JPH07265531A - Method of exchanging game value information, and its device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To effectively exchange the game value information that a player has gained for a specified valuable medium, and also, make the effective use of the value information of the fractions which occur when exchanging it for the specified valuable medium. CONSTITUTION:In the case where a player finishes a game, he pulls out a game card from a game machine. At this time, game value information corresponding to game balls or game coins that he has gained is stored in the game card. Next, when he inserts a game card into a game value information exchanger 12, the game value information exchanger 12 reads out the game value information, and the read value is converted into value information (for example, information as to how much value it has in the case where it is exchanged for cash at a specified exchange rate). Next, if he selects the specified valuable medium (for example, cash, a merchandise coupon, and an IC card which has stored information on prize exchange), according to the converted value information, the selected valuable medium is issued from a game value information exchanger 12. Hereby, it becomes possible to exchange the game value information for a desired valuable medium (for example, cash) merely by performing simple operation.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention, when a game (for example, a pachinko game, a so-called pachislot game) is played using a game card capable of storing the game value information, the game value information is converted into valuable value information. The present invention relates to a game value information conversion method for converting and issuing a predetermined value medium (for example, an IC card in which cash, a gift certificate, and the number information of free mediums are recorded) according to the converted value information, and an apparatus for realizing the method. .

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Generally, as a game device using a game medium, for example, a pachinko machine, an arrange ball machine, a sparrow ball machine,
There are throttle machines that use coins and throttle machines that use balls. Recently, it has been proposed to store the number of media (that is, a profit state) obtained by the game in the course of playing these games in a computer inside the gaming device by a credit method to continue the game. 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as a credit type game device as described above, there is, for example, a device in which a pachinko ball is enclosed as a game ball, and the enclosed ball is circulated to play a game (that is, an enclosed ball type game machine). Further, a so-called card-type game machine has been developed in which the game balls obtained at this time are stored in a card and it is not necessary to carry around with a real ball or the like.

An example of this type of enclosed ball type gaming machine, such as an enclosed ball type pachinko gaming machine, is, for example, JP-A-63-3028.
The one described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 70 is known. This gaming machine is an enclosed ball type gaming machine in which a game can be played with a card on which valuable data is recorded. When a player inserts a card, a predetermined number (for example, 20) of gaming balls are enclosed inside. The game value data recorded on the card, that is, the number of balls that can be played is visually displayed on the ball number display. Then, when the game starts, the enclosed game balls (hereinafter referred to as "enclosed balls") are sequentially fired one by one and dropped in the game area, thereby performing a predetermined game and collecting the dropped enclosed balls. Then, by guiding the ball to the launching device again, the enclosed ball is circulated and used to execute the game.

Then, at the time of firing the above-mentioned enclosed ball, "1" is subtracted from the numerical value displayed on the ball number display, and the display of the ball number display is updated based on the result.
In addition, it is determined whether or not the enclosed ball falling in the game area is a winning ball, and when it is determined that the winning ball is set, the set number of winning balls is displayed on the ball number display. In addition to adding to the number, the display of the ball count display is updated based on the result, and the player confirms the current number of balls held and the increase or decrease by the numerical data of this ball count display. To do. Then, when the player pays the game, the game value corresponding to the numerical data of the ball number display is stored in the card and received.

The player exchanges for prizes based on the game value stored in the card. In addition, such a throttle machine gaming machine using gaming coins (hereinafter referred to as a pachi-slot gaming machine as described later) is also known. In the prize exchange, the game value information stored in the card is read by a predetermined reading device at the counter and exchanged for the prize, but the fraction game value (that is, the number of balls that cannot be exchanged for the predetermined prize is equivalent. In the data, so-called fractional balls) are exchanged for, for example, candy, chocolate, etc., and the fractional game value that cannot be fully handled may be confiscated.

[0006]

However, even with a convenient gaming machine that saves the player's hassle by carrying the gaming medium by using the card in this way, it is possible to exchange the prize after the gaming value is obtained. At the time of performing, even if there is no prize desired by the player, the prize must be exchanged, which causes the following problems. (B) It is necessary to exchange prizes even if there is no prize desired by the player, and as a result, the game value equivalent to the game balls or game coins acquired by the player cannot be effectively utilized,
It was causing a drop in service. (B) Therefore, it is conceivable to increase the number of kinds of prizes, but if this is done, another problem will occur that the cost of the amusement store will increase. Therefore, in reality, it is impossible to increase the number of kinds of prizes so much. Therefore, this is unlikely to be a solution. Therefore, it is desired to convert not only the prize but also the securities based on the game value information corresponding to the acquired game balls or the acquired game coins.

(C) The fractional game value (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as a fractional ball) when exchanging the obtained game value information for a prize is usually exchanged for candy, chocolate, etc., and the game value obtained for the player. There was a problem that some of the information could not be used even for the next game or the next prize exchange. Therefore, the fractional balls have not been effectively utilized by the player. (D) If a magnetic card is used as a game card,
When exchanging premiums, a magnetic card is brought to the counter in the hall and exchanged for prizes. However, this method has a problem in that safety is poor in practice.

[0008] Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and when the game value information acquired by the player is effectively converted into a predetermined value medium, and when it is converted into a predetermined value medium. It is an object of the present invention to provide a game value information conversion method and device that can effectively utilize a fraction of the game value information that has occurred.

[0009]

In order to achieve the above object, the game value information conversion method according to the invention of claim 1 stores game value information (for example, information corresponding to an acquired game ball). (For example, the IC card 61) reads the game value information and converts the read game value information into valuable value information (for example, information about how much value there is when converted into cash at a predetermined conversion rate), It is characterized in that a predetermined valuable value medium (for example, cash, gift certificate, IC card storing prize exchange information) is issued according to the converted valuable value information.

In a preferred embodiment, for example, as in claim 2, a process of reading game value information from the game card (for example, IC card 61) or a process of converting the game value information into valuable value information. Before performing at least one of the processes, a security process for confirming the validity of the game card (for example, IC card 61) (for example, confirmation of a personal identification number) is executed, and at least after the security process, a predetermined process is performed. You may make it issue a valuable value medium. For example, when the gaming card (for example, the IC card 61) is newly issued as in claim 3, by designating and paying an amount corresponding to a desired gaming value, the paid amount is paid to the gaming card. According to the above, the game value information is added, and the game card stores identification information for confirming the validity of the card (for example, a personal identification number), and thereafter, the game can be played on the game machine, and the security processing is The legitimacy of the game card may be confirmed by determining the identification information stored in the game card.

[0011] For example, as described in claim 4, the valuable medium is a recording medium (for example, an IC which records the number information of the number of free gift media that can be directly exchanged with bills, coins, securities or free gifts.
Card). For example, as described in claim 5, as a result of reading the game value information, if there is an unconverted game value component that cannot be converted into valuable value information in the game value information, the unconverted game value component is Processing for returning to the player may be included. For example, as described in claim 6, the process of returning the game value is a process of recording an unconverted game value amount that cannot be converted into valuable value information in the game card (for example, the IC card 61) and returning it. Unconverted game value for a given game card (eg IC card 61)
In the process of recording and returning to the game card, after confirming the legitimacy of the game card (for example, the IC card 61), the previous game value return amount is updated and recorded on the game card (for example, the IC card 61). By doing so, the unconverted game value may be returned.

The game value information conversion device 12 according to the invention of claim 7 reads the game value information from the game card (for example, the IC card 61) storing the game value information, and reads the game value information 201, 301. , Valuable value information converting means 202, 302 for converting the game value information read by the game value information reading means 201, 301 into valuable value information, and valuable value information converting means 202, 3
Valuable value issuing means 20 for issuing a predetermined valuable value medium (for example, cash, gift certificate, IC card storing prize exchange information) according to the valuable value information converted by 02.
3 and 303 are provided.

