Coin tray, table game management system, coin tray system, and coin management method

Abstract

The invention provides a novel game coin tray system. The novel game coin tray system comprises a game coin tray which is used for containing game coins and is of a double-layer tray structure. The game coin tray system is provided with: a double-layer tray which is configured from a lower layer tray (172) and an upper layer tray (171) superimposed on the lower layer tray, and which accommodates game coins (120) provided with RF tags (125) that store tag information; a camera (2) that captures an image of the game coins (120) accommodated in the upper tray (171) and acquires tray image data; an RFID reading device (170) that reads tag information from the RF tag (125) of the game currency (120) accommodated in the lower tray (172); and a game recording device (11) for recording the tray image data and / or the image analysis result of the tray image data for the game coins (120) accommodated in the upper tray (171), and recording the tag information read by the RFID reading device (170) for the game coins (120) accommodated in the lower tray (171).

Description

[0001] Divisional application

[0002] This application is a divisional application of the patent application filed on February 9, 2018, with application number 201880024746.2, entitled "A substitute currency tray for amusement games, a management system for tabletop games, a substitute currency tray system for amusement games, and a method for managing substitute currency for amusement games".

[0003] Cross-referencing of related applications

[0004] This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2017-024424, filed on February 13, 2017, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0005] This invention relates to a game coin tray for holding game coins. Background Technology

[0006] Currently, arcades and other amusement parks use game tokens for placing and repaying games. US Patent No. 5,735,742 employs an automated settlement system that automatically monitors all game token transactions in an arcade. In this system, RF tags are embedded in the game tokens, and an electronic system including an antenna embedded in the game table reads these RF tags. An antenna is also located beneath the token tray, allowing multiple tokens in the tray to have their RF tags read simultaneously in a contactless manner.

[0007] However, when reading RF tags, because a single antenna is used to read multiple RF tags, it's impossible to know the exact location of multiple game tokens with the read RF tags within the reading area (e.g., the game token tray). Therefore, for example, during game settlement, when counterfeit cheat game tokens are mixed into the game token tray, it's known that counterfeit game tokens are present in the tray, but it's impossible to determine the origin of the tokens or identify the user of the counterfeit tokens.

[0008] Furthermore, in a coin tray with a double-layered tray structure consisting of an upper tray and a lower tray stacked together, if multiple coins stored in the upper tray and multiple coins stored in the lower tray are read using the same RF tag, it is impossible to distinguish whether the read RF tags belong to coins stored in the upper tray or coins stored in the lower tray. In other words, it is impossible to track the movement of coins between the upper and lower trays.

[0009] Furthermore, in the method of reading RF tags for multiple game coins, this situation cannot be detected even if the multiple game coins include coins with RF tag malfunctions or coins without built-in RF tags.

[0010] Furthermore, regarding the method of reading RF tags, errors can sometimes occur due to the angle or orientation of the game tokens. In particular, for game tokens held at an angle in the token tray, the angle may make it difficult to read the RF tags.

[0011] Furthermore, regarding the method of reading RF tags, since the RF tags are read in a non-contact manner by emitting radio waves from the antenna, the dealer and players may have adverse effects on their health if they are exposed to the radio waves for a long time. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a novel game coin tray system including a game coin tray with a double-layer tray structure, wherein the double-layer tray structure is used to hold game coins.

[0013] One embodiment of the game coin tray of the present invention is configured as follows:

[0014] A game coin tray, set on a game table for holding game coins, wherein it comprises:

[0015] An upper tray, used for placing or removing the game coins during game settlement;

[0016] A lower tray, disposed below the upper tray, is used to store the game coins replenished to the upper tray;

[0017] The game coin has the following structure: a structure having a plastic layer, and at least a portion thereof having a specific color that identifies the type of game coin; printed layers indicating the type of game coin are applied to the top and bottom surfaces; and side codes that can be identified are attached to the sides. An RF tag is fixed to the plastic layer, and the type of game coin can be identified by the specific color.

[0018] The upper tray has an open structure at its top, allowing a camera to capture images of the game coins placed on it. The lower tray is configured to allow an RFID reader to read the RF tags of the game coins placed on it.

[0019] The upper tray and the lower tray are designed to have two states: an overlapping state; and an open state where game coins can be placed or removed from the lower tray.

[0020] The RFID reader is configured to not read the RF tags of game coins placed on the upper tray when the upper tray and the lower tray are overlapping.

[0021] After each game, the dealer pays out game coins to the players from the upper tray, storing the coins collected from the players in the upper tray. Therefore, the number of game coins in the upper tray changes (increases or decreases) each game. It is desirable to be able to track whether the increase or decrease in game coins in the upper tray each game is accurate. Based on the above structure, the frequent changes in game coins in the upper tray, as described above, can be tracked using tray image data.

[0022] Furthermore, when the upper tray's tokens increase to the point of overflowing, the dealer moves multiple tokens (e.g., in units of 100) from the upper tray to the lower tray. Conversely, when the upper tray runs out of tokens, multiple tokens (e.g., in units of 100) are moved from the lower tray to the upper tray. In this way, the lower tray does not experience the same frequency of token changes (increases and decreases) as the upper tray (e.g., approximately several times during a day's business hours). Therefore, it is desirable to confirm that a predetermined number of tokens are always present in the lower tray. Based on the above structure, the presence of tokens stored in the lower tray and not visible from the outside can also be determined by reading tag information from RF tags.

[0023] In other words, according to the above structure, by using a camera to photograph the upper tray used for inserting or removing game coins during game settlement, the position and movement of the game coins can be confirmed, thereby detecting cheating. For the lower tray storing replenished game coins, the RF tag can be read even when the upper tray is stacked on top of it, but the RF tags of the game coins on the upper tray will not be read. Therefore, the game coins stored in the lower tray can be monitored by reading the RF tags. In this way, the movement of game coins between the upper and lower trays can be monitored separately, thus enabling the detection of cheating during movement. Furthermore, the upper tray can also detect game coins with damaged or missing RF tags.

[0024] The aforementioned game coin tray can also determine the position of the side code of each game coin in the upper tray by determining the side code.

[0025] Based on this structure, it can be determined which game coin is located in which position on the upper tray.

[0026] In the aforementioned coin tray, the side code of the coin can be printed using ink that is invisible to visible light.

[0027] This structure makes it difficult to counterfeit, further enhancing security. At the same time, it allows for greater freedom in the design of the side (visible under visible light) of the game coin.

[0028] In the aforementioned game coin tray, the side code can be printed using ink that absorbs infrared light.

[0029] This structure makes it difficult to counterfeit, further enhancing security. It also allows for greater design freedom on the side of the coin (visible under light), and the side code can be captured using an infrared camera.

[0030] In the aforementioned game coin tray, multiple lines of side code can be set on the side.

[0031] Based on this structure, the visibility of the camera's side codes can be improved, and the circumferential length of each side code can be shortened, or more complex codes can be prepared within the same circumferential length.

[0032] The aforementioned game coin tray may further include a database that associates the side codes of each of the multiple game coins with the tag information stored in the RF tag.

[0033] Based on this structure, the side code of the game coin can be used to determine whether the tag information of the RF tag corresponds to the reference database.

[0034] In the aforementioned game coin tray, the game coin can be configured such that light-colored layers are provided on both sides in a manner that holds the specific color layer.

[0035] According to this structure, specific color layers are sandwiched between lighter color layers. Therefore, when multiple game coins are stacked and then viewed from the side, the specific color layers of adjacent game coins are not continuous, thus allowing for an accurate determination of the number of game coins.

[0036] One aspect of the management system of the present invention is a management system for a game using an arcade table, the management system comprising: game coins having the following structure: formed as a structure having a plastic layer, and at least a portion having a specific color that can identify the type of game coin; printed layers indicating the type of game coin applied to the top and bottom surfaces; side codes that can be identified separately attached to the sides; and RF tags fixed to the plastic layer, the type of game coin being identifiable by the specific color; a game coin tray disposed on the arcade table for holding the game coins; a camera for photographing and recording the game coins placed on the game coin tray; an RFID reader for reading the RF tags of the game coins placed on the game coin tray; and a management control device. The device uses the camera's capture results and the RFID reader's reading results to determine and store the type and quantity of game coins on the game coin tray. The game coin tray has: an upper tray for placing or removing game coins during game settlement; and a lower tray disposed below the upper tray for storing game substitutes used to replenish the upper tray. The upper and lower trays can have two states: an overlapping state; and an open state where game coins can be placed or removed from the lower tray. Furthermore, the upper part of the upper tray has an open structure so that the camera can capture images of the game coins placed on the upper tray. The lower tray is configured to allow the RFID reader to read the RF tags of the game coins placed on the lower tray.

[0037] According to this structure, by using a camera to photograph the upper tray used for inserting or removing game coins during game settlement, the location and movement of game coins can be confirmed, and cheating can be detected. For the lower tray storing game coins for replenishment, the RF tag can be read even when the upper tray is stacked on top of it. Therefore, game coins stored in the lower tray can be identified by reading the RF tag. Furthermore, the upper tray can also detect game coins with damaged or missing RF tags.

[0038] In the aforementioned management system, the management control device can also determine the position of the side code of each game coin in the upper tray by determining the side code.

[0039] Based on this structure, it can be determined which game coin is located in which position on the upper tray.

[0040] In the aforementioned management system, the RFID reading device may be configured to not read the RF tags of game coins placed on the upper tray when the upper tray and the lower tray are overlapping.

[0041] Based on this structure, the RF tag of the game coins in the upper tray will not be read. Therefore, the game coins in the upper tray and the game coins in the lower tray can be monitored separately, and the movement of game coins between the upper tray and the lower tray can also be monitored.

[0042] The aforementioned management system may further include: a database that associates the side codes of the various game coins with the RFID tags.

[0043] Based on this structure, the side code of the game coin can be used to determine whether the tag information of the RF tag corresponds to the reference database.

[0044] In the aforementioned management system, the side code can be printed using ink that is invisible to visible light.

[0045] This structure makes it difficult to counterfeit, further enhancing security. At the same time, it allows for greater freedom in the design of the side (visible under visible light) of the game coin.

[0046] In the aforementioned management system, the side code can be printed using ink that absorbs infrared light.

[0047] Based on this structure, it is not easy to counterfeit, and the security is further improved. At the same time, it can ensure the freedom of design for the side of the game coin (visible under visible light), and the side code can be captured by an infrared camera.

[0048] In the aforementioned management system, multiple lines of side code can be set on the side.

[0049] Based on this structure, the visibility of side codes can be improved, while the circumferential length of each side code can be shortened, or more complex codes can be prepared within the same circumferential length.

[0050] In the aforementioned management system, the game coin can be configured such that light-colored layers are set on both sides in a manner that sandwiches the specific color layer.

[0051] This structure can improve the visibility of the code on the opposite side of the camera.

[0052] The aforementioned management system can be configured such that when the side code differs from a pre-registered side code, the management control device can identify the cheating game coin.

[0053] Based on this structure, cheating game currency that does not have the correct side code can be detected.

