Game table reading system

Abstract

The invention provides an entertainment table reading system. A gaming table reading system (100) is provided with: a gaming table (6004) having a plurality of reading regions including a plurality of placement regions (41); a plurality of reading antennas (511) provided so as to correspond to each of the plurality of reading regions, the plurality of reading antennas (511) reading RFID tags (831) built in the game coins (83) placed in the corresponding reading regions; a reading restriction antenna (512) that restricts the reading of the reading antenna (511) so as not to read the RFID tag (831) of the game coin (83) in a reading area other than the reading area corresponding to the reading antenna (511); a read control device (561) that acquires the information stored in the RFID tag (831) from the read antenna (511); a read restriction control device (562) that controls the read restriction antenna (512); a database (57) that stores the information of the RFID tag (831) in association with the association information; and a management control device (56) that updates the database (57) on the basis of the relationship between the information of the RFID tag (831) read by the read antenna (511) and the read region in which the RFID tag (831) is read.

Description

[0001] Divisional application

[0002] This application is a divisional application of the patent application filed on September 19, 2019, with application number 201980091095.3, entitled "Amusement Table Reading System". Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to a game table reading system for reading RFID tags on game tables used for tabletop games. Background Technology

[0004] In casinos, users use game tokens to play games. Game tokens are a substitute for currency, and therefore, it is desirable to manage them within the casino. To date, technologies have been developed to allow casinos to track which user (player) holds which game tokens, how many game tokens they hold, which game tokens they have placed, how many game tokens they have placed, or which player holds the game tokens and where they are located.

[0005] To manage these matters, the game currency has built-in storage for its identification information (game currency ID), value (amount), etc.

[0006] Game coins are placed in the area corresponding to the placement object on the game table. In addition, the game coins paid by the dealer for the placed game coins (hereinafter also referred to as "placed game coins") are placed near the placed game coins.

[0007] The game table has antennas embedded in corresponding areas for reading RFID tags embedded with game coins. Each antenna is connected to a reading device. The reading device controls each antenna to read information from the RFID tags. The reading restriction device determines which game coin is placed in which area of ​​the game table by which antenna reads which information. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0009] However, if multiple areas on the game table are close to each other, even if antennas are set in these areas separately, each antenna may misread the RFID tags of game coins placed in other areas.

[0010] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to provide a game table reading system that can effectively distinguish and read multiple reading areas on a game table even when they are close to each other.

[0011] Problem Solving Methods

[0012] An embodiment of the present invention provides a game table reading system comprising: a game table having at least a plurality of reading areas including multiple placement areas for placing game coins with embedded RFID tags; a plurality of reading antennas configured to correspond to each of the plurality of reading areas for reading the embedded RFID tags of game coins placed in the corresponding reading area; a reading restriction antenna that restricts the reading of the reading antenna so that the reading antenna does not read RFID tags of game coins in reading areas other than the reading area corresponding to the reading antenna; a reading control device connected to the reading antenna and controlling the reading antenna to obtain information stored in the RFID tags from the reading antenna; a reading restriction control device that controls the reading restriction antenna; a database that stores the information of the RFID tags in association with associated information; and a management control device that updates the database based on the relationship between the information of the RFID tags read by the reading antennas and the reading areas that read the RFID tags.

[0013] According to this structure, even when multiple reading areas are set up close to each other on the game table, the information of the RFID tags of game coins can be read separately for each reading area, and game coins can be managed through a database.

[0014] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the information of the RFID tag may include game coin identification information, and the associated information may include user identification information of the user holding the game coin. The management and control device may update the database in a manner that associates the game coin identification information paid to the user who wins the game with the user identification information of the user who wins the game.

[0015] According to this structure, even if the owner of the game currency changes due to the game, it is possible to determine the game currency held by each user.

[0016] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the multiple reading areas may include a payment area for reading the game coins being paid, and the management and control device may update the database by associating the game coin identification information read from the payment area with the user identification information.

[0017] Based on this structure, the game currency to be paid can be accurately determined.

[0018] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the multiple reading areas may include multiple placement areas corresponding to various placement objects at each player's position. The game table reading system may also include a user identification mechanism that determines the user identification information of the user located at the player's position. The management and control device may update the database by associating the game coin identification information of the paid game coin with the user identification information associated with the game coin placed in the placement area when the game coin identification information of the paid game coin is read by the placement area.

[0019] Based on this structure, the database can be updated in such a way that the owner of the game currency paid for it is the same person as the owner of the game currency that paid for it.

[0020] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the multiple reading areas may include multiple payment areas located at each player's position for reading the game coins paid. The management and control device may update the database by associating the game coin identification information read by the payment area with the user identification information determined at the player's position corresponding to the payment area.

[0021] Based on this structure, the game currency to be paid can be accurately determined.

[0022] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the management and control device can update the database by associating the game coin identification information of the game coin first paid to the player's position with the determined user identification information when the user identification mechanism determines the user identification information of one of two users simultaneously located at the same player position but not the user identification information of the other user, and multiple users have placed the game coins in the same placement area.

[0023] According to this structure, in the case of multiple payments at the same player's location, by making payments first to the user whose user identification information is determined, the database can be updated appropriately even when users whose user identification information can be determined are in the same placement area as users whose user identification information cannot be determined.

[0024] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the multiple placement areas include the P area, the B area, and the side placement area, which are located adjacent to each player's position.