As a preferred mode, for example, as described in claim 8, the game card (for example, IC card 61) has security means 211, 311 for storing identification information for judging the validity of the card. Identification information is written in the security means 211, 311 and newly issued, and the identification information determination means 204 determines the validity of the card based on the identification information stored in the security means 211, 311. , 304, and the valuable value information converting means 20.
2, 302 or at least one of the valuable value issuing means 203, 303 performs processing of the valuable value information converting means or the valuable value issuing means when the identification information determining means determines that the game card is valid. May be executed.

[0014] For example, as described in claim 9, the valuable medium is at least one of a bill, a coin, a securities, or a recording medium in which information on the number of premium media that can be directly exchanged with a premium is recorded. You may For example, claim 1
As described in 0, the game value information reading means 201, 3
As a result of reading the game value information by 01, if there is an unconverted game value component that cannot be converted into valuable value information in the game value information, the game value information that returns the unconverted game value component to the player. The return means 306 may be provided. For example, as described in claim 11, the valuable value information converting means 302 is a valuable value for which the player selects a desired valuable value amount from the gaming value information read by the gaming value information reading means 201, 301. The amount selection means 305 is provided, and the valuable value amount and game value information reading means 20 selected by the valuable value amount selection means 305.
You may make it provide the game value information return means 306 which returns the difference with the game value information read by 1,301. For example, as described in claim 12, the valuable value information converting means 302 may be provided with a valuable value form selecting means 321 for selecting a desired valuable value form by an operation of the player from the outside.

[0015] For example, as described in claim 13, the game value information returning means 306 stores unconverted game value information that cannot be converted into valuable value information in the game card (for example, IC.
This is a process of recording the card 61) and returning it, and the game card (for example, the IC card 61) is an unconverted game that cannot be converted into game valuable value information among the read values of the game value information reading means 201 and 301. It has a game value information return amount storage unit 314 that stores value information as a game value information return amount, and the game value information return unit 306 determines that the game card (for example, the IC card 61) is valid. At this time, a return amount update unit 323 may be provided to update and store the previous game value information conversion amount in the game value information return amount storage unit 314. For example, as described in claim 14, an upper limit value setting means 324 capable of setting an upper limit value of the cumulative value of the game value information return amount from the outside may be provided. For example, as described in claim 15, conversion rate setting means 322 for externally setting the conversion rate when converting the read value of the game value information into valuable value information may be provided.

[0016]

In the present invention, when the player finishes playing the game, the game card is removed from the game machine. At this time, game value information corresponding to the acquired game ball or game coin is stored in the game card. Next, when a game card is inserted into the game value information conversion device, the game value information conversion device reads out the game value information, and the read value is converted into valuable value information (for example, when converted into cash at a predetermined conversion rate. Information that is valuable). Then, according to the converted valuable value information, a predetermined valuable value medium (for example, cash, gift certificate, or gift exchange information I
If C card) is selected, the selected valuable medium is issued from the game value information conversion device. Therefore, it is possible to exchange the desired value medium by inserting the game card into the game value information conversion device and performing a simple operation.
For example, when converted into cash, the player can purchase a desired product. Also, when converted into a gift certificate, it can be exchanged for a desired product. As a result, when there is no prize desired by the player, it is not necessary to exchange the prize, and it is possible to purchase a product that the player is satisfied with in cash or a gift certificate, which improves the service of the game store. Can be made.

Further, based on the read value of the game value information, the unconverted game value information (fractional coin or fractional coin) that cannot be converted into valuable value information is returned to the player,
It is possible to effectively utilize the gaming value equivalent to so-called fractional coins or fractional coins. The player selects the desired amount of valuable value and returns the difference between the selected amount of valuable value and the read value of the gaming value information to obtain the value of the acquired gaming value as much as the player desires. If it can be converted into a medium and the return form is to save the difference, it becomes possible to save a desired game value, and the acquired game value can be effectively utilized. By allowing the player to select a desired valuable value form by an operation from the outside, the form of securities desired by the player can be converted. By storing the unconverted game value information that cannot be converted into valuable value information in the game card (for example, IC card), the unreturned amount can be returned to the player by the card with high security,
The unreturned portion can be effectively utilized. By making it possible to set the upper limit of the cumulative value of the game value information returned from the outside, the service to the player is improved and the difference between the game stores can be achieved. Further, by making it possible to externally set the conversion rate when converting the read value of the game value information into valuable value information, the service to the player is similarly improved, and the differentiation between the game stores can be achieved.

[0018]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In-store configuration FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an in-game store showing an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, a management device 1 is arranged in a management room of a hall, and the management device 1 includes a management computer 2. The management computer 2 includes a display 3, a printer 4, an in-store broadcasting device 5, a terminal device (for example, a keyboard).
6, a data storage device 7 and the like. In addition, the management device 1 is connected to an in-store island equipment 11, a game value information conversion device 12, a surveillance camera 13, a speaker 14, a card issuing and amount adding device (hereinafter simply referred to as a card issuing device) 15 via a transmission line 10. They are connected to each other and exchange necessary data with each other. The island equipment 11 is provided with indicators 11a and 11b in which call lamps and the like are arranged at a position where a person in charge of the hall can easily see. Surveillance camera 13
Performs unauthorized monitoring, and its direction can be controlled by the management computer 1 by the management computer 2, and an unauthorized image can be recorded.

The game value information conversion device 12 reads out game value information of a game card (IC card described later) used for the game, converts the read value into valuable value information,
Further, according to the converted valuable value information, any one of cash, a gift certificate, or an IC card (a game card described later in this embodiment) storing the prize exchange information is issued, and if there is fractional game value information, a game is played. A process of storing the fractional game value information (fractional coin) in the card is performed. The card issuing device 15 newly issues a game card used for a game, and at the time of new issuance, when an amount (for example, 5,000 yen) corresponding to a desired game value is selected and paid, The game card is issued with the amount information according to the payment amount added. As a result, the game card has
For example, amount information for 5,000 yen is added, and by inserting this gaming card into a pachinko gaming machine, which will be described later, by operating a purchase switch of the pachinko gaming machine,
The game value can be converted into a desired game value and the game can be played. Further, when issuing a new game card, the card issuing device 15 requires the player to be issued to input a personal identification number, determines the personal identification number, and issues the gaming card. It should be noted that the card issuance status data is transmitted to the management device 1.

The management computer 2 is the island facility 11 of the hall.
A large number of enclosed sphere type card-type (without using real spheres) pachinko machines 31a, 31b, ...
31n, and 32a, 32b, ... 32n (see FIG. 2), a spinning cylinder type throttle machine gaming machine using coins (hereinafter referred to as a pachislot gaming machine) 33a, 33b, ...
Collect necessary data from 33n (see FIG. 2), organize data corresponding to various game states, and display the organized data on the display 3 (for example, in the order of the number of big hits, the big hit occurrence rate) ICs in which the gaming value information from the gaming value information conversion device 12 is stored in a valuable value medium (cash, gift certificate, prize exchange information). Various information when converted into a card) is collected and necessary data is processed. By operating the terminal device 6, big hit data, prize ball data, etc. are collected by game type, machine type, island unit, manufacturer, etc., and conversion data of game value information into valuable value media is organized. Then, it can be displayed on the display 3 of the management computer 2.

The in-store broadcasting device 5 has an amplifier and broadcasts big hit information from a speaker 14 arranged at a predetermined place in the store based on a signal from the management computer 2. In this case, the machine number is determined for each gaming machine, and the in-store broadcasting device 5 broadcasts the machine number of the gaming machine in which the big hit has occurred or broadcasts in-store information necessary for the game. The data storage device 7 stores daily data, and the management computer 2
Creates conversion data of past game state data and game value information into a valuable value medium based on the data stored in the data storage device 7, and if necessary, past game state data and valuable value of game value information It is possible to call conversion data to a medium and to process total operation data after each unit is installed in the island facility 11.