[0054] In the aforementioned management system, the management control device can output a judgment result when it determines that the cheating game coins on the upper tray have been collected by the dealer of the game table, and use the camera to replay the recording of the cheating game coins.

[0055] Based on this structure, the recording of the cheating game coins can be replayed to analyze the cheating behavior.

[0056] In the aforementioned management system, the management control device can use the camera to determine where the game coins collected and placed on the upper tray by the dealer of the game table come from on the game table, and can use the camera to replay the recorded footage of the game coin movement.

[0057] Based on this structure, the user of the cheating game currency and its location can be identified.

[0058] In the aforementioned management system, the camera can also photograph banknotes used to purchase the game coins. The management control device has the following structure: it can use the photographing results of the banknotes to determine the types and quantities of game coins on the upper tray that should be reduced due to the purchase of game coins on the game coin tray with banknotes, and compare and measure them with the actual total amount of game coins on the game coin tray.

[0059] Based on this structure, it can be determined whether purchasing game tokens with paper money is a correct action.

[0060] In the aforementioned management system, the management control device can compare and determine whether the total amount of game coins held in the game coin tray has been reduced after purchasing the game coins with paper money, corresponding to the payment amount of the game coins used for the purchase; and whether it corresponds to the increase or decrease of game coins calculated based on the amount of game coins placed by all players and the win or loss result of the game.

[0061] Based on this structure, when purchasing game currency with paper money and settling game accounts, it can be determined whether the purchase and settlement were carried out correctly.

[0062] In the aforementioned management system, the management control device can be an AI-efficient or deep learning structure that, when determining the type and number of game coins, can obtain information about the type and number of game coins even if some or all of them are hidden due to blind spots in the camera.

[0063] Based on this structure, even for game tokens randomly placed on a game table, the number and type can be identified based on the camera's image.

[0064] In the aforementioned management system, the game coin has the following structure: side codes are attached at least three times at intervals along the rotation direction of the light-colored layer on the side. By using the camera to read the side codes, the type and manufacturing information of the game coin can be determined, and the determined information can be compared and managed with a prescribed database.

[0065] Based on this structure, the content of the side code representing the type and manufacturing information can be compared with the database to detect cheating game currency.

[0066] The aforementioned management system may further include: a camera that captures and records images of the game coins on the game table, wherein the camera is configured to capture images of the game coins using a single camera or multiple cameras at different heights positioned at designated locations.

[0067] Based on this structure, game tokens at various locations on the game table can be photographed from various angles.

[0068] According to one aspect of the present invention, a game coin tray is disposed on an arcade table for holding game coins. The game coin tray comprises: an upper tray for placing or removing game coins during game settlement; and a lower tray disposed below the upper tray for storing game coins used to replenish the upper tray. The game coins are formed into a structure having a plastic layer, at least a portion of which has a specific color that identifies the type of game coin. Printed layers indicating the type of game coin are applied to both the upper and lower surfaces, allowing the value to be individually determined by the specific color. A symbol indicating the type of game coin is fixed to the plastic layer. The upper tray has an open structure, allowing a camera to capture images of the game coins placed on it. The lower tray can read the RF tags of the game coins placed on it using an RFID reader. The upper and lower trays are designed to have two states: an overlapping state and an open state where game coins can be placed or removed from the lower tray. The RFID reader does not read the RF tags of the game coins placed on the upper tray when the upper and lower trays are overlapping.

[0069] According to this configuration, by using a camera to photograph the upper tray used for inserting or removing game coins during game settlement, the position and movement of game coins can be confirmed, and cheating can be detected. Regarding the lower tray for storing replenished game coins, the RF tag can be read even when the upper tray is stacked on top of it, but the RF tag of the game coins on the upper tray will not be read. Therefore, the game coins stored in the lower tray can be identified by reading the RF tag. In this way, the game coins on the upper tray and the game coins on the lower tray can be monitored separately, thus allowing for the tracking of game coins moving between the two trays, and further enabling the detection of cheating during movement. Furthermore, regarding the upper tray, game coins with damaged RF tags or missing RF tags can also be detected.

[0070] In the aforementioned game coin tray, the number of game coins in each position of the upper tray can be determined by determining the value of the game coins.

[0071] Based on this structure, it is possible to determine how many game coins of what value are located in which position on the upper tray.

[0072] One aspect of the present invention is a management system for a game using an arcade table, the management system comprising: game coins having the following configuration: formed as a structure having a plastic layer, at least a portion having a specific color that can identify the type of game coin, and printed layers indicating the type of game coin applied to the top and bottom surfaces, allowing the value to be individually determined by the specific color; an RF tag indicating the type of game coin fixed to the plastic layer; a game coin tray disposed on the arcade table for holding the game coins; a camera for photographing the game coins placed on the game coin tray; an RFID reader for reading the RF tags of each game coin placed on the game coin tray; and a management control device utilizing the camera. The value and number of game coins on the game coin tray are determined and stored by the shooting results and the reading results of the RFID reading device. The game coin tray has: an upper tray for putting in or taking out game coins during game settlement; and a lower tray disposed below the upper tray for storing game coins used to replenish the upper tray. The upper tray and the lower tray can have two states: an overlapping state; and an open state in which game coins can be put in or taken out of the lower tray. Moreover, the upper part of the upper tray forms an open structure to enable the game coins placed on the upper tray to be photographed by a camera. The lower tray can read the RF tags of the game coins placed on the lower tray by the RFID reading device.

[0073] According to this structure, by using a camera to photograph the upper tray used for inserting or removing game coins during game settlement, the location and movement of game coins can be confirmed, and cheating can be detected. For the lower tray storing replenished game coins, even when the upper tray is stacked on top of it, the RF tag can be read. Therefore, game coins stored in the lower tray can be identified by reading the RF tag. Furthermore, regarding the upper tray, game coins with damaged or missing RF tags can also be detected.

[0074] In the aforementioned management system, the management control device can use the camera to determine the value and position of each game coin on the upper tray.

[0075] Based on this structure, it can be determined which value of game coins is located in which position on the upper tray.

[0076] In the aforementioned management system, the management control device can use the camera to determine whether the game coins in the upper tray are the predetermined game coins.

[0077] Based on this structure, cheating game currency can be identified.

[0078] One embodiment of the present invention provides a game coin tray system comprising: a double-layer tray consisting of a lower tray and an upper tray stacked on the lower tray, for holding game coins equipped with RF tags, the RF tags storing tag information; an image acquisition mechanism for photographing the game coins held in the upper tray to acquire tray image data; an RFID reading mechanism for reading the tag information from the RF tags of the game coins held in the lower tray; and a recording mechanism for recording the tray image data and / or image analysis results of the tray image data for the game coins held in the upper tray, and simultaneously recording the tag information read by the RFID reading mechanism for the game coins held in the lower tray.

[0079] Based on this structure, the upper tray can acquire tray image data, thereby confirming the position and movement of game coins and detecting cheating. The lower tray, even when stacked on top of the upper tray, can read RF tags, thus identifying the game coins stored therein. Furthermore, the upper tray can also detect game coins with damaged or missing RF tags.

[0080] In the aforementioned game coin tray system, the image acquisition mechanism may be configured not to photograph the game coins contained in the lower tray, the RFID reading mechanism may be configured not to read the tag information of the game coins contained in the upper tray, and the recording mechanism may not record the tag information of the game coins contained in the upper tray, nor record the tray image data of the game coins contained in the lower tray or the image analysis results of the tray image data.

[0081] Based on this structure, the RF tag of the game coins in the upper tray will not be read. Therefore, the game coins in the upper tray and the game coins in the lower tray can be monitored separately, as well as the movement of game coins between the upper tray and the lower tray.

[0082] In the aforementioned game coin tray system, the game coins contained in the lower tray can be positioned in a location inaccessible to the image acquisition mechanism. The RFID reading mechanism can be configured not to read the tag information of the game coins contained in the upper tray. The recording mechanism can be configured not to record the tag information of the game coins contained in the upper tray, nor to record the tray image data of the game coins contained in the lower tray, nor the image analysis results of the tray image data.

[0083] Based on this structure, the RF tags of the game coins in the upper tray will not be read. Therefore, the game coins in the upper tray and the game coins in the lower tray can be monitored separately, as well as the movement of game coins between the upper tray and the lower tray.

[0084] The aforementioned game coin tray system may further include: an image analysis mechanism that determines the position of the game coin contained in the upper tray based on the tray image data, and a recording mechanism that records the position information of the game coin as the image analysis result.

[0085] Based on this structure, the position of the game coins in the upper tray can be determined and recorded.

[0086] In the aforementioned game coin tray system, a color representing the value of the game coin can be attached to the side of the game coin. The system may further include an image analysis mechanism that determines the value represented by the color of the side of the game coin housed in the upper tray based on the tray image data. A recording mechanism can record the value determined by the image analysis mechanism as the image analysis result.

[0087] Based on this structure, the value of the game coins in the upper tray can be determined and recorded by the color of its side.

[0088] In the aforementioned game coin tray system, the identification information of the game coin can be marked on the side of the game coin.

[0089] It may further include: an image analysis mechanism that determines the identification information of the game coins contained in the upper tray based on the tray image data.

[0090] The recording mechanism can record the recognition information determined by the image analysis mechanism as the image analysis result.

[0091] Based on this structure, the type of game tokens on the upper tray can be determined and recorded using the identification information marked on its side.

[0092] The aforementioned game coin tray system may further include: a database that records the aforementioned identification information.

[0093] Based on this structure, cheating game coins can be detected by comparing the identification information marked on the side with a database.

[0094] In the aforementioned game coin tray system, the image analysis agency can perform machine learning-based image recognition on the tray image data.

[0095] Based on this structure, pallet image data can be analyzed with high precision.

[0096] The aforementioned game coin tray system may further include: a cheat detection agency that detects cheating based on the image analysis results.

[0097] Based on this structure, cheating detection can be performed based on image analysis results.

[0098] The aforementioned game coin tray system may further include: a cheat detection agency that detects cheating based on the image analysis results and the tag information read from the RF tag.

[0099] Based on this structure, cheating detection can be performed using image analysis results and the read tag information.

[0100] One aspect of the present invention is a game coin tray system based on the following configuration: It comprises: a double-layer tray, consisting of a lower tray and an upper tray stacked on the lower tray, for holding game coins equipped with RF tags, the RF tags storing tag information; an image acquisition mechanism that photographs the game coins held in the upper tray to acquire tray image data; an RFID reading mechanism that reads the tag information from the RF tags of the game coins held in the lower tray; and a cheat detection mechanism that detects cheating on the upper tray based on the tray image data and detects cheating on the lower tray based on the tag information read by the RFID reading mechanism.

[0101] Based on this structure, cheating can be detected using tray image data for the upper tray. For the lower tray, even when the upper tray is stacked on top of it, the RF tag can still be read. Therefore, the game coins stored in the lower tray can be identified by reading the tag information. Furthermore, for the upper tray, game coins with damaged RF tags or missing RF tags can also be detected.

