional block diagram of a control circuit for the counters 3 and 5 and the card/receipt issuing machine 4. As shown in FIG. The counting means 51 of the medal counting machine 3 or the ball counting machine 5 is composed of a sensor that detects passage of game media and a counter that adds up the number of passages. The count value of the counter is sent to a control section 52 that controls the counter. The control section 52 is constituted by a microprocessor, and displays the counted value on a display section (not shown), and also transfers the counted value to the card/receipt issuing machine 4 via the interface 53. As described above, prize balls for return are stored in the ball storage mechanism, which is the return means 54 of the ball return unit of the ball counting machine 5.

The control unit 52 controls the card/receipt issuing machine 4.
When receiving a command to return the prize balls from the control unit 41, the player instructs the return means 54 to return the specified number of prize balls. The return means 54 returns the prize balls to the ball return slot 5 in response to a command to return the remaining balls.
Throw it to c.

The control system of the card/receipt issuing machine 4 includes a control section 41, an interface 42, a card ejecting mechanism 43,
Card recording mechanism 44, receipt ejecting mechanism 45, receipt printing mechanism 46, card/receipt mode setting switch 4
7. It is composed of a time passage detection section 48, a issuing abnormality detection means 49, a switch 4g, a surplus ball return switch 4h, etc.

The control unit 41 is composed of a microprocessor, and a control program is stored in a built-in ROM 41a. Furthermore, information such as the count value supplied from the counter 3 or 4 is stored in the built-in RAM 41b via the interface 42. A card/receipt issue switching control means 41c and a fraction deletion means 41d are formed on the control program. When the card/receipt mode setting switch 47 provided near the cassette box 4e is set to card, the card/receipt issuance switching control means records the count value etc. on the card and outputs it. Select a program. When the card/receipt mode setting switch 47 is set to the receipt, a program is selected to record the counted value and the like on the card and dispense it. When the card/receipt mode setting switch 47 is set to automatic selection, a receipt is issued when the count value is less than or equal to a predetermined value, and a card is issued when the count value is greater than or equal to the predetermined value. Furthermore, when one of the recording media of cards and receipts runs out, the system switches to issuing the other recording medium in stock.

The fractional deletion means 41d can be selectively operated by turning on a dip switch (not shown). When the time elapse detection section 48 constituted by a timer function provided in the microprocessor detects the elapse of a predetermined time, for example, the time just before closing, and generates a time-out signal, the fraction deletion means 41d is activated. The function of the fraction deletion means 41d is to remove fractions less than a preset number of prize exchange units, for example, 20 pachinko balls, from the total counted value stored in the RAM 41b, and correct the counted value to a rounded value. For example, the above-mentioned fraction is obtained as the remainder obtained by dividing the total value by the minimum number of exchange units for prize exchange.

The issuing abnormality switching means 41e causes the card to be sent out from the cassette box 4e when the detection output of the issuing abnormality detecting means 49 indicates that there is no receipt in the journal printer 4c or that a receipt has jammed. . Conversely, if the above detection output indicates that the cassette box 4e is out of stock of cards or that a card jam has occurred, the journal printer 4
Send the receipt from c.

[0026] When the player presses the all button on the card/receipt issuing panel, all that is to be done is to record the total number of balls on a card etc. and issue it without returning the inserted prize balls from the counting machine 5. A command is given to the control unit 41 from the switch 4g. Also,
When you press the surplus ball return button, the surplus ball return switch 4 indicates that you should return the surplus balls that do not meet the minimum exchange unit number for prize exchange.
A command is given to the control unit 41 from h.

The control section 41 controls the cassette box 4 by executing a card feeding control program (not shown).
It controls the above-described card dispensing mechanism 43 that transports the card from e to card issuing port 4d. Further, the control unit 41
The card recording mechanism 44 is controlled by executing a card recording control program (not shown), and data to be recorded, such as counted values stored in the RAM 41b, is written to the card and the contents written on the card are erased. .