Block Configuration of Game Value Information Converter FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the block configuration of the game value information converter 12 together with the block configuration in the store. In FIG.
The management device 1 is an enclosed ball type card-type pachinko gaming machine 31a, 31b, ... 31n, 32a, 32b, ... 32n, pachislot gaming machine 33 installed in each island facility.
Data can be sent to and received from a, 33b, ... 33n, and the surveillance camera 13 is controlled. The management device 1 also exchanges data with the game value information conversion device 12 and the card issuing device 15.

A. Configuration of Gaming Value Information Conversion Device The gaming value information conversion device 12 includes a card reader / writer (card / R / W) 41, a display unit 42, an operation unit 43, a gift certificate payout device 44, a cash payout device 45, and a control device 46. Composed. An external view of the game value information conversion device 12 is shown in FIG. In FIG. 3, reference numeral 51 is cash (including bills and coins), a payout opening for paying out gift certificates, and 52 is a card insertion opening for inserting / ejecting the IC card 61. The game value information conversion device 12 is formed in a size that allows the player to stand and operate.

(A) Card Reader / Writer The card reader / writer 41 writes data to the IC card 61 and reads data from the IC card 61. The card reader / writer 41 is the control device 4
Data is exchanged with 6. (B) Display Unit The display unit 42 displays information necessary for reading out game value information, converting it into valuable value information, and paying out securities. For example, a color vertically arranged as shown in FIG. CRT display. A display example of the display unit 42 is shown in each drawing described later. Display unit 42
Is not limited to a CRT display, and a liquid crystal display device such as an LCD may be used.

(C) Operation Unit The operation unit 43 is operated by a player (or a clerk in the hall, etc.), and has various types of information necessary for reading out game value information, converting it into valuable value information, and paying out securities. It is possible to operate. The operation unit 43 is composed of screen switches using a color CRT display horizontally arranged as shown in FIG. 3, for example. The operation unit 43 is not limited to a screen switch using a CRT display, and may be a screen switch using a liquid crystal display device such as an LCD or a sheet switch. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the operation unit 43. In FIG. 4, the operation unit 43 includes a cursor switch 71 for moving a cursor on the screen up, down, left and right, a menu switch 72 for selecting a menu screen, a selection switch 73 for selecting cash, a gift certificate or a gift exchange, and "0". The numeric keypad 74 is composed of the keys "9" and "C" and is capable of inputting numbers. In addition, "C"
Is a clear key. Each of these keys can be used in the form of a screen switch on the CRT display.
For example, a colorful color may be applied to each key.

(D) Gift certificate payout device The gift certificate payout device 44 issues a gift certificate as one of the valuable media, and is controlled when the player operates the operation unit 43 to select the issue of the gift certificate. Based on the signal from the device 46, the specified amount of gift certificate is paid out from the payout opening 51. Here, the valuable value medium is a bill, currency, gift certificate,
An object that can be directly exchanged with a product or the like, such as a recording medium (for example, an IC card) that records information about the number of free mediums that can be directly exchanged with a free gift. The bills include, for example, 1,000-yen bills, 5,000-yen bills, and 10,000-yen bills. Currency includes 100-yen coins, 500-yen coins, and the like. The gift certificate includes, for example, a beer ticket and a book ticket. Note that the gift certificate is not limited to such an example, and any gift certificate that is distributed in the market and that is considered suitable at a game shop is included.

The valuable value information is the value obtained when the game value information (corresponding to a game ball or a game coin acquired by the game) obtained by the player is converted into cash, a gift certificate, etc. at a predetermined conversion rate. It is data about how much it is worth. The fractional gaming value means the unconverted gaming value that cannot be converted into the above-mentioned valuable value information, out of the numerical values obtained by reading the gaming value corresponding to the gaming ball acquired by the gaming machine (pachinko gaming machine and pachislot gaming machine). To be returned to. It corresponds to so-called fractional coins and fractional coins.

(E) Cash Disbursement Device The cash disbursement device 45 is for issuing cash as one of the valuable media, and when the player operates the operation unit 43 to select the issuance of cash, the cash is sent from the control device 46. The amount of cash designated based on the signal is paid out from the payout port 51. Therefore, the cash to be paid out includes 1,000 yen bills and 5,000 yen.
Yen bills, 10,000-yen bills and 500-yen, 100-yen coins are used.

(F) Control Device The control device 46 performs various controls necessary for reading out game value information, converting it into valuable value information, and paying out securities, and is mainly composed of a microcomputer. Specifically, it is configured to include a CPU, a ROM, a RAM (or an EEPROM may be used if necessary), and an I / O port. The CPU performs various arithmetic processes according to the control program stored in the ROM, uses the RAM as a work area in the process of the arithmetic process, fetches necessary data through the I / O port, and The process of outputting data or a signal is performed. In the ROM, necessary data (for example, conversion rate) is stored in advance in addition to the control program (see a control flowchart described later).

B. Configuration of IC Card FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the IC card 61. In FIG. 5, the IC card 61 has a display unit 81, a storage unit 82, a calculation unit 83, a data transfer unit 84, an external connection terminal 85, and a power supply unit 86. Here, when the IC card is defined, it is usually 8 bits (or 4 bits).
Bit) CPU and data memory are installed, and 6 to 8 external connection terminals are provided. A high-security memory medium that can make advanced judgments, calculations, data protection, etc. by utilizing the functions of the CPU. Say. The data memory used is non-volatile, and, for example, a rewritable EEPROM is mainly used. And usually IC is embedded in a thin plastic card (a vinyl chloride card may be used),
While ensuring portability, it is possible to achieve sufficient protection. Also, unlike magnetic cards, they are fully safe and secure.

The display unit 81 is composed of a small and slender liquid crystal display (for example, monochrome LCD) and displays necessary information to the outside. The storage unit 82 is, for example, a nonvolatile E
It consists of EPROM, and contains the game value information, the player's password, and the unconverted game value information returned to the player (fractional number).
Etc. are stored. The arithmetic unit 83 is, for example, an 8-bit CPU.
And performs necessary arithmetic processing (for example, storage processing, display processing, data processing). The data transfer unit 84 transfers various data input via the external connection terminal 85 to the calculation unit 83, and conversely transfers data from the calculation unit 83 to the outside via the external connection terminal 85. To do. The external connection terminal 85 is connected to, for example, a pachinko gaming machine, a pachislot gaming machine, a card reader / writer 41 of the gaming value information conversion device 12, or a card reader / writer (not shown) of the card issuing device 15 to obtain necessary data. This is a terminal for sending and receiving. The power supply unit 86 supplies necessary power to each unit of the IC card 61, and a small battery is used. A solar cell may be used for the power supply unit 86.

The IC card has an external connection terminal 8
5 using a non-contact type instead of the contact type using
An optical type, wireless type, or electromagnetic induction type IC card may be used. Further, instead of the IC card, an optical card which is also sufficiently protected in safety and security may be used. In such a case, a necessary part such as a card reader / writer is compatible with an optical card.

