Safe electronic boot for casino

Abstract

A casino security electronic boot (100) for storing a plurality of game cards that are pulled out one by one for a game is provided with: a storage part (10) for storing a plurality of stacked game cards; and an opening part (20) for exposing the most front game card among the plurality of game cards stored in the storage part (10). The bottom surface (11) of the accommodating part (10) is inclined downwards towards the opening part (20), and the bottom surface (11) of the accommodating part (10) is inclined downwards towards the opening part (20), so that the game cards at the most front end can be pulled out of the opening part (20), and the game cards at the most tail end can be pushed and pressed towards the opening part (20) through the hammer body (40). The hammer body (40) can move towards the opening part (20) along the bottom surface (11) of the storage part (10) in a state that the game card at the tail end is pushed and pressed towards the opening part (20) in response to the game card at the tail end moving towards the opening part (20) along with the game card at the tail end being sequentially pulled out. The storage part (10) is provided with a structure of which the upper surface and at least one side surface are open, and a plurality of game cards can be loaded into the storage part (10) through the open part.

Description

[0001] Divisional application

[0002] This application is a divisional application of the patent application with the application date of July 5, 2023, application number: 202310822479.6, and the invention name: Safety electronic boots for casinos. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a safety electronic shoe for use in a casino for storing a plurality of game cards that are drawn out one by one for playing a game. Background Art

[0004] In casinos, games using playing cards are played on gaming tables. The playing cards are stored in a dealing shoe on the gaming table. The dealing shoe can hold, for example, eight decks of playing cards. The dealer draws the playing cards one by one from the dealing shoe to play the game.

[0005] If the game progresses and the playing cards stored in the shoe are exhausted, the dealer will load new playing cards into the shoe. Specifically, when loading the playing cards into the shoe, the dealer inserts a stop card slightly forward of the end of the loaded playing cards. If the stop card is drawn during the game, the dealer leaves the remaining playing cards in the shoe, interrupting the next game. The dealer then removes the remaining playing cards from the shoe and loads new playing cards.

[0006] The game cards loaded into the dealing shoe are packaged in a pre-shuffled state. When new game cards are loaded into the dealing shoe, the card pack needs to be opened, and then a plurality of (e.g., 8 decks) of shuffled game cards need to be taken out and stored in the dealing shoe. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Because the playing cards stored in the shoe are used in casino games, the details and order of the playing cards stored in the shoe must be kept private. In other words, casino dealing shoes require high security. In particular, when opening a card pack, removing multiple playing cards, and inserting them into the shoe, the details of the playing cards must be kept private from players or dealers.

[0008] Furthermore, the game must be interrupted while new game cards are loaded into the shoe. If this interruption is prolonged, game participants become bored, and casino turnover decreases. Therefore, it is desirable to ensure that the game cards are loaded into the shoe smoothly.

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a safety electronic shoe for casinos that can ensure safety and smoothly load game cards.

[0010] A casino safety electronic shoe according to one embodiment of the present invention is used to store a plurality of gaming cards that are withdrawn one by one for game play, and includes: a storage portion for storing a plurality of stacked gaming cards; an opening for exposing a leading gaming card among the plurality of gaming cards stored in the storage portion; a withdrawal guide for guiding the leading gaming card out of the opening; and a hammer for pressing a trailing gaming card among the plurality of gaming cards toward the opening. The bottom surface of the storage portion is inclined downwardly toward the opening. The hammer is configured to move along the bottom surface of the storage portion toward the opening while the trailing gaming card is pressed in response to the trailing gaming card moving toward the opening as the leading gaming card is sequentially withdrawn. The storage portion has an open top surface and at least one side surface, and the plurality of gaming cards can be loaded into the storage portion through the open portion.

[0011] In the aforementioned casino safety electronic boots, the storage portion may include a stopper at a position corresponding to a lower portion of the open side surface of the plurality of gaming cards, the stopper restricting lateral movement of the plurality of gaming cards.

[0012] In the above-mentioned casino safety electronic boots, the plurality of game cards can be stored in the storage portion with their backs facing the opening, and the hammer can abut against the front of the last game card to prevent the front of the last game card from being seen.

[0013] The casino safety electronic boots may further include a side cover movable between a covering position for covering the open side surface of the storage portion and an opening position for opening the open side surface of the storage portion.

[0014] In the aforementioned casino safety electronic boots, the side cover may be rotatably movable between the covering position and the opening position.

[0015] In the aforementioned casino safety electronic boots, the side covers may be movable in parallel between the covering position and the opening position.

[0016] The above-mentioned safety electronic boots for entertainment venues may also have a side cover that can move between a covering position covering the open side of the storage portion and an open position opening the open side of the storage portion. When the side cover is in the covering position, the surface of the side cover opposite to the side may be located further outside than the surface of the stopper opposite to the side.

[0017] In the aforementioned casino safety electronic boots, the side surface may be a side surface located on the right side when facing the direction of withdrawal.

[0018] In the aforementioned casino safety electronic boots, the extraction guide may be detachable.

[0019] In the aforementioned casino safety electronic boots, the extraction guide may include a metal member for pressing the game cards to be extracted to prevent two game cards from being extracted simultaneously.

[0020] In the aforementioned casino safety electronic boots, the storage portion may include an upper surface cover movable between a covering position covering the upper surfaces of the plurality of game cards and an opening position opening the upper surfaces of the plurality of game cards.

[0021] In the aforementioned casino safety electronic boots, the storage portion may include a holding mechanism that holds the hammer at a rear position of the storage portion so that the plurality of game cards can be loaded into the storage portion.

[0022] The casino safety electronic boots may further include an upper surface cover fixable at a covering position covering the upper surface of the storage portion, and the holding mechanism may release the holding of the hammer in response to the upper surface cover moving to the covering position.