The receipt ejecting mechanism 45 and the receipt printing mechanism 46 are also controlled by the control unit 41 executing a receipt recording mechanism control program and a receipt printing mechanism control program (not shown).

FIG. 10 shows the procedure for issuing cards and receipts using the above-mentioned gaming media counting machine and card/receipt issuing.
When it is put into the hopper (step S101), the counter 5 starts counting (step S102). Counting is repeated until the player presses all the buttons 4c or the surplus return button 4c. When the player presses one of the buttons, the card/receipt issuing machine 4 confirms that the output of the counting machine 5 remains unchanged due to the completion of counting, and loads the provided count value etc. into the RAM 41b. (Step S103). All button 4g which means a command to record all the counted values of game media
is pressed or the surplus return button 4h is pressed (step S104). When all the buttons 4g are pressed, "0" is stored in area B of the RAM 41b (step S105). When the surplus return button 4h is pressed, it is determined whether the time for issuing a card or the like exceeds a reference time set in advance in the time elapse detection section 48 (step S106). This reference time is set, for example, to the time when the game hall is about to close. This is to save the effort of customers who do not have time to play and have to return the game to the counter. If the standard time is exceeded, "
0'' is stored (step S105). If the reference time has not been exceeded, "1" is stored in area B of the RAM 41b (step S107). "1" in area B of RAM41b
If is set, the remaining balls will be returned in a later step.

Card/receipt mode setting switch 47
is set in advance to eject a receipt by the staff member (step S108), the control unit 41 does not issue a card, and the receipt ejecting mechanism 45 and the receipt printing mechanism 4
6 to issue a receipt (step S109).
). Step S108 corresponds to card/receipt issue mode setting means.

Card/receipt mode setting switch 47
is set to automatic selection (step S108)
, it is determined whether the count value exceeds a predetermined number (step S110). If the number is less than the predetermined number, a receipt is issued (step S109), and if the number is greater than the predetermined number, a card is issued (step S111). This is because cards are issued at a higher unit price than receipts, so by distinguishing the recording media to be issued depending on the number of gaming media acquired, it is possible to reduce the cost of issuing cards and give cards a kind of premium value. Let it happen.

Card/receipt mode setting switch 47
is set in the card (step S108),
Only cards are issued (step S111), and receipts are not issued in principle. Step S10 mentioned above
8. S110 is a card/receipt issue switching control means 41
Corresponds to c.

In issuing the receipt and issuing the card (steps S109 and 111), counting data such as the total number of balls c, the division number d, and the number of remaining balls e are recorded on respective recording media. In these issuance processes, the control unit 41 executes the fractional deletion program corresponding to the fractional deletion means 41d according to the settings of the execution program. That is, R.A.
From the counted value stored in M41b, it is possible to delete and record the remaining number that does not meet the minimum unit of prize exchange (step S115).

When issuing a card, if there is no card in stock or a card jam is detected (step S
112), it is determined whether an abnormality in receipt issuance has been detected (step S113). If it is normal, the process moves from card issuance to receipt issuance (step S109).

On the other hand, when issuing a receipt, if it is detected that there is no receipt in stock or that a receipt has jammed (step S114), it is determined whether an abnormality has been detected in card issuing (step S115). If it is normal, the process moves from issuing a receipt to issuing a card (step S111).

[0036] If both card issuing and receipt issuing are abnormal (steps S113, S115), issuing of the recording medium is stopped and the staff is notified of the occurrence of the abnormality (step S116).

[0037] When the issuance of the card or receipt is completed, the value of area B is determined (step S117). When the value of B is "1", it is before the set time, so the remaining balls are returned. That is, the remaining number obtained by executing the fraction deletion program described above is sent to the control unit 5 of the counter 5 via the interface 42 together with a return command.
Transfer to 2. The control unit 52 instructs the return unit 54 to return the remaining balls for the remaining number of balls (step S118).