C. Configuration of Pachinko Gaming Machine Next, a specific configuration of the card type enclosed ball type pachinko gaming machine 31a will be described. FIG. 6 is a front view showing a card type enclosed ball type pachinko gaming machine 31a. In FIG. 6, the enclosed ball type pachinko gaming machine 31a is a machine frame 101.
And a metal frame 1 that supports the front frame 102 and the glass 103a.
03, a game board 104 in which a game area is formed, and a front operation panel 105. In addition, a game area belonging to a so-called first type is formed on the game board 104, and a first type pachinko game is enabled. The machine frame 101 constitutes an outer frame of the main body of the enclosed ball type pachinko game machine 31a, and is formed into a rectangular shape by using resin (plastic) as a material. The machine frame 101 may be made of wood. Front frame 1
Reference numeral 02 is made of resin and is openably and closably supported on the machine frame 101 by a supporting member (for example, a hinge). Gold frame 10
3 is made of metal (for example, stainless steel) and is configured to reinforce the periphery of the transparent glass 103a (clear member) corresponding to the front surface of the game area as a reinforcing member.
The periphery of 3 is fixed to the front frame 102. Therefore, the metal frame 103 is opened and closed integrally with the front frame 102. The clear member is not limited to glass, and a transparent resin may be used.

A slit-shaped smoke exhaust port 111 capable of sucking tobacco smoke and the like is disposed on the upper part of the front frame 102, and speakers 112 and 113 capable of outputting a stereo effect sound are disposed on both sides of the lower part. The front frame 102 is normally locked to the machine frame 101 by a hook (not shown) that is interlocked with the locking device 114. When opening the front frame 102, the lock state of the locking device 114 is unlocked and opened by inserting a predetermined key into the locking hole of the locking device 114 and rotating it. Front operation panel 105
The card insertion slot 121 into which the game card 61 in which the game price information is recorded is inserted, the operation switch group 122 in which various operation switches necessary for the game are gathered, and the balance of the game card 61 is once (for example, Card frequency display section (card balance display section) 123 displayed in increments of 100 yen
And the number-of-balls display unit 124 for displaying the number of balls owned by the player
A human body detection sensor 125 for detecting whether or not there is a player in front of the enclosed ball type pachinko gaming machine 31a, and an ashtray 126.
And a tray 127 on which a coffee cup, a wallet, keys, etc. can be placed. The card frequency display unit 123 and the number-of-balls display unit 124 are L
It is configured in one screen composed of a CD, and is arranged on the LCD screen in the style of a sheet switch, for example.

The operation switch group 122 includes a purchase switch 141 that is operated when a ball is purchased in units of once after inserting the game card 61 in which the game value information is recorded into the card insertion slot 121, and the game card 61. Card slot 12
1, the interruption switch 142 operated when interrupting the game (for example, when the player goes to the bathroom), the adjustment switch 143 operated when adjusting the game, and the game area is fired. Firing strength switch 144 that is operated when increasing the ball resilience, and firing weak switch 145 that is operated when weakening the ball resilience.
And a firing switch 146 that is operated when firing a ball toward the game area. The operation switch group 1
The various switches 22 are constituted by sheet switches on the LCD screen, for example. When the firing switch 146 is operated, a firing device (not shown) is activated to automatically launch one ball to the game area, and when the firing switch 146 is operated again, the firing is stopped.

Here, the operation of the enclosed ball type pachinko gaming machine 31a will be briefly described. In this embodiment, 20 balls are enclosed inside the enclosed ball type pachinko gaming machine 31a, and game value information and amount information ( For example, when the game card 61 in which the remaining frequency or the newly added amount of the game card is recorded) is recorded in the card insertion slot 121 and the player presses the purchase switch 141, the purchase frequency is changed. Accordingly, the number of balls held by the player is increased, and the game balls enclosed within the range of the number of balls held can be launched into the game area. Then, for the game performed according to the firing of the enclosed ball, it is determined whether the game result is in a specific profit state (safe ball) or in another state (out ball), and the specific profit is obtained. In the case of the state, control is performed so as to increase the player's profit (the number of balls held) in association with a predetermined number of prize balls (for example, 13 prize balls or 7 prize balls). In addition, by collecting the game balls that have passed through the game area and guiding them to the launch position, the enclosed game balls are circulated and used for the first type of pachinko game.

Then, at the time of firing the above-mentioned enclosed ball, "1" is subtracted from the numerical value displayed on the ball number display section 124,
The display of the number-of-balls display section 124 is updated based on the result. At this time, it is determined whether or not the enclosed ball falling in the game area is a winning ball, and if it is determined that the winning ball is a winning ball, the set number of winning balls (for example, 13 winning balls or 7 winning balls) )
Is added to the number of balls displayed on the number-of-balls display unit 124, and the display of the number-of-balls display unit 124 is updated based on the result. The player can confirm the current number of balls held and increase / decrease by the numerical data of the number of balls held display section 124. When the player wants to settle the game, by pushing the settlement switch 143, the game value corresponding to the numerical data of the number-of-balls display section 124 is written in the game card 61 by the card reader / writer inside the game machine.
You will receive the game value. After that, the player goes to the game value information conversion device 12 with the discharged game card 61 and exchanges it with cash, a gift certificate or prize information, or holds the game card 61 until the next game. Become.

Next, the functions realized by the game value information conversion device 12 will be described. FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of the game value information conversion device 12, and particularly the function of the game value information conversion device 12 is grasped by a large concept. As shown in FIG. 7, the game value information conversion device 12 has a game value information reading means 201 and a valuable value information converting means 20.
2. Valuable value issuing means 203 and identification information determining means 2
04 and the card information reading / writing means 251 are realized. It should be noted that, in actuality, each of these functions includes the card reader / writer 41, the display unit 42, and the operation unit 4 shown in FIG.
3, the gift certificate payout device 44, the cash payout device 45, and the control device 46, which are shown in detail by the flow chart described later.

The game value information reading means 201 reads the game value information from the game card 210 storing the game value information and outputs it to the valuable value information converting means 202. The valuable value information converting means 202 is the game value information reading means 20.
The game value information read by 1 is converted into valuable value information (for example, information about how much value there is when converted into cash at a predetermined conversion rate) and output to the valuable value issuing means 203. The valuable-value issuing means 203 issues a predetermined valuable-value medium (for example, (for example, an IC card in which cash, gift certificate, prize medium number information is recorded) according to the valuable-value information converted by the valuable-value information converting means 202. To do.

The identification information discrimination means 204 is the game card 21.
The validity of the card is determined based on the identification information stored in the security means 211 of 0. Game card 2
10 is a security means 211 for storing identification information for judging the validity of the card, an amount information storage means 212 for storing amount information (amount corresponding to the frequency purchased by the player), and game value information (acquired in the game). It has a game value information storage means 213 for storing game value data corresponding to the game balls, that is, the number of balls possessed. Game card 21
When the game card 210 is purchased from the card issuing device, identification information (for example, a personal identification number registered by the player) is written in the security means 211 and a desired amount of money is paid by the player paying bills and coins. It is written in the information storage means 212 and issued. And
When the identification information discriminating means 204 determines that the game card 210 is valid, the valuable value issuing means 203
Issue the above-mentioned valuable media. Further, the card information read / write means 251 reads information from the game card 210 and performs writing processing.

Next, FIG. 8 is a diagram in which the functions of the game value information conversion device 12 are grasped in a detailed concept. As shown in FIG. 8, the game value information conversion device 12 includes a game value information reading means 301, a valuable value information converting means 302, a valuable value issuing means 303, an identification information discriminating means 304, a valuable value amount selecting means 305, and a game medium return. The functions of the means 306 and the card information reading / writing means 351 are realized. In addition, in practice, each of these functions is the card reader / writer 41, the display unit 42, the operation unit 43, and the gift certificate payout device 4 shown in FIG.
4, realized by the cash payout device 45 and the control device 46, which will be described in detail by the flow chart described later. The game value information reading means 301 reads the game value information from the game card 310 storing the game value information and outputs it to the valuable value information converting means 302. Valuable value information conversion means 302 converts the gaming value information read by gaming value information reading means 301 into valuable value information (for example,
(Value information when converted into cash at a predetermined conversion rate) to convert the information into valuable value issuing means 303
Output to.