[0102] In the aforementioned game coin tray system, a color indicating the value of the game coin can be attached to its side. The RF tag can store information indicating the value of the game coin. As the tag information, it can further include: an image analysis mechanism that determines the value represented by the color of the side of the game coin contained in the upper tray based on the tray image data. When the game coin moves between the upper tray and the lower tray, the cheating detection mechanism can determine whether the value added or removed in the upper tray corresponds to the value added or removed in the lower tray based on the value determined by the image analysis mechanism and the value read by the RFID reader, thereby detecting cheating.

[0103] Based on this structure, it can be determined whether the movement of game coins between the upper and lower trays is proceeding correctly.

[0104] In the aforementioned game coin tray system, a color representing the value of the game coin can be added to the side of the game coin. The system may further include an image analysis mechanism that determines the value represented by the color of the side of the game coin contained in the upper tray based on the tray image data. The cheat detection mechanism can then determine whether the settlement amount before and after settlement corresponds to the value increased or decreased in the upper tray based on the value determined by the image analysis mechanism and the settlement amount based on the game result and the player's placement, thereby detecting cheating.

[0105] Based on this structure, it can be determined whether the settlement was performed correctly after the game ended.

[0106] In the aforementioned game coin tray system, as the tag information, the RF tag of the game coin can store the identification information of the game coin, and the identification information of the game coin can be marked on the side of the game coin. It can further include: an image analysis mechanism that determines the identification information of the game coin contained in the upper tray based on the tray image data. When the game coin moves between the upper tray and the lower tray, the cheating detection mechanism can detect cheating by judging whether the identification information read by the RFID reader corresponds to the identification information determined based on the tray image data.

[0107] Based on this structure, identification information can be used to detect cheating when game coins are moved between the upper and lower trays.

[0108] In the aforementioned game coin tray system, the game coin's identification information can be marked on its side. The system may further include: an image analysis mechanism that determines the identification information of the game coin contained in the upper tray based on the tray image data; and a database storing multiple pieces of the identification information. The cheating detection mechanism can determine cheating by checking whether the identification information determined by the image analysis mechanism is stored in the database.

[0109] Based on this structure, game coins that are not marked with the identification information stored in the database can be detected as cheating game coins.

[0110] In the aforementioned game coin tray system, the cheat detection agency can determine the location of cheating game coins whose identification information, as determined by the image analysis agency, is not stored in the database.

[0111] Based on this structure, the location of the cheat tokens can be determined.

[0112] In the aforementioned game coin tray system, the double-layer tray can be set on the game table, the image acquisition mechanism can further photograph the tabletop and acquire tabletop image data, and the cheat detection mechanism determines from where on the tabletop the cheating game coin was recovered based on the location of the cheating game coin and the tabletop image data.

[0113] Based on this structure, it is possible to determine where the cheating currency came from (which player or the player's location).

[0114] In the aforementioned game coin tray system, the double-layer tray can be set on the game table, and information indicating the value of the game coin can be marked on the side of the game coin. The image acquisition mechanism can take pictures of the tabletop and acquire tabletop image data. It can further include: an image analysis mechanism, which determines the amount of banknotes used to purchase the game coin based on the tabletop image data, and determines the value based on the image of the side of the game coin contained in the upper tray. The cheating detection mechanism can determine whether the amount of banknotes determined by the table image analysis mechanism corresponds to the value of the game coin purchased with the banknotes.

[0115] According to this structure, when purchasing game tokens with paper money at a game table, it can be determined whether the purchase is equivalent and whether the purchase is made correctly.

[0116] One embodiment of the present invention provides a game coin tray system with the following structure: it comprises a double-layer tray consisting of a lower tray and an upper tray stacked on the lower tray, for holding game coins equipped with RF tags, the RF tags storing tag information; a tray image acquisition mechanism for capturing images of the game coins held in the upper tray to acquire tray image data; and an RFID reading mechanism configured to read the tag information from the RF tags of the game coins held in the lower tray, without reading the tag information from the RF tags of the game coins held in the upper tray.

[0117] Based on this structure, the tray image data of the game coins in the upper tray can be obtained, and the RF tag of the game coins in the lower tray can be read. However, the RF tag of the game coins in the upper tray will not be read. Therefore, the game coins contained in the lower tray can be identified by reading the RF tag.

[0118] One embodiment of the present invention provides a game coin tray system with the following structure: It comprises: a double-layer tray consisting of a lower tray and an upper tray stacked on the lower tray, for holding game coins equipped with RF tags, the RF tags storing tag information; an RFID reader configured to read the tag information from the RF tags of the game coins held in the lower tray, but not from the RF tags of the game coins held in the upper tray; and a cheat detection mechanism that detects cheating movement of the game coins based on the tag information read by the RFID reader when the game coins move between the upper and lower trays.

[0119] Based on this structure, the tray image data of the game coins in the upper tray can be obtained, and the RF tag of the game coins in the lower tray can be read. Therefore, the movement of game coins between the upper and lower trays can be tracked, and cheating, such as the extraction of game coins during this movement, can be detected.

[0120] One aspect of the present invention is a game coin management method for storing game coins in a double-layered tray consisting of a lower tray and an upper tray stacked on the lower tray. The method comprises: a tray image acquisition step, which captures an image of the game coins stored in the upper tray to acquire tray image data; an image analysis step, which analyzes the tray image data to analyze the game coins stored in the upper tray; a reading step, which reads the tag information from the RF tag of the game coins stored in the lower tray; and a cheating movement detection step, which determines whether an increase or decrease in the game coins in the upper tray based on the tray image data corresponds to an increase or decrease in the game coins in the lower tray based on the tag information read in the reading step, thereby detecting cheating movement of the game coins.

[0121] Based on this structure, the tray image data of the game coins in the upper tray can be read, and the RF tag of the game coins in the lower tray can be read. Therefore, the movement of game coins between the upper and lower trays can be tracked, and cheating, such as removing game coins during the movement, can be detected.

[0122] In the above-mentioned game currency management method, the value of the game currency can be marked on the side of the game currency. The image analysis step can determine the value of the game currency contained in the upper tray by performing image analysis on the tray image data. The game currency management method can further include: a settlement amount calculation step, which calculates the settlement amount of the game currency based on the game result and the player's placement amount; and a cheat settlement detection step, which determines whether the settlement amount calculated in the settlement amount calculation step corresponds to the value added or reduced in the upper tray, thereby detecting cheat settlement.

[0123] Based on this structure, it can be determined whether the settlement was performed correctly.

[0124] In the above-mentioned game currency management method, the image analysis in the tray image analysis step can be image recognition based on machine learning.

[0125] This structure can improve the accuracy of cheat detection.

[0126] The effects of the invention

[0127] According to the present invention, by using a camera to photograph the upper tray used for inserting or removing game coins during game settlement, the position and movement of the game coins can be confirmed, thereby detecting cheating. For the lower tray storing replenished game coins, the RF tag can be read even when the upper tray is stacked on top of it. Furthermore, since it is constructed not to read the RF tags of the game coins in the upper tray, the game coins stored in the lower tray can be identified by reading the RF tags. In this way, the game coins in the upper tray and the lower tray can be identified separately, and the movement of game coins between the upper and lower trays can also be monitored, thus detecting cheating during this movement. In addition, for the upper tray, game coins with damaged or missing RF tags can also be detected. Attached Figure Description

[0128] Figure 1 This is a side view of the game coin in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0129] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the game coin in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0130] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the game coin in the present invention;

[0131] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the game coin in the present invention;

[0132] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the game coin in the present invention;

[0133] Figure 6 This is a plan view of the game coin tray in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0134] Figure 7 This is a side view of the game coin tray in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0135] Figure 8 This is a plan view showing the state after the upper tray is removed in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0136] Figure 9 A side view showing another example of a game coin tray in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0137] Figure 10 A side view showing another example of a game coin tray in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0138] Figure 11 A diagram illustrating the overall structure of the management system in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0139] Figure 12 A diagram illustrating an example configuration of multiple cameras in a management system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0140] Figure 13 This is an explanatory diagram of image analysis using the image analysis apparatus in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0141] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of multiple game coins stacked on a game table in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0142] Figure 15 This is a three-dimensional explanatory photograph illustrating the stacking state of different types of game coins in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0143] Figure 16 A side view showing a modified example of the game coin in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0144] Figure 17 A diagram illustrating the codes (four types) represented by the upper and lower sets of markers in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0145] Figure 18 A side view illustrating other examples of side codes in embodiments of the present invention;

[0146] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing tray image data of game coins contained in the upper tray of the game coin tray in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0147] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of multiple game coins stacked on a game table according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0148] Figure 21 A side view of a game coin, representing another example of an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0149] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments described below are merely examples of implementing the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the specific structures described below. When implementing the present invention, appropriate specific structures may be adopted according to the embodiments.

[0150] The first embodiment of the present invention describes a game coin tray system and a tabletop game management system in an amusement park having multiple game tables. The management system of this embodiment comprises game tables and a game coin tray system. The game coin system of this embodiment comprises game coins, game coin trays, cameras, RFID readers, management and control devices, etc.

[0151] First, the game coins used in the management system and even the game coin tray system of this embodiment will be explained. Figure 1 This is a side view of the game coin in this embodiment. Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the game coin in this embodiment. (Example) Figure 1 As shown, the game coin 120 is formed by stacking multiple layers of plastic of different colors. The game coin 120 forms a multi-layer structure, that is, it has at least a layer of a specific color (specific color layer) 121 in the middle, and light-colored layers (light color layers) 122 are stacked on both sides of the specific color 121. It should be noted that the color of the light color layer 122 only needs to be lighter than the specific color (brighter), including white.

[0152] In manufacturing the game tokens 120, multiple plastic sheets are stacked and hot-pressed together, followed by stamping to obtain multiple game tokens 120. Specifically, firstly, a light-colored plastic sheet serving as the lower light-colored layer 122, a plastic sheet of a specific color serving as the specific color layer 122, and a plastic sheet serving as the upper light-colored layer 122 are stacked sequentially to form a stacked structure composed of multiple plastic layers. At this time, a wireless tag, i.e., an RF tag (RF game token, also known as a contactless tag) 125, is embedded at approximately the center of each stamping process used to manufacture the multiple game tokens 120. Specifically, the RF tag 125 is placed between the specific color layer 121 and the upper light-colored layer 122.

[0153] Patterns corresponding to each game coin 120 are printed on the top and bottom of the laminated structure, and a transparent layer 124 is placed on top of it. Then, the laminated structure and each layer of the transparent layer 124 are heat-pressed together to fuse the layers, thereby creating the substitute coin base plate. At this time, regarding the portion overlapping with the RF tag 125, the plastic sheet deforms under heat corresponding to the RF tag 125 (in addition, Figure 2 In the drawing, the thickness of the RF tag 125 is greater than the actual thickness (it is actually thinner). Therefore, the top and bottom of the game coin 120 after the devices are heat-pressed together will not bulge due to the RF tag 125, but will be formed as a flat surface.