[0038] When the value of area B is "0" (step S117), the player does not wish to return the remaining balls, or the reference time has elapsed, so the remaining balls are not returned. . Step S117 has the function of stopping the return of surplus balls in the ball counting machine 5, and the return stopping means 5
Corresponds to 2a.

As a result, it is possible to arbitrarily select whether to issue cards or receipts, and when the stock of cards or receipts runs out, the ejected recording medium is switched to a recording medium that is in stock. Furthermore, even if one recording medium jams, it is automatically switched to another recording medium, so it is possible to reduce system downtime related to recording medium issuance. Furthermore, since cards and receipts can be differentiated and issued according to the number of acquired media, the premium value of the card can be increased.

Next, the prize exchange system at the prize exchange counter will be explained with reference to FIG. In FIG. 11, the left side of the prize exchange counter is an unmanned counter 6, and the right side is a manned counter 7. The unmanned counter 6 is
It is composed of a prize dispensing machine 8, a card processing machine 9, and a child management machine 12. When a prize exchanger uses the unmanned counter 6, he or she inserts a card into a card processing machine 9. Then, after pressing down the card insertion end button, the prize dispensing machine 8 dispenses a prize corresponding to the recorded count value or divisor.

The manned counter 7 is composed of a prize dispensing machine 8, a card processing machine 9, a barcode scanner 11, and a master management machine 13. At the manned counter 7, there is a prize dispenser 8.
In addition to the prizes stored in the box, you can exchange them for a variety of other prizes prepared on the display shelves. The prize exchanger is manned at counter 7.
When using the game media, insert the card into the card processing machine 9 or hand the receipt to the staff and have the barcode scanner 11 read the recorded data, so that the number of recorded gaming media can be sent to the management machine 13. Let it be taken in. Then, the clerk listens to the customer's wishes and operates the keyboard of the management machine 13 to dispense the prize from the prize dispensing machine 8.
Alternatively, prizes are taken out from the display shelf and exchanged by hand. The management machine 13 manages the inventory of prizes and the like.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the card processing machine 9, which is a card processing means for reading recorded data such as the number of game media recorded on a card. A card insertion slot 9a for inserting a card is provided at the lower front of the card processing machine 9. A card insertion end button 9b is provided above this. The player can successively insert a plurality of cards into the card insertion slot 9a. In this case, the recorded data read from each card is sequentially transferred to the management machine 12 or 13. The count value read from the card is displayed on a display 9c arranged at the upper front of the card processing machine 9. When the player has finished inserting the card, he presses the card insertion end button 9b. This commands the management device 12 or 13 via the control section of the card processing device 9 to end the card insertion.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram schematically showing the internal structure of the card processing machine 9. As shown in FIG. In the figure, when the customer inserts the card into the card insertion slot 9a, the magnetic card section M
The card is detected by sensor S1 of C. When the insertion of the card is detected, the card taking mechanism of the magnetic card section MC, which is constituted by a pair of rollers R1 and R2, is driven by the motor MT. In the roller pair R1 part,
A magnetic stripe reproducing/recording head RW is provided,
Recorded data such as the number of game media recorded on the card is read. This recorded data is sent to the management machine. The magnetic stripe reproducing/recording head RW and the like constitute a card reading mechanism 94. When the card passes through roller pair R2, sensor S
2, the arrival of the card at the print demagnetization section is detected. This causes the motor STMT to operate and the roller pairs R3 to
A card loading mechanism consisting of R5 and the like is driven. When the card passes between the roller pair R3 and R4, the roller pair R
The thermal print head SR and platen roller PL1, which are arranged between No. 3 and R4, perform writing on the print field of the card for uniform erasure in subsequent steps. When the card passes the roller pair R4, the sensor S3 detects this. The position of the print field on the card is determined by a passage timer or the like, and a command is given to the erasing head IH to generate heat. The card is brought into close contact with the erasing head IH by the platen roller PL2. The heat generated by the erasing head IH erases all the numbers printed in the print field of the card. When the sensor S4 detects that the card passes through the erasing head IH and is carried into the cassette box 9d where the card is collected, the pickup roller PR is driven and the card is taken into the cassette box 9d. When the card is stored in a predetermined position, this is detected by the sensor S6,
The drive of the card loading mechanism is stopped. Sensors S8 and S9 are arranged above the cassette box 9d to detect when the cassette is full of cards. In this case, a notification is given to the staff member, and card taking is stopped until the cassette box is replaced with an empty cassette box. A mechanism for transporting the card inserted into the card insertion slot 4d into the cassette box 9d constitutes a card taking-in mechanism 93. The cassette box 9d containing the card is set as is in the card/receipt issuing machine 4, and the card is used repeatedly. When it is determined that there is an abnormality in the card taken in, the card is stored in the reject box 9e via the roller pair R5.