The valuable-value issuing means 303 issues a predetermined valuable-value medium (for example, an IC card recording cash, gift certificate, and gift medium number information) according to the valuable-value information converted by the valuable-value information converting means 302. To do. At this time,
The valuable value information converting means 302 is a valuable value form selecting means 3
21 and the conversion rate setting means 322, and the valuable value form selecting means 321 is an IC which records desired valuable value forms (for example, cash, gift certificate, and number of gift mediums) by an operation of the player from the outside. Select any form of card). Further, the conversion rate setting means 322 sets the conversion rate when converting the read value of the game value information into valuable value information from the outside (for example, the hall management device 1). Further, based on the read value of the game value information reading means 301, the player can select the desired valuable value amount by the valuable value amount selecting means 305.

The identification information discrimination means 304 is the game card 31.
The validity of the card is determined based on the identification information stored in the security means 311 of 0. Game card 3
10 is a security means 311 for storing identification information for judging the validity of the card, an amount information storage means 312 for storing amount information (an amount corresponding to the frequency purchased by the player), and game value information (acquired by the game). A game value information storage unit 313 for storing game value data corresponding to the game ball, that is, a number of possessed balls, and a game value information reading unit 301.
Of the read-out values, the game value information return amount storage means 314 stores unconverted game value information that cannot be converted into valuable value information as a game value information return amount, and prize exchange information when exchanging for a prize (for example, a prize ball). It has a free gift information area 315 for storing (numerical data). Game card 3
Reference numeral 10 realizes the function of the IC card 61 described above, and includes security means 311 and money amount information storage means 31.
2, the game value information storage means 313, the game value information return amount storage means 314, and the prize information area 315 are, for example, I
Storage unit 82 of C card 61 (nonvolatile EEPROM)
Is realized by

The game card 310 has security means 3 when the game card 310 is purchased from the card issuing device.
Identification information (for example, a personal identification number registered by the player) is written in 11, and a desired amount of money is written in the amount information storage means 312 and issued by the player paying bills and coins. Then, the valuable value issuing means 30
3 is a game card 310 by the identification information discrimination means 304.
When it is determined that the above is valid, the processing for issuing the valuable media is performed. The game value information returning means 306, out of the read value of the game value information of the game card 310 by the game value information reading means 301, the valuable value information converting means 30.
The unconverted game value information (so-called fractional game value information) that cannot be converted into valuable value information by 2 is returned to the player. Further, the game value information returning means 308 returns the difference between the game value information corresponding to the valuable value amount selected by the valuable value amount selecting means 305 and the read value. At this time, the game value information return means 306 is configured to include the returned amount update means 323 and the upper limit value setting means 324,
When it is determined that the game card 310 is valid, the return amount update means 323 updates the previous return value of the game value information in the game value information return amount storage means 314 inside the game card 310 with the return amount. Store. Further, the upper limit value setting means 324 sets an upper limit value (for example, 5000 pieces) of a cumulative value of the game value information return amount (that is, a game ball is stored in a card, a so-called stored ball amount). Then, the card information read / write means 351 is used as the game card 31.
The information of 0 is read and written.

Next, various controls in the game value information conversion processing will be described in detail with reference to the programs shown in FIG. Main Program FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the main program of the game value information conversion processing. This program is a sequential process and is sequentially executed for each step. When the program starts, initialization processing is first performed in step S10. As a result, the I / O port, the register, the memory, etc. are initialized and the flags are set. Next, a setting process is performed in step S12. This is to set the upper limit of the amount of savings for the returned amount and to set the conversion rate to securities (gift certificates, cash). These settings are performed by the hall management device 1. It should be noted that instead of setting by the management device 1, for example, the game value information conversion device 1
You may make it set in two places.

Next, in step S14, a process for confirming the personal identification number is performed. This is to confirm the validity of the card (whether the card is authentic or a player who received the card) since the IC card 61 has already been issued. At this time, the display unit 42 of the game value information conversion device 12
Displays the initial menu screen as shown in Fig. 13,
The message "Please insert the card and enter your PIN" appears. In response to this, the player inputs a 4-digit personal identification number and presses the end switch. If you make a mistake entering the number, select Cancel and press it again. If the player's input of the 4-digit personal identification number is correct, the validity of the game card 61 is confirmed, the screen of the display unit 42 shifts to FIG. 14, and the contents of the game card 61 are read. The personal identification number for security is registered by the player when the IC card 61 is purchased.

On the screen of the display section 42 shown in FIG. 14, it is displayed that there are 6789 acquired balls, 0 accumulated balls, and 6789 total acquired balls. As a result, it can be seen that the total number of balls the player has acquired is 6789. And
A message prompting you to select the desired conversion method "Please select the desired conversion method and press the selection switch." Is displayed, and in step S16, step S18, and step S20, "prize exchange (Fig. 10)" and "money exchange", respectively. (Fig. 11) "," Gift certificate (Fig. 12) "Wait for selection input. At this time, by selecting a desired conversion mode and inputting a selection switch, conversion to a desired mode is performed.

(A) At the time of prize exchange When the player presses the selection switch for prize exchange, step S
The result of the determination in 16 is YES, the program moves to the program of FIG. 10, and the screen of FIG. 15 appears. In FIG. 10, in step S50, a conversion amount input process for determining how much of the game value information (that is, total spheres) acquired by the player to be converted into a prize is performed. For example, in FIG.
On the screen of 5, the total number of balls acquired is 6789, and "How many are you going to use to exchange the prize? (Operate the 10 key to input the desired number and press the selection switch. The rest is stored. Message) is displayed. At this time, the ten keys 74 are operated to operate the desired number (for example, 6
000: that is, corresponding to the conversion amount) is input.
As a result, 6000 pieces will be exchanged for prizes and the rest will be accumulated. When the end switch is selected and pressed, it is determined in step 52 that the conversion amount input processing is completed, and the process proceeds to step S54. At this time, the screen moves to FIG.
The operation can be redone by selecting the cancel switch.

When the conversion amount is determined, prize information processing is performed in step S54. This is to store the amount to be converted into a prize as the prize information in the IC card 61. Then, in the card discharge process of step S58, which will be described later, the amount converted into a prize is written as the prize information in a predetermined area of the IC card 61. Next, in step S56, return ball processing is performed. This is the IC card 6 for the remainder (fraction game value information: so-called fraction balls) that is not used for prize conversion.
It is stored in 1. For example, on the screen shown in FIG. 16, the display “789 coins will be accumulated” appears. At this time, the business form of the hall is displayed, "The main store is 500
You can save up to 0 balls. Appears on the display. As a result, the player can know the upper limit value of the stored coins.

Next, in step S58, card ejection processing is performed. At this time, the display unit 42 displays on the screen of FIG.
The message “Please bring your card and exchange it for a desired prize at the prize counter.” Appears and “Eject the card.” Is displayed. As a result, when the player operates the “YES” selection switch, the IC card 61 is ejected. That is, the IC card 61 is ejected from the card insertion slot 52 of the game value information conversion device 12 and reaches the player's hand. After that, the player brings the discharged IC card 61 to the prize counter in the hall, where the player operates the player (for example, the IC card 61).
The clerk gives the player the desired prize) and receives the desired prize of the prize exchange amount corresponding to 6000 stored in the IC card 61.

As described above, in the case of exchanging the free gift, the free gift information is added to the IC card 61, and the free gift equivalent to the free gift information added to the IC card 61 is selected and brought to the counter. On the other hand, the rest (fractional amount) that has not been exchanged for prizes is stored in the IC card 61. Therefore, it is possible to insert the game into a pachinko gaming machine next time and enjoy the pachinko game, and it is also possible to accumulate fractional balls for the prize exchange in the game after the next time. This completes the prize exchange routine.

