Method for managing a shuffler deck of playing cards

Abstract

This invention is designed with the objective of providing a method for managing shuffled playing card packages to prevent fraudulent card swapping in card game facilities. The management system 7 is programmed to calculate the location and quantity of all packages 2 of shuffled playing cards at each location—the backyard 8, the game table 11, the carrier 9, and the disposal location 10—using information obtained from the loading and unloading steps. The management system 7 also calculates the location of all packages registered in the registration step (used for registration into the database of the management system 7) and the quantity of each package from each location, obtained from the information obtained from the loading and unloading steps, using each ID code library 1. Next, the management system 7 is programmed to identify the presence of lost packages by comparing the information of all ID codes registered in the registration step with the ID codes at each location of all packages obtained from the calculation steps of the loading and unloading steps and reporting the lost packages to the management department or the main management organization.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an earlier application filed on August 8, 2014, with application number 201410390550.9 and entitled "Method for Managing Shuffled Game Card Bundles". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a method for managing shuffled game card bundles in card game facilities using card game tables to prevent card bundles from being lost or replaced during the operation of card game facilities using a large number of card bundles. Background Technology

[0003] Baccarat and Blackjack are many live table games played in gaming facilities. These games use a standard deck of 52 playing cards and are typically dealt from a box containing multiple decks (6 to 9 or 10 decks) that have already been shuffled together before the game begins. The order of the cards from the multiple decks in the box determines the winner or victor when the operator (hereinafter referred to as the "dealer") in the card game facility delivers the playing cards to the game table for this game to begin. For these purposes, the pre-determined decks of playing cards are shuffled in a random order (sequence) and packaged separately into bundles, which are then used by the card game facility.

[0004] No cards should be lost or replaced in a card game facility, because once someone reads the order of the card bundles and returns them to the card game facility, they can predict the outcome of the game when the dealer uses the read bundles.

[0005] In order to ensure fair play by preventing the loss or replacement of shuffled card bundles in card game facilities, card game facilities should manage shuffled card bundles so that the game at the table proceeds properly (i.e., without replacement of shuffled card bundles or any other accidental or fraudulent activities, etc.). Shuffled card bundles are known and disclosed in Patent Document 1: (US Patent Publication 2010 / 0327525).

[0006] Reference List

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0327525 Summary of the Invention

[0009] Technical issues

[0010] This invention provides real-time monitoring of shuffled playing card bundles in card game facilities, enabling the facilities to immediately stop playing in the event of an emergency by managing the entire shuffled playing card bundle. This management is important because if shuffled playing cards are lost in the card game facility, someone may know the order of the shuffled playing cards on the table.

[0011] The present invention addresses the aforementioned problems and aims to provide a shuffled card pack monitoring system. This system allows a card game facility to stop any suspicious shuffled card packs within the facility by managing the entire shuffled card pack.

[0012] When the operator of a card game facility distributes game cards to the game tables for the game to begin, no cards should be lost or replaced. For example, if someone pre-reads or changes the order of some cards or the entire card pack while the pack is being delivered to the game table, then he or she can win the game at the table where the replaced or read pack was delivered.

[0013] Solution to the problem

[0014] To address the aforementioned problems of conventional methods, the present invention provides a system for managing shuffled game card bundles, wherein...

[0015] A predetermined number of decks of solitaire are shuffled in a random order and individually packaged into a bundle, with a unique ID code attached to each unique bundle of shuffled solitaire.

[0016] The system has

[0017] One or more ID code readers are used to read all the ID codes of packages that have arrived at the trading floor for use at the gaming table.

[0018] The management controller monitors each ID code of all existing shuffled solitaire decks at the trading venue by obtaining each ID code from all existing shuffled solitaire decks at the trading venue through an ID code reader.

[0019] An ID code reader is also located at the game table to read the ID codes of the bags at the game table to identify the bag that will be used next for the dealing box.

[0020] The ID code of the package for the next use is checked by the management controller to determine whether it is a package that has properly arrived at the game table or arrived at the appropriate time or time period.

[0021] To address the aforementioned problems, this invention provides a method for managing shuffled game card bundles, wherein...

[0022] A predetermined number of decks of solitaire are shuffled in a random order and packaged individually, with a unique ID code attached to each unique shuffled deck.

[0023] and

[0024] Transport the shuffled game card packs from the backyard to the trading area and game tables used for the games.

[0025] This method has,

[0026] The registration step involves adding all the ID codes of the packages arriving in the backyard to the database.

[0027] The management steps for reading all ID codes of packages arriving at the trading venue and monitoring each ID code of all existing shuffled solitaire packages at the trading venue by obtaining each ID code of all existing shuffled solitaire packages at the trading venue through an ID code reader.

[0028] in,

[0029] In the management process, at the trading floor, it is checked whether all the ID codes of the package have arrived in the backyard in advance and have been registered in the database.

[0030] According to the method for managing shuffled solitaire card packs of the present invention, when the ID code of a pack is read at the game table by an ID code reader, the ID code of this pack registered in the database is deleted or known as having been used. The management controller checks the ID code of the pack for the next use by determining at least one of the following: whether it is a pack that has appropriately arrived at the game table or arrived at an appropriate time or time period.

[0031] 1) Whether it is transported along the predetermined delivery route;

[0032] 2) Is it a lost package?

[0033] 3) Whether it has not been registered;

[0034] 4) Whether the trading period was not exceeded for the predetermined period;

[0035] 5) Whether it was transported from an unexpected trading venue or did not pass through any trading venue;

[0036] 6) Whether it has been used at any game table in the past.

[0037] According to the method for managing shuffled solitaire bags of the present invention, the management step further includes managing whether all registered ID codes of the bags in the database have been deleted or known due to use during a specific time period. Pallet IDs or carton IDs can be used to register the ID codes of bags that have arrived at the backyard. The management step may further include a step for managing whether any bags were not used at the game table during a specific time period.

[0038] According to the method for managing shuffled solitaire packets according to the present invention, a holding case for holding multiple shuffled solitaire packets may have a reader for reading the ID code of the shuffled solitaire packets in the holding case, a communication device for sending the information obtained by the reader to the outside of the holding case, and a locking device for preventing the packets from being removed from the holding case. Attached Figure Description

[0039] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a package and unpacked shuffled playing cards to be used in the dealing box of a system for managing shuffled playing card packages according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall structure of a system for managing shuffled game card packs according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of shuffled playing cards, which are to be transported as pallets or boxes from the factory to the backyard and trading area of ​​a card game facility according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 4A This is a perspective view showing a holding box according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the holding box is capable of holding multiple packages and has a barcode reader.

[0043] Figure 4B This is a perspective view showing a holding box according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the holding box is capable of holding multiple packages and has multiple barcode readers.

[0044] Figure 4C A perspective view of a holding box according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the holding box is capable of holding a bag for the next game under the game table.

[0045] Figure 5 This is a perspective view schematically showing the overall structure of the board game system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of shuffled game cards to be used in a board game system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the overall structure of a playing card box device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 8 This is a plan view of a playing card according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 9 This is an enlarged plan view showing the main part of the card guiding device of the card box equipment, in which the card guiding device is partially interrupted.

[0050] Figure 10 It is a diagram showing the relationship between the output wave of the display sensor and the markings in the card box device.

[0051] Figure 11 (a) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the card entry / exit limiting device of the card receiving unit of the card box equipment that limits the entry / exit of cards. Figure 11 (b) is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a variant of the card entry / exit restriction device.

[0052] Figure 12 This is a plan view of a playing card according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 13 This is an enlarged plan view showing the main part of the card guiding device of the card box device according to the third embodiment of the present invention, wherein the card guiding device is partially interrupted.

[0054] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall structure of a board game system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 15 This is a perspective view of shuffled game cards to be used in a board game system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of shuffled playing cards to be transported from a factory to a card game facility in the form of packages, boxes, and pallets, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 17 This shows a truck arriving at the backyard carrying cardboard boxes on a pallet containing packages.

[0058] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall system used to manage shuffled game card packs.

[0059] Figure 19 This displays the information flow in a system used to manage shuffled solitaire decks. Detailed Implementation

[0060] Implementation Method 1

[0061] The following describes an implementation of a system for managing shuffled game card bundles. Figure 1 This is a 3D diagram of a shuffled card pack and dealing box used in board games at card game facilities. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall structure of a system for managing shuffling game card bundles in a card game facility according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Each shuffled game deck 1, consisting of a predetermined number of decks (typically 6, 8, 9, or 10 decks), is shuffled in a random order to arrange itself in a unique and random arrangement. In factory 5, the deck is packaged into a package 2 with a uniquely identifiable shuffled deck ID (such as a barcode 3 or RFID tag) as ID code 4. In this embodiment, ID code 4 is attached to package 2 in the form of a barcode 3 (which can be a 2D code such as a QR code) or an RFID tag, for use with a barcode reader R of the dealing box S or other RFID tag reading device (not shown). Package 2 is sealed in factory 5 with sealing material or shrink packaging material (see [link to product description]). Figure 2 ).

[0063] The management system 7 in the card game facility 6 is used to manage whether any pack 2 is lost or exceeds the number of packs accepted in the backyard 8 of the card game facility 6. If any pack 2 is lost or missing, it may be because someone has damaged the pack 2 and read the order of the cards in the pack 2, or mixed their own cards into the cards in the pack 2, or swapped some cards in the pack 2 with their pre-arranged cheating cards in a certain order, and then returned the pack to the trading area or the table of the card game facility to be used at the game table to win the game. To solve the above problems, this management system 7 provides management or monitoring of all shuffled game card packs 2 in the card game facility 6.

[0064] Packages 2 with barcodes 3 as unique ID codes are supplied to the backyard 8 of the card game facility 6. All ID codes 4 of packages 2 that have arrived at the backyard 8 are registered in the database 7b of the management system 7 (in memory, etc.) (as a registration step for registering all ID codes 4 to the database). At this stage, all ID codes 4 (barcodes 3 (which may be 2D codes like QR codes)) of packages 2 that have arrived at the backyard 8 are registered to form the basic database. To register all ID codes of packages 2 supplied to the card game facility 6, data from the factory or carton ID 30 or pallet ID 40 can be used instead of reading all barcodes 3 of the packages. To register or read ID codes 4, a camera 12 or an RFID tag (not shown) reader can be used instead of a barcode reader R in this embodiment of the invention. Packages can be transported from the factory, etc., via carton CA (and several carton CAs that may be on pallet PA), which contain 18 packages of shuffled playing cards 1s (see Figure 3 The cardboard box ID 30 or pallet ID 40 can be used to register the ID code of package 2 that has arrived in backyard 8 from factory 5.