An example of the prize dispensing machine 8 will be explained with reference to FIG. 14. Inside the prize dispensing machine 8, for example, a plurality of cylindrical article dispensing units each carrying a plurality of cassettes containing prizes are arranged. The cassette is set with 100 yen prizes, 500 yen prizes, 1000 yen prizes, etc., and a dispensing mechanism (not shown) responds to instructions from the management machine, such as designation of the number of shares and prizes, to release the corresponding prizes. A predetermined number of liquids are dispensed from the dispensing ports 8a, 8b, or 8c. The structure of such a prize dispensing machine is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2-16529.
I will not give a detailed explanation as it is explained in detail in issue 6.

An example of the management machines 12 and 13 will be explained with reference to FIG. The same management machines 12 and 13 are used, but due to program switching, one becomes the master machine 1.
3. The other device operates as the slave device 12. The prize exchange information of the slave unit 12 is collected in the base unit. In the figure, switching between automatic and manual mode is possible by selecting the position of key switch a on the management machine. At unmanned counter 6, press key switch a
automatically selects the position of When set to automatic, when the recorded data read by the card processing machine 9 is transferred to the management machine 12, the management machine 12 throws out prizes corresponding to the counted value or the divided number, giving priority to expensive prizes. command to do so.

FIG. 18 shows the prize dispensing machine 8, card processing machine 9, ball return machine 10, and child management machine 1 at the unmanned counter 6.
2 control system is shown.

A card taking mechanism 93 for taking an inserted card into the card processing machine 9, a card reading mechanism 94 for reading recorded data on the card, and an erasing mechanism 95 for erasing recorded data on the card are configured by a microprocessor. It is controlled by a control section 91. This microprocessor controls each mechanism according to a control program stored in a ROM (not shown), and sends read data to a R (not shown).
Temporarily memorize it in AM. When the prize exchanger presses the insertion end button, an insertion end command is transferred from the insertion end switch 9b to the management machine 12 via the interface 92.

The management device 12 includes a control unit 121 including a microprocessor (not shown), a ROM that stores a control program, a RAM that stores prize exchange information, etc., and an interface 123 that performs signal conversion of data. Recorded data transferred from the card processing machine 9 is temporarily stored in the RAM of the control unit 121 via the interface 123. For example, the control unit 121 of the management machine 12 divides the counted value of game media by the largest exchange unit, and divides the remainder by the next largest exchange unit,
Find the type and number of prizes. This is interface 12
3 to the prize dispensing machine 8. Information regarding the prize exchange performed on the child management machine 12 is transferred to the master management machine 13 and used for inventory management of prizes, etc.

The prize dispensing machine 8 includes a prize dispensing mechanism 83 for dispensing prizes, and a control section 8 for controlling the operation of the prize dispensing mechanism 83.
1, an interface 82 that mediates data transfer between the control unit 81 and the management machine 12; The control unit 81 is composed of a microprocessor, and
2, the type and number of prizes designated are determined, and the prize dispensing mechanism 83 is controlled to dispense the designated number of prizes of the designated type.