(B) At the time of cash exchange When the player presses the cash exchange selection switch on the screen of FIG.
The determination result in step S18 is YES, the program proceeds to FIG. 11, and the screen in FIG. 17 appears. In FIG. 11, a conversion amount input process for determining how much of the game value information (that is, a game ball) acquired by the player in step S100 to be cashed is performed. For example, in FIG.
On the screen of 7, the total number of balls acquired is 6789, and the message "Today's cash rate is 2.5 yen." Is displayed.
Thereby, the player can know the rate of the game ball and the cash. On the screen of the display 42, the message "How many cash do you want to use for cash? (Use the 10 key to input the desired number and press the selection switch. The rest will be saved.") Is displayed. At this time, the ten keys 74 are operated to operate the desired number (for example, 6000).
Number of pieces: that is, corresponding to the conversion amount) is input. As a result, 6000 will be converted into cash and the rest will be accumulated. Select and press the end switch, and step 102
It is determined that the conversion amount input processing has been completed in step S, and the subsequent step S
Proceed to 104. At this time, the screen moves to FIG.

When the conversion amount is determined, cashing processing is performed in step S104. This is to calculate the amount of cash (for example, 15,000 yen) by multiplying the desired number (for example, 6000) desired for cash conversion by the cash conversion rate, and actually, in step S108 described later. As the card is ejected, the calculated amount of cash will be paid. Next, in step S106, a return ball process is performed. this is,
The remaining portion (fractional portion) that is not redeemed for cash is stored in the IC card 61. For example, in the screen of FIG. 18, “789,
I will collect balls. Appears on the display. At this time, the business form of the hall is displayed, and the display "The main store can store up to 5000 balls" appears. As a result, the player can know the upper limit value of the stored coins. Then, 789 pieces are stored as fractions in the storage area for storing the number of coins of the IC card 61 (corresponding to a game value information return amount storage means). In addition, the screen of FIG.
It is 0 yen. Is displayed. As a result, the player confirms the amount converted into cash. In addition, the message "Please push the selection switch if you like. Cash and cash will be paid out from the gift certificate outlet, and the card will be ejected." Is displayed.

After confirmation, the player pushes the confirmation switch.
As a result, the card ejection process of step S108 is performed. And the payout opening 5 of the game value information conversion device 12
A cash amount of 15,000 yen corresponding to 1 to 6000 pieces (for example, one 10,000 yen banknote and one 5000 yen banknote) is ejected and reaches the player's hand. Further, at this time, the IC card 61 storing the remaining amount (fractional amount) which is not redeemed for cash is ejected from the card insertion slot 52 and reaches the player's hand. In this way, the rest (fractional portion) that has not been converted into cash is the IC card 61.
Be stored in. Therefore, it is possible to insert the game into a pachinko gaming machine next time and enjoy the pachinko game, and it is also possible to accumulate fractional balls for the next time and apply for cash. This completes the cashing routine. In this case, since the conversion rate can be set from the management device 1, the player can be serviced depending on the operating state of the game store. For example, the conversion rate can be freely set by opening a new store or by designating the business hours, so that the service to the player can be improved.

(C) In the case of gift certificate When the player presses the gift certificate selection switch on the screen of FIG. 14, the determination result in step S20 becomes YES and FIG.
Then, the screen of FIG. 19 appears. Figure 1
In step 2, a conversion amount input process is performed to determine how much of the total game balls the player has acquired in step S150 to exchange for a gift certificate. For example, in the screen of FIG. 19, total acquired balls = 6789 is displayed, and the message “Today's cash exchange rate is 2.5 yen. Gift certificates for 16,500 yen can be paid out.” Is displayed. Thereby, the player can know the conversion rate between the game ball and the gift certificate.

On the screen of the display section 42, a message "Please input the desired conversion amount. It is a unit of 500 yen." Is displayed. As a result, the player expects that the game balls and the gift certificates will be converted in units of 500 yen, and that the game balls less than 500 yen will be stored. Next, the player operates the ten keys 74 to input a desired conversion amount (for example, 15,000 yen: that is, the conversion amount). As a result, the game ball equivalent to 15,000 yen is converted into a gift certificate, and the rest is stored. When the end switch is selected and pressed, step 152
It is determined that the conversion amount input processing has been completed in step S, and the subsequent step S
Proceed to 154. At this time, the screen moves to FIG.

When the conversion amount is determined, a gift certificate payout process is performed in step S154. This is to prepare a gift certificate of a desired amount (for example, 15,000 yen) desired to be converted. Actually, the card is ejected in step S158, which will be described later, and the desired amount (for example, 15,000). A gift certificate of JPY) will be paid. Then, step S1
At 56, the return ball processing is performed. This is to store the remaining portion (fractional portion) that is not converted into a gift certificate in the IC card 61. For example, on the screen of FIG. 20, a display of "789, I will store the coins" appears. At this time, the business form of the hall is displayed, and the display "The main store can store up to 5000 balls" appears. As a result, the player can know the upper limit value of the stored coins. Then, 789 pieces are stored as fractions in the storage area for storing the number of coins of the IC card 61 (corresponding to a game value information return amount storage means). In addition, on the screen of FIG. 20, at the same time, the message "conversion amount is 15,000 yen." Is displayed. This allows the player to confirm the amount of money converted into a gift certificate. In addition, the message "Please push the selection switch if you like. The cash and the gift certificate will be dispensed from the gift outlet. The card will be ejected." Will be displayed.

After confirmation, the player pushes the confirmation switch.
As a result, the card ejection process of step S158 is performed. And the payout opening 5 of the game value information conversion device 12
An amount (15,000 yen) of a gift certificate (for example, a beer ticket) corresponding to 1 to 6000 pieces is ejected and reaches the player. Further, at this time, the IC card 61 storing the unconverted remainder (fractional portion) is ejected from the card insertion slot 52 and reaches the player's hand. In this way, the rest (fractional portion) that has not been converted is stored in the IC card 61. Therefore, the player can insert the game into a pachinko gaming machine next time to enjoy the pachinko game, and can accumulate the fractional balls in the subsequent games to be used for the gift certificate exchange next time. This completes the gift certificate conversion routine. In this case, since the conversion rate can be set from the management device 1, the player can be serviced depending on the operating state of the game store. For example, the conversion rate can be freely set by opening a new store or by designating the business hours, so that the service to the player can be improved.

"In the case of pachi-slot game" (example of cash conversion) Here, in the case of a player using a pachi-slot gaming machine,
For example, a game card in which the number of acquired game coins is stored is removed from the pachi-slot gaming machine and inserted into the game value information conversion device 12. Then, a screen as shown in FIG. 21 appears. In the screen of FIG. 21, there are 1000 earned coins, 0 saved coins, and 10 total earned coins.
It is displayed that the number is 00. From this, it can be seen that the total number of coins earned by the player so far is 1000. Then, a message "Please select the desired conversion method and press the selection switch." Is displayed to prompt you to select the desired conversion method. If you want to redeem,
The selection switch for "cashing" is pressed. This shifts to a cashing process, and the screen of the display unit 42 moves to FIG.

In the screen shown in FIG. 22, "Total earned coins are 10
It is 00. Is displayed, and further, "Today's cash exchange rate for 7 tickets is 100 yen." This allows the player to know the rate of game coins and cash exchange. In addition, the screen of the display unit 42 shows "How many coins do you want to use for cash? (Use the 10 key to input the desired number and press the selection switch. The rest will be saved coins.") Is displayed. At this time,
Use the numeric keypad 74 to operate the desired number (for example, 1000
When the number of sheets: corresponding to the conversion amount) is input and the end switch is selected and pressed, the screen moves to FIG. In this case, since all 1000 coins cannot be converted into cash, as shown in FIG. 23, the number of convertible coins is displayed as 994, and below that is displayed as "fractional coins that cannot be converted into coins." To be done.