[0065] During the process of being transported to the card game facility 6 and stored in the backyard 8, package 2 with barcode 3 is stored in carton CA and carton CA is on pallet PA (see Figure 3 A unique carton ID 30 is attached to each carton CA, and a unique pallet ID 40 is attached to each pallet PA. Carton ID 30 is pre-registered in database 7b of management system 7 in association with the package ID code stored in the carton CA. Pallet ID 40 is pre-registered in database 7b of management system 7 in association with carton ID 30 and the ID code of package 2 on the corresponding pallet PA. Each ID code of package 2 is associated with the carton ID 30 and pallet ID 40 stored for package 2.

[0066] Figure 17 The above scenario illustrates a situation where cartons CA on pallet PA containing package 4 (not shown) are transported to the backyard by truck 9ca. (In a typical example, a set of cartons CA is wrapped in thin plastic film PF and attached to pallet ID 40.)

[0067] As a reading step, the actual ID codes of all existing packages 4 can be read from the outside of the carton CA, pallet PA, or container 300 via the reading device 210.

[0068] For example, all actual ID codes can be read at once from the ceiling 213 and / or door 214 of the backyard and / or transport path via antenna 21. Figure 17 The reading device 210 has one or more large antennas 21 to remotely read the ID code. Reading the actual ID code from the outside of the cardboard box CA without opening the package of the cardboard box CA keeps the ID code clean and reduces the possibility of spoofing in the backyard and / or transport path.

[0069] Pack 2 is transported from the backyard 8 to the trading area 10 and from the trading area 10 to the game table 11 via multiple transport vehicles 9, 9c for the game. All existing packs 2 in the card game facility 6 are monitored by cameras 12 or barcode readers R at designated locations to read each ID code of all existing shuffled game card packs 2. Monitoring cameras 12 are set up or mounted at multiple locations from the backyard 8 to the trading area 10 and the game table 11 to be able to read each and all barcodes 3 (as ID codes) of all existing shuffled game card packs 2 in the card game facility 6.

[0070] In this embodiment, multiple AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) of transport vehicle 9 transport the bundles 2 of shuffled playing cards 1s from the backyard 8 to the trading area 10 for the game. Multiple bundles 2 (at least 16 bundles) can be stored in each trading area 10 and transported to the game table 11 by other transport vehicles 9c. The AGVs (transport vehicles 9) transport the multiple bundles 2 from the backyard 8 to each trading area 10 via a planned route 13 in the card game facility 6, wherein the transport vehicle 9 carrying the bundles 2 is monitored by the management system 7 using cameras 12 and the like located at predetermined specific locations along the route 13 in the card game facility 6.

[0071] The management system 7 is implemented via a computer device (as a management controller with the functions described below), and the methods or processing functions are implemented by installing a program in the computer that is executed by the computer processor. The management system 7 performs the management as described below.

[0072] 1) A registration step for registering all ID codes 4 of packages 2 that have arrived in the backyard 8 into database 7b. To register all ID codes of packages 2 supplied to the card game facility 6, data from the factory or carton ID 30 or pallet ID 40 can be used instead of reading all barcodes 3 or ID codes 4 of the packages via camera 12 or a reader for RFID tags (not shown). In this embodiment of the invention, a 2D code reader, such as a QR code reader, can be used instead of a barcode reader R.

[0073] 2) Management steps for reading all ID codes 4 of all existing shuffled solitaire packs 2 that have arrived at trading venue 10 by obtaining each ID code 4 of all existing shuffled solitaire packs 2 at trading venue 10 by ID code reader R (which may use camera 12 or other reading device) and monitoring each ID code 4 of all existing shuffled solitaire packs 2 at trading venue 10.

[0074] In the management process, at trading area 10, all ID codes 4 of package 2 are checked to ensure they are ID codes that arrived in backyard 8 beforehand and are already registered in database 7b. Images acquired by surveillance camera 12 are transmitted to management system 7 via communication device (wired or wireless) and analyzed in management system 7. Each ID code of package 2 in the image and the ID code monitored by surveillance camera 12 or read by barcode reader R are identified as evidence of actual existence at trading area 10. Images are acquired by surveillance camera 12 and transmitted at predetermined intervals (e.g., every 5 minutes or every hour). Management system 7 matches each ID code 4 of all existing packages 2 acquired by surveillance camera 12 or read by barcode reader R at each trading area 10 with the ID codes 4 of package 2 registered in database 7b at predetermined intervals (e.g., every 5 minutes or every hour). The ID codes 4 of package 2 registered in the database are the basic data that should have existed in card game facility 6 when it was delivered to backyard 8.

[0075] Each time a pack 2 arrives at trading area 10 and leaves trading area 10, its ID code 4 is checked at trading area 10 for monitoring purposes. The presence of pack 2 at trading area 10 is also monitored at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 1 minute, 5 minutes, 1 hour, or more) via management system 7. A holding box can be used to hold multiple shuffled game card packs 2 and monitor the ID codes 4 attached to the packs at trading area 10.

[0076] Package 2 in trading area 10 will be transported to game table 11 via transport vehicle 9c and placed on game table 11 for playing (e.g., baklava game). When shuffled game cards 1s are to be used in the game on game table 11, after package 2 is unpacked, shuffled game cards 1s are placed in dealing box S so that the cards of shuffled game cards 1s can be dealt one by one from dealing box S. Figure 1 During the game, the dealer (D) deals card 1 from the card box S to the game table 11.

[0077] Just before the package 2 on game table 11 is destroyed, the ID code 4 of package 2 is read by the barcode reader R of the card box S to know that the ID code of package 2 is the ID code after it has been used at each game table 11. When package 2 is selected for the next use at each game table 11 and read by the barcode reader R, the ID code 4 of package 2 registered in the database will be deleted from the database 7b or will be known and registered after its use at that game table 11. The ID code 4 of package 2 read for the next use is sent to the management controller 7 and any suspicious package 2 is checked by the management controller 7 to determine whether package 2 is a package that was originally intended to be on game table 11 or arrived at the originally intended time by judging that it is not an appropriate package, or is not a package that was originally intended to be on game table 11, or is not a package that arrived at the appropriate time or period.

[0078] 1) Is it transported via the predetermined transport route 13?

[0079] 2) Is one of them missing?

[0080] 3) Is it unregistered?

[0081] 4) Has it not been used for more than the predetermined period in trading venue 10?

[0082] 5) Whether it was transported from an unexpected trading venue 10 or never passed through any trading venue 10,

[0083] 6) Has it not been used at any game table 11 in the past?

[0084] An ID code reader (which may be a barcode reader R) is connected to the card box S on the game table 11 or to the shuffling device (not shown) at the game table 11. The check result of the ID code 4 of package 2 can be reported to the card box S or the shuffling device regarding the presence of any suspicious package 2, so as to prevent the use of suspicious package 2 through management control 7. The card box S or the shuffling device may have an output device for alarming or notifying the check result of the ID code of package 2 to prevent the use of suspicious package 2 or to lock the further use of package 2. The management steps may further have a function for managing whether all registered ID codes 4 of package 2 in the database 7 have been deleted or are known to have been used at any game table 11 during a specific time period (whether there are any packages 2 that have not been used at the game table during a specific time period (week or month, etc.).

[0085] The ID code reader is directly or indirectly connected to the card box S on the game table 11 and is configured to send the ID code of the package 2 to the management controller 7 to identify the ID code of the package 2 for the next use, and the card box S receives instructions from the management controller 7.

[0086] According to a modified embodiment of the present invention, a holding case 50 for holding multiple shuffled solitaire packs 2 can be used for a method of managing the shuffled solitaire packs 2. The presence of packs 2 at the trading area 10 can be monitored by a management system 7 at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 1 minute, 5 minutes, 1 hour, or more) using the holding case (see FIG. 4) 50. The holding case (see FIG. 4) 50 may have a reader 51 disposed on a cover 52 of the holding case 50 for reading the ID codes of the shuffled solitaire packs 2 inside the holding case 50. The reader 51 of the holding case 50 may be a barcode reader R or a monitoring camera 12 (or a reader for RFID tags or a QR code reader (not shown) may be used instead of the barcode reader R). The reader 51 is configured to scan the X and Y directions using scanning devices 53, 54 (see FIG. 4) disposed on the cover 52 to read all ID codes of the packs 2. A communication device 55 is also provided for sending information obtained by the reader 51 to the outside of the holding case 10 (to the management controller 7, etc.). The holding case 50 has a locking device 56 to prevent the cover 52 from being opened and the package 2 from being taken out of the holding case 50. The package 2 can only be put into and taken out of the holding case 50 when the locking device 56 is unlocked (the cover 52 is opened) by an authorized person in the card game facility 6. The authorized person in the card game facility 6 is a unique person authorized to operate the locking device 56.

[0087] The storage case 50 has a locking device 56 to prevent opening the cover 52. The locking device 56 may also have a notification or warning device (which may be wireless) to indicate that the cover 52 is open. When the cover 52 is notified to be open (or at any time), an image of the storage case can be captured by the nearest surveillance camera for authorized personnel or others to record the actions of inserting and removing the package 2 from the storage case 50. To record these actions (images of the storage case in its open state), it can be confirmed that the package 2 can only be inserted into or removed from the storage case 50 while the locking device 56 is unlocked by an authorized person (the cover 52 is open). Monitoring these images confirms that all packages 2 are present in the storage case 56.

[0088] will describe Figure 4BAnother embodiment of the holding case 50. The holding case 50 has a plurality of readers 51 for reading ID codes 3 in its upper interior. By moving each scanning device 53 located in the upper part of the holding case 50 in the Y direction, each ID code reader 51 moves in the Y direction and reads all ID codes 3 of the packages 2 in each row below each ID code reader 51. The holding case 50 has a door (cover) 52, and the packages 2 can be put in and taken out by opening and closing the door (cover 52). The holding case 50 has a locking device 56 to prevent unauthorized removal of the packages 2. Furthermore, as an alternative idea, the holding case 50 may have the same number of ID code readers in its upper interior as the maximum number of packages 2 that can be accommodated in the holding case 50.