[0023] The above-mentioned safety electronic boots for entertainment venues may also be provided with a side cover, which can be moved between a covering position covering the open side of the storage portion and an open position opening the open side of the storage portion, and the upper surface cover can be fixed at the covering position of the upper surface cover by positioning the side cover at the covering position of the side cover. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 is a side view of the electronic boot according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3 is a top view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 4 is a front view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing a state where a plurality of game cards are loaded into the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing the structure of a hammer according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 8 is a side view of the electronic boot according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 9 is a top view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 10 It is along Figure 9 Cross-sectional view of line AA;

[0034] Figure 11 1 is a diagram showing details of a withdrawal guide portion according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 12 1 is a diagram showing an example of a game card according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 13 1. It is a diagram showing the function of the restriction lever according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 14 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 15 is a top view of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 16 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 17 is a perspective view of an upper surface cover according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 18 1 is a perspective view showing the relationship between the upper surface cover and the hammer body according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 19 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 20A A diagram for explaining the function of the pressing protrusion according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 20B A diagram for explaining the function of the pressing protrusion according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 21 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 22 is a perspective view showing an enlarged front portion of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 23A It is a figure for explaining the effect|action of the reverse stopper of the 2nd embodiment of this invention;

[0048] Figure 23B It is a figure for explaining the effect|action of the reverse stopper of the 2nd embodiment of this invention;

[0049] Figure 24A This is a diagram for explaining reverse movement in a conventional electronic boot;

[0050] Figure 24B This is a diagram for explaining reverse movement in a conventional electronic boot;

[0051] Figure 25 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 26 is a top view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 27 is a right side view of the electronic shoe according to the third embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 28 is a left side view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 29 is a front view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 30 is a bottom view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 31 is a rear view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 32 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention with the upper surface cover removed;

[0059] Figure 33 FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a display example of a result display according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 34 is a perspective view showing details of a withdrawal guide portion according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 35 is a perspective view of a restriction portion according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 36 is a perspective view of an upper surface cover according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 37 It is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] The following describes an electronic boot according to an embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment describes a casino safety electronic boot (hereinafter referred to as the "electronic boot") used to store multiple game cards drawn one by one by the dealer for game play at a casino gaming table. This electronic boot is used at a casino gaming table. The game may be, for example, a card game, and this embodiment describes the electronic boot used for this card game.

[0065] (First embodiment)

[0066] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a side view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 is a top view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 4 This is a front view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The electronic shoe 100 has an overall rectangular parallelepiped shape. The electronic shoe 100 stores multiple playing cards, with its short sides parallel to the long sides of the playing cards. The playing cards are withdrawn one by one from the front end of the electronic shoe 100 to the outside of the electronic shoe 100 by the dealer's withdrawal operation.

[0067] The electronic shoe 100 includes a storage section 10, an opening 20, a drawer guide 30, a hammer 40, and a main body 50. The lower half and rear portion of the electronic shoe 100 form the main body 50. The storage section 10 extends continuously forward from the rear end of the main body 50. The storage section 10 stores a stack of multiple game cards. As described above, the stack of game cards is stored horizontally in the storage section 10. The long sides of the game cards are supported by the bottom surface of the storage section 10. Furthermore, the game cards are stored in the storage section 10 with their backs facing forward.

[0068] The bottom surface 11 of the storage section 10 is inclined downward toward the opening 20. The storage section 10 has an open top and left side (i.e., the right side facing the direction in which the playing cards are drawn). Specifically, the right side of the storage section 10 has a side wall 12 whose height corresponds to the height of the stored playing cards (the length of the short side of the playing cards). A lower side wall 14 is also erected on the left side from the bottom surface 11. Furthermore, the portion of the side wall 14 near the opening 20 is formed to a height corresponding to the height of the stored playing cards.

[0069] The lower portion of the side wall 14 is a side opening on the left side, and a top opening is formed that is continuous with the side opening and opens upward to the storage section 10. Through the side opening and the top opening, multiple game cards can be loaded into the storage section 10.

[0070] Figure 5 This diagram shows how a plurality of game cards are loaded into the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The plurality of game cards are pre-shuffled and stored in a card pack P. The card pack P is sealed and is opened by the dealer when the electronic shoe 100 is loaded. Figure 5 The card pack P shown has its upper half, which corresponds to a plurality of game cards, removed, leaving only the lower half for storing the plurality of game cards.

[0071] like Figure 5 As shown, the dealer inserts a plurality of game cards stored in a half-open card pack P into the storage portion 10 through the side opening and the top opening. At this time, the dealer places the card pack P containing the game cards in the side opening and secures it. Then, while removing the card pack P, the dealer neatly stores the game cards in the storage portion 10 by pressing against the inner side wall 12 of the storage portion 10.

[0072] A relatively low side wall 14 is formed below the plurality of playing cards relative to the side opening, functioning as a stopper to restrict lateral movement of the stored playing cards. This ensures that, even when the side cover 13 is open, the playing cards remain neatly stored in the storage portion 10, preventing them from shifting sideways or vertically, or from flying out of the storage portion 10. Furthermore, as will be described later, the hammer 40 pushes the rearmost playing card toward the opening 20, causing the playing cards to sequentially move forward and backward as they are sequentially withdrawn from the front end, preventing them from flying out of the storage portion 10.

[0073] The storage section 10 is provided with a side cover 13 having an axis on the outside of a low-profile side wall 14. The side cover 13 rotates about the axis, thereby moving between a covered position and an open position. In the covered position, the side cover 13 is upright, with the side openings closed, covering the stored playing cards. In the open position, the side cover 13 is rotated further than the horizontal position, with the side openings open.

[0074] The opening 20 exposes the leading playing card among the plurality of playing cards stored in the storage portion 10. The opening 20 is arched and exposes the center portion of the back of the playing card. The dealer pushes down on this exposed portion while sliding it, allowing the leading playing card to be drawn onto the gaming table with its back facing upward.

[0075] The opening 20 is formed with a curtain 21 to cover the back of the frontmost playing card protruding from the opening 20. The curtain 21 is composed of a plurality of flexible, thin, linear members, which split left and right at the center. The linear members are arranged to tilt in the direction of withdrawal, from the left and right sides toward the center and from the base toward the tip. The dealer can apply force to the playing cards near the split point of the linear members to withdraw the playing cards.

[0076] The withdrawal guide 30 guides the leading playing card as it is withdrawn from the opening 20. Specifically, the withdrawal guide 30 includes an inclined portion 32, which slopes from the opening 20 to the top surface of the gaming table, and a restricting portion 31, which restricts the upward and lateral movement of the withdrawn playing card, thereby guiding the card in the withdrawal direction. The playing card is withdrawn while being guided by the withdrawal guide 30, with the front side, printed with the card value and suit, facing downward onto the gaming table. The inclined portion 32 is finely embossed, making the front side of the playing card easier to slide.

[0077] Figure 6 This figure shows the structure of a hammer according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The hammer 40 is used to push the last playing card in a deck of playing cards toward the opening 20. The hammer 40 includes a roller 41 having a transverse axis. The lower end of the roller 41 slightly protrudes from the bottom surface of the hammer 40. Rotating the roller 41 allows the hammer 40 to move in the front-rear direction.

[0078] The lateral width of the hammer 40 corresponds to the lateral width of the storage section 10. Furthermore, the hammer 40 has an inclined surface 42 at its front. As described above, the playing cards are stored in the storage section 10 with their backs facing the opening 20. Therefore, the front of the last playing card abuts against the inclined surface 42 of the hammer 40.