Further, the business form of the hall is displayed, and the display "The main store can store up to 700 coins" appears. Thereby, the player can know the upper limit value of the stored coins. When the number of redeemable coins is determined, the cashing process is performed. This is a process of paying cash corresponding to the number of convertible cash (for example, 994). At this time, the screen of the display unit 42 shows, “The cash amount is 14,200.
It's a circle. Is displayed. As a result, the player confirms the amount converted into cash. In addition, the message "Please push the selection switch if you like. Cash and cash will be paid out from the gift certificate outlet, and the card will be ejected." Is displayed.

After confirmation, the player pushes the confirmation switch.
As a result, the card ejection process is performed. Then, the payout port 51 to 1000 of the gaming value information conversion device 12
The amount of cash (14,200 yen) corresponding to one coin (e.g., one 10,000-yen banknote, four 1,000-yen banknotes, and two 100-yen coins) is ejected, and reaches the player's hand. In addition, an IC that stores the remainder (fractional coins) that cannot be redeemed
The card 61 is ejected from the card insertion slot 52 and reaches the player's hand. In this way, the rest (fractional coins) that has not been cashed is stored in the IC card 61. Therefore, the player can enjoy the pachi-slot game by inserting it into the pachi-slot gaming machine next time, and can also accumulate the fractional coins in the subsequent games for the next time. Above,
The cash exchange routine for the pachi-slot game ends.

As described above, in this embodiment, when the player finishes the game (for example, when the pachinko game is finished), the gaming card 61 is ejected from the pachinko gaming machine,
At this time, the acquired game ball is stored in the game card 61 as game value information. After that, the player brings the game card 61 to the game value information conversion device 12 and inserts it into the card insertion slot 52 of the game value information conversion device 12, and the game value information (acquired game ball) of the game card 61 is read. The read out value is converted into valuable value information (for example, information about how much value there is when converted into cash at a predetermined conversion rate), and cash, a gift certificate, or a certificate is converted according to the converted valuable value information. Any one of the IC cards 61 in which the prize ball number information is recorded is discharged from the game value information conversion device 12 according to the player's selection. Therefore, it is possible to easily exchange the desired securities by inserting the game card 61 storing the acquired game balls into the game value information conversion device 12 and performing a simple operation.

For example, when converted into cash, the player can purchase a desired product. Also, when converted into a gift certificate, it can be exchanged for a desired product. As a result, when the prize the player desires is not in the hall, there is no need to exchange the prize, and the player can purchase a product that the player is satisfied with in cash, or a product that the player wants with a gift certificate. Will be able to buy. Therefore, the game ball acquired by the player can be effectively utilized.
Further, for the game store, the service to the player can be improved. In particular, since it can be exchanged for cash or a gift certificate, it is not necessary to increase the number of kinds of prizes in the hall, and it is possible to eliminate the conventional adverse effect of unnecessarily increasing the cost of the game shop. When exchanging the prize, it is not necessary to use a paper or a magnetic card on which the information on the number of game balls to be acquired is printed, and the IC card 61 can be used to exchange the prize, thereby improving safety.

When exchanging prizes, it is no longer necessary to exchange the fractional balls of the number of acquired game balls for candy, chocolate, etc. as in the conventional case, and the player can obtain one of the number of acquired game balls stored in the game card 61. The club can be used for the next game or the next prize exchange. Therefore, the fractional ball can be effectively utilized for the player. As a result of counting the game balls, unconverted game value information that cannot be converted into valuable value information is stored in the game card 61 and returned to the player, so fractional balls can be effectively utilized, for example, the returned fractional balls are stored. The game card 61 can be used for the next game or for the next prize exchange.
The player selects the desired amount of valuable value, and returns the difference between the number of gaming balls corresponding to the selected amount of valuable value and the read value of the gaming value information, so that the player desires the acquired gaming ball. It can be converted into securities as much as you do. Further, by taking the return form of saving the difference, it is possible to save a desired number of game balls, and it is possible to effectively utilize the acquired game balls.

By allowing the player to select a desired valuable value form from the outside, the form of securities desired by the player (for example, cash, gift certificate, prize exchange) can be obtained. . By storing the unconverted game value information that cannot be converted into valuable value information in the IC card 61 as data, the unreturned amount can be returned to the player by the card with high security, and the unreturned amount can be effectively utilized. be able to. In this case, since the IC card 61 is provided with a security means capable of storing the information such as the personal identification number, which can confirm the validity, the value form such as cash or gift certificate which the player desires based on the information of the IC card 61 is used. Even if it can be converted, sufficient safety can be ensured.

Since the upper limit of the cumulative value of the game value information returned amount can be set from the outside (for example, the management device 1), the service to the player can be improved according to the business condition of the game store. . For example, it is possible to freely set the upper limit value of the cumulative value of the game value information return amount by designating a business hours or when the store is newly opened, and the service to the player can be improved. As a result, it is possible to differentiate between the game shops. The conversion rate when converting game value information into valuable value information is from the outside (for example,
Since the management device 1) is settable, it is possible to improve the service to the player according to the business condition of the game store. For example, it is possible to freely set the conversion rate by designating the opening hours of a new store or by designating the business hours, so that the service to the player can be improved. As a result, it is possible to differentiate between the game shops.

Although the above is the effect in the case of the pachinko gaming machine, the same effect as the above can be obtained for the coins (game value information) obtained when the pachi-slot gaming machine is used. In this case, different IC cards are used for pachinko games and pachislot games, but the same IC cards may be used. The embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications as described below are possible. The game value information conversion device is not limited to the example in which one device is installed in the hall, and a plurality of game value information conversion devices may be set or the game value information conversion device may be configured in combination with another device. Is also free. The type of the enclosed ball type pachinko gaming machine may be any type as long as it is a card type. For example, any of a so-called first-class gaming machine, a second-class gaming machine, a third-class gaming machine, another-class gaming machine, a gaming machine having another electric accessory device, and the like. Good. Similarly, the pachi-slot gaming machine may be of any type. The IC card may have any size, material, internal electronic circuit configuration, etc. within the scope of the present invention.

[0069]

According to the present invention, when the player finishes playing the game, the game card is ejected from the gaming machine, and at this time, the game card has the game value information corresponding to the obtained game ball or game coin. Then, when the game card is inserted into the game value information conversion device, the game value information is read by the game value information conversion device, and the read value is converted into valuable value information (for example, cash at a predetermined conversion rate). Information about how much value is converted)
Then, if a predetermined valuable medium (for example, cash, gift certificate, IC card storing prize exchange information) is selected according to the converted valuable information, the selected valuable medium is transferred from the gaming value information conversion device. Since it is issued, the following effects can be obtained.

(1) The game card storing the acquired game value information can be easily exchanged for a desired value medium by inserting the game card into the game value information conversion device and performing a simple operation. (2) For example, when converted into cash, the player can purchase a desired product by cash. Further, when converted into a gift certificate, the gift certificate can be exchanged for a desired product. (3) As a result, when the prize desired by the player does not exist in the hall, there is no need to exchange the prize, and the player can purchase the item that the player is satisfied with in cash, or the player can use the gift certificate. It will be possible to exchange for the desired product. Therefore, the game medium acquired by the player can be effectively utilized. Further, for the game store, the service to the player can be improved.