[0089] Now will describe Figure 4C Another embodiment of the holding box 50. The holding box 50 can be placed under the game table 11 and stores the pack 2 for the next game. The holding box 50 has an ID code reader 51 in the upper part of its interior for reading ID codes. The ID code reader 51 is capable of reading the ID code 3 of the pack 2.

[0090] In this embodiment, packages 2 of shuffled playing cards 1s can be transported from the backyard 8 to the trading area 10 for playing by using a holding box 50, such as multiple AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) of transport vehicle 9. Multiple packages 2 (at least 18 packages) can be stored in each trading area 10 in the holding box 50. The ID code of the package 2 obtained by reader 51 at the holding box 50 is evidence of the presence of package 2 in the trading area 10.

[0091] The management system 7, at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 5 minutes or every hour), matches each ID code 4 of all existing packages 2 obtained by reader 51 at each trading area 10 with the ID code 4 of packages 2 registered in database 7b. The ID code 4 of packages 2 registered in database 7b is the basic data that should exist in the card game facility 6 when it has been (or should) been delivered to the backyard 8. By matching each ID code 4 of all existing packages 2 obtained by reader 51 at each trading area 10 with the ID code 4 of packages 2 registered in database 7b, monitoring of all existing packages 2 at trading areas 10 is performed at predetermined time intervals (every 5 minutes or less or more). The management system 7 is able to verify whether there are any missing packages or any extra packages 2 that should not be in trading areas 10. The management system 7 can report the results of the above management (these matching results) to the management department of the card game facility 6.

[0092] These monitoring and ID code captures enable the verification of all ID codes by comparing them with the new packs arriving at the backyard at appropriate time intervals (e.g., when they arrive at backyard 8). This verifies whether all registered ID codes for the shuffled game card pack 2 have been removed as used cards after the game has commenced. If one of the IDs in the pack is not removed or is confirmed to have been used, it indicates that there is inappropriate or questionable inventory in the card game facility.

[0093] The images obtained by surveillance camera 12 can be analyzed in management system 7 as follows:

[0094] 1) Identify the ID code of each barcode 3 for all packages 2 in the image.

[0095] 2) Read the barcode 3, which is recognized by the barcode reader, as an ID code.

[0096] 3) At predetermined time intervals, such as every 5 minutes or every hour, each ID code read and the location registered as evidence of its existence at that location.

[0097] 4) Match each ID code of all existing packages 2 obtained by monitoring camera 12 at the predetermined location of existing packages 2 with the ID code of package 2 registered in database 7b.

[0098] 5) Calculate whether all registered ID codes of package 2 in the database of the card game facility 6 that should exist when it is delivered to the backyard 8 exist, or whether there are any redundant ID codes of package 2 obtained by the monitoring camera 12.

[0099] 6) The management system 7 can report the results of the above management to the management department of the card game facility 6.

[0100] The calculated ID code = all ID codes of package 2 that arrived (unloaded) in backyard 8 and were registered - (minus) all ID codes of package 2 obtained via camera 12 or via barcode reader, including deleted or known-to-be-used ID codes. These calculations are performed at each location (backyard 8, trading area 10 and game table 11, and transport vehicle 9, location-based). Reports are made regarding ID codes and the number of identified lost packages and the locations where lost packages were found (last known location). Each report with the number of lost or redundant ID codes or other monitoring results can be displayed on monitoring monitor 60 at the management office or other locations.

[0101] At these steps used to manage the shuffled game card pack 2, the conveyor route 13 and each ID code of the pack 2 on all the transport vehicles 9 used to transport the pack 2 from the backyard 8 can be monitored by camera 12, wherein the location of the transport vehicle 9 is determined by sensors (not shown) and controlled by an automated guided vehicle system known as AGV system technology.

[0102] Using information obtained and analyzed by camera 12 and management system 7, each identification ID code at each location is calculated and registered on a location-by-location basis for all locations. Management system 7 is programmed to monitor each ID code of the actual package and can identify the ID code lost at each location of the game table 11 or other locations by comparing all existing actual ID codes at its location with the registered ID codes at each location obtained through the monitoring camera.

[0103] The method further includes the number of all actual shuffled card packs 2 at each trading area 10 and game table 11 for managing the backyard 8 and for the game table, and identifies whether there are any lost packs on any carrier 9 during the transport step by comparing all existing actual ID codes on each transport vehicle 9 with information on all ID codes of the packs obtained when these packs arrive at the backyard 8.

[0104] This management step is crucial for the secure operation of the card game facility. Managing all existing physical ID codes at Backyard 8 (or each trading area 10 or game table 11) to identify any missing or extra packages at each of these locations, and ensuring all packages in the card game facility are under control, will guarantee that all packages are safe and secure.

[0105] Another embodiment of the board game system of the present invention will be described below. Figure 5 This is a perspective view schematically showing the overall structure of the board game system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the shuffled playing cards used in the board game system. Although the shuffled playing card set 1s is packaged in the board game system of this embodiment, when the shuffled playing card set 1s is to be used in the game, it is unpacked and placed in the card box device S so that the cards 1 of the shuffled playing card set 2s can be dealt one by one. During the game, the dealer deals the cards 1 from the card box device S to the game table. The cards 1 of each shuffled playing card set 1s, consisting of a predetermined number of decks (usually 6, 8, 9, or 10 decks), are shuffled to arrange in a unique and arbitrary order and packaged in a pack 2 with a barcode 3 (or alternatively, an RFID or RF tag) as an ID code 4.

[0106] In its assembled state, the packaging box 4 of the Shuffled Solitaire Set 1s has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and encloses the Shuffled Solitaire Set 1s, as shown below. Figure 2 As shown. Pack 2 has zippers 105 arranged at predetermined intervals in two locations, each zipper having a zipper-shaped cut line arranged longitudinally parallel to the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped, and having a central band 106 arranged in the two locations in the central portion defined by the zippers 105. A configuration is achieved in which the left and right sides of Pack 2 are removed by removing the two zippers 105 along the cut line, thereby exposing the sides of the shuffled card set 1s. Figure 5 ).

[0107] The cut card 1c is inserted into the shuffled game card set 1s before being placed into the card box device S. When used in the game, the cut card 1c is inserted anywhere within the latter half of the shuffled game card set 1s (the last quarter or fifth of the shuffled game card set 1s). The cut card 1c is used to end the game on the table, leaving approximately 20 to 40 cards 1 in the card box device S to prevent any player or anyone from counting the points of the dealt cards 1 during the game, thus allowing for prediction of card points as the number of undealt cards decreases. Typically, when the cut card 1c is removed during the game, the currently used shuffled game card set 1s is discontinued after that game or several games thereafter, and the game ends. The shuffled game card set 1s in the card box device S is replaced with a new set, and a new game begins.

[0108] exist Figure 8 In the second embodiment of the board game system, the card box device S is provided with a cover 102f, which allows the shuffled game card set 1s to be inserted and removed. The card box device S includes a card guiding unit 107 that guides the cards 1, which are manually drawn one by one from the card holding unit 102, to the game table; a code reading unit 108 that reads the code C indicating the figure (number, point) of the card 1 when the dealer or others of the card game facility manually draw the card 1 from the card holding unit 102C; a winner / loser determination unit 110 that determines the winner / loser of the card game based on the number (point) of the card 1 read sequentially by the code reading unit 108; and an output device 111 that outputs the result determined by the winner / loser determination unit 110.

[0109] Figure 8This displays the playing cards 1 that form a shuffled game deck 1s. Numbers are coded and printed on each card 1 used in board games (e.g., baccarat) as markers M, which are invisible under normal conditions. Codes C are arranged symmetrically on the top and bottom sides of the card 1, each code C constituting a marker M. Preferably, the codes C are printed by coating in a position that does not overlap with the indication of the card type or index, the coating becoming visible when exposed to UV light.

[0110] Next, refer to Figure 9 The code reading unit 108 is described in detail. When the card 1 is manually removed from the card holding unit 102C, the code reading unit 108 reads the code C indicating the number (number, points) of the card 1 from the card 1. Figure 9 This is a floor plan of the main parts of the card box equipment S. Figure 9 In this configuration, a code reading unit 108 is disposed within a card guiding unit 7. This unit guides cards 1, manually drawn one by one from an opening 113 in a card receiving unit 102C, to the game table 106. The opening 113 is located at the front of the card receiving unit 102C. The card guiding unit 107 is an inclined surface. Card guiding covers 114 are attached to a portion of the edge on each side of the card guiding unit 7, and these covers also function as sensor covers. Both card guiding covers 114 are configured to be attached / detached using screws or similar tools (not shown). When the card guiding covers 114 are removed, the sensor assembly 115 of the code reading unit 108 is exposed. The sensor assembly 115 consists of four sensors, including two ultraviolet reactive sensors (UV sensors) 120 and 121, and target detection sensors 122 and 123.

[0111] Target detection sensors 122 and 123 are fiber optic sensors, each capable of detecting the presence and movement of the playing card 1. Target detection sensor 122 is located upstream of the playing card guiding unit 107 along the flow direction of the playing card 1 (arrow D), while target detection sensor 123 is located downstream of the playing card guiding unit 107 along the flow direction of the playing card 1. Figure 9 As shown, target detection sensors 122 and 123 are respectively located upstream and downstream of UV sensors 120 and 121. Each UV sensor 120 and 121 includes an LED (UV LED) that emits ultraviolet light and a detector. Mark M is printed on playing card 1 with UV luminescent ink and emits color when UV light is applied. When playing card 1 is illuminated with UV light (black light), the detector detects the light reflected by mark M of code C on playing card 1. UV sensors 120 and 121 are connected to control unit 112 of code reading unit 108 via cables. In code reading unit 108, the arrangement pattern of mark M is determined based on the output signals of the detectors of UV sensors 120 and 121, and the number (dot count) corresponding to code C is also determined.

[0112] In the code reading unit 108, the start and end of the reading performed by the UV sensors 120 and 121 are controlled by the control unit 112 based on the detection signals from the target detection sensors 122 and 123. Furthermore, the control unit 112 determines whether the playing card 1 has properly passed through the playing card guiding unit 7 based on the detection signals from the target detection sensors 122 and 123. Figure 8 As shown, rectangular markers M are arranged in a two-row, four-column frame on each of the top and bottom edges of the playing card 1. This arrangement of markers M indicates the number (rank) and suit (hearts, spades, etc.) of the playing card 1. If UV sensors 20 and / or 21 detect marker M, the UV sensors will send an activation signal. The code reading unit 8 determines the relative relationship between the signals received by the two UV sensors 20 and 21. This enables the code reading unit 108 to identify the number (rank) and type (suit) of the corresponding playing card 1 based on identification codes such as the relative difference between the two markers M detected by the two UV sensors 120 and 121.