[0079] The hammer 40 is movable back and forth along the bottom surface 11 of the storage section 10. As described above, the storage section 10 is inclined toward the opening 20, so the hammer 40 moves toward the opening 20 due to its own weight. When the storage section 10 contains multiple playing cards, the inclined surface 42 of the hammer 40 pushes the last playing card toward the opening 20. In this way, the action of the hammer 40 constantly pushes the frontmost playing card toward the opening 20 from behind, allowing it to emerge from the opening 20.

[0080] The hammer 40 can be fixed to the rear of the storage portion 10 by a magnet or a locking mechanism. Figure 5 As shown, when game cards are loaded into the storage section 10, the hammer 40 is fixed in this fixed position, creating a space in the storage section 10 that can accommodate multiple new game cards. Furthermore, when a sensor detects that multiple game cards are stored in the storage section 10, the magnet or locking mechanism securing the hammer 40 can be automatically released based on this sensor's detection. Once released, the hammer 40 moves along the bottom surface 11 of the storage section 10 toward the opening 20 due to its own weight, abutting against the last game card, and pushing the loaded game cards from the last position toward the opening 20. It should be noted that the storage of game cards in the storage section 10 can be detected, for example, by detecting that the side cover 13 has closed the side opening, or that the top cover 15 (described later) has closed the top opening.

[0081] It should be noted that the roller 41 of the hammer 40 can be configured to rotate only in a direction that moves the hammer 40 forward (toward the side having the inclined surface 42), and cannot rotate in a direction that moves the hammer 40 backward. Therefore, when the playing cards are sequentially drawn out from the front end, even if a force is applied to the hammer 40 in the backward direction, the hammer 40 will not move backward.

[0082] A plurality of result display lamps 52 are provided on the upper surface of the main body 50 . In addition, a result display button 53 , a result display lamp 54 , and a result display 55 are provided on the left side of the main body 50 .

[0083] The side opening, side cover 13, and result display button 53 are all located on the side of the electronic shoe 100 that faces the dealer when the electronic shoe 100 is placed on the gaming table. Specifically, since the electronic shoe 100 is placed to the dealer's left, the side opening and result display button 53 are located on the dealer's left side. This makes it easier for the dealer to operate the result display button 53 while the electronic shoe 100 is placed on the gaming table, and it is also easier to load new game cards into the storage unit 10 through the side opening.

[0084] In addition, the result display 55 is also provided on the left side facing the dealer. Thus, the game result can be shown to the dealer without being seen by the players.

[0085] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 8 is a side view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 9 FIG is a top view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figures 7 to 9 In the electronic boot, the side covers 13 close the side openings, and the top cover 15 is attached to the storage portion 10 and closes the top opening.

[0086] By covering the side surfaces with the side covers 13 and the upper surface cover 15 in this way, the game cards stored in the storage portion 10 are completely invisible and can be ensured to be safe. Figure 1 The open position shown is the same as Figure 7 If the side cover 13 is rotated and positioned at the covering position, the side wall 12 and the side cover 13 on the right side are upright, and their upper ends become the slide rails of the upper surface cover 15.

[0087] As described above, since the upper ends of the side covers 13 serve as slide rails for the upper cover 15 when the side covers 13 are in the covering position, in order to position the upper cover 15 in the covering position, it is first necessary to upright the side covers 13 and position them in the covering position covering the side surfaces. In other words, the structure is such that the upper cover 15 cannot be closed without closing the side covers 13.

[0088] The upper cover 15 slides from the front to the rear along the slide rails, thereby moving to the Figure 7 Thus, by attaching the upper surface cover 15, the side covers 13 are also fixed in the covering position.

[0089] The electronic boot 100 may also be equipped with sensors (not shown) for detecting whether the side covers 13 and the top cover 15 are in the covered position. These sensors may be magnets or optical sensors. If the sensors do not detect that the side covers 13 and the top cover 15 are in the covered position, the control device of the electronic boot 100 outputs an error signal.

[0090] When the sensors detect that the side covers 13 and the top cover 15 are not located at the covering position, the electronic shoe 100 actuates a draw-out restriction pin 38 to be described later, thereby prohibiting the drawing of the game cards.

[0091] Figure 10 It is along Figure 9 The cross-sectional view of line AA. Figure 10As shown, the bottom surface of the storage portion 10 supports the long sides of the playing cards C, while the side walls 14 function as stoppers, abutting against the short sides of the playing cards C and restricting lateral movement of the playing cards C. The side covers 13 are continuous with the lowered side walls 14 and located above them. However, when in the covering position, the inner surface of the side covers 13 is located slightly outward of the inner surface of the side walls 14. In other words, a gap g is formed between the inner surface of the side walls 14 and the inner surface of the side covers 13 in the covering position.

[0092] With this structure, the plurality of playing cards that are drawn out sequentially from the frontmost playing card and move toward the opening 20 in the storage portion 10 are not restricted by the side covers 13 protruding from the side walls 14 and can move toward the opening 20 .

[0093] Figure 11 1 is a diagram showing details of the extraction guide portion according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 , the internal structure of the restricting section 31 is shown with a portion of the restricting section 31 removed. The restricting section 31 is equipped with code reading sensors 33 and 34 for reading codes representing at least the numerical value (face value) of the shuffled playing cards, and card detection sensors 35 and 36 for detecting that a playing card C has been drawn.

[0094] It should be noted that the restriction portion 31 of the extraction guide portion 30 is detachable, and the extraction guide portion 30 may also be detachable from the opening portion 20. This enables various maintenance operations.

[0095] Figure 12 This figure shows an example of a gaming card according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Marks M1 and M2 representing code information are printed on the gaming card at positions corresponding to code reading sensors 33 and 34. Both marks M1 and M2 are printed with UV ink that is invisible under natural light.

[0096] The code reading sensors 33 and 34, respectively, include a lamp for irradiating ultraviolet light and a sensor for reading the markings. The markings M1 and M2 representing the code information are formed in two stages at the ends of the short sides of the card. Two rows of markings M1 and M2 are printed in multiple columns to form the code information. The combination of the presence and absence of markings M1 and M2 represents the code information.

[0097] The code reading sensor 33 reads the mark M1, and the code reading sensor 34 reads the mark M2. The electronic shoe 100 reads the code information based on the combination of the read marks M1 and M2. The code reading sensors 33 and 34 sequentially read the marks M1 and M2 of the drawn playing card C in the direction of withdrawal to obtain the code information. The code information indicates the face value of the drawn playing card C. This allows the electronic shoe 100 to determine the face value of the drawn playing card C.

[0098] The electronic shoe 100 determines the game outcome based on the determined card values. The game outcome can be any of: player win, banker win, or tie. If the game outcome display button 53 is pressed, the corresponding light in the outcome display lights 52 illuminates according to the determined game outcome.