(4) In particular, since it can be exchanged for cash or a gift certificate, it is not necessary to increase the number of kinds of prizes in the hall, and it is possible to eliminate the conventional harmful effect of unnecessarily increasing the cost of the game shop. (5) When exchanging prizes, it is not necessary to use a paper or magnetic card on which information on the number of acquired game media is printed, and it is possible to exchange prizes with a game card (for example, an IC card), which enhances safety. be able to. (6) When exchanging prizes, it is no longer necessary to exchange the gaming value (fraction of the gaming value) for candy, chocolate, etc. as in the past, which is part of the gaming value for the player. Can be used for the next game or the next prize exchange. Therefore, the fractional game value can be effectively utilized for the player. (7) As a result of reading the game value information, the unconverted game value information that cannot be converted into valuable value information is returned to the player, so the fractional game value can be effectively utilized, for example, the returned fractional game value It can be used for games or for next prize exchange. (8) The player selects the desired amount of valuable value and returns the difference between the selected amount of valuable value and the read value of the gaming value information, so that the obtained gaming value is as much as the player desires. It can be converted into a valuable medium.

(9) Further, by adopting the return form of saving the above difference, desired game value information can be saved and the acquired game value information can be effectively utilized. (10) By allowing the player to select a desired value-value form from the outside, the value-value medium form desired by the player (for example, cash, gift certificate, prize exchange) can be obtained. it can. (11) By storing unconverted game value information that cannot be converted into valuable value information in a game card (for example, an IC card) as data, the unreturned amount can be returned to the player by a card with high security, The unreturned portion can be effectively utilized. (12) Since a game card (for example, an IC card) is provided with security means for storing identification information for judging the validity of the card, it is referred to as cash or a gift certificate desired by the player based on the information of the game card. Even if it can be converted into a valuable value form, sufficient safety can be ensured.

(13) Since the upper limit of the accumulated value of the game value information returned amount can be set from the outside (for example, the management device), the service to the player can be improved in accordance with the business condition of the game store. You can For example, it is possible to freely set the upper limit value of the cumulative value of the game value information return amount by designating a business hours or when the store is newly opened, and the service to the player can be improved. As a result, it is possible to differentiate between the game shops. (14) Since the conversion rate when converting the read value of the game value information into valuable value information can be set from the outside (for example, the management device), service to the player can be provided according to the business condition of the game store. Can be improved. For example, it is possible to freely set the conversion rate by designating the opening hours of a new store or by designating the business hours, so that the service to the player can be improved. As a result, it is possible to differentiate between the game shops.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an inside of a game shop showing an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block configuration diagram of a game value information conversion device of the same embodiment.

FIG. 3 is an external view of the game value information conversion device according to the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a view showing an operation unit of the game value information conversion device according to the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration of an IC card of the same embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine of the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of the game value information conversion device according to the embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a detailed concept of the functions of the game value information conversion device in the embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a main program of a game value information conversion process of the embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of prize exchange processing of the embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a cash exchange processing subroutine of the embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of gift certificate exchange processing of the embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an initial menu screen of the display unit of the embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a display unit of the embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a display unit of the embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a display unit of the embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a display unit of the embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a display unit of the embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a display unit of the embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a display unit of the embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a display unit of the embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a display unit of the embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a display unit of the embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 Management device 12 Game value information conversion device 15 Card issuing device 31a, 31b, ... 31n Enclosed ball type pachinko machine 32a, 32b, ... 32n Enclosed ball type pachinko machine 33a, 33b, ... 33n Pachi-slot gaming machine 41 Card reader / writer (card / R / W) 42 Display section 43 Operation section 44 Gift certificate dispensing device 45 Cash dispensing device 46 Control device 61 IC card (gaming card) 201, 301 Gaming value information reading means 202 , 302 Valuable value information converting means 203, 303 Valuable value issuing means 204, 304 Identification information discriminating means 210, 310 Gaming cards 211, 311 Security means 212, 312 Amount information storing means 213, 313 Gaming value information storing means 305 Valuable value amount Selection means 306 Game medium return means 314 Play Value information returned quantity storing unit 315 prize information area 321 negotiable value type selecting means 322 converting rate setting unit 323 returning partial updating means 324 upper limit setting means

Claims (15)

[Claims] 1. The game value information is read from a game card storing the game value information, the read game value information is converted into valuable value information, and a predetermined valuable medium is created according to the converted valuable value information. A game value information conversion method characterized by issuing. 2. The validity of the game card is confirmed before at least one of the process of reading the game value information from the game card and the process of converting the game value information into valuable value information. 2. The game value information conversion method according to claim 1, further comprising: executing a security process to perform, and issuing a predetermined valuable medium after at least the security process. 3. When the game card is newly issued, by specifying and paying an amount of money corresponding to a desired game value, game value information according to the paid amount is added to the game card, The game card stores the identification information for confirming the validity of the card, and thereafter enables the game on the gaming machine. The security processing discriminates the identification information stored in the game card to determine the validity of the game card. The game value information conversion method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by confirming the sex. 4. The valuable medium is at least one of a recording medium that records information on the number of free gift media that can be directly exchanged with paper money, currency, gift certificates, or free gifts. 4. The game value information conversion method according to any one of 3 to 3. 5. If, as a result of reading the game value information, there is an unconverted game value component that cannot be converted into valuable value information in the game value information, the unconverted game value component is returned to the player. The game value information conversion method according to claim 1, further comprising: 6. The process of returning the game value is a process of recording, in the game card, an unconverted game value that cannot be converted into valuable value information and returning it, and recording the unconverted game value in the game card. In the process of returning the game card, after confirming the legitimacy of the game card, the unconverted game value component is returned by updating and recording the previous game value return amount in the game card. Item 5. A game value information conversion method according to any one of items 1 to 3. 7. A game value information reading unit for reading the game value information from a game card storing the game value information, and a game value information read by the game value information reading unit for converting the game value information into valuable value information. A game value information conversion device comprising: a value information conversion unit; and a value generation unit for issuing a predetermined value medium according to the value information converted by the value information conversion unit. 8. The game card has a security means for storing identification information for judging the validity of the card, and the identification information is written into the security means to be newly issued. An identification information discriminating means for discriminating the validity of the card based on the identification information stored in is provided, and at least one of the valuable value information converting means or the valuable value issuing means is the game by the identification information discriminating means. 8. The game value information conversion device according to claim 7, wherein when the card is judged to be valid, the process of the valuable value information conversion means or the valuable value issuing means is executed. 9. The valuable medium is at least one of a recording medium that records information on the number of free mediums that can be directly exchanged with paper money, currency, gift certificates, or free gifts. 9. The game value information conversion device according to any one of 8 to 8. 10. As a result of reading the game value information by the game value information reading means, if there is an unconverted game value portion that cannot be converted into valuable value information in the game value information, the unconverted game value. 10. The game value information conversion device according to claim 7, further comprising a game value return means for returning the minutes to the player. 11. The valuable value information converting means has a valuable value amount selecting means for selecting a desired valuable value amount of the game out of the game value information read by the game value information reading means. 11. A game value information returning means for returning a difference between the value value selected by the value value selecting means and the game value information read out by the game value information reading means is provided. A game value information conversion device described in any one of 1. 12. The valuable value information converting means is provided with a valuable value form selecting means for selecting a desired valuable value form by an operation of a player from outside. The game value information conversion device described in any one. 13. The game medium return means is a process of recording unconverted game value information that cannot be converted into valuable value information in the game card and returning the same, wherein the game card reads out of the game value information reading means. Among the values, there is a game value information return amount storage unit for storing unconverted game value information that cannot be converted into valuable value information as a game value information return amount, and the game value information return unit is a valid game card. 13. When it is determined that there is a return amount updating means for storing the return amount in the game value information return amount storing means by updating the previous game value information conversion amount and storing it. A game value information conversion device described in any one of 1. 14. The game value information conversion according to claim 7, further comprising an upper limit value setting means capable of setting an upper limit value of an accumulated value of the game value information return amount from the outside. apparatus. 15. The conversion rate setting means for externally setting a conversion rate when converting the read value of the game value information into valuable value information, according to any one of claims 7 to 14. Game value information conversion device.