[0113] Figure 10 The relationship between code C and the outputs of the activation signals of the two UV sensors 120 and 121 is shown. A predetermined arrangement pattern of marker M can be identified based on a comparison of the relative changes in the outputs of the activation signals of UV sensors 120 and 121. Therefore, marker M can have four arrangement patterns in two rows (the upper row and the lower row), and because the patterns are printed in four columns, 256 codes (4×4×4×4) can be formed. Each of the fifty-two (52) different playing cards is assigned one of the 256 codes, and this association is stored in memory or as an association table in the program. By identifying code C, the card reading unit 108 can identify the number (points) and type (suit) of card 1 based on a predetermined association table (not shown). Moreover, the 52 cards can be freely associated with the 52 codes of the 256 codes stored in the association table, thus there are various associations between them. Therefore, the association between the 256 codes C and the suits and points of the 52 cards can be changed according to time or position. Preferably, code C is printed with a coating that becomes visible when exposed to UV light in a position that does not overlap with the indication of the card type or index.

[0114] Next, the control unit 112 will be described in more detail. The control unit 112 is implemented by a computer device and includes a winner / loser determination unit 110 that automatically determines the winner / loser of the game, etc. This processing function (in the control unit 112) is implemented by installing a program for determining the winner / loser in the computer, which is executed by the computer processor. Furthermore, the control unit 112 reads the shuffled card ID from the barcode 3 read by the barcode reader R, which uniquely identifies the shuffled game card set 1s, and stores the shuffled card ID in the read memory 112M. The control unit 112 reads the barcode 3 using the barcode reader 100 and stores the uniquely identifiable shuffled card ID. Then, the control unit 112 identifies the shuffled game card set 1s currently in use in the game and the current time, and stores them in relation to the shuffled card ID. The control unit 112 causes each of the following specific events that occur when the shuffled game card set 1s identified by the shuffled card ID is used at the game table to be stored in memory 112M in conjunction with its occurrence time. Furthermore, the sequence number of the card theme that occurs within 1 second in the shuffled game card set currently set in the card box device, or the sequence number of the game theme that occurs in each game played with such shuffled game cards (each individual game determines the winner (player or dealer), and after betting, the next individual game begins).

[0115] The specific event item stored in conjunction with the shuffled card ID includes at least one of the following:

[0116] (1) Error in reading the cards in the shuffled game card set recognized by the code reading unit 108;

[0117] (2) The game ends by using the shuffled game card set 1s currently placed in the card box device S due to the operation of the end button 53, or by removing the cut card 1c from the shuffled game card set 1s currently placed in the card box device S.

[0118] (3) When it is not allowed to draw a card according to the rules of the card game, try to draw a card;

[0119] (4) Try moving or inserting the card in the opposite direction to the direction of withdrawal from opening 113; and

[0120] (5) A pre-defined irregular operation is identified as irregular by the card box device S.

[0121] Note that the reading error in item (1) above refers to the error in identifying the card caused by the code reading unit 108 reading the two markers M of card 1 based on the association table, because the read code is not the predetermined code; or the error in identifying the number (points) and type (suit) of card 1 corresponding to the read code. Regarding item (2) above, the end button 53 is pressed to end the use of the shuffled game card set 1s currently placed in the card box device S. After this action, the end of the game is recorded in the card box device S. Moreover, if the cut card 1c is drawn from the shuffled game card set 1s currently placed in the card box device S, the game ends in the next game or after some games, and the remaining cards in the shuffled game card set 1s will no longer be used. The attempt to draw any card when it is not allowed to draw a card according to the rules of the card game, as described in item (3) above, will be described later. The above item (4) describes any attempt to insert any card in the opposite direction in opening 113, referring to a situation where the target detection sensors 122, 123 detect dishonest behavior, such as inserting any card in the opposite direction of the movement direction of card 1 (arrow D) under relevant conditions, and assuming that the target detection sensors 122, 123 detect that card 1 moves in the opposite direction of arrow D. The above item (5) describes any predetermined irregularity that will be determined as irregular by the card box device S, referring to a situation where, for example, the time period during which card 1 remains on the target detection sensors 122, 123 is longer than the predetermined time period, and such irregularity is input in advance and stored in memory 12M as a program.

[0122] The memory 112M stores any security entries related to the shuffled card ID read from the barcode 3, and when storing security entries, it also stores the time when the security entry occurred. For this purpose, the memory 112M includes a clock 112t. It also includes an external transmission device 300 to externally transmit the security entries and shuffled card IDs. Notification of the occurrence of a security entry and its time is sent to the management department or trading venue of the card game facility via the external transmission device 300 in association with the relevant shuffled card ID. The management department of the card game facility stores and records these transmitted entries in conjunction with the relevant shuffled card ID in a database 400. The dealer or similar person is also notified of the occurrence of a security entry by a display made of a lamp 151 and a liquid crystal display unit 152.

[0123] Next, a variation of setting up input tool 200 to replace the barcode reader R capable of recognizing the shuffled card ID will be described. Instead of using barcode reader R to read barcode 3 to identify the shuffled card ID of the currently used deck, a configuration is feasible where the barcode reader is installed in a separate device mounted on the game table (e.g., a device for processing deck 1 or a device for confirming the processed deck 1), and the shuffled card ID [card deck ID code] of the deck to be used is obtained through this barcode reader. The shuffled card ID [ID code] is then input into the deck box device S via communication 201 with this device. In this case, the separate device with the barcode reader acts as an input device capable of recognizing the shuffled card ID [ID code].

[0124] Next, we will refer to Figure 11 Describes a card entry / exit restriction tool 130 that restricts the entry / exit of card 1 into / out of card receiving unit 102C. Card guiding unit 107 is provided with card entry / exit restriction tool 130 to restrict card 1 from entering / exiting via card receiving unit 102C. Figure 11 In (a), a card entry / exit restriction tool 130 is disposed in a card guide cover 114 of a card guiding unit 107, which guides the drawn cards 1 one by one from an opening 113 onto the game table. The opening 113 is located at the front of a card receiving unit 102C. The card entry / exit restriction tool 130 has the following structure: when a card 1 passes through a groove 133 between the card guiding unit 107 and the card guide cover 114, a locking member 134 presses down on the card 1 to prevent its entry / exit within the groove 133. The locking member 134 can be moved by a drive unit 135 in the direction indicated by arrow Mo. The drive unit 135 consists of an electromagnetic solenoid, a piezoelectric device, or the like, such that the locking member 134 can occupy two positions: a position where the card 1 is pressed down (restricted position) and a position where the card 1 is allowed to pass. The drive unit 135 is controlled by a control device 112 and moves the locking member 134 to the two positions: the position where the card 1 is pressed down and the position where the card 1 is allowed to pass. The rules of the Baccarat game are pre-programmed and stored in the control device 112.

[0125] Next, refer to Figure 11(b) A variation of the card entry / exit restriction device 130 is described. This variation of the card entry / exit restriction device 140 has a structure in which, when the card 1 passes through the slot 133 between the card guide unit 107 and the card guide cover 114, a locking member 136 extends into the slot 133 to block the movement of the card 1. The locking member 136 is movable in the direction indicated by arrow Mo via a drive unit 137 including an electromagnetic solenoid, a piezoelectric device, etc., allowing it to take two positions: a position that blocks the movement of the card 1 (restricted position) and a position that allows the card 1 to pass. The drive unit 137 is controlled by a control device 112 and moves the locking member 136 to both positions: the position that blocks the movement of the card 1 and the position that allows the card 1 to pass.

[0126] The card entry / exit restriction device 130 (140) is configured to operate via a drive unit 135 or 137 controlled by a program from the control device 112 to prevent cheating entry / exit of the card 1. The card entry / exit restriction device 130 (140) is equipped with object detection sensors 122 and 123 as sensors for detecting the movement of the card 1, and has the function of detecting the movement of the card 1 through these sensors 122 and 123 to restrict such movement. Details of the content (programmed content) implemented to prevent cheating entry / exit of the card 1 include at least one of the following functions:

[0127] 1) The function of preventing the insertion or movement of a card 1 in the direction opposite to the direction of arrow D (i.e., from the outside towards the card receiving unit 102C via opening 113). In this case, although the card 1 inserted for cheating purposes passes through the slot 133 between the card guiding unit 107 and the card guiding cover 114, the card 1 in the direction opposite to the orthogonal direction (i.e., from the outside towards the card receiving unit 102C) Figure 9 Movement in the opposite direction of arrow D is detected by detection signals from object detection sensors 122 and 123, and due to the program of control device 112, drive units 135 and 137 will move their corresponding locking members 134 and 136 to pressurize or block the card 1 at their respective positions. In this case, control unit 112 determines that the situation falls into safety item (4), even if the card moves in the opposite direction or attempts to insert through the opening.

[0128] 2) The function of blocking the drawing of card 1 from card receiving unit 102C is based on the information of the suit and rank of card 1 read by the card reading unit (this refers to the code reading unit 108, which reads the code C indicating the number (number, rank) of card 1 from card 1 when card 1 is drawn from card receiving unit 2C), which disallows such a drawing. In this case, as described above, the rules of the Baccarat game are pre-programmed in the control device 112. In the Baccarat game, it is uniquely determined whether each of the dealer and players should draw two or more cards 1 based on the total rank (number) of the two cards already dealt to each of the dealer and players. Therefore, if the dealer at the table attempts to deal card 1 when a third card should not be drawn (which violates the rules), the movement of card 1 is restricted. If card 1 attempts to be drawn at a time or under conditions where drawing should not be permitted, the movement of card 1 is detected by the object detection sensor 122 based on the detection signal of card 1, and due to the program of the control unit 112, the drive units 135 and 137 will move their corresponding locking members 134 and 136 to their respective positions to press or block card 1. Then, the locking members 134 and 136 will move to their respective positions to press or block card 1, and prevent the drawing of another card 1. Figure 11 (as shown in the image). In this case, the control unit 112 determines that the situation falls under security item 3, namely, an attempt to draw a card when it should not be drawn according to the rules of the card game. This corresponds to item (3) of the specific event described above, which is stored in conjunction with the shuffled card ID. That is, the occurrence of an attempt to draw a card when it should not be drawn according to the rules of the card game is registered in the control unit 112, relative to the above-mentioned alternative item (3).