[0099] The six result display lights 52 correspond to the game results of player win, banker win, draw, player pair, banker pair, and banker 6. If the game result display button 53 is pressed again when the result display lights 52 are on, the result display lights 52 go out and preparations are made for the next game.

[0100] Card detection sensors 35 and 36 are fiber optic sensors used to detect the presence of game cards C. They are located in front of and behind the card withdrawal direction. When a card is withdrawn, first, only card detection sensor 35 turns on. Then, both card detection sensor 35 and card detection sensor 36 turn on. Then, only card detection sensor 36 turns on. Finally, both card detection sensor 35 and card detection sensor 36 turn off.

[0101] If the card detection sensor 35 and the card detection sensor 36 are not turned on or off in this order, it can be considered that the game card C has been reversed. In this case, the electronic shoe 100 determines that the card extraction error occurs and lights the corresponding error display lamp 51.

[0102] The draw-out guide 30 is further provided with a restriction lever 37 , which is used to prevent two game cards from being drawn out simultaneously. The restriction lever 37 is formed of a metal member and is provided on both sides of the draw-out guide 30 .

[0103] Figure 13 This diagram illustrates the function of the restriction lever in the first embodiment of the present invention. A gap is provided between the restriction lever 37 and the inclined portion 32, allowing only one playing card to pass through. The restriction lever 37 functions by pressing down from above a playing card C that is being drawn while sliding along the inclined portion 32.

[0104] exist Figure 13Even if the frontmost game card C1 is pulled out and the second game card C2 is pulled forward, the frontmost game card C1 passes between the limiting rod 37 and the inclined portion 32, so that the frontmost game card C1 is pressed toward the inclined portion 32, and the second game card C2 cannot move forward, thereby preventing two cards from being pulled out.

[0105] The extraction guide 30 is further provided with an extraction restriction pin 38. The extraction restriction pin 38 is embedded under the inclined portion 32 when the game cards C can be extracted, and protrudes from the inclined portion 32 when the game cards C cannot be extracted, thereby restricting the extraction of the game cards C.

[0106] In card games, the game outcome is determined by the face value of the game cards drawn sequentially. The face value of the first four cards drawn determines whether the fifth and sixth cards should be drawn. Therefore, the electronic shoe 100 can determine the end of the game based on the face value of the game cards C drawn sequentially.

[0107] When the game is over, the dealer presses the result display button 53 to light the result display light 52. Further pressing of the result display button 53 turns the result display light 52 off and starts the next game. After the game is over (the game result is determined), pressing the result display button 53 twice prohibits the drawing of game cards until the next game begins.

[0108] The withdrawal restriction pin 38 protrudes in such a withdrawal-prohibited condition, preventing the withdrawal of the prohibited playing cards. It should be noted that the withdrawal restriction pin 38 can be embedded within the inclined portion 32 in such a withdrawal-prohibited condition. In such a condition, the withdrawal restriction pin 38 can protrude in response to detection of a card by the upstream card detection sensor 35, thereby preventing the withdrawal of the playing cards. Furthermore, the withdrawal restriction pin 38 can operate even in situations such as when excessive playing cards are withdrawn, when playing cards are reversely fed back, or when playing cards remain in the opening 20.

[0109] Thus, there is no need to project the withdrawal limit pin 38 every time a game ends and retract the withdrawal limit pin 38 every time a game starts. This can prevent the mechanical sound caused by the up and down movement of the withdrawal limit pin 38 from annoying the dealer or player, and can also reduce the possibility of malfunctions caused by multiple actions.

[0110] In the above embodiment, the side cover 13 is configured to be rotatable between the covering position and the open position. However, the side cover 13 may alternatively be configured to be movable between the covering position and the open position by parallel movement. Furthermore, the side cover 13 may be configured to be attachable to the covering position and detachable from the covering position.

[0111] (Second embodiment)

[0112] Hereinafter, an electronic boot according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the electronic boot according to the second embodiment, the same components as those of the electronic boot according to the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. Figure 14 It is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 The electronic shoe 101 of this embodiment has the same basic structure as the electronic shoe 100 of the first embodiment. The electronic shoe 101 includes a storage portion 10, an opening 20, a drawer guide 30, a weight 40, and a main body 50.

[0113] Figure 15 is a top view of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention, Figure 16 It is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 15 and Figure 16 The electronic shoe is shown with the top cover removed. A hammer stopper 111 is provided on the bottom surface 11 of the electronic shoe 101, approximately one-quarter of the total length of the housing 10, starting from the rear end. One hammer stopper 111 is provided on each side. The left and right hammer stops 111 are formed continuously from the side walls 12 and 14, respectively. The height of the hammer stoppers 111 is approximately 1 mm.

[0114] When the hammer 40 is placed on the rear side of the storage section 10 with the upper cover 15 removed, the front end of the inclined surface 42 abuts against the hammer stopper 111, thereby preventing the hammer 40 from sliding down the slope of the bottom surface 11 and allowing it to remain at the rear side of the storage section 10 (upper holding position). In this state, i.e., when the hammer 40 is not pushing the game cards forward, the dealer can collect the remaining game cards and load new game cards.

[0115] Furthermore, latching protrusions 16 are provided on the outer sides of the upper ends of the side covers 13 and the outer sides of the upper ends of the side walls 12 of the storage section 10. These latching protrusions 16 are provided above the slide rails 17. The latching protrusions 16 are engaged between the slide rails 17 and the latching protrusions 16 by latching protrusions 154 of the upper cover 15, which will be described later, so that the upper cover 15 is attached to and fixed to the storage section 10.

[0116] The distance from the hammer stopper 111 to the rear end of the housing 10 is designed so that, when the front end of the inclined surface 42 of the hammer 40 is restrained from sliding down the slope of the bottom surface 11 by the hammer stopper 111, a gap g2 large enough to fit a finger is ensured between the rear end of the upper surface of the hammer 40 and the rear end of the housing 10. This gap g2 allows the dealer to pick up the hammer with their fingers and place it in the upper holding position.

[0117] Figure 17 This is a perspective view of a top cover according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Multiple ribs 152 are formed along the length of the inner surface 151 of the top cover 15. In addition to increasing the rigidity of the top cover 15, the ribs 152 also prevent the stored playing cards from excessively rising due to the action of the hammer 40 when the top cover 15 is mounted on the electronic shoe 101. Specifically, when the top cover 15 is mounted on the electronic shoe 101, the ribs 152 contact the top surfaces (upper long sides) of the playing cards stored in the storage section 10 and pushed forward by the hammer 40.

[0118] Furthermore, a pressing protrusion 153 is provided on the rear end side of the inner side surface 151. In this embodiment, the pressing protrusion 153 is provided near one side in the width direction, but the pressing protrusion 153 may be provided in the center in the width direction, a plurality of pressing protrusions 153 may be provided in the width direction, or they may be provided across the entire width direction.