Next, the procedure for exchanging prizes at the unmanned counter 6 will be explained with reference to FIG. First, a prize exchanger inserts a card into the insertion slot 9a of the card processing machine 9 (step S21). Then, a card insertion detection signal is sent from the sensor S1 provided in the MC section of the card processing machine 9 to the control section 91.
is issued. The control unit 91 activates the card loading mechanism 93 upon detection of card insertion, and activates the card reading mechanism 9.
4 reads the recorded data such as the count value of the game medium recorded on the card. The recorded data that has been read is taken into the RAM. If there is no error in the recording state, this recorded data is transferred to the management device 12 (step S22). Control unit 9
1 operates the data erasing mechanism 95 to erase the recorded data on the card and make it reusable. The printed display column of the card is erased, and the card is conveyed to the cassette box 9d and collected. On the other hand, if there is an error in the recording state of the card, the card is collected in the reject box 9e and the control unit 9
1 notifies the staff that the abnormal card has been collected. The card processing machine 9 transfers recorded data read to the management machine 12 every time a card is inserted. When the prize exchanger finishes inserting the card, he presses the end button (step S2).
3). Pressing of the end switch 9b is transferred to the management machine 12 via the control unit 91. When the control unit 121 of the management device 12 is instructed to press the end switch 9b, the control unit 121 divides the received record data into groups and stores them. When it is determined from the number of read record data that a plurality of cards have been inserted (step S24), the division number is corrected.

[0051] To correct the division number, for example, add up the remaining numbers for each card, and if the accumulated value exceeds the minimum number of prize exchange units, for example, 20 prize balls, the division number is 1 for the minimum number of prize exchange units.
Add. In addition, the correction of the division number is the total number of balls for each card c
This can also be done by accumulating the sum, dividing the accumulated value by the minimum number of exchange units to obtain a divisor and a remainder, and using the calculated divisor as a new divisor (step S25).

[0052] After the above-mentioned division number correction is completed, or when it is determined from the number of read recorded data that only one card has been inserted (step S24), for example, the division number of the recorded data or the specified prize is The type and number of prizes are transferred to the prize dispensing machine 8 (step S26). The prize dispensing machine 8 dispenses prizes according to the division number or the specified type and number of prizes (step S27). Transaction data in the prize exchange is transferred from the child management machine 12 to the parent management machine 13 so that the master management machine 13 can perform unified inventory management (step S28).

[0053] In this way, prizes are exchanged at the unmanned counter.

FIG. 20 shows a control system for the prize dispensing machine 8, card processing machine 9, ball return machine 10, barcode scanner 11, and master management machine 13 at the manned counter 7.

The card importing mechanism 93, card reading mechanism 94, and data erasing mechanism 95 of the card processing machine 9 are controlled by a control section 91 composed of a microprocessor. This microprocessor controls each mechanism according to a control program stored in a ROM (not shown), and temporarily stores read data in a RAM (not shown). When the insertion end switch 96 is operated by the prize exchanger, an insertion end command is transferred to the management machine 13 via the interface 92.

The management device 13 includes a control unit 13d consisting of a microprocessor (not shown), a ROM that stores a control program, a RAM that stores prize exchange information, etc.;
It is equipped with a large keyboard 13c for inputting the number of items, etc., a large display 13b for displaying information related to operation contents of the keyboard 13c and prize exchange, an interface 13f for converting data into signals, and the like. The recorded data transferred from the card processing machine 9 is temporarily stored in the RAM of the control unit 13d via the interface 13f. Management machine 13
For example, when a staff member instructs an exchange for a prize stored in the prize dispensing machine 8, the control unit 13d divides the counted value of the game media by the larger exchange unit, and the remaining number is transferred to the next Divide by the larger unit of exchange,
Find the type and number of prizes stored. This is transferred to the prize throwing machine 8 via the interface 13f. Further, information regarding the prize exchange performed on the slave management machine 12 is transferred to the master management machine 13 via the interface 13f, and is used for stock management of prizes and the like.