[0154] The game coin base plate, made in this way, is stamped using a die to obtain multiple game coins 120 of a specified shape. During this stamping process, the upper and lower corners of the outer sides of the game coin 120 are rounded using the die.

[0155] By making the game coin 120 into a multi-layered structure by stacking a specific color layer 121 and a light color layer 122, therefore, as Figure 2As shown, stripes are formed on the side where a specific color layer 121 is sandwiched between a light color layer 122 in the stacking direction. Here, the specific color can vary depending on the type of game coin 120 (i.e., value: 10 points, 20 points, 100 points, 1000 points, etc.). For example, 10 points can be set to red, 20 points to green, 100 points to yellow, and 1000 points to blue. The color of the light color layer 122 can be used for all types of game coins 120. That is, the color of the light color layer 122 is the same for any type of game coin 120.

[0156] Accordingly, the game coin 120 has the following configuration: at least in appearance, it has a specific color layer 121 and a light color layer 122 to form axial (thickness direction) stripes on the side, and the type of game coin 120 can be determined by the color of the specific color layer 121. Thus, even when multiple game coins 120 are stacked, their type can be determined by observing their side and by the color of the specific color layer 121 sandwiched by the light color layer 122.

[0157] As labeling information, the RF tag 125 stores at least the unique identification information of the game coin 120, the type (value) of the game coin 120, and the date of manufacture. In a regular game coin 120, the type (value) stored in the RF tag 125 as labeling information is consistent with the type (value) represented by the specific color layer 121 on the side.

[0158] Figures 3-5 These are cross-sectional views of other embodiments of the game coin. Figure 3 In the process, the specific color layer 121 consists of three layers. The middle layer of the specific color layer 121 has a hole B formed in its center for receiving the RF tag 125. The hole B is sandwiched between the upper and lower layers of the specific color layer 121, thereby forming a cavity for receiving the RF tag 125.

[0159] Figure 4 This illustrates an example of forming a specific color portion 121 and a white portion 122 by injection molding. Specifically, it is prepared by so-called two-color molding, that is, firstly, the specific color portion 121 is formed in a molding die (not shown) using a specific color resin, and then, the light-colored portion 122 is formed using a light-colored resin.

[0160] Figure 5 This example illustrates how, after forming the game coin 120 using a light-colored resin or even plastic material, a specific color layer sandwiched between light-colored layers is achieved by printing a specific color in the center of the side. In this case, the game coin 120 can have an RF label 125 embedded between two sheets made of light-colored plastic, then the top and bottom layers are printed, followed by a transparent layer 124, the laminated body is thermo-pressed together, stamped, and then the side is colored with a specific color.

[0161] Next, we will explain the game coin tray. Figure 6 A floor plan of the game coin tray. Figure 7 This is a side view of the game coin tray. The game coin tray 17 of this embodiment has a double-layer tray structure consisting of an upper tray 171 and a lower tray 172. The game coin tray 17 holds the game coins 120 through the upper tray 171 and the lower tray 172 respectively. Figure 7 As shown, the upper tray 17 is stacked on top of the lower tray 172.

[0162] A lower tray 172 is positioned below the upper tray 171 and is used to store game coins 120 for replenishing the upper tray 171. Additionally, the lower tray 172 also accommodates game coins 120 that cannot be contained in the upper tray 171. During gameplay, the upper tray 171 is stacked on top of the lower tray 172 and is used to insert or remove game coins 120 during game settlement. Therefore, the top of the upper tray 171 is open. Alternatively, the upper tray 171 can be removed from above the lower tray 172, opening the top of the lower tray 172 for inserting or removing game coins 120.

[0163] like Figure 6 As shown, the upper tray 171 has multiple vertical storage sections 173 and one horizontal storage section 174 located above it. During settlement, game coins 120 are paid to the player from the vertical storage sections 173, and the game coins 120 collected from the player are temporarily stored in the horizontal storage section 174. The lower tray 172 has multiple vertical storage sections 175.

[0164] An antenna 176 is disposed below the lower tray 172. This antenna 176 is used to read the RF tags 125 of the game coins 120 stored in the lower tray 172. The antenna 176 is connected to a reader 177, and the RFID reading device 170 consists of the antenna 176 and the reader 177. The antenna 176 is controlled by the reader 177 to generate radio waves. The RF tags 125 of the game coins 120 stored in the lower tray 172 receive these radio waves and generate power through rectification, transmitting the information stored in the RF tags 125 (tag information) along with the radio waves. The antenna 176 receives these radio waves, and the reader 177 reads the tag information stored in the RF tags 125 from these radio waves.

[0165] Here, the RFID reading device 170, consisting of antenna 176 and reader 177, is configured such that radio waves only reach the RF tags 125 within the game coins 120 in the lower tray 172. Therefore, tag information is read from the RF tags 125 of the game coins 120 housed in the lower tray 172, but not from the RF tags 125 of the game coins 120 housed in the upper tray 171. This structure can be achieved by adjusting the frequency and intensity of the radio waves transmitted from antenna 176, the materials of the lower and upper trays 172 and 171, and the position of antenna 176. It should be noted that the RFID reading device 170 can also read the tag information of the RF tags 125 via electromagnetic induction.

[0166] Figure 8 This is a plan view showing the state after removing the upper tray 171 (open state). Removing the upper tray 171 exposes the upper part of the lower tray 172, allowing game coins 120 to be placed in or removed from the lower tray 172. The upper tray 171 and the lower tray 172 are connected by a chain 178. Thus, the game coin tray 17, consisting of the upper tray 171 and the lower tray 172, can have two states: a state where the upper tray 171 and the lower tray 172 overlap; and an open state where game coins 120 can be placed in or removed from the lower tray 172.

[0167] Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 The following is a side view illustrating another example of the coin tray 17. In this example, the coin tray 17 is also configured as a double-layered tray, consisting of an upper tray 171 and a lower tray 172. However, in this example, the upper tray 171 and the lower tray 172 are connected by two equal-length connecting rods 179a and 179b, as shown below. Figure 10 As shown, the upper tray 171 can be lifted diagonally upwards while remaining parallel to the lower tray 172.

[0168] When game coins 120 are placed or removed from the lower tray 172, the upper tray 171 is moved via linkages 179a and 179b, forming... Figure 10 The structure prevents the game coins 120 contained in the upper tray 171 from spilling out, and allows the top of the lower tray 172 to be opened. Figure 9 In this state, the upper tray 171 can be photographed by camera 2.

[0169] Next, the management system of the game table, which includes the aforementioned game coins 120 and game coin tray 17, will be described. Figure 11This diagram illustrates the overall structure of the management system in this embodiment. The management system 100 uses a management control device 15 to manage the table games on each game table in an amusement park with multiple game tables 4. Each game table is equipped with a management system 100. Figure 11 The image shows a game table 4 and a management control device 15. Multiple game tables 4 in the amusement park can also share the management control device 15.

[0170] One side of game table 4 ( Figure 11 The upper part forms a straight line, and its opposite side ( Figure 11 The table (below) curves. The dealer 5, located on the straight side, faces multiple players located on the curved side. Each player on the game table 4 has a separate placement area 8 for each player, and the dealer 5 has a coin tray 17 in front of him. The coin tray 17 is embedded in the game table 4 with its upper tray 171 protruding from the tabletop.

[0171] The management system 100 includes multiple cameras 2 primarily used to capture images of the tabletop of the game table 4 (as well as game coins, hands, etc. on the tabletop). Figure 11 Two cameras 2 are shown, but the actual configuration of camera 2 is not limited to this.

[0172] Figure 12 This diagram illustrates an example configuration of multiple cameras 2 in the management system 100. In this example, the management system 100 includes the following cameras 2: camera 2L, which is positioned above the left side of the arcade table 4 and primarily captures images of the right side of the arcade table 4; camera 2R, which is positioned above the right side of the arcade table 4 and primarily captures images of the left side of the arcade table 4; camera 2C, which primarily captures images of the coin tray 17 from above; and camera 2P, which primarily captures images of the coin tray 17 from a slightly diagonal upward angle.

[0173] With the above configuration, multiple cameras 2 capture images (video data or still image data) of the game being played on the game table 4. Multiple cameras 2 can also capture the actions of player 6 or dealer 5 with card C or game coin 120. The aforementioned multiple cameras 2 constitute the image acquisition mechanism of this invention.

[0174] It should be noted that cameras 2C and 2P, which are used to film the game coin tray 17, are both configured to film the game coins 120 housed in the upper tray 171. When the upper tray 171 is stacked on top of the lower tray 172, cameras 2C and 2P cannot film the lower tray 172. Furthermore, when camera 2P films the upper tray 171 from an angle above, since the lower tray 172 is embedded inside the game table 4, even if the upper tray 171 is removed from the lower tray 172, exposing the top of the lower tray 172, camera 2P cannot film the lower tray 172.

[0175] return Figure 11 A card dispensing device 3 is placed on the game table 4. As a card shoe, the card dispensing device 3 has a structure capable of storing and dispensing cards C for the game one by one. The card dispensing device 3 is a so-called electronic shoe already used by those skilled in the art, and has the function of determining and displaying the win / loss results of each game.

[0176] That is, the game rules are pre-programmed into the card dispensing device 3. The card dispensing device 3 reads the information of the dispensed card C and determines the winner according to the game rules. For example, in a certain card game, the winners of B, P, and T are basically determined by the face value of 2-3 cards. The result (win / loss result) is displayed by the result display light 31 of the card dispensing device 3. The card dispensing device 3 with the above functions constitutes the win / loss result determination device.

[0177] The aforementioned coin tray 17 is embedded in the game table 4 in a state where the upper tray 171 and the lower tray 172 overlap. The coin tray 17 is embedded in the center of the straight side of the game table 4 with the upper tray 171 protruding from the top of the game table 4, for use by the dealer 5.

[0178] As a device for controlling the management of desktop games, the management system 100 includes a management control device 15. The management control device 15 includes a game recording device 11, an image analysis device 12, and a cheat detection device 13. A reader 177, a card dispensing device 3, and multiple cameras 2 are connected to the management control device 15. It should be noted that the reader 177 can also be incorporated into the management control device 15.

[0179] The management and control device 15 is implemented by executing management and control programs through a general-purpose computer equipped with a CPU, memory, storage device, and various interfaces. Figure 11 In the example, the game recording device 11, the image analysis device 12, and the cheat detection device 13 are integrated into a management and control device 15, but some or all of them can also be distributed to form a management and control system.

[0180] The game recording device 11 records image data captured and generated by multiple cameras 2. This image data includes tray images obtained by cameras 2C and 2P capturing images of the game coins 120 stored in the upper tray 171 of the coin tray 17, and tabletop images obtained by cameras 2L and 2R capturing images of the placement area of ​​the game table 4. The game recording device 11 also records tag information read by the reader 177 and the win / loss results determined by the card dispensing device 3.