[0119] Furthermore, vertical walls are formed on the long sides of both sides of the upper cover 15, and a plurality of locking protrusions 154 are provided at the lower ends of the vertical walls in a manner facing inward in the width direction. Figure 14 ), these locking protrusions 154 are provided at positions where they engage with the locking protrusions 16 provided on the storage portion 10.

[0120] Figure 18 It is a perspective view showing the relationship between the upper surface cover and the hammer body according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 1 and 2. The positional relationship between the two when the hammer 40 is located at the upper holding position and the upper cover 15 is in a state to be installed at the covering position is shown. At this time, the pressing protrusion 153 contacts the rear end portion of the upper surface 43 of the hammer 40.

[0121] The rear end portion of the upper surface 43 of the hammer body 40 has a flange portion 431 formed to extend from the upper surface 43. The dealer can grab the hammer body 40 or lift the rear end side by hooking his fingertips on the flange portion 431.

[0122] Figure 19 It is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 19 The figure shows a state where new playing cards have been loaded, with hammer 40 held in the upper holding position. To ensure that multiple playing cards can be loaded into the entire space in front of hammer 40 held in the upper holding position, the dealer stores the playing cards in storage 10 in a horizontal position. This keeps the top surfaces of the multiple playing cards low, so that they do not interfere with the installation of top cover 15 in storage 10.

[0123] Figure 20A and Figure 20B This is a diagram for explaining the function of the pressing protrusion according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 20A and Figure 20B 15 shows the position and movement of the pressing protrusion 153 when the upper cover 15 slides from the front to the rear along the slide rail 17. Figure 20A As shown, the pressing protrusion 153 is located away from the upper surface 43 of the hammer body 40. When the upper surface cover 15 slides from the front and reaches the covering position, the pressing protrusion 153 presses down the rear end of the upper surface 43 of the hammer body 40.

[0124] By the action of the pressing protrusion 153, the hammer body 40 uses the rear end of the bottom surface as a fulcrum ( Figure 20B The front end of the hammer 40 is tilted upward due to the lever principle. As a result, the front end of the hammer 40 rests on the hammer stopper 111. In this state, the hammer 40 is not restricted by the hammer stopper 111, but slides downward along the inclined bottom surface 11 due to its own weight. At this time, due to the weight portion 44 of the hammer 40 (see Figure 18 ) is located in front of the hammer body 40 (below the inclined surface 42), so the hammer body 40 passes over the hammer body stopper 111 and slides down smoothly.

[0125] It should be noted that the diameters of the two ends of the roller 41 corresponding to the hammer stopper 111 can be designed to be smaller to accommodate the thickness of the hammer stopper 111. As a result, the roller 41 does not need to pass over the hammer stopper 111, and the roller 41 will not be blocked by the hammer stopper 111, allowing the hammer 40 to move smoothly.

[0126] As the top cover 15 slides to the covering position, the hammer 40, which is held in the upper holding position by the hammer stopper 111, is released and slides downward, pushing the last playing card forward. In other words, the hammer 40's hold is released in response to the top cover 15 reaching the covering position. As a result, the multiple playing cards are lifted upright due to the angle of the inclined surface of the hammer 40. However, this lifting of the playing cards is suppressed by the ribs 152 of the attached top cover 15.

[0127] Conventionally, the top cover is installed in an open position, with the hammer body sliding forward under its own weight, causing multiple playing cards to stand upright along the inclined surface of the hammer body. In this state, the top cover overcomes the forward force of the hammer body's own weight, pressing down the top surfaces of the upright playing cards, thereby attaching the top cover to the storage unit. In this case, the top cover is attached downward from the top of the storage unit and must be secured using a magnet or other method. This can cause the top cover to tilt upward when the hammer body's own weight causes multiple playing cards to stand upright.

[0128] In contrast, in this embodiment, the upper cover 15 is mounted on the storage portion 10 by sliding. The upper cover 15 is configured so that the upper cover 15 slides relative to the storage portion 10, thereby being secured to the storage portion 10 via the locking protrusions 16 (see FIG. Figure 16 ) engages with the locking protrusion 154 of the upper cover 15 and is fixed to the storage portion 10, thereby preventing the upper cover 15 from tilting upward. In addition, since the movement restriction of the hammer 40 by the hammer stopper 111 is released by the sliding action of the upper cover 15, and the hammer 40 slides forward, the rearmost end of the plurality of playing cards can be pushed forward by the hammer 40 simultaneously with or immediately after the upper cover 15 is installed in the covering position, and the rib 152 of the upper cover 15 can reliably prevent the plurality of playing cards from rising upward due to the weight of the hammer 40.

[0129] Figure 21 : is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 21 In FIG. 1 , the hammer 40 is shown to push the plurality of game cards forward from the end over the hammer stopper 111. As described above, such a state is achieved by installing the upper surface cover 15. Figure 21 , there is shown a state where the hammer 40 pushes a plurality of game cards forward after the upper surface cover 15 is removed.

[0130] Figure 22 This is a perspective view showing an enlarged front portion of the electronic shoe according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 22 In the figure, a portion of the left side is removed to expose the reverse stopper 112. Two reverse stoppers 112 are provided on the front end of the storage section 10, covering the open portion of the upper surface. The reverse stoppers 112 are used to prevent the game cards stored at the front end of the storage section 10 from moving in the reverse direction due to the dealer's operation.

[0131] The reverse stopper 112 includes: a base end portion 1121 extending toward the upper rear and in a direction approximately parallel to the planar direction of the stored gaming cards, a reverse limiting portion 1122 continuous from the front end of the base end portion 1121 and bent downward at an approximately right angle, and a suppressing portion 1123 continuous from the front end of the reverse limiting portion 1122 and extending rearward along the upper surface of the stored gaming cards.

[0132] Figure 23A and Figure 23B It is a figure for demonstrating the effect|action of the reverse stopper of this invention. Figure 23A Shows the normal state. Figure 23A In this state, the lower end of each game card contacts the bottom surface 11. Figure 23B As shown, if the leading (frontmost) gaming card is pushed upward with a finger, the upper end of the leading gaming card rises along the base end 1121 of the reverse stopper 112 and abuts against the reverse restricting portion 1122. This prevents the leading gaming card from moving in the reverse direction.

[0133] It should be noted that if Figure 23B As shown, a slight rise (reverse) is allowed before the upper end of the front game card abuts against the reverse restriction portion 1122, but the front game card cannot be moved before the second game card can be drawn out.