The prize dispensing machine 8 includes a prize dispensing mechanism 83 for dispensing prizes, and a control section 8 for controlling the operation of the prize dispensing mechanism 83.
1 and an interface 82 that mediates data transfer with the management device 12. The control unit 81 is constituted by a microprocessor, and determines the type and number of prizes designated by the management machine 12, and controls the prize dispensing mechanism 83 to dispense the designated number of prizes of the designated type.

Next, the procedure for exchanging prizes at the manned counter 7 will be explained with reference to FIG. At the manned counter 7, the key switch 1 of the management machine 13 shown in FIG.
The position of 3a is manually selected. When the key switch 13a is set to the manual position, it becomes possible to input the name of the prize, the number of prizes, etc. from the large keyboard 13c shown in FIG. Information regarding the operation content of the keyboard 13c and prize exchange is displayed on a large display 13b shown in FIG. 17. Read data such as a read count value is transferred from the card processing machine 9 or the barcode scanner 11 to the parent management machine 13 .

First, the clerk instructs the selection of either input from the card processing machine 9 or input from the barcode scanner 11 from the keyboard (step S41). With the card processing machine 9 selected, the prize exchanger inserts the card into the insertion slot 9a of the card processing machine 9 (step S42). Then, a card insertion detection signal is issued to the control section 91 from the sensor S1 provided in the MC section of the card processing machine 9. The control unit 91 activates the card import mechanism 93 upon detecting the card insertion, and causes the card reading mechanism 94 to read recorded data such as the count value of game media recorded on the card. The read recorded data is stored in the RAM in the control unit 91.
be taken into account. If there is no error in the recording state, the recorded contents are transferred to the management device 13 (step S43). The control unit 91 operates the data erasing mechanism 95 to erase the recorded data on the card and make it reusable. The magnetic stripe section and print display field of the card are erased, and the card is conveyed to the cassette box 9d and collected. On the other hand, if there is an error in the recording state of the card, the card is collected in the reject box 9e, and the control unit 91 notifies the staff that an abnormal card has been collected. The card processing machine 9 transfers recorded data read to the management machine 13 every time a card is inserted. When the prize exchanger finishes inserting the card, he presses the end button (step S44).

When input from the barcode scanner 11 is selected (step S41), when the clerk causes the scanner 11 to read the receipt received from the prize exchanger, the recorded data from the barcode scanner 11 is transferred to the management machine. 13 (step S45).

When it is determined from the number of read recorded data that a plurality of cards have been inserted (step S46), the above-mentioned division number is corrected. For example, when the number of remainders for each card is accumulated and the accumulated value exceeds the divisor, the divisor generated by the accumulation of the remainders is added to the accumulated value of the divisor for each card to obtain a new divisor. The portion where the integrated value of the remainder does not exceed the divisor is stored as a new remainder (step S47).

When the clerk finishes inputting the prize to be exchanged into the management machine 13, he presses the end key on the keyboard 13c. If this end key is not pressed (step S48), the designation of the prize to be exchanged can be repeated until the divisor, which is the minimum unit of prize exchange, becomes 0 (step S49). The staff member asks the customer about the type and number of prizes desired and inputs them from the keyboard 13c. Each time the type and number of prizes are input from the keyboard 13c, the control unit 13d of the management machine calculates the division ratio corresponding to (prize x number) by referring to the division ratio for each prize stored in the memory in advance. Calculate it and subtract it from the divisor of the read data. The content of such prize exchange is displayed on the display 13b by the control unit 13d (step S50). The input operation is
This can be repeated until the remaining divisor becomes "0" (steps S48 to S50).