[0181] The image analysis device 12 performs image analysis on the image data recorded in the game recording device 11. Specifically, the image analysis device 12 uses machine learning for image recognition, thereby detecting game coins 120 from the image data. This machine learning can employ convolutional neural networks, and in particular, deep learning can be used to improve detection accuracy. The objects detected by the image analysis device 12 include various game coins 120, various cards C, various banknotes, the hand of the dealer 5 or player 6, etc. The image analysis device 12 is equipped with an image recognition engine that learns to recognize these objects.

[0182] Furthermore, the image analysis device 12 uses local feature quantities for matching in image recognition, thereby effectively recognizing images even in cases of occlusion, dirt, or deformation. Specifically, even if the game coins 120 are randomly placed on a table overlapping each other and partially obscured, these game coins 120 can still be recognized.

[0183] Figure 13 This is an explanatory diagram of image analysis by the image analysis device 12. The image analysis device 12 analyzes the movement of the dealer's hand to determine which player the game coins 120 were collected from and stored in the horizontal storage section 174 of the upper tray 171. Figure 13 As can be seen from the example, game coin 120-a was recycled from player 6La, game coin 120-b was recycled from player 6Lb, and game coin 120-c was recycled from player 6Lc.

[0184] As a result of image analysis, the image analysis device 12 outputs information to the cheat detection device 13 about which game coin 120 was recycled from which player, as well as the type and location of the game coin 120 in the upper tray 171, and records it in the game recording device 11.

[0185] The cheating detection device 13 uses the analysis results from the image analysis device 12, the game win / loss results from the card dispensing device 3, and the tag information from the RF tag 125 read (read out) and recorded in the game recording device 11 by the RFID reading device 170 (antenna 176 and reader 177) to detect cheating. It should be noted that the cheating detection device 13 can perform cheating detection immediately after obtaining the analysis results, game win / loss results, and tag information, or it can temporarily record this information in the game recording device 11 and perform cheating detection at a later, predetermined time or at a time specified by the user. The cheating detection process will now be described in detail.

[0186] At game table 4, a settlement is performed at the end of each game. That is, after the game ends, the dealer 5, based on the game's outcome, recovers the placed game coins 120 from the losing player 6L and pays the winning player 6W the game coins 120 corresponding to their placed amount. Multiple cameras 2 capture the movement of the game coins during the settlement, i.e., the table image data and tray image data before and after the settlement.

[0187] The image analysis device 12 determines, through image recognition of the tabletop image data in each game, where each player 6 places the game coins 120 in the placement area 8 (any of the P, B, or PAIR options for each player), the type of game coins 120 placed (each color of game coin 120 has a different monetary value), and the number of coins. Furthermore, the image analysis device 12 determines, through image recognition of the tray image data, the location, type, and number of game coins 120 stored in the upper tray 171.

[0188] Figure 14 This is a 3D image of multiple game coins stacked on game table 4. As tabletop image data, game coins 120... Figure 14 The tokens are stacked as shown, with clearly defined stripes along the stacking direction on the sides. Therefore, the image analysis device 12 can easily determine the type and quantity of the game tokens 120. Furthermore, by using an AI-enabled computer or control system, or deep learning (structure) technology, accurate image analysis and judgment can be performed. AI-enabled computer or control systems, and deep learning (structure) technology are known and readily available to those skilled in the art, and will not be described in detail here.

[0189] Figure 15This is a three-dimensional explanatory photograph illustrating the state of stacked game coins 120 of different types. Cameras 2L and 2R capture images of the game coins 120 placed by player 6 on game table 4. The image analysis device 12 determines the category of the area where the coins are placed (B, P, PAIR, T), and further determines the quantity and color of specific color layers 121 of the stacked game coins 120 in each area. The image analysis device 12 performs the above determinations when the first card is drawn from the card dispensing device 3, or before or after the card is drawn, or after the dealer 5 signals the end of the placement.

[0190] The cheating detection device 13 calculates which player 6 will receive a settlement (recovery, payment) based on the game results (P, B, T) obtained from the card dispensing device 3, the placement objects (P, B, PAIR) of each player 6 obtained by analyzing the table image data, and the amount of money placed. Therefore, the cheating detection device 13 determines the location (P, B, or PAIR) of the game coins 120 in the placement area 8 based on the image analysis results of the image analysis device 12; the type of game coins 120 placed (each different color of game coin 120 is assigned a different value) and the number of coins. In each game, based on the game's win or loss result determined by the card dispensing device 3, it determines whether to correctly recover the game coins lost by each player 6 (see arrow L) and pay the winning game coins (120W) to the winning player 6.

[0191] When the calculated settlement amount differs from the actual settlement amount obtained through image analysis, the cheating detection device 13 saves the image data in the game recording device 11. The saved image data can be verified later. If the verification result indicates an error by the intelligent cheating detection device 13, the analyzed image can be used as sample data for teacher learning in deep learning technology to improve the accuracy of the intelligent cheating detection device 13.

[0192] The cheating detection device 13 calculates the increase or decrease in the amount of game coins 120 in the game coin tray 17 before and after settlement based on the analysis results of the tray image data in the image analysis device 12, and calculates the increase or decrease in the amount of game coins 120 near each placement area of ​​the game table 4 before and after settlement based on the analysis results of the table image data in the image analysis device 12. In particular, as described above, the horizontal receiving portion 174 of the upper tray 171 contains the game coins 120 recovered from the game table 4, and the vertical receiving portion 173 of the upper tray 171 pays game coins 120 to each player.

[0193] Before and after settlement, the cheating detection device 13 compares the calculated settlement amount with the increase or decrease in the game coin tray 17, and also compares the calculated settlement amount for each player with the increase or decrease in the placement area for each player on the game table 4 to determine if they are consistent. That is, the cheating detection device 13 determines whether the calculated amount of game coins 120 has been paid to the player 6W who should have paid game coins 120 (the winner of the game), and whether the calculated amount of game coins 120 has been recovered from the player 6L who should have recovered game coins 120 (the loser of the game). When the calculated settlement amount (expenditure amount, recovery amount) is consistent with the increase or decrease in game coins 120 obtained through analysis by the image analysis device 12, the cheating detection device 13 determines that the settlement was carried out normally (no cheating).

[0194] When the calculated settlement amount (expenditure amount, recovery amount) is inconsistent with the increase or decrease of game coins 120 obtained by the image analysis device 12, the cheating detection device 13 determines that cheating settlement has occurred.

[0195] Image analysis device 12 can determine the types of all game coins 120 contained in the upper tray 171 of the game coin tray 17 in the game table 4 by analyzing tray image data. Cheating detection device 13 calculates the total amount of all game coins 120 contained in the upper tray 171 based on the analysis results. Furthermore, after the game ends and is settled, based on the winning or losing result, cheating detection device 13 calculates how much the total amount of game coins 120L in the upper tray 171 should increase or decrease, based on the amount of game coins 120L returned to the losing player 6L and the amount of game coins 120W paid to the winning player 6W.

[0196] The total amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 17 changes with each game and is always monitored through tray image data. However, whether the increase or decrease is correct is determined by the cheat detection device 13 based on the analysis results of the table image data from the image analysis device 12, the game win / loss results from the card distribution device 3, and the analysis results of the tray image data from the image analysis device 12. This function of the cheat detection device 13 can also utilize artificial intelligence-based or deep learning structures.

[0197] The cheating detection device 13 detects cheating or errors based on the game's outcome, information on which type of game coin 120 was placed in which position (P, B, or PAIR) in the placement area 8 and how many coins were placed, and the increase or decrease in the amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171 after recovering game coins 120 from the losing player and paying game coins 120 to the winning player. Therefore, it can detect the movement of game coins 120 after the game ends, that is, it can detect cheating or errors even if it cannot know whether the placed game coins 120 have moved to the player's side or to the dealer's side.

[0198] Here, as a result of winning or losing the game, for example in the case of a card game, the face value of the card C drawn in the game can be read by the card dispensing device 3, and the result can be determined according to the rules of the card game. Alternatively, the result of winning or losing can also be determined by using camera 2 to photograph the game table 4, analyzing the image using image analysis device 12, and comparing the analysis results with the game rules using cheat detection device 13. In this case, the camera 2, image analysis device 12, and cheat detection device 13 constitute the result determination device. By using camera 2 to photograph the game coins 120 placed in the placement area 8, and using image analysis device 12 to analyze the table image data of each player's position 7, information is obtained about the player at each player's position 7, which type of game coin 120 is placed in which position (P, B, PAIR) in the placement area 8, and how many coins.

[0199] Furthermore, the increase or decrease in the amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171 before and after settlement (i.e., collection and payment) can be calculated by comparing the total amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171 before and after settlement. This comparison involves collecting game coins 120 from the losing player 6L and paying game coins 120 to the winning player 6W. The total amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171 before and after settlement can be detected by photographing the upper tray 171 containing the game coins 120 using camera 2 and analyzing the image data using image analysis device 12.

[0200] For example, let's define the total amount of 120 game coins in the upper tray 171 before the game starts as Bb, and the total amount of 120 game coins in the game coin tray 17 after the game ends and is settled as Ba. Furthermore, in this game, the total amount of 120 game coins placed in area P 8 across all player positions 7 is bp, the total amount of 120 game coins placed in area B across all player positions 7 is bb, and the total amount of 120 game coins placed in area T across all player positions 7 is bt. For example, if player B wins the game, Ba - Bb = bp - bb + bt should hold true. Alternatively, the total amount of 120 game coins Ba in the game coin tray 17 after the game ends should be (Bb + bp - bb + bt). If this is not the case, it can be determined that there was cheating or an error in the settlement of the 120 game coins after the game ends.

[0201] Image analysis device 12 determines the location, type, and number of game coins 120L placed by the losing player 6L. Cheating detection device 13 calculates the increase in game coins 120L during the game (the amount of game coins 120L that should exist in the game coin tray 171). Furthermore, image analysis device 12 determines the actual total amount of game coins 120L in the game coin tray 171 after collection. Cheating detection device 13 compares the expected total amount with the actual total amount and determines whether there is a calculation error.

[0202] Furthermore, by paying the winning player 120W with game coins 120W using the game coins 120 in the longitudinal receiving section 173 located on the upper tray 171, sufficient time is provided for the image analysis device 12 and the cheat detection device 13 to determine the actual total amount of game coins 120 in the recovered horizontal receiving section 174.

[0203] When the cheat detection device 13 determines that cheating has occurred, it records that moment in the game recording device 11. At this time, the cheat detection device 13 can associate the image data used as the basis for determining that cheating has occurred and record that cheating has occurred. Therefore, when verifying images later, the image at the time when cheating occurred can be replayed.

[0204] When the cheating detection device 13 determines that cheating has occurred, it can immediately output an alarm to at least alert the dealer 5. The dealer 5 can then take measures such as terminating the remaining game to prevent further cheating. Furthermore, in this case, image data, tag information, image analysis results, etc., may not be recorded in the game recording device 11.