[0129] For each shuffled card ID in a shuffled card set 1s, when an event occurs that falls under any specific event (safety item), the management of the card game facility or the trading venue notifies the fact and time of the occurrence via an external transmission device 300, combined with the relevant shuffled card ID, and this information is transferred to and stored in the database 400. Additionally, the dealer and others are notified of the occurrence of the safety item through a display on the lamp 151 and the liquid crystal display unit 152. This transmitted item is registered in the database 400 of the management of the card game facility, such that items falling under at least one of the following conditions are registered in combination with the shuffled card ID identified relative to the card set currently used in the game, thereby providing overall control over the operation of the card game facility or its effective operation.

[0130] For the overall control of the operation or effective operation of a card game facility, the management of the card game facility registers in a database and uses, for example, the data items described below.

[0131] (1) The game table used;

[0132] (2) The person in charge of dealing the cards at the game table;

[0133] (3) The start time of use of the identified shuffled solitaire deck;

[0134] (4) The end time of use of the identified shuffled game card set;

[0135] (5) The time period during which the cards of the identified shuffled game deck are present on the game table;

[0136] (6) Information about the trading floor or card room that manages the identified shuffled solitaire set before it is delivered to the relevant game table;

[0137] (7) Information regarding the handling of identified shuffled game cards after their use on the game table;

[0138] (8) Information regarding whether all cards in the identified shuffled game card set have reached the processing equipment;

[0139] (9) Information about the trading floor or card room that manages the identified shuffled game card set before it is delivered to the relevant game table;

[0140] (10) Information regarding wins and losses at the game table using the identified shuffled solitaire deck;

[0141] (11) The time period from the end of a game using the identified shuffled deck of cards until the start of the next game using a new shuffled deck of cards;

[0142] (12) The time period from start to finish of a game using a recognized shuffled deck of cards; and

[0143] (13) Information regarding the purchase or acquisition of the identified shuffled card set.

[0144] The group code SC will be described in further detail. For example... Figure 12As shown, playing cards 1 are equipped with a group code SC, which is constructed by representing information about the card set through a code and is invisible under normal conditions (e.g., UV ink). This group code SC is set in the same position at least within the same set of playing cards. The group code SC itself emits light of different wavelengths as a code when radiated by light of different wavelengths, and is configured to emit light of different wavelengths when radiated by light of different wavelengths. The control unit 12 determines whether the identified group code SC matches the group code SC read by the code reading unit 8, based on whether the predetermined wavelength of the light matches the read group code SC. At the start of the game, the shuffled card ID of the shuffled game card set 1s housed in the card box device S is identified by reading the barcode 3 (as ID code 4) using the barcode reader 100. The shuffled card ID and the group code SC are related to each other, such that if a shuffled game card set 1s to be used is identified, the group code SC attached to this shuffled game card set 1s is identified according to the shuffled card ID. When actually reading the group code SC of the playing card 1 attached to the card being used, it is determined whether the group code SC identified by the control unit 112 of the card dealing device S matches the group code SC read by the code reading unit 108. Therefore, it is not known how the group code SC is determined from the outside.

[0145] A polymer material with a molecular structure that emits light of a specific wavelength against the light is printed on the top and bottom edges of card 1, such as... Figure 12 As shown, the group code SC is used. The group code SC cannot be recognized by the human eye under normal use conditions (daytime, natural light, etc.). The group code SC is read by the UV sensor 124. When the playing card 1 is guided by the playing card guide unit 107, as the playing card 1 slides past the playing card guide unit 107, the group code SC is read by the UV sensor 124 installed in the playing card guide device 7. Similarly, the group code SC can be mixed with infrared or ultraviolet responsive ink to print code C, which, when printed, is used to identify the number (points) of the playing card 1. Each group code SC of the infrared or ultraviolet responsive ink cannot be recognized by the human eye under normal use conditions (daytime, natural light, etc.). The UV sensor 124 is integrated with the light source for reading the group code SC. In this embodiment, an LED (UV LED) emitting two daytime wavelengths of ultraviolet light is used as the light source (not shown).

[0146] At least for the same set, the group code SC is printed individually in the same location, as described above. However, it is also possible to construct the configuration of the group code SC using certain substances or materials used as codes, and such substances or materials are contained in the ink of the coating material, anchoring coating material, or the ink used to print back patterns, markings, suits, or codes indicating the number of markings on the surface of the cards. As a variation of the current embodiment, the group code can be printed on the card 1 in a manner similar to the mark M or barcode 3. The group information indicating the group code can be different for each deck or multiple decks of cards. The group information can be different for each card game facility or table using the cards, or for any other unit. The group information can be different for each card supply source (dealer box, etc.). In addition, different group codes can be set for each manufacturing batch or each card game facility using the cards.

[0147] The combination described below is used in our invention.

[0148] A system for managing shuffled solitaire decks, wherein:

[0149] A predetermined number of decks of solitaire are shuffled in a random order and packaged individually as a single bundle, with a unique ID code attached to each unique bundle of shuffled solitaire.

[0150] The system has:

[0151] An ID code reader, positioned at the game table, retrieves the ID code of the package to identify the package that will be used by the dealing box next; and

[0152] The management controller is used to monitor the ID codes of shuffled solitaire decks;

[0153] This includes checking the ID code of the package for the next use through the management controller to ensure it arrived at the game table properly or at the appropriate time or time period; and

[0154] Relative to the deck currently used in the game's deck box, at least one of the following items is stored in storage or a database in combination with the shuffled solitaire ID or the ID code of the shuffled game solitaire pack:

[0155] (1) The game table used;

[0156] (2) The person in charge of dealing the cards at the game table;

[0157] (3) Use the recognized start time of the shuffled game cards;

[0158] (4) Use the recognized end time of the shuffled game cards;

[0159] (5) The time period during which the shuffled game cards were present on the game table;

[0160] (6) Information about the trading floor or card room that manages the identified shuffled game cards before they are delivered to the relevant game table;

[0161] (7) Information regarding the handling of identified shuffled game cards after their use on the game table;

[0162] (8) Information regarding whether all identified shuffled game cards reach the processing equipment;

[0163] (9) Information on the trading floor or card room that manages the identified shuffled game cards in advance before they are delivered to the relevant game table;

[0164] (10) Information regarding wins and losses at game tables using identified shuffled game cards;

[0165] (11) The time period from the end of a game using the identified shuffled playing cards until the start of the next game with new shuffled playing cards;

[0166] (12) The time period from start to finish of a game using identified shuffled playing cards; and

[0167] (13) Information regarding the purchase or acquisition of the identified shuffled game cards.

[0168] A dealing box with an ID code reader for a system used to manage shuffled solitaire card packs.

[0169] A predetermined number of decks of solitaire are shuffled in random order and packaged individually as a single bundle. A unique ID code is attached to each unique bundle of shuffled solitaire, wherein:

[0170] The card dealing box on the game table can be connected to a controller for managing packages, wherein:

[0171] Check the ID code of the package to be used next time to see if it arrived at the game table properly or at the appropriate time or time period.

[0172] A shuffled deck of cards for management, wherein:

[0173] A predetermined number of decks of solitaire are shuffled in a random order and packaged individually as a single bundle, with a unique ID code attached to each unique bundle of shuffled solitaire.

[0174] The ID code is read at the game table via an ID code reader the next time the package is selected for use in the card dealing box at the game table; and

[0175] The management system checks the ID code of the packet read by the ID code reader to determine if it arrived at the game table properly or at the appropriate time or time period.

[0176] ID code readers can be selected from at least barcode readers (which can be two-dimensional code readers, such as QR code readers), cameras, or RFID tag readers.

[0177] <Implementation Method 2>

[0178] Implementations of a system for managing shuffled game card packs according to the management method of the present invention will be described below. Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating the overall system for managing a bag of game cards shuffled in a random order in a card game facility according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a shuffled game card pack used in a board game at a card game facility according to an embodiment of the present invention. Although the shuffled game cards 1s are packaged as pack 2 in the current embodiment, they are contained in a card dealing device after the pack is opened when the shuffled game cards 1s are to be used on the table for the game, so that the cards of the shuffled game cards 1s are dealt one by one. During the game, the dealer deals cards from the card dealing device to the game table. Each shuffled game card 1s (consisting of a predetermined number of decks (typically 6, 8, 9, or 10 decks) of cards is shuffled in a random order to be arranged in a unique and random arrangement, and is packaged with a unique identifiable shuffled card ID attached to pack 2 as a barcode 3 for use with barcode reader 100. RFID 4 (or RF tag) may replace barcode 3 or be attached together with barcode 3 as an ID code.

[0179] The term "RFID" as used herein refers to radio frequency identification for RFID reader 200. The shuffled decks 1s of playing cards are pre-shuffled by a card shuffling device (not shown) to arrange them in a random order, and packaged as packages 2 containing the shuffled decks 1s of playing cards. These packages are then sealed in factory 5 with sealing material or shrink wrapping material and supplied to the card game facility 6 via cardboard boxes CA, which contain 18 packages of shuffled playing cards 1s.

[0180] The management system 7 in the card game facility 6 is used to manage whether any packets are missing. In the event of a packet being lost or misplaced, someone might mix or swap the cards in packet 2 with pre-arranged cheat cards in a certain order to control or win the game at the table. To address this problem, the management system 7 provides a method for managing shuffled game card packets.

[0181] Package 2, bearing a barcode 3 attached as a unique ID code, is supplied to the backyard 8 of the card game facility 6 via a carton CA containing 18 (eighteen) packages of shuffled game cards 1s. Package 2 with barcode 3 is transported from the backyard 8 to the disposal location 10 via at least one of the locations of the game table 11 used for playing the game, using multiple carriers 9.

[0182] Management system 7 will be described in further detail. Management system 7 is implemented via computer equipment, and its methods or processing functions are implemented by installing programs on the computer that are executed by the computer's processor. Management system 7 performs management methods as follows.

[0183] 1) All ID codes of package 2 that have arrived at backyard 8 are registered in the memory of management system 7 (as a registration step for registering to the database).

[0184] 2) Next, some packets 2 of shuffled playing cards at the location in the backyard 8 are loaded onto each carrier 9 for transport in the card game facility 6 (as a loading step for loading some packets 2 of shuffled playing cards at the location in the backyard 8). In this loading step, each ID code of the packet 2 loaded onto each carrier 9 is read by a barcode reader 100, and these ID codes, as loading ID codes, are reported to the management system 7 via the wireless loading 300 of the carrier 9.