[0025] Based on this structure, the placed game tokens can be identified according to each player's position and each placement object, namely the side placement area of ​​each P, B, PAIR, tie, etc.

[0026] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the information of the RFID tag may include game coin identification information, and the associated information may include location information that can determine the location of the reading antenna. The management and control device can update the database by determining the reading antenna that reads the RFID tag and associating the game coin identification information of the RFID tag with the location information that can determine the location of the reading antenna.

[0027] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the location information may include information identifying the game table, information identifying the game coin tray, information identifying the entrance / exit, and / or information identifying the counter.

[0028] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the value information of game coins can be stored in the RFID tag as the information of the RFID tag, or stored in the database as the associated information in association with the information of the RFID tag. The associated information may include the user identification information of the user holding the game coins. The multiple reading areas include multiple placement areas corresponding to multiple placement objects at each player's position. The management system may also have a user identification mechanism that determines the user identification information of the user located at the player's position. The database can store the user identification information of each user in association with the value of the game coins held by that user. The management control device can update the database by adding the value of the game coins paid to the winning user to the value of the game coins held by the winning user, and subtracting the value of the game coins recovered by the losing user from the value of the game coins held by the losing user.

[0029] Based on this structure, the value of the game currency held by each user, i.e., the amount held, can be managed through the database.

[0030] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the value information of the game coins can be stored in the RFID tag as the information of the RFID tag, or stored in the database as the associated information in association with the information of the RFID tag. The associated information may include the user identification information of the user who placed the game coins. The multiple reading areas may include the placement area for each player's position. The management system may also have a user determination mechanism that determines the user identification information of the user located at the player's position. The database may store, for each user, the user identification information of that user in association with the value of the game coins placed by that user. The management control device may update the database by adding the value of the game coins read by the reading antenna to the value of the game coins placed in association with the user identification information of the user determined at the player's position corresponding to the reading antenna.

[0031] Based on this structure, the value of the games placed by each user, i.e., the placement amount, can be managed through data management. Furthermore, the placement amount can be managed as corresponding reward points.

[0032] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the information of the RFID tag may include information for determining the authenticity of game coins. The game table reading system may refer to the database and compare it with the information for determining authenticity read by the reading antenna, and output a warning if the comparison fails.

[0033] According to this structure, a warning can be issued if improper game coins are used on the game table.

[0034] Another aspect of the present invention provides a game table reading system comprising: a game table having at least a plurality of reading areas including multiple placement areas for placing game coins with embedded RFID tags; a plurality of reading antennas configured to correspond to each of the plurality of reading areas and output electromagnetic waves to read RFID tags embedded in game coins placed in the corresponding reading area; a reading limiting antenna that outputs electromagnetic waves to limit the reading of the reading antenna so as not to read RFID tags of game coins outside the reading area corresponding to the reading antenna; and a shielding member for shaping the electromagnetic field in such a way that the electromagnetic field generated by the reading antenna weakens outside the reading area corresponding to the reading antenna.

[0035] According to this structure, even if multiple read regions are adjacent and densely packed, these regions can be distinguished for reading.

[0036] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the shielding component can be a plate, strip, film, coating, or sheet containing at least one of aluminum, silver, copper, gold, and nickel.

[0037] In the above-mentioned game table reading system, the shielding component can be located on approximately the same plane as the reading antenna.

[0038] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the shielding component can be located on approximately the same plane as the reading restriction antenna.

[0039] In the aforementioned game table reading system, the shielding component can be shaped in a way that flattens the electromagnetic field generated by the reading antenna outside the reading area corresponding to the reading antenna.

[0040] In the above-mentioned game table reading system, in order to shape the electromagnetic field generated by the multiple reading antennas corresponding to the multiple other reading areas adjacent to one reading area, multiple reading limiting antennas corresponding to the one reading area can be provided.

[0041] The effects of the invention

[0042] According to the present invention, even when multiple reading areas are arranged close to each other on the game table, the information of the RFID tags of game coins can be read separately for each reading area, and game coins can be managed through a database. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an overall outline of the management system for a desktop game according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an outline of a database according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram of the RFID tag provided with a game coin according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 4 This is a conceptual diagram illustrating a method for recording data of game coins according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an overall outline of the game coin management system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates a reading device and a writing device for game coins according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 7A This is an explanatory diagram showing the construction of data for game coins according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 7BThis is an explanatory diagram illustrating the construction of data for game coins according to another second embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 8 This is a diagram representing a database according to another second embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the overall structure of a tabletop game management system for an amusement park with multiple game tables, according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the camera according to the third embodiment of the present invention and the reading result of game coins obtained by RFID.

[0054] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the game table according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 12 This diagram shows the state of the game coins placed on the game table according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 13 This diagram shows the state of the game coins placed on the game table according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 14A This is a detailed drawing illustrating the game coin tray according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 14B This is a diagram illustrating another example of a game coin tray according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 15 This is a diagram of the game table according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing the reading results of game coins obtained by the camera and RFID according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 17 This is a diagram of the game table according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 18 This is a diagram of the game table according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 19 This is a diagram of the game table according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the game coin according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 21This is a cross-sectional view of the game coin according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view of the game coin according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the management system of the first example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 24 This is a diagram illustrating an example of updating change information in the first example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 25 This is a diagram illustrating an example of updating change information in the first example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 26 This is a diagram illustrating an example of updating change information in the first example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 27 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the management system of the second example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 28 This is a diagram showing the structure of the management system of the third example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 29 This is a diagram illustrating an example of