[0205] It should be noted that, as described above, when the calculated settlement amount is inconsistent with the actual increase or decrease of game coins 120, the cheating detection device 13 determines that cheating has occurred. Therefore, even if the inconsistency is caused by negligence rather than intentional cheating, the cheating detection device 13 will still detect it as "cheating". That is, "cheating" in this embodiment also includes situations caused by unintentional negligence.

[0206] During gameplay, when the upper tray 171 is insufficient to hold the game coins 120, a predetermined number (e.g., 100) of game coins 120 are moved from the upper tray 171 to the upper tray 172. Conversely, when the upper tray 171 is insufficient to hold the game coins 120, a predetermined number (e.g., 100) of game coins 120 are moved (supplemented) from the lower tray 172 to the upper tray 171. The cheating detection device 13 determines whether cheating, such as removing game coins 120, is occurring when the game coins 120 are moved between the upper tray 171 and the lower tray 172 as described above.

[0207] The cheating detection device 13 determines whether the game coins 120 have moved correctly between the upper tray 171 and the lower tray 172 based on information about the type and quantity of game coins 120 contained in the upper tray 171 obtained by the image analysis device 12 analyzing the tray image data of the upper tray 171, and information about the type and quantity of game coins 120 obtained by the RFID reader 170 reading the tag information. That is, if the increase or decrease in the amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171 before and after the movement corresponds to the increase or decrease in the amount of game coins 120 in the lower tray 172, the cheating detection device 13 determines that the movement is normal (no cheating); if they do not correspond, it determines that cheating exists.

[0208] When the cheat detection device 13 determines that cheating has occurred, it records the time of the movement in the game recording device 11. At this time, the cheat detection device 13 can correlate the image data used as the basis for determining cheating with the data read from the RF tag 125 and record that cheating has occurred. Thus, when verifying images later, the image at the time of cheating can be replayed.

[0209] When the cheating detection device 13 determines that cheating has occurred, it may not record it with the game recording device 11, but instead immediately output an alarm. This allows the amusement park manager to take measures such as terminating subsequent games to prevent further cheating. It should be noted that, as described above, when the amount of game coins 120 added or removed from the upper tray 171 is inconsistent with the amount added or removed from the lower tray 172, the cheating detection device 13 determines that cheating has occurred. Therefore, even if the inconsistency is due to an error rather than intentional cheating, the cheating detection device 13 will still detect it as "cheating." That is, "cheating" in this embodiment includes situations caused by unintentional negligence.

[0210] The cheating detection device 13 continuously monitors the reading results of the RFID reader 170 within a certain period (e.g., a 1-second period). When the reading results change, it determines whether the change corresponds to the increase or decrease in the amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171. Therefore, even if the number or total amount of game coins in the lower tray 172 changes when the upper tray 171 is removed (without intending to move the game coins 120 between the upper tray 171 and the lower tray 172), cheating can still be detected.

[0211] As described above, in the tabletop game management system 100 of this embodiment, a game coin tray 17 with a double-layer tray structure consisting of an upper tray 171 and a lower tray 172 is used. For the upper tray 171, the game coins 120 contained therein are determined by analyzing image data. For the lower tray 172, the game coins 120 contained therein are determined by reading tag information from the RF tag 125.

[0212] At this time, the RFID reader 170 used to read the RF tag 125 of the game coin 120 stored in the lower tray 172 is configured not to read the RF tag 125 of the game coin 120 stored in the upper tray 171. Therefore, there is no situation where it is unknown whether the tag information read by the RFID reader 170 comes from the game coin 120 stored in the upper tray 171 or from the game coin 120 stored in the lower tray 172.

[0213] In this way, by combining image data and RF tag information, it is possible not only to track all the game coins 120 contained in the upper and lower coin trays 17, but also to track their movement between the upper tray 171 and the lower tray 172, thereby enabling the detection of cheating. Furthermore, for the upper tray 171 used in each game to exchange game coins 120 with players (the placement area 8 of the game table 4), image data can be used to determine which type of game coin 120 is located in which position on the upper tray 171.

[0214] Furthermore, the cheating detection device 13 calculates the income and expenditure of game coins 120 for each game based on the amount of game coins 120 placed on the game table 4 and the game's winning and losing results, and verifies the increase in the balance of game coins 120 in the game coin tray 17 after the game. When a calculation error is detected in this verification, the cheating detection device 13 issues an alarm or adds the content to the video recording captured by the camera 2. The casino manager can investigate the cause of the calculation error by reviewing the video.

[0215] The cheating detection device 13 of this embodiment adds to or subtracts from the total amount of game coins 120 in the game coin tray 17 before each game settlement. This adjustment is calculated based on the position, type, and number of game coins 120 placed by all players 6 in the game and the win / loss result obtained by the win / loss result judgment device. The device then compares the total amount of game coins 120 that should have been in the game coin tray 17 after the game ends and is settled with the actual total amount of game coins 120 in the game coin tray 17 at the end of the game, obtained by the image analysis device 12, to determine whether there is a calculation error between the expected total amount and the actual total amount.

[0216] The cheating detection device 13 uses the image analysis device 12 to determine the position, type, and number of game coins 120 placed by each player. After all the game coins 120 placed by the losing player are collected, the device determines the actual total amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171 and compares the expected total amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171 with the actual total amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171 to determine whether there is a calculation error between the expected total amount and the actual total amount. The expected total amount is obtained by adding the increase in the upper tray 171 in the game based on the position, type, and number of game coins 120 placed by the losing player to the total amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171 before the settlement of each game.

[0217] As described above, the upper tray 171 is provided with a horizontal storage section 174, which is used to collect and temporarily store the game coins 120 placed by the losing player. The cheating detection device 13 compares the total amount of game coins 120 that should be in the horizontal storage section 174 with the actual total amount of game coins 120 in the horizontal storage section 174 to determine whether there is a calculation error between the total amount that should be and the actual total amount. The total amount that should be is obtained by adding the increase of game coins 120 in the game based on the position, type and number of game coins 120L placed by the losing player.

[0218] When the cheating detection device 13 determines that there is a calculation error, that is, when the actual total amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171 held by the dealer 5 of the game table 4 does not correspond to the increase or decrease of game coins 120 calculated from the total amount of game coins 120 placed by all players and the winning or losing result of the game, the game recording device 11 can add an index or time to the acquired image, or determine and replay the game coin 120 recycling scenario or payment scenario, so that the game record that caused the above-mentioned calculation error can be analyzed in the game recording device 11.

[0219] In this way, the cheat detection device 13 obtains the total amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171 after the game ends and the settlement is completed through the image analysis device 12. The determination after the settlement in this case is performed at any of the following 1) to 4):

[0220] 1) When the payout to the winning player ends;

[0221] 2) When card C used in the game is recycled and discarded in the discard area or discard slot of game table 4 (not shown);

[0222] 3) When the specified button attached to the win / loss result determination device (card distribution device 3) is pressed (start button for the next game, confirmation button for win / loss result, etc.);

[0223] 4) When the indicator for winning or losing returns to its original state.

[0224] In addition, the cheating detection device 13 is an artificial intelligence effective use type or deep learning structure as follows: it can grasp the position (P, B or PAIR) and amount (type and number) of game coins 120 placed at each player's position 7 at the game table 4, and compare the win and loss history of each player 6 and the amount of game coins 120 obtained through the win and loss results of each game with the statistical data (big data) of a large number of past games to extract abnormal situations suspected of cheating (set by the casino).

[0225] It is a cheating detection device 13 with an effective use of artificial intelligence or a deep learning structure. For example, it can compare situations such as winning amounts of more than 1 million points, or a situation where the amount of game coins 120 placed when losing is small and the amount of game coins 120 placed when winning is large for several consecutive games with past game statistics (big data, etc.) and extract them as anomalies.

[0226] Furthermore, the management control device 15 of this management system 100, including the cheating detection device 13 and the image analysis device 12, identifies individual players 6 at player positions 7 that are identified as abnormal situations, as well as individual players 6 at player positions 7 that have won a specified amount or more. Player 6 can be identified as described above by performing image recognition on the facial images of each player using feature point extraction or the like in the image analysis device 12. After identifying player 6, the cheating detection device 13 provides an identification number (ID, etc.) and records the information of the identified player 6. Moreover, the cheating detection device 13 has a warning function; that is, when the identified player 6 leaves their seat and sits at another game table 4, the other game table 4 is notified of the presence of player 6. Specifically, the manager or person in charge of each game table 4 (or the dealer) is notified to prevent further abnormalities.

[0227] The cheating detection device 13 also has a database that stores historical records of purchasing game coins 120 with useful banknotes K. It can refer to the database at certain times or on a daily basis to compare and determine whether the amount of game coins 120 in the game coin tray 17 held by the dealer 5 of the game table 4 corresponds to the payment amount of game coins 120 used to purchase banknotes K or the total amount of payment of banknotes K corresponding to the purchased game coins 120, and deduct accordingly.

[0228] It should be noted that in the above example, instead of focusing on individual player 6, the monitoring can focus on the win / loss history and the amount of game coins 120 (won) at each player's position 7. In this case, when player 6 leaves their seat, it is impossible to track them. However, it is possible to detect anomalies such as a consistently low amount of game coins 120 placed when losing and a high amount placed when winning at a specific player's position 7 on a game table 4 for several games. Furthermore, when such a player's position 7 is detected, cheating or errors may be suspected at that player's position 7. Cheating or errors can be detected by verifying the video footage taken at that player's position 7.

[0229] Specifically, camera 2 is configured to capture images of at least the game coins 120 placed in the placement area 8 of the game table 4. Image analysis device 12 analyzes the images captured by camera 2 and, for each player's position 7, detects which of the P, B, or T positions in the placement area 8 the game coins are placed in, as well as the amount of game coins placed. Furthermore, the card dispensing device 3 can also be used as a win / loss determination device to determine the outcome of the game.

[0230] The cheating detection device 13 records (monitors) the win / loss history and the amount of game coins obtained (game coin gain) at each player's position 7 on the game recording device 11 based on the position (P, B, or PAIR) of the game coins 120 placed in the placement area 8 and the game's win / loss results. It should be noted that either the win / loss history or the game coin gain can be recorded. When the win / loss history and / or the game coin gain history is determined to be abnormal (set by the casino) after comparison with statistical data (big data) of a large number of past games, the cheating detection device 13 identifies that player's position 7 as a player position suspected of cheating.

[0231] When cheating is suspected in player position 7, the management control system 100 can issue an alarm (light, sound, or vibration) to at least alert the dealer 5. This allows for immediate intervention, such as terminating the rest of the game, to prevent further cheating. Furthermore, information indicating suspected cheating can be added to the footage captured and recorded by camera 2. This allows for investigation into the reasons for suspected cheating through video evidence.

[0232] In this embodiment, the management and control system 100 in the amusement park with the game table 4 also has the function of checking the frequent exchanges of banknotes and game tokens on the game table 4. In amusement parks such as casinos, before the game, player 6 purchases game tokens with banknotes at a designated game token purchase area. However, when player 6 runs out of game tokens, they can continue playing the game by purchasing game tokens 120 with banknotes at a game table (such as a card game table) without leaving the game table 4. However, this creates an opportunity for cheating between the dealer 5 and player 6.