[0134] Figure 24A and Figure 24B This is a diagram for explaining reverse movement in a conventional electronic shoe. Figure 24A and Figure 24B In the example of FIG, the upper surfaces of the plurality of game cards stored in the storage portion are covered by the flat top portion 150. In such a case, Figure 24A As shown, if the frontmost game card is pushed upward with a finger, the front end of the frontmost game card enters and rises along the top 150 into the space between the top 150 and the upper ends of the second and subsequent game cards, thereby exposing the lower end of the second game card. Figure 24B As shown, the first game card can be skipped and the second game card can be drawn.

[0135] In contrast, in this embodiment, since the reverse movement of the frontmost game card is restricted by the reverse stopper 112, the second game card cannot be contacted and drawn out, which can prevent cheating such as drawing game cards in an order different from the original arrangement order.

[0136] In the second embodiment of the present invention, the following technology is disclosed.

[0137] (1) A safety electronic boot for use in a casino, which is used to store a plurality of game cards that are drawn one by one for playing a game, and comprises:

[0138] A storage portion for storing a plurality of stacked game cards;

[0139] an opening portion for exposing a leading game card among the plurality of game cards stored in the storage portion;

[0140] a drawing guide portion for guiding the frontmost game card to be drawn out from the opening;

[0141] a hammer for pushing the last game card among the plurality of game cards toward the opening; and

[0142] an upper surface cover that is slidable between a covering position for covering the upper surfaces of the plurality of game cards and an opening position for opening the upper surfaces of the plurality of game cards,

[0143] The bottom surface of the storage portion is inclined downward toward the opening.

[0144] The hammer moves toward the opening along the bottom surface of the storage portion while pushing the last game card toward the opening in response to the last game card being pulled out in sequence.

[0145] The bottom surface of the storage portion is provided with a hammer stopper, which is used to hold the hammer at an upper holding position by abutting against the front end of the hammer.

[0146] When the upper surface cover is located at the covering position, the state in which the hammer is held at the holding position is released, and the hammer moves toward the opening due to its own weight, and pushes the last game card toward the opening.

[0147] (2) A safety electronic boot for use in a casino, which is the safety electronic boot for use in a casino as described in (1), wherein:

[0148] The upper surface cover has a pressing protrusion on the inner side.

[0149] When the upper surface cover is in the covering position, the pressing protrusion presses downward on the rear end portion of the upper surface of the hammer body held in the holding position by the hammer body stopper, so that, according to the principle of leverage, the front end of the hammer body passes over the hammer body stopper, and the hammer body moves toward the opening due to its own weight and pushes the last game card toward the opening.

[0150] (3) A safety electronic boot for use in a casino, which is the safety electronic boot for use in a casino as described in (1) or (2), wherein:

[0151] The hammer body has a flange portion extending rearward from an upper surface thereof.

[0152] (4) A safety electronic boot for casino use, which is the safety electronic boot for casino use according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein:

[0153] The hammer stoppers are arranged on both sides of the bottom surface of the accommodating portion.

[0154] (5) A safety electronic boot for casino use, which is the safety electronic boot for casino use according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein:

[0155] The hammer stopper is provided at a position where a gap can be ensured between the rear end of the hammer and the rear end of the accommodating portion when the hammer is held at the holding position.

[0156] (6) A casino safety electronic boot for storing a plurality of game cards that are drawn one by one for playing a game, comprising:

[0157] A storage portion for storing a plurality of stacked game cards;

[0158] an opening portion for exposing a leading game card among the plurality of game cards stored in the storage portion;

[0159] a drawing guide portion for guiding the frontmost game card to be drawn out from the opening; and

[0160] a hammer for pushing the last game card among the plurality of game cards toward the opening;

[0161] A reverse stopper is provided at an upper portion of the front end of the storage portion, the reverse stopper being configured to restrict reverse movement of the game cards stored in the front end of the storage portion.

[0162] (7) A safety electronic boot for use in a casino, which is the safety electronic boot for use in a casino as described in (6), wherein:

[0163] The reverse stopper is provided to cover the open portion of the upper surface of the storage portion.

[0164] (8) A safety electronic boot for use in a casino, which is the safety electronic boot for use in a casino as described in (6) or (7), wherein:

[0165] The reverse stopper includes: a base end portion extending toward the rear and upward direction and in a direction substantially parallel to the plane direction of the game cards stored in the storage portion; and a reverse restriction portion continuing from the front end of the base end portion and bending downward at a substantially right angle.

[0166] (Third embodiment)

[0167] Hereinafter, an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figures 25 to 31 These are respectively a perspective view, a top view, a right side view, a left side view, a front view, a bottom view, and a rear view of the electronic shoe according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 32 This is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention with the top cover removed.

[0168] In the electronic boot of the third embodiment, components identical to those of the electronic boot of the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate. The basic structure of the electronic boot 102 of this embodiment is identical to that of the electronic boot 101 of the second embodiment. The electronic boot 102 includes a storage portion 10, an opening 20, a drawer guide 3, a weight 40, and a main body 50.

[0169] In the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment, the corners of the front end of the extraction guide 30 are chamfered and rounded, compared to the electronic shoe 101 of the second embodiment. This makes it easier for the dealer to simultaneously remove a playing card C from the electronic shoe 102 and flip the card C over, facing up. Specifically, when the dealer uses their right index finger to remove a playing card C while pressing the tip of their right thumb against the corner on the dealer's side, the thumb contacts the front of the card C, while the index finger contacts the back of the extracted card C. This allows the dealer to grasp the card C and easily flip it over.

[0170] In the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment, magnets are built into the rear end of the top cover 15 and the rear end of the housing 10, which contacts the rear end of the top cover 15 when the top cover 15 is installed. This allows the top cover 15 to be held in place by the magnetic force of the magnets when installed in the electronic shoe 102. Furthermore, the top cover 15 can be easily removed by sliding it against the magnetic force of the magnets.

[0171] In the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment, metal reinforcement plates are built into the side covers 13 and the sidewall portions integrally forming the side surfaces of the side covers 13. This allows the side covers 13 to be lifted by grasping the side covers 13 and the portion of the sidewall 12 facing the side covers 13, thereby reducing deformation even when inward pressure is applied to the side covers 13.

[0172] In the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment, a protrusion 157 extending in the front-rear direction is formed on the outer side of the side surface of the top cover 15. Therefore, when the top cover 15 is installed, the electronic shoe 102 can be easily lifted by hooking a finger on the protrusion 157.

[0173] like Figure 31 As shown, an interface 62 for connecting to an external device and a power switch 61 of the electronic boot 102 are mounted on the back of the electronic boot 102 .

[0174] like Figure 32 As shown, chamfers are applied to outer portions 132 of the upper ends of the front and rear ends of the side covers 13, and to portions 141 of the side walls 14 that face the outer portions 132 of the side covers 13. This prevents the inner side surfaces of the upper cover 15 from getting caught on the step at the boundary between the upper end of the side cover 13 and the side walls 14, thereby preventing smooth sliding, during the sliding of the upper cover 15 to the closed position.