[0185] 3) Carrier 9 transports package 2 from backyard 8 via predetermined transport route 400 to a location on game table 11, or from table 11 to table 11 (as a transport step).

[0186] 4) The shuffled solitaire pack 2 loaded on carrier 9 is unloaded at the designated table 11 for each table game (as an unloading step). Each ID code (barcode 3 read by barcode reader 100) of the shuffled solitaire pack 2 is read when the pack 2 is unloaded from the unloading location of carrier 9 (the unloading location of table 11), and these ID codes are reported to the management system 7 via the wireless device 9w of carrier 9. The management system 7 has a further checking function to check whether the same pack 2 is unloaded at one location on the game table 11 and thus used twice.

[0187] 5) The shuffled game card packs 2, unloaded at the designated table 11, are used for games (such as baccarat) on each table 11, and the cards used after the game are loaded onto carriers 9 along with their barcodes 3 to transport these used cards with ID codes to location 10 (as another loading step). Each transport path 400 of all carriers 9 used to transport packs 2 from the backyard 8 to a location on the game table 11 is pre-defined (programmed) and monitored during the transport steps.

[0188] 6) After the game is played, carrier 9 transports the game card pack 2 and its barcode 3 from the location of table 11 to disposal location 10 (as another transport step).

[0189] 7) The shuffled game card pack 2 from the location of table 11 on carrier 9 is unloaded at disposal location 10 for destruction so that it cannot be used for new games (as an unloading step). Each ID code of the shuffled game card pack 2 is read by its barcode 3 when the pack 2 is unloaded at disposal location 10, and these ID codes are reported to management system 7 via wireless device 9w of carrier 9.

[0190] When barcode 3 is destroyed by being read by barcode reader 100, the ID code is registered as a destruction ID code, and the destruction ID code is removed from the registered ID codes of the shuffled solitaire pack. This step allows for the verification of all destruction ID codes by comparing them with all ID codes that arrive in the backyard 8 as new packs. This step further verifies whether all registered ID codes of the shuffled solitaire pack 2 have been removed in relation to the results of games played over an appropriate period of one or several days. If an ID in the pack is not removed, this indicates improper stock somewhere in the card game facility.

[0191] When the ID code of package 2 is read, barcode 3 is read by barcode reader 100. Carrier 9 can transport package 2 from table 11 to table 11 according to a predetermined transport route (as a transport step). Management system 7 is programmed to calculate, as a calculation step, the location and quantity of all shuffled card packages 2 at each location in the backyard 8, the location of the game table 11, the location of carrier 9, and the disposal location 10 using information obtained from the loading and unloading steps. Management system 7 calculates each ID code based on the locations of all packages registered through the registration step for registration into the database of management system 7 and the quantity of each package at each location obtained from both the loading and unloading steps. In this case, location refers to each of the locations in the backyard 8, the location of carrier 9, the disposal location 10, and the game table 11.

[0192] The calculation of the location and quantity of all packages 2 is performed, for example, by the following steps:

[0193] 1) Calculated quantity = Total number of ID codes of package 2 that arrive at (unload) backyard 8 and are registered - (minus) Total number of ID codes of package 2 that are loaded into all carriers 9 at backyard 8 (excluding backyard 8).

[0194] 2) These calculations 1) are performed at each location (backyard 8, the location of the game table 11, each location of all carriers 9 and disposal location 10).

[0195] 3) For all locations, calculate and register the number of ID codes at each location based on the local location. It is assumed that the ID code present at each location is also registered along with all its locations.

[0196] 4) Sum the number of calculations for each ID code for all locations (backyard 8, game table 11, carrier 9, and processing location 10).

[0197] 5) Compare the total number of ID codes summed in the summation step with the total number of ID codes of package 2 that arrived at backyard 8 and were registered.

[0198] 6) Report the ID codes and number of identified lost packages, as well as the location where the packages were lost. Carrier 9 is equipped with an alarm to indicate an emergency if a package is lost during the transport process. Each report, including the lost ID code or the number of monitored items, can be displayed on a monitoring screen at the management department or other locations.

[0199] At these steps for managing the shuffled game card bundles, each transport path for all carriers 9 used to transport bundles 2 from backyard 8 to processing location 10 is monitored. Each transport path 400 for all carriers 9 used to transport bundles 2 from backyard 8 to a location on the game table 11 or further to processing location 10 is pre-defined and monitored during the transport steps by management system 7. The location of carriers 9 is determined by sensors (not shown) installed at the exits and entrances of each of the locations in backyard 8, processing location 10, and game table 11 for monitoring. The location of carriers 9 can also be determined by sensors (not shown) installed at certain locations on the predetermined transport route 400.

[0200] The management system 7 is further programmed to identify the presence of lost packages by comparing the information of all ID codes registered in the registration step with the ID codes of all packages at each location obtained by the loading and unloading steps in the calculation step, and to report the lost packages to the management department or the main management authority.

[0201] The management system 7 is programmed to monitor each ID code by reading the ID codes of the actual shuffled card packs present at the locations of the game table 11 and each of the multiple carriers 9 at predetermined intervals (every hour or every 3 seconds, etc.) by a reading device 100 (barcode reader 100) equipped at each of the multiple carriers 9 at each of the game table 11 and each of the multiple carriers 9 at each of the multiple carriers 9. The management system 7 is programmed to identify lost ID codes at each location of the game table 11 or each of the multiple carriers 9 at each of the multiple carriers 9 based on the information obtained by the calculation steps and the loading and unloading steps, by comparing all existing actual ID codes at their locations with the calculated number of ID codes at each location obtained in step (3). In step 3, for all locations, the calculated number of ID codes at each location is calculated and registered based on each location.

[0202] Each carrier 9 has an alarm that indicates an emergency if package 2 is lost during the transport process. In the registration step, the management system 7 is programmed to further check all destroyed ID codes by comparing them with all ID codes that represent new packages arriving at the backyard. A display system 12 is provided to display all packages, as well as the ID codes of lost packages, and the locations of package presence and loss.

[0203] The management system 7 is programmed to further manage each transport path of all carriers 9 monitored for transporting package 2 from the backyard 8 to a location or disposal location 10, such as the game table 11.

[0204] Management system 7 was further programmed to perform these further steps;

[0205] Used to read the ID codes of the actual shuffled game card pack on the carrier 9 as it moves from the backyard 8 to a location on the game table 11, and to store these ID codes as the starting point for the reading step;

[0206] A check procedure is used to verify that all existing ID codes of the shuffled card pack 2 on carrier 9 are identical to the ID code used as the starting point when carrier 9 arrives at a location on game table 11 by reading its ID code on carrier 9; and

[0207] Reporting steps are used to report the results of the inspection steps for the presence of any missing or unknown packages 2 to the management department by using the package ID code on carrier 9 and each location on carrier 9.

[0208] The method further includes a monitoring step to monitor each ID code by reading the ID code 4 of the actual shuffled game card pack 2 carried by carrier 9 at a predetermined time interval, and to report each location of carrier 9 and these ID codes of pack 2 on each carrier 9 to the management department.

[0209] The method has a further management step to manage the number of all actual shuffled game card packs 2 at each location of the backyard 8 and the game table 11, and to identify whether any packs are missing on any carrier 9 during the transport step by comparing all existing actual ID codes on each carrier 9 with information on all ID codes of the packs obtained when these packs arrive at the backyard 8.

[0210] The method is used to manage shuffled game card packages according to the present invention, wherein each transport path 400 for transporting packages 2 from the backyard 8 to a location on the game table or further to a disposal location 10 is pre-fixed and monitored during the transport step.

[0211] Here, the mixed shuffled playing cards pack 2 (multiple packs 2) are housed in cardboard box CA, and multiple cardboard boxes CA are housed in container 300 on pallet PA. As... Figure 16 Each cardboard box (CA) is attached with a cardboard box ID using a barcode 30, and each container is attached with a container ID using a barcode 40. Each cardboard box ID and container ID provides all information about the ID codes of the shuffled card packs 2 contained within the cardboard box CA or container 300, providing a database of these ID codes for packs 2. The cardboard box ID is registered in the database relative to the ID codes of the shuffled card packs 2 contained within the cardboard box CA, and the container ID is registered in the database relative to the cardboard box IDs contained within container 300 and relative to all shuffled card packs 2 contained within container 300. The cardboard box ID or container ID can be used to register all ID codes of packs 2 when these packs arrive at the backyard 8 of the card game facility 6 using this database.

[0212] In this specification and in the claims below, unless the context otherwise requires, the words “comprising” or variations such as “including” and “containing” shall be construed as implying the inclusion of the said integer or step, or a group of integers or steps, but not excluding any other integer or step, or a group of integers or steps.

[0213] References to any prior art in this specification are not, and should not be construed as, part of the consensus or any form of implied common knowledge in Australia.

[0214] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, and the scope of the present invention also covers the following notes.

[0215] (Postscript 1)

[0216] A system for managing shuffled game card packs (see...) Figure 18 );

[0217] The predetermined number of decks of game cards are shuffled in a random order and packaged separately as a pack 2, with a unique ID code 3 attached to each unique shuffled game card pack 2;

[0218] The system has:

[0219] An ID code reader R, positioned at the game table 11, is capable of obtaining the ID code 3 of package 2 at the game table 11, thereby identifying package 2 to be used on the game table 11 with the card box S; and

[0220] Management controller 7 is used to monitor the ID codes 3 of shuffled game card packs 2, and has a computer-readable medium 7d that stores the ID codes of packs arriving at the backyard 8 of the card game facility 6;

[0221] The management controller 7 is able to obtain the ID code 3 of the package 2 used on the game table 11, which is read by the ID code reader R, and check whether the ID code 3 read on the game table 11 is a pre-existing code in the database 7d for appropriate use.

[0222] (Postscript 2)

[0223] According to Appendix 1, the system for managing shuffled game card bundles includes:

[0224] The management controller can check whether a packet with an ID code read from the game table is an unexpected packet or a packet that arrives at an unexpected time.

[0225] (Note 3)

[0226] According to Appendix 1, the system for managing shuffled game card bundles includes:

[0227] The management controller can be programmed to pass at least one of the following check packages:

[0228] 1) Whether it is transported along a predetermined delivery route;

[0229] 2) Is it not a lost packet?

[0230] 3) Is it not registered in the database?

[0231] 4) Whether it has not been used for more than the predetermined period in the trading venue;

[0232] 5) Whether it was transported from an unexpected trading venue or never passed through any trading venue;

[0233] 6) Has it been used at any game table in the past?

[0234] (Note 4)

[0235] According to Appendix 1, the system for managing shuffled game card bundles includes:

[0236] The ID code reader connects to the card box on the game table and is able to send the package's ID code through the card box to the management controller to identify the package's ID code for the next use.

[0237] (Note 5)

[0238] According to Appendix 1, the system for managing shuffled game card bundles includes:

[0239] At least one of the following items is stored in a computer-readable medium in conjunction with the ID code of the shuffled solitaire card pack, and the timing of the pack whose ID code is read from the game table is further checked according to the following items to determine whether the timing is unexpected or unintended:

[0240] (1) A game table to be used;

[0241] (2) The person who deals the cards at the game table to be used (the person who draws the cards).

[0242] (3) The expected end time of use for each shuffled card pack on the game table;

[0243] (4) Information about the trading floor or card room where each shuffled card pack is expected to be transported before being delivered to the relevant game table.

[0244] (Note 6)

[0245] According to Appendix 1, the system for managing shuffled game card bundles includes:

[0246] The ID code of the package used for the next read will be deleted or known by the management controller as an ID code already used at the game table.

[0247] (Note 7)

[0248] According to Appendix 1, one of the systems for managing shuffled game card bundles, wherein:

[0249] The card dealing box has an output device for checking the ID code of the package for the next use, which is used to alarm the presence of any suspicious packages, thereby preventing the use of suspicious packages.

[0250] (Note 8)

[0251] According to Appendix 1, one of the systems for managing shuffled game card bundles, wherein:

[0252] The card box has a locking device to prevent the use of suspicious cards detected by checking the ID code of the bag or by instructing the user of the card game facility not to use it again.

[0253] The card dealing box may also have an alarm function to prevent the use of the box by issuing an instruction from the management controller to the card game facility user not to use it again.

[0254] (Note 9)

[0255] According to Appendix 1, one of the systems for managing shuffled game card bundles, wherein:

[0256] The dealing box has a locking device that prevents the use of a package by checking the ID code of the package for future use; wherein the management controller can identify or indicate the ID code of a package that should not be used at the game table.

[0257] (Postscript 10)

[0258] According to Appendix 1, this is for managing shuffled game card packs.

[0259] All ID codes for packages arriving at the backyard are provided by the factory, which manufactures the packages and registers them in a computationally readable medium, such as a storage database, container ID, pallet ID, or carton ID, which can be used to register the package's ID code. Each ID code for a package arriving at the backyard of the card game facility is associated with the container ID, pallet ID, or carton ID in which the package is stored.

[0260] (Postscript 11)

[0261] According to Appendix 1, the system for managing shuffled game card packs

[0262] The management controller can search for the location of a package from each package's ID code, or it can search for the ID code of a package identified from the container ID, pallet ID, or carton ID of the stored package and prohibit the package from being used at the game table.

[0263] (Postscript 12)

[0264] According to Appendix 1, the system for managing shuffled game cards

[0265] Multiple packages are carried on a transport vehicle to deliver shuffled solitaire packs from the backyard to the trading area for the game tables, and the management controller monitors for any missing packages by reading the ID code of each package while they are being transported along the route.

[0266] (Postscript 13)

[0267] According to Appendix 1, the system for managing shuffled game cards

[0268] Multiple packages are monitored by reading the ID code of each package at a predetermined location from the backyard to the trading floor or game table, and are registered in a computer-readable medium by a management controller.

[0269] (Postscript 14)

[0270] According to Appendix 1, the system for managing shuffled game card packs

[0271] Manage all ID codes of packages arriving at the backyard, which registers a group of packages contained in a container and the ID codes of that group of packages, and monitors or detects the ID codes of unused packages in that group of packages.

[0272] (Postscript 15)

[0273] A holding case for holding one or more packets of shuffled playing cards and monitoring the ID codes attached to the packets, comprising one or more readers capable of reading the ID codes of the shuffled playing card packets in the holding case; a communication device for transmitting information or images obtained by the readers to the outside of the holding case; and a locking device for preventing the packets from being removed from the holding case. The holding case can also be connected to a carrier for transporting one or more packets. The holding case may have a carrying function for transporting one or more packets.

[0274] (Postscript 16)

[0275] A method for managing shuffled game card packs (see...) Figure 19 ),in

[0276] A predetermined number of decks of playing cards are shuffled in a random order and packaged separately as a shuffled playing card set, with ID code 3 attached to package 2 of the set;

[0277] The method comprises the following steps:

[0278] The registration step is to register all the ID codes of the packages arriving in backyard 8 into database 7d.

[0279] The transport step involves using multiple carriers 9 to move the package 2 of the shuffled card set from the backyard 8 to either the trading floor 10 or the game table 11.

[0280] as well as

[0281] Step 7 manages the quantity and ID code 3 of the shuffled card packs 2 at each location (8, 10, 11) by monitoring each ID code 3 of the packs and detecting whether each pack is present at the designated or planned location at each predetermined time. Each location is either the backyard 8 and the trading area 10 or the game table 11.

[0282] The ID code reader reads the ID code of the package that arrives at the game table for use in the next game and registers it in the database or deletes it from the database as an ID code that has been used in the game.

[0283] (Postscript 17)

[0284] According to Appendix 16, the method for managing shuffled game card bundles also has the following characteristics:

[0285] By reading each ID code of a package brought in or taken out at each location, we can check whether the ID code read at that location was present in an inbound / outbound inspection process prior to arrival at that location.

[0286] (Postscript 18)

[0287] According to Appendix 16 or 17, there is a method for managing shuffled game card bundles.

[0288] This management process also has,

[0289] Report or alert regarding the ID code of any unauthorized, unexpected, or defective package and the reporting steps for the location or carrier where this was discovered. The registration step can register information I / O for each ID code of a package loaded or unloaded at each location (8, 10, 11) into or from data 7d.

[0290] The reporting process can also report the ID code of packages that arrive at inappropriate times.

[0291] (Postscript 19)

[0292] According to Appendix 16, the method for managing shuffled game card bundles also has the following characteristics:

[0293] By reading the inbound / outbound inspection steps of each ID code of the packages brought in or taken out at each location, and

[0294] A check step to verify that all ID codes read at each location match the ID codes registered in the registration step.

[0295] (Postscript 20)

[0296] According to the methods for managing shuffled game card bundles as described in Appendices 16 to 19

[0297] The management steps also include,

[0298] The process involves obtaining each ID code of a shuffled solitaire deck from at least two locations within a predetermined time period, understanding the inventory information for each location from the ID codes obtained at each location, and checking whether a predetermined movement has been performed between at least two locations.

[0299] (Postscript 21)

[0300] According to Appendix 16, there is a method for managing shuffled game card bundles.

[0301] Among these measures, the transport path of the carrier used to transport the package from the backyard is monitored during the transport step.

[0302] (Postscript 22)

[0303] According to Appendix 16, there is a method for managing shuffled game card bundles.

[0304] Multiple packets are contained within a container, and a container ID is attached to the container. The container ID provides all the information about the ID code of the shuffled solitaire packets contained within the container.

[0305] (Postscript 23)

[0306] According to Appendix 16, there is a method for managing shuffled game card bundles.

[0307] The container ID is used to register all the ID codes of the packages that arrive at the backyard.

[0308] (Postscript 24)

[0309] According to Appendix 16, the method for managing shuffled game card bundles, in the management steps,

[0310] Before using the package for the game, the ID code of each package that has arrived at the game table is read by the ID code reader at the game table and registered in the database as the ID code that has been used in the game.

[0311] (Postscript 25)

[0312] According to Appendix 16, there is a method for managing shuffled game card bundles.

[0313] In one method for managing bundles of shuffled playing cards, one or more bundles are stored in a holding box at least at one of the trading floor or the playing table, and the holding box is used to hold one or more bundles of shuffled playing cards.

[0314] (Postscript 26)

[0315] According to Appendix 16, there is a method for managing shuffled game card bundles.

[0316] The holding case is used to hold or carry one or more packages, and the holding case has a reader for reading all the ID codes of the packages in the holding case, a communication device for sending the information obtained by the reader to the outside of the holding case, and a locking device to prevent the packages from leaving the holding case.

[0317] (Postscript 27)

[0318] According to Appendix 16, there is a method for managing shuffled game card bundles.

[0319] The ID code reader is selected from at least a barcode reader, a two-dimensional code reader, a camera, or an RFID tag reading device.

[0320] (Postscript 28)

[0321] A shuffled solitaire bag used in a system for managing shuffled solitaire bags.

[0322] The predetermined number of decks of solitaire are shuffled in a random order and packaged individually, with each deck having a unique ID code attached to it.

[0323] The ID code is read by an ID code reader located at the game table. The ID code reader can obtain the ID code of the package at the game table to identify the package to be used on the game table with the card dealing box.

[0324] A system for managing shuffled solitaire packets can check the ID code, i.e., the ID code read on the game table, to determine whether the packet is an unexpected packet or a packet that arrives at an unexpected time.

[0325] (Postscript 29)

[0326] According to Appendix 28, the shuffled game card pack, in which

[0327] The card dealing box has an output device for checking the ID code of the bag for the next use, which is used to prevent the bag from being used.

[0328] (Postscript 30)

[0329] According to claim 28, the shuffled game card pack, wherein

[0330] The card box has a locking device that prevents the use of a package by checking the ID code of the package used.

[0331] (Postscript 31)

[0332] According to claim 28, the shuffled game card pack, wherein,

[0333] The ID code reader connects to the card box on the game table and can send the bag's ID code to the management controller via the card box, so that the system used to manage the shuffled game card bags can identify the ID code of the bag to be used next.

[0334] (Postscript 32)

[0335] A dealing box for shuffling solitaire cards used in a system for managing shuffling solitaire cards.

[0336] The predetermined number of decks of solitaire are shuffled in a random order and packaged individually, with each deck having a unique ID code attached to it.

[0337] An ID code reader, located at the game table, reads the ID code of the package at the table to identify the package to be used on the game table with the card dealing box.

[0338] A system for managing shuffled solitaire packets can check the ID code, i.e., the ID code read on the game table, to determine whether the packet is an unexpected packet or a packet that arrived at an unexpected time.

[0339] (Postscript 33)

[0340] According to Appendix 32, the dealing box for shuffling game cards, in which...

[0341] The card dealing box has an output device for checking the ID code of the package used for alarm purposes, which is used to prevent the use of the package.

[0342] (Postscript 34)

[0343] According to Appendix 32, the dealing box for shuffling game cards, in which...

[0344] The card box has a locking device that prevents the use of a package by checking the ID code of the package used.

[0345] (Postscript 35)

[0346] According to Appendix 32, the dealing box for shuffling game cards, in which...

[0347] The ID code reader connects directly or indirectly to the management controller, enabling it to send the package's ID code to identify the package for future use. The management controller then issues card dispensers to the card dispenser based on whether or not cards from the package are permitted to be delivered from the dispenser.

[0348] (1) In the case of using data from the factory and data obtained from the ID code of the read package via the card box.

[0349] i) Only playing cards packaged in bags with the appropriate barcodes transmitted from the factory may be used at the card box. If a bag has a barcode other than those described above, the card box will read the barcode and generate a signal or activate the card lock to prevent the use of the bag.

[0350] ii) If a package remains in the card game facility longer than the predetermined time period, the dealing box will read the package's barcode and generate a signal or activate the card lock to prevent the package from being used. (The time period can be predetermined.)

[0351] iii) The quantity of the reserve packages can be determined by the container.

[0352] iv) The number of reserve packages can be determined in all containers.

[0353] v) If a bag is used at a game table, the card box will read the bag's barcode and generate a signal or activate the card lock to prevent the bag from being used.

[0354] (2) In cases where the function of obtaining the movement information of the package is available in the card game facility hall.

[0355] i) Only cards packaged in bags with the appropriate barcode transmitted from the factory can be placed in the card box. If the bag has a barcode other than that described above, the card box will read the barcode and generate a signal or activate the card lock to prevent the use of the bag.

[0356] ii) If a package remains in the card game facility longer than the predetermined time period, the dealing box will read the package's barcode and generate a signal or activate the card lock to prevent the package from being used. (The time period can be predetermined.)

[0357] iii) The number of packages stored in each region and the codes of the stored packages can be (desirably) known at any time. For example, it can be known like this: "In region XXX, the total number of packages with codes YYY and ZZZ should be WWW."

[0358] iv) The desired storage area for all containers can be controlled.

[0359] v) If a package has been in a certain area for an extended period of time, the software will notify (alarm), or if the package reaches the dealing box, the dealing box will signal or lock to prevent the use of the cards.

[0360] vi) If a package that has been transported has not yet reached the next location in a certain area, the package can be inspected. Additionally, if the package has not been transported by the appropriate means (e.g., "return"), or has arrived via trading fields (multiple), or has skipped the stated location, the software notifies of this error. If the package eventually arrives at the dealing box, the dealing box signals or locks to prevent the use of cards.

[0361] vii) When there is a problem with the cards, the software notifies the area where the problematic cards are held. In that area, other cards are held in the same box, and when the cards arrive at the dealing box, the dealing box signals or locks to prevent the cards from being used.

[0362] (3) In the case of continuously reading the barcode of the package and checking whether the package exists at the predetermined location by using the reserve information obtained by reading the barcode.

[0363] In this case, the items listed in (1) and (2) above can certainly be executed.

[0364] (4) The bag barcode is continuously read during the bag's movement.

[0365] If the bag is lost within a predetermined time period during its movement, we can use software to notify the bag of its suspicious status, and when the bag arrives at the dealing box, the dealing box will generate a signal or actuate a lock to prevent the use of playing cards.

[0366] i) The packaging software can act as an alarm to alert card game facilities of the potential for a dangerous incident. Furthermore, when a suspicious package arrives at the dealing box, the code within it cannot be used at the dealing box, providing a sense of security for the card game facility.

[0367] ii) In addition to the system's self-checking function for security, the software also has the capability to locate the area where the cards are currently present, in cases where packages manufactured on a specific date are rejected due to their suspicious nature, and / or where cards contained in the same card box are considered suspicious. The card box is capable of generating a signal to actuate the lock to prevent the use of the cards, and to collect the cards.

[0368] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0369] 1. Playing cards

[0370] 1s Shuffled Solitaire Set

[0371] 2 packs

[0372] 3. Barcode

[0373] 4 ID codes

[0374] 6. Card game facilities

[0375] 7 Management System

[0376] 8 Backyard

[0377] 12 cameras

[0378] 102C Card Holding Unit

[0379] S Card Box Equipment

Claims

1. A management system for managing shuffled game card bundles belonging to any of multiple groups used in a card game facility, wherein, The shuffled solitaire pack is received from outside the solitaire facility to the backyard of the solitaire facility, and then used on the game tables inside the solitaire facility. The shuffled solitaire pack retains information including a unique ID for uniquely identifying the shuffled solitaire pack and information that determines which of multiple packs the shuffled solitaire pack belongs to. The management system has the following features: A database that stores the unique ID of the shuffled solitaire pack and the group to which the shuffled solitaire pack belongs; A reading system, which is installed in multiple locations within the card game facility, including the backyard and the game table, and reads at least a portion of the information from the shuffled card pack; as well as A management and control device, which reads at least a portion of the information from the reading system installed in the backyard, registers the shuffled solitaire packs as usable packs in the database. The reading system installed in the backyard simultaneously reads at least a portion of the information from multiple shuffled solitaire decks being processed together. The database stores at least a portion of the information of the plurality of shuffled solitaire packs read by the reading system installed in the backyard, or at least a portion of the information of the plurality of shuffled solitaire packs contained in data provided by the supplier.

2. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, It also includes a comparison device that compares the unique ID read by the reading system in multiple locations within the card game facility including the game table with the unique ID registered in the database as a unique ID of a usable shuffled card pack.

3. The management system according to claim 2, wherein, The comparison device detects a shuffled solitaire that should not be used by comparing at least a portion of the information read by the reading system mounted on or near the game table with at least a portion of the information of the shuffled solitaire bundle registered in the database.

4. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, When the shuffled game card bundle is brought to the game table, the reading system mounted on the game table reads at least the unique ID.

5. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, When the shuffled solitaire deck is moved to the reading position of the reading system, the reading system reads the unique ID from the shuffled solitaire deck.

6. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, If a shuffled solitaire package stored in the database as a usable shuffled solitaire package meets the specified conditions, the management control device deregisters the shuffled solitaire package.

7. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, The management and control device deregisters the discarded shuffled game card packs.

8. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, The management control device determines the currently registered shuffled solitaire by subtracting the deregistered shuffled solitaires from the previously registered shuffled solitaires.

9. The management system according to claim 2, wherein, The information held by the shuffled solitaire bundle includes information about the group to which the shuffled solitaire bundle belongs. The comparison device also determines whether the group identified by at least a portion of the information read by the reading systems at multiple locations respectively installed in the card game facility matches the group associated with the unique ID of the shuffled card pack in the database.

10. The management system according to claim 2, wherein, The control device performs the control at predetermined time intervals.

11. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, When the shuffled solitaire bundle is taken from the backyard to an area where multiple game tables are set up, the reading system reads the unique ID of the shuffled solitaire bundle.

12. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, Store the shuffled deck of cards, which was transported from the backyard and intended for use on the game table, in or near the game table. The reading system, mounted on or near the game table, reads the unique ID of the shuffled game card bundle stored thereon.

13. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, The multiple shuffled solitaire packs processed together are multiple shuffled solitaire packs stored in the same storage unit.

14. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, The management and control device uses the reading results from multiple reading systems to identify the shuffled card packs that are not held by the card game facility.

15. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, The management and control device registers the start time and / or end time of use of the shuffled game card pack in the database.

16. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, When an event occurs that relates to the specified security matters of the shuffled solitaire pack, the occurrence of the event is associated with at least a portion of the information of the shuffled solitaire pack and stored in the database, with the existence of the event stored in the database being shared across multiple game tables.

17. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, The management and control device registers the unique ID read by the reading system along with information about the location from which the unique ID was read into the database.

18. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, In each of the plurality of locations, the management control device determines the presence of the shuffled card bundle at that location by subtracting the shuffled card bundle read by the reading system when it was taken out of the location from the shuffled card bundle that was brought to that location and read by the reading system.

19. The management system according to claim 18, wherein, The management control device determines the number, location, and / or unique ID of the lost shuffled solitaire by comparing the unique ID of the currently registered shuffled solitaire with the unique ID of the shuffled solitaires present in the plurality of locations.

20. A management system for managing shuffled game card bundles belonging to any of multiple groups used in a card game facility, wherein, The shuffled solitaire pack is received from outside the solitaire facility to the backyard of the solitaire facility, and then used on the game tables inside the solitaire facility. The shuffled solitaire pack retains information including a unique ID for uniquely identifying the shuffled solitaire pack and information that determines which of multiple packs the shuffled solitaire pack belongs to. The management system has the following features: A reading system, which is respectively installed on multiple of the game tables, reads at least a portion of the information of the shuffled solitaire pack at least when the shuffled solitaire pack brought from the backyard is brought to the game table; and A control device that determines the group to which the shuffled solitaire deck belongs based on at least a portion of the information read by the reading system.

21. The management system according to claim 20, wherein, When the shuffled solitaire bundle is taken out onto the game table through a game operation, the control device determines the group to which the shuffled solitaire bundle belongs.

22. The management system according to claim 20, wherein, The management system also includes a database that stores the unique IDs of the shuffled solitaire packs available for use in the card game facility. The control device compares the unique ID read by the reading system with the unique ID stored in the database.

23. The management system according to claim 20, wherein, The information includes group information indicating the group to which the shuffled solitaire deck belongs.

24. The management system according to claim 20, wherein, The management system stores the unique ID of the shuffled solitaire pack and the group information indicating the group to which the shuffled solitaire pack belongs in association. The control device determines the group to which the shuffled solitaire pack belongs by referring to a database to determine the group information associated with the unique ID read by the reading system.

25. The management system according to claim 20, wherein, The control device acquires the group information of the required group and determines whether the group determined by the control device is the same as the required group.

26. The management system according to claim 25, wherein, The management system also includes a database that stores the unique ID of the shuffled solitaire pack and the group information of the group to which the shuffled solitaire pack belongs. The control device acquires the group information associated with the unique ID read by the reading system on the database, as the group information of the intended group.

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