[0233] At a game table (such as a card game table), game tokens 120 need to be purchased with paper money when not playing. The card dispensing device 3 can detect the start and end of card dealing (the period that determines the winner) to determine the outcome of the game. Therefore, the card dispensing device 3 detects situations other than card distribution (dealing), and the cheating detection device 13 detects the purchase of game tokens 120 with paper money at the game table 4 when card dealing is not in progress. Information obtained through the operation of the card dispensing device 3 or the dealer 5 can detect when card dealing is in progress (or other situations).

[0234] Image analysis device 12 can analyze the surface image of banknote K to identify the number and amount of banknotes. Furthermore, on game table 4, the authenticity marker of the banknotes is detected by illuminating them with invisible light to determine whether the banknote K used to purchase game tokens 120 is genuine. Image analysis device 12 is configured as an AI-efficient or deep learning structure: it also performs image analysis and verification on the authenticity marker to identify the total amount of genuine currency; moreover, even if multiple game tokens appearing on the game table as purchases are hidden due to blind spots of camera 2, it can still identify the total amount of game tokens; it can compare the total amount of banknote K taken by the player on game table 4 with the total amount of game tokens 120 taken by the dealer 5 to determine whether the two amounts are consistent.

[0235] The cheating detection device 13 is an AI-powered or deep learning-based structure that can compare and calculate whether the total amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 17 of the game table 4 has been reduced after purchasing and settling game coins 120 with banknotes. For the total amount of game coins 120 in the upper tray 171 held by the dealer 5, the device can detect cheating by taking a picture of the upper tray 171 containing the game coins 120 with camera 2 and analyzing the image with image analysis device 12.

[0236] Furthermore, the cheating detection device 13 verifies whether the reduction in the amount of game coins 120 in the game coin tray 17 before and after purchasing game coins with paper money is consistent with the amount of game coins purchased as determined by the image analysis result on the game table 4. The amount of paper money paid can be input by the dealer 5 through key input or other means to the management control device 15, or it can be determined by the camera 2 capturing an image of the game table 4 where paper money is paid, and then analyzed by the image analysis device 12.

[0237] As described above, the cheating detection device 13 determines whether the reduction in the amount of game coins 120 in the game coin tray 17 caused by purchasing game coins with paper money is consistent with the amount of paper money paid by player 6 to dealer 5. Furthermore, the cheating detection device 13 is an intelligent control device that, after purchasing game coins with paper money and settling the transaction, compares and calculates whether the amount of paper money received by dealer 5 (usually through key input, etc.) is consistent with the calculated amount of paper money from the image analysis results of image analysis device 12. It can also be an artificial intelligence-efficient or deep learning-based device.

[0238] Furthermore, the cheating detection device 13 is an AI-efficient or deep learning architecture capable of comparing and calculating the consistency between the total amount of banknotes entered by the dealer at the game table 4 under the dealer's jurisdiction and the total amount of banknotes obtained from the image analysis results of the image analysis device 12.

[0239] The cheating detection device 13 compares and determines whether the amount of game coins 120 held in the game coin tray 17 of the dealer 5 at the game table 4 has been reduced after purchasing game coins 120 with paper money, corresponding to the payment amount of game coins 120 used to purchase the paper money or the payment amount of paper money used to purchase game coins 120.

[0240] The cheating detection device 13 is a control device with an effective use of artificial intelligence or a deep learning structure: when determining and judging the type and number of game coins 120, it can obtain information on the type and number of game coins 120 even if part or one of the game coins is hidden.

[0241] Figure 16 This is a side view showing a modified example of game coin 120. Game coin 120 is formed by stacking multiple sheet-like plastic layers of different colors, bonding them together by hot pressing, or stamping them into a circle or quadrilateral shape. The resulting game coin 120 has the following multi-layered structure: at least in the middle, it has a specific color layer 121, and on both sides of this middle specific color layer 121 (… Figure 16 The middle section (top and bottom) has light-colored layers 122 stacked on top of each other.

[0242] In this way, a multi-layered structure is formed by creating a specific color layer 121, with light-colored layers 122 stacked on both sides of the specific color layer 121 in the middle, such as... Figure 16 As shown, when viewed from the side, stripes are formed in the direction of the layering, and the color of a specific color layer 121 (red, green, yellow, blue, etc.) changes according to the type of game coin 120 (10 points, 20 points, 100 points, 1000 points, etc.), thereby determining the type of game coin 120.

[0243] And, as Figure 16 As shown, on the game coin 120, a side code 126 indicating the type of game coin 120 is applied to the side of the light-colored layer 122. A transparent layer 124 is provided on the outermost layer, and the layers are heat-pressed together to form a structure of at least five layers. These game coins 120 are made of a thin, long, ruler-shaped plastic material. In the long ruler state, the layers (at least the specific color layer 121 and the light-colored layer 122) are heat-pressed together to form a tightly bonded state (five-layer structure, etc.), and then formed by stamping into a circle or rectangle by a press or the like.

[0244] The dimensions of the die and punch used for stamping during press press are set, and an R-shaped fillet (rounded corner) is applied to the end of the outermost layer 124. The transparent layer 124 may also be a varnish coating layer. Side codes 126 are affixed to at least three locations on the side of the coin 120. The side codes 126 are affixed using inkjet printing with ink visible under visible light.

[0245] Specifically, in this variant example, side code 126 is constructed and appended using a multi-row, multi-column marker M, either present or absent. The multi-row, multi-column marker M is as follows: Figure 16 As shown, the superscript and superscript M are paired to form the code. In Figure 16 In the example, a 10-digit code was formed.

[0246] Figure 17 This diagram illustrates the four types of codes represented by a set of markers M. The "Y" next to marker M serves as an identification marker for the area above and below the marker. The codes formed by marker M constitute a set of combinations that can determine the specified marker M. As a result, in Figure 17 In the example shown, there are four possible combinations of the marker M in the top and bottom columns. If these are printed in 10 columns, four to the power of 10 possible codes can be formed. Since there are four 10-digit codes, four to the power of 10 possible codes can be obtained. Therefore, the side ID 126 of game coin 120 can be adequately assigned.

[0247] The game coin 120 is formed with a multi-layered structure, that is, multiple layers of plastic of different colors are stacked, and at least one layer has a specific color layer 121, and a light-colored layer 122 is stacked on the outside of the specific color layer 121. This creates stripes in the stacking direction on the side, and the type of game coin 120 can be identified by the specific color layer 121. Side codes 126 are provided at least three (preferably six) on the side of the light-colored layer 122 at intervals in the circumferential direction. Figure 16 as well as Figure 17 In the example, the six side codes 126 are set in the circumferential direction at 60-degree intervals.

[0248] Of course, all six side codes 126 represent the same information. Each coin 120 is accompanied by a uniquely identifiable side code 126, and these codes are spaced 60 degrees apart in the direction of rotation (circumferential direction), ensuring that the side codes 126 are always visible from the side. Each side code 126 includes identification information (each uniquely identifiable) for identifying the coin 120, information indicating the type of coin 120, and manufacturing information (manufacturing structure, manufacturing date, etc.).

[0249] The side code 126 attached to the game coin 120 is read by the image analysis device 12 described above. The management control device 15 includes a database (not shown in the figure) that stores identification information, type, and manufacturing information of all manufactured (at least potentially usable in the amusement park) game coins 120, and these information are interconnected.

[0250] Image analysis device 12 reads side code 126 from image data (desktop image data and tray image data). Based on the reading results of image analysis device 12, cheat detection device 13 determines the identification information, type, and manufacturing information of game coins 120 included in the image data, and compares their combination with the information stored in the database.

[0251] When a game coin 120 exists where the information read by the image analysis device 12 from the side code 126 is inconsistent with the information stored in the database, the cheat detection device 13 determines that the game coin 120 is a cheating (counterfeit or damaged) game coin 120. When the cheat detection device 13 detects cheating in this way, it records the location information of the cheating game coin 120 along with its time in the game recording device 11.

[0252] At this time, the cheat detection device 13 can associate the image data (desktop image data or tray image data) used as the basis for judging the cheating game coin 120, and record the location information and time of the cheating game coin 120. Therefore, when verifying images later, the image of the cheating can be replayed.

[0253] In this variation, side code 126 is affixed using inkjet printing with ink visible under visible light. Side code 126 can also be printed using ink that is not visible under visible light (e.g., ink that absorbs ultraviolet light) or ink that is at least visible under visible light (including inks that are very small and not easily seen), or a combination thereof. Furthermore, a combination of the aforementioned inks can also be used to print side code 126.

[0254] As camera 2, the management system 100 has at least multiple cameras corresponding to the inks of the printing side code 126 (i.e., a visible light camera when the ink is visible ink; an infrared camera when the ink is infrared reactive ink; and an ultraviolet camera (UV irradiator and visible light camera) when the ink is UV ink), or cameras with multiple functions that can switch between cameras corresponding to the inks (visible light camera, infrared camera, ultraviolet camera (UV irradiator and visible light camera) etc.).

[0255] Figure 18 Side views illustrating other examples of side codes. On coin 120-1, side code 126 is printed using ink that is invisible under visible light (e.g., ink that absorbs infrared light). On coin 120-2, the multi-row, multi-column markings M are printed using ink that appears black under visible light. On coin 120-3, in addition to the markings M of coin 120-2, markings M that appear black under visible light are printed between side codes 126, making the side codes 126 blend into the design and thus inconspicuous. On coin 120-4, the starting and ending points of multiple repeatedly appended side codes 126 are indicated by the marking Cf indicating the ends.

[0256] As for tokens 120-1 to 120-4, when viewed with an infrared camera, the ink absorbs infrared light, making it appear black. Therefore, the same side code 126 appears from any side. That is, an image of token 120-5 can be obtained using an infrared camera. Furthermore, the vertical position of side code 126 is indicated by the vertical marker CL. The vertical relationship of the markers is as follows... Figure 16 As shown. It should be noted that a combination of visible ink and infrared-absorbing ink can also be used to print side code 126.

[0257] The side code 126 attached to the game coin 120 is read by the image analysis device 12. The image analysis device 12 is capable of reading the game coin 120 contained in the upper tray 171 of the game coin tray 17 and the side code 126 of the game coin 120 placed on the game table 4.

[0258] Figure 19This is a diagram showing tray image data of game coins 120 housed in the upper tray 171 of the game coin tray 17. In the tray image data, the game coins 120 are stacked horizontally (sideways). The image analysis device 12 can also read the side code 126 from this tray image data. Furthermore, the image analysis device 12 can also read the side code 126 from the game coins 120 on the game table 4 as shown in the tabletop image data.

[0259] Figure 20 This is a three-dimensional representation of multiple game tokens stacked on the game table 4. On the surface X of the light-colored layer 122 of each game token 120, there is a face code FC printed using UV ink or ultraviolet-absorbing ink (carbon black ink). This face code FC indicates the authenticity of the game token 120. It becomes visible when illuminated by ultraviolet (or infrared) light, and its shape and number indicate whether the token is genuine.