[0063] When the end key is pressed by the staff member (step S48) or the remaining divisor becomes "0" (
In step S49), the input of the prize is completed, and the process proceeds to exchange by handing over the prize (step S51). If the specified prize is stored in the prize dispenser 8, (
Step S52), the management machine 13 transmits the prizes to be given out and the number thereof (step S53). The prize throwing machine 8 is
In accordance with this command, the specified number of corresponding prizes are dispensed (step S54). If the specified prize is not stored in the prize dispensing machine 8 (step S52),
Prizes will be exchanged only by hand delivery.

[0064] In this way, prizes are exchanged at the manned counter.

[0065]

[Effects of the Invention] As explained above, the card/receipt issuing machine of the present invention and the prize exchange system using the same select one of two types of recording media, cards and receipts, for the counting results of game media. Since the configuration is such that the type of recording medium to be discharged can be selected according to the number of acquired game media, it is possible to select the type of recording medium to be discharged according to the number of acquired game media, and to prevent abnormalities in issuing one recording medium, such as recording media. If out-of-stock or jam is detected, it is possible to switch to issuance of the other recording medium, so it is possible to avoid system failure of the prize exchange system. In addition, we aim to improve customer satisfaction by issuing recording media with premium value to customers who acquire a large number of gaming media, while issuing inexpensive recording media to customers who acquire a small number of gaming media. It is possible to suppress the increase in issuance costs.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view for explaining the inside of a game hall.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining a prize exchange system in a game parlor.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of a game at a gaming parlor.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of a ball counting machine.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an example of a medal counting machine.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an example of a card/receipt issuing machine.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the structure of a card/receipt issuing machine.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a card.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a control system of a counter and a card/receipt issuing machine.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a card/receipt issuing procedure.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an example of a prize exchange counter.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing an example of a card processing machine.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the structure of a card processing machine.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing an example of a prize throwing machine.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing an example of a management machine.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a keyboard of a management machine.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a display of a management machine.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram showing an example of a control system for each device in an unmanned counter.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a procedure for exchanging prizes at an unmanned counter.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing an example of a control system in a manned counter.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a procedure for exchanging prizes at a manned counter.

[Explanation of symbols]

1. Medal gaming machine 2 Pachinko machine 3. Medal counting machine 4 Card/receipt issuing machine 5 Ball counting machine 8. Prize throwing machine 9 Card processing machine 10 Ball return machine 11 Barcode scanner 12 Child management machine 13. Parent management machine

Claims (3)

[Claims] Claim 1: Counting the number of gaming media acquired by a customer and issuing a recording medium recording counting data including at least the counted value of the gaming media, and the counting data recorded on the issued recording medium. A prize exchange system that enables prize exchange by reading a card, the card issuing means for issuing a card as the recording medium on which count data of the game medium is recorded, and a receipt on which the count data of the game medium is recorded. A prize characterized by having a receipt issuing means for issuing as a recording medium, and a card/receipt issuing mode setting means for selectively operating either the card issuing means or the receipt issuing means according to a command. exchange system. 2. A card issuing means capable of receiving count data including at least a count value of game media and issuing a card recording the count data, and receiving the count data and issuing a receipt recording the count data. Receipt issuing means to obtain,
a card/receipt issuing mode setting means for operating the card issuing means or the receipt issuing means corresponding to a designated issuing mode; and a card/receipt issuing mode setting means for operating the card issuing means or the receipt issuing means corresponding to a designated issuing mode, and changing the current issuing mode to another issuing mode when an abnormality in issuing in the current issuing mode is detected. A card/receipt issuing machine characterized by comprising: abnormality detection means for changing to 3. A card issuing means capable of receiving count data including at least a count value of game media and issuing a card recording the count data, and receiving the count data and issuing a receipt recording the count data. Receipt issuing means to obtain,
It is characterized by comprising a card/receipt issuing mode switching means for operating either the card issuing means or the receipt issuing means based on a comparison result between the counted value and a predetermined reference value set in advance. Card/receipt issuing machine.