[0175] Figure 33 This figure shows an example of a result display according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The result display 55 of this embodiment displays information on two lines. Specifically, on the left side of the result display 55, the face value and suit of the two playing cards C serving as the Banker's hand are displayed in the upper half, and the units digit of the total face value of the two playing cards C serving as the Banker's hand is displayed in the lower half. On the right side, the face value and suit of the two playing cards C serving as the Player's hand are displayed in the upper half, and the units digit of the total face value of the two playing cards C serving as the Player's hand is displayed in the lower half.

[0176] In the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment, in addition to the lights for displaying the respective results of Player win, Banker win, and Tie, a light for displaying Banker 6 is also provided as the result display light 54. Banker 6 means that the banker's hand wins with 6. In this case, even if a Banker win is placed, the amount of game coins paid out is half of the placed amount. In addition, if a placement area is provided for placing a Banker win with 6 (referred to as "Super 6" or "Lucky 6"), the game coins placed there will be paid out at a multiplier greater than 1 (e.g., 24x).

[0177] Like this, when banker 6 appears, the dealer must perform a payout operation different from usual. Therefore, in the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment, a lamp for indicating that banker 6 appears is provided as a result display lamp 54.

[0178] Figure 34: is a perspective view showing details of a drawer guide portion according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 34 , shows the internal structure of the restricting portion 31 after it has been removed. The front ends of the side walls 12 and 14 each include a restraining portion 18, which serves to prevent the stored playing cards C from tilting upward. The lower surface of the restraining portion 18 has a downwardly convex curved shape. This structure prevents the front end of the leading playing card C from coming to rest in front of the restricting rod 37, preventing the leading playing card C stored in the storage portion 10 from being pressed against the restricting rod 37 by its own weight or the pressure of the hammer 40.

[0179] Through such a structure, Figure 34 When the restrictor 31 is removed as shown to maintain the restrictor lever 37, the playing cards C will not be in the way. Specifically, the height of the restrictor lever 37 must be carefully adjusted to prevent double withdrawal. Therefore, adjustment may be necessary while the electronic shoe 102 is in use. In this case, the leading playing card C will not come into contact with the restrictor lever 37. Therefore, the restrictor lever 37 can be adjusted without removing the playing cards C from the storage unit 10.

[0180] like Figure 34 As shown, the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment is provided with a sensor cover 39 that covers the code reading sensors 33 and 34 and the card detection sensors 35 and 36. The sensor cover 39 is provided with dust-proof padding on its outer periphery to prevent paper dust from the playing cards C from entering the interior. The sensor cover 39 is made of a transparent material.

[0181] Furthermore, on the sensor substrate, the sensor chip is surrounded by a sponge-like dustproof material or a sealing material to prevent paper dust from the game cards C from entering the code reading sensors 33 and 34 and the card detection sensors 35 and 36 .

[0182] Figure 35 This is a perspective view of a restricting portion according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The restricting portion 31 has a generally fork-like shape, with a locking claw 22 provided on the lower surface of the front end. These locking claws 22 engage with claw receiving holes 19 formed in the front ends of the side walls 12 and 14. The engagement of the locking claws 22 of the restricting portion 31 with the claw receiving holes 19 of the side walls 12 and 14 prevents the front ends of the side walls 12 and 14 from expanding outward to the left and right, and prevents the front end of the restricting portion 31 from tilting upward.

[0183] Figure 36This is a perspective view of a top cover according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Multiple ribs 152 are formed on the inner side 151 of the top cover 15. Furthermore, guides 155 extending longitudinally are formed on the inner side 151 near the left and right side walls 156. When the top cover 15 is mounted on the electronic shoe 102, the upper ends of the side walls 12 and 14 and the side cover 13 are inserted into the gaps between the guides 155 and the left and right side walls 156.

[0184] Specifically, when the top cover 15 is installed, the upper ends of the side walls 12, 14, and the side covers 13 are fitted into and fixed in the gaps between the guides 155 formed on the inner side surface 151 of the top cover 15 and the side walls 156. Thus, when the top cover 15 is installed, the side walls 12, 14, and the side covers 13 are securely fixed to the top cover 15. This, combined with the function of the metal reinforcement plate described above, can reduce deformation when the electronic shoe 102 is lifted.

[0185] In card games using the electronic shoe 102, there are two types of game operation: a shuffle-style card game, in which the player allows the player to turn over the game cards C drawn from the electronic shoe 102; and a draw-style card game, in which the dealer turns over the game cards C drawn from the electronic shoe 102. In the draw-style card game, the dealer draws a game card C from the electronic shoe 102, turns over the game card C, and places it on the gaming table.

[0186] Figure 37 This is a perspective view of the electronic shoe according to the third embodiment of the present invention. For the aforementioned card draw, bottom-raising members 71 and 72 are attached to the bottom surface of the electronic shoe 102 to raise the bottom of the electronic shoe 102. This increases the height of the top surface of the extraction guide 30, through which the extracted game cards C slide, from the gaming table surface, making it easier for the dealer to grasp the extracted cards.

[0187] A bottom raising member 71 is mounted on the front end of the bottom surface. Furthermore, two bottom raising members 72 are mounted on the left and right sides of the rear end of the bottom surface. The bottom raising member 71 can be mounted to the bottom surface using screws, while the bottom raising members 72 can be mounted to the bottom surface by themselves acting as screws.

[0188] In the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment, similar to the electronic shoe 101 of the second embodiment, the upper cover 15 is closed, thereby releasing the hold of the hammer 40 at the upper portion of the storage section 10, causing the hammer 40 to slide from the storage section 10 and press forward the rearmost end of the stored playing cards C. Since the hammer 40 slides downward by attaching the upper cover 15, the user cannot accurately visually confirm whether the hammer 40 is in the state of sliding and pressing the playing cards C forward.

[0189] Therefore, an observation window may be provided on the upper cover 15. This observation window may be provided in the upper portion of the upper cover 15, and may allow observation of the hammer 40 held at the upper end of the storage portion 10. Thus, when the upper cover 15 is attached to the electronic shoe 102 and the hammer 40 is slid downward, the hammer 40 cannot be observed through the observation window, allowing the user to confirm that the hammer 40 has fallen.

[0190] Instead of the observation window, a sensor for detecting whether the hammer 40 has slid from the holding position may be used. For example, a sensor composed of an LED light and a photodiode sensor may be provided at a position corresponding to the hammer 40 to detect whether the hammer 40 is at the holding position.

[0191] The main body 50 of the electronic boot 102 in this embodiment houses a computer. This computer, equipped with a calculation processor, memory, and storage, serves as the processing unit of the electronic boot 102. It runs the program of this embodiment and performs the following information processing. First, the processing unit stores the card value of drawn cards and game results as log information in the storage device, along with the date and time of the log information. Furthermore, if the processing unit detects the opening and closing of the top cover 15, or if any error occurs, it also stores these events as log information in the storage device, along with the date and time of the log information.

[0192] Furthermore, the processing unit can run analysis software that analyzes the log information. For example, the analysis software performs statistical processing on the game results or the face value of the drawn game cards C.

[0193] The processing unit is connected to an external computer via interface 62. Thus, by connecting to the processing unit via interface 62, the external computer can read various log information stored in the storage device. Therefore, the processing unit has a security function that outputs log information only to trusted external computers. Specifically, the processing unit communicates with the external computer only when an ID and password are set and input from the connected external computer.

[0194] The processing unit obtains the card value information of the drawn playing card C from code reading sensors 33 and 34. As mentioned above, the playing card C has two lines of marks M1 and M2 printed with UV ink. The code reading sensors 33 and 34 obtain the card value information by reading these marks M1 and M2. A threshold is set for the sensors to determine whether marks M1 and M2 are present.

[0195] The processing unit executes a program to teach (train) the code reading sensors 33 and 34 the thresholds used to determine the presence or absence of the mark. Conventionally, thresholds were set by operating each of the multiple sensors. With the electronic boot 102 of this embodiment, the processing unit and even an external computer connected to the processing unit can simultaneously train the multiple code reading sensors 33 and 34.

[0196] In this training, a playing card C is mounted at a position where the mark M1 is read by the code reading sensor 33, and the reading value of the code reading sensor 33 is obtained. This reading value is used as a reference to set the threshold value of the code reading sensor 33. Similarly, a playing card C is mounted at a position where the mark M2 is read by the code reading sensor 34, and the reading value of the code reading sensor 34 is obtained. This reading value is used as a reference to set the threshold value of the code reading sensor 34.

[0197] It should be noted that, as an alternative, during training, the processing unit can draw out the game card C, and at the same time, obtain the changes in the reading values ​​of the code reading sensors 33 and 34 (the values ​​of the parts marked with M1 and M2 and the parts without M1 and M2), and set the threshold based on the reading value.

[0198] Furthermore, the processing unit or an external computer connected to the processing unit also performs training on the color tones of the playing cards C. In this training, for example, approximately 20 playing cards C are drawn and read by the code reading sensors 33 and 34. The processing unit then determines the color tones of the playing cards C and adjusts the white balance.

[0199] Explanation of symbols:

[0200] 100, 101, 102 electronic boots

[0201] 10 Storage area

[0202] 11 Bottom

[0203] 12 Sidewall

[0204] 13 side shields

[0205] 14 Sidewall

[0206] 15 Upper mask

[0207] 16 Locking protrusion

[0208] 17 Slide Rail

[0209] 20 opening

[0210] 21 Curtains

[0211] 30 Extraction guide

[0212] 31 Restriction Department

[0213] 32 inclined portion

[0214] 33, 34 Code reading sensor

[0215] 35, 36 card detection sensors

[0216] 37 Limiting rod

[0217] 38 Pull out the limit pin

[0218] 40 Hammer

[0219] 41 Roller

[0220] 42 Inclined surface

[0221] 43 upper surface

[0222] 50 main body

[0223] 51 Error indicator light

[0224] 52 result display lights

[0225] 53 Results display button

[0226] 54 result display lights

[0227] 61 Power switch

[0228] 62 interfaces

[0229] 71, 72 bottom heightening parts

[0230] 111 Hammer stop

[0231] 112 Reverse stop

[0232] 152 ribs

[0233] 153 Press protrusion

[0234] 154 locking protrusion

[0235] 155 Guidance Department

[0236] 156 sidewall

[0237] C Game Cards

[0238] M1, M2 marks.

Claims

1. A safety electronic shoe for use in a casino, configured to store a plurality of cards and read the card value and suit of each card drawn one by one for game play, and comprising: a storage portion configured to store a plurality of stacked cards; an opening configured to expose a frontmost card among a plurality of cards stored in the storage portion; a drawing guide configured to guide the frontmost card to be drawn out from the opening; a hammer configured to push the last card of the plurality of cards toward the opening; a card extraction restriction member configured to restrict the frontmost card from being extracted from the opening so that no card can be extracted; and The component for restricting the drawing of two cards is configured to restrict the drawing of two cards at the same time so that the cards can be drawn one by one correctly. The bottom surface of the storage portion is inclined so as to descend toward the opening. The hammer is configured to move toward the opening along the bottom surface of the storage portion in response to the last card moving toward the opening as the front card is sequentially drawn out, while the last card is pressed toward the opening. By the action of the card extraction restriction component, the extraction of the frontmost card is restricted, and by the action of the two-card extraction restriction component, the extraction of subsequent cards is restricted.

2. The casino safety electronic boots according to claim 1, wherein: The casino safety electronic shoe further comprises a reading unit for reading at least the face value of the card drawn from the opening. The card restriction member restricts the drawing of the card before the face value of the leading card is read by the reading unit, thereby preventing the face value of the card whose drawing is restricted by the card restriction member from being read.

3. The casino safety electronic boots according to claim 1, wherein: The component for limiting the extraction of two cards is a limiting rod provided above the bottom surface of the storage portion in a manner that separates a gap through which only one card can pass. The restricting lever is configured to press from above the card that is drawn out and slides on the bottom surface.

4. The casino safety electronic boots according to claim 1, wherein: The side of the two-card-restricting member facing the frontmost card has a rounded shape, whereby the frontmost card is guided toward the gap.

5. The casino safety electronic boots according to claim 1, wherein: The component that limits the extraction of two cards is a limiting rod, which is arranged above the bottom surface of the storage portion. When the frontmost card is extracted and the subsequent cards are pulled forward by the frontmost card, the frontmost card passes through the bottom surface, and the frontmost card is pressed toward the bottom surface by the limiting rod, thereby preventing the subsequent cards from moving forward toward the gap, thereby preventing the extraction of two cards.

6. The casino safety electronic boots according to claim 1, wherein: The components for limiting the extraction of two cards are arranged on both sides of the extraction guide.

7. The casino safety electronic boots according to claim 1, wherein: Casino safety electronic boots also have: an upper surface cover mounted on an upper portion of the storage portion, wherein the upper portion of the storage portion is opened by removing the upper surface cover from the storage portion; and The sensor outputs a signal when detecting that the top cover has been removed from the storage portion.

8. The casino safety electronic boots according to claim 1, wherein: The casino safety electronic shoe includes a reverse stopper that restricts the frontmost card stored in the storage portion from moving in reverse, thereby preventing subsequent cards from being exposed from the opening due to the reverse movement of the frontmost card.

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