[0260] A transparent layer (printed layer) 124 is applied to the outermost layer by heat pressing or coating to further cover the surface with the amusement park identification printing 123 (e.g., 10 dots) and face code FC. This transparent layer 124 is then embossed or varnished to prevent the game coins 120 from sticking together tightly, making it smoother. Each game coin 120 has a circular recess 127 in the center of its top and bottom surfaces. This recess 127 prevents the game coins 120 from sticking together tightly, and increasing the diameter of the recess 127 makes the game coins 120 smoother.

[0261] The outermost transparent layer (printed layer) 124, on which the printing 123 (100 dots, etc.) is applied, is subjected to an R-processing (R) to prevent the surface of the light-colored layer 122 from deforming and appearing on the side during the stamping process of the coin 120. Furthermore, it prevents sharp ends of the coin 120 from remaining and damaging hands or other coins 120.

[0262] The specific color layer 121 can also be formed from one or more colored layers. Furthermore, layers within the specific color layer 121 may incorporate metal or ceramic materials for weight gain. Specifically, the materials of the layers within the specific color layer 121 may contain, for example, metal powder for weight gain (e.g., one or more metal oxides such as zinc oxide or titanium oxide). Additionally, a portion of the specific color layer 121 may be cut out or a space may be provided between the specific color layer 121 and the light-colored layer 122 to embed an RF tag 125 therein. As tag information, the RF tag 125 stores information that is partially or entirely identical to the information represented by the side code 126.

[0263] The cheat detection device 13 compares the side code 126 read from the image data (desktop image data and tray image data) by the image analysis device 12 with the information stored in the database, thereby detecting cheat game coins 120. Specifically, the cheat detection device 13 determines that cheat game coins 120 exist under the following circumstances:

[0264] 1) The case where side code 126, which does not exist in the database, does exist; and

[0265] 2) There are two or more identical side codes.

[0266] As described above, player 6 can purchase game tokens from the cash register, but game token 120 can also be purchased at game table 4. Cameras 2L and 2R film the banknotes placed on game table 4 for the purpose of purchasing game token 120. That is, multiple cameras 2L and 2R that film the game token 120 on game table 4 are positioned at different locations.

[0267] Based on the banknote recognition results from the image analysis device 12, the cheating detection device 13 determines the type and number of game coins that should be paid from the upper tray 171 when purchasing game coins 120 with banknotes. The cheating detection device 13 compares the actual total amount of game coins 120 stored in the upper tray 171 before and after the expenditure, thereby determining whether the difference corresponds to the determined type and number of game coins 120 to be paid.

[0268] That is, the cheating detection device 13 compares and determines whether the total amount of game coins 120 held in the upper tray 171 corresponds to the reduction made after purchasing game coins 120 with paper money. Furthermore, when the collection and payment are simultaneously made based on the game's outcome, the cheating detection device 13 compares and determines whether the increase or decrease in game coins 120 calculated based on the total amount of game coins 120 placed by all players 6 corresponds to the increase or decrease in game coins 120 calculated based on the game's outcome.

[0269] Here, the cheating detection device 13 is a control device with an effective use of artificial intelligence or a deep learning structure: when determining the type and number of game coins 120, even if a part or a whole of game coins 120 is hidden, information about the type and number of game coins 120 can be obtained.

[0270] As described above, the game coin 120 has a side code 126 affixed at least three spaced intervals on the light-colored layer 122 on its side in the rotational (circumferential) direction. By reading the side code 126 by the image analysis device 12, the type and manufacturing information of the game coin 120 can be determined. The information thus determined is then compared with a database.

[0271] Figure 21 The image shows a side view of a game coin as an example of another example. In this example, a light-colored layer 122 is provided in the center of the side of the game coin 120, with specific-colored layers 121 above and below it. A 7-digit number is printed on the light-colored layer 122, which is sandwiched between the specific-colored layers 121, serving as a marker for the side code 126. Since there are 10 to the power of 7 possible combinations of digits, 10 to the power of 7 possible side codes 126 can be provided. The image analysis device 12 identifies the 10-digit number by performing machine learning-based image recognition.

[0272] Industrial applicability

[0273] As described above, the present invention has the following advantages: by using a camera to photograph the upper tray used for inserting or removing game coins during game settlement, the position and movement of the game coins can be confirmed, thereby detecting cheating. Regarding the lower tray for storing replenished game coins, the RF tag can be read even when the upper tray is stacked on top of it, but the RF tag of the game coins on the upper tray will not be read. Therefore, it has the effect of being able to know the game coins stored in the lower tray by reading the RF tag, making it very useful as a game coin tray, etc.

[0274] Symbol explanation:

[0275] Management system for 100 desktop games

[0276] 120 game coins

[0277] 121 Specific color layers

[0278] 122 Light-colored layer

[0279] 123 printing

[0280] 124 Transparent Layer

[0281] 125 RF Tag

[0282] 126 side code

[0283] 127 Depression

[0284] 11 Game recording device

[0285] 12 Image Analysis Device

[0286] 13 Cheating Detection Device

[0287] 15. Management and control devices

[0288] 17 Game Coin Tray

[0289] 170 RFID Reading Device

[0290] 171 Upper tray

[0291] 172 Lower tray

[0292] 173 Vertical Containment Section

[0293] 174 Lateral Containment Section

[0294] 175 Longitudinal Containment Section

[0295] 176 antenna

[0296] 177 Reader

[0297] 178 chain

[0298] 179a and 179b connecting rods

[0299] 2 cameras

[0300] 3. Card dispensing device

[0301] 4. Game table

[0302] 5. Dealer

[0303] 6 players.

Claims

1. A game coin tray system, comprising: Game coin tray, the game coin tray includes: The upper tray allows game coins, each equipped with its own radio frequency tag (RF tag) and assigned unique identification information, to be placed in and removed during game settlement. The lower tray is designed to hold the game coins; A first reader is configured to read the identification information assigned to the game coin from the RF tag of the game coin when the game coin is located on the lower tray; A second reader, different from the first reader, is configured to read the identification information of the game coin when the game coin is located on the upper tray; and The controller is configured to determine the total amount of game coins placed in the game coin tray using the identification information read by the first reader and the identification information read by the second reader. The upper tray and the lower tray are configured in an overlapping state where the upper tray overlaps the lower tray, and in an open state where the game coins can be placed into and removed from the lower tray. The first reader is configured such that when the upper tray and the lower tray are in the overlapping state, the first reader cannot read the RF tag of the game coin placed on the upper tray, and / or the second reader is configured such that when the upper tray and the lower tray are in the overlapping state, the second reader cannot read the identification information of the game coin placed on the lower tray.

2. The game coin tray system according to claim 1, wherein, The second reader is configured such that when the upper tray and the lower tray are in the overlapping state, the second reader cannot read the identification information of the game coin placed on the lower tray.

3. The game coin tray system according to claim 1, wherein, The first reader is configured such that when the upper tray and the lower tray are in the overlapping state, the first reader cannot read the RF tag of the game coin placed on the upper tray.

4. The game currency system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to detect the movement of one or more of the game coins between the upper tray and the lower tray based on the identification information read by the first reader and the identification information read by the second reader.

5. The game currency system according to claim 1, wherein, The controller is configured to determine the total amount of game coins in each of the upper tray and the lower tray based on the identification information read by the first reader and the identification information read by the second reader.

6. A game coin tray system, comprising: Game coin tray, the game coin tray includes: The upper tray allows game coins, each equipped with its own radio frequency tag (RF tag) and assigned unique identification information, to be placed into and removed during game settlement. The lower tray is designed to hold the game coins; A first reader is configured to read the identification information assigned to the game coin from the RF tag of the game coin when the game coin is located on the lower tray; A second reader, different from the first reader, is configured to read the identification information of the game coin when the game coin is located on the upper tray; and The controller is configured to determine the total amount of game coins placed in the game coin tray using the identification information read by the first reader and the identification information read by the second reader. The upper tray and the lower tray are configured in an overlapping state where the upper tray overlaps the lower tray, and in an open state where the game coins can be placed into and removed from the lower tray. The first reader is configured such that when the upper tray and the lower tray are in the open state, the first reader cannot read the RF tag of the game coin placed on the upper tray, and / or the second reader is configured such that when the upper tray and the lower tray are in the open state, the second reader cannot read the identification information of the game coin placed on the lower tray.

7. The game coin tray system according to claim 6, wherein, The second reader is configured such that when the upper tray and the lower tray are in the open state, the second reader cannot read the identification information of the game coin placed on the lower tray.

8. The game coin tray system according to claim 6, wherein, The first reader is configured such that when the upper tray and the lower tray are in the open state, the first reader cannot read the RF tag of the game coin placed on the upper tray.

9. The game currency system according to claim 6, wherein, The controller is configured to detect the movement of one or more of the game coins between the upper tray and the lower tray based on the identification information read by the first reader and the identification information read by the second reader.

10. The game currency system according to claim 6, wherein, The controller is configured to determine the total amount of game coins in each of the upper tray and the lower tray based on the identification information read by the first reader and the identification information read by the second reader.

11. A game coin tray system, comprising: Game coin tray, the game coin tray includes: The upper tray allows game coins, each equipped with its own radio frequency tag (RF tag) and assigned unique identification information, to be placed into and removed during game settlement. The lower tray is designed to hold the game coins; A first reader is configured to read the identification information assigned to the game coin from the RF tag of the game coin when the game coin is located on the lower tray; A second reader, different from the first reader, is configured to read the identification information of the game coin when the game coin is located on the upper tray; and The controller is configured to determine the total amount of game coins placed in the game coin tray using the identification information read by the first reader and the identification information read by the second reader. The upper tray and the lower tray are configured in an overlapping state where the upper tray overlaps the lower tray, and in an open state where the game coins can be placed into and removed from the lower tray. The first reader is configured such that when the upper tray and the lower tray are in at least one of the overlapping state and the open state, the first reader cannot read the RF tag of the game coin placed on the upper tray, and / or the second reader is configured such that when the upper tray and the lower tray are in at least one of the overlapping state and the open state, the second reader cannot read the identification information of the game coin placed on the lower tray.

12. The game coin tray system according to claim 11, wherein, The second reader is configured to read the identification information of the game coin placed on the lower tray when the upper tray and the lower tray are in at least one of the overlapping state and the open state.

13. The game coin tray system according to claim 11, wherein, The first reader is configured such that when the upper tray and the lower tray are in at least one of the overlapping state and the open state, the first reader cannot read the RF tag of the game coin placed on the upper tray.

14. The game currency system according to claim 11, wherein, The controller is configured to detect the movement of one or more of the game coins between the upper tray and the lower tray based on the identification information read by the first reader and the identification information read by the second reader.

15. The game currency system according to claim 11, wherein, The controller is configured to determine the total amount of game coins in each of the upper tray and the lower tray based on the identification information read by the first reader and the identification information read by the second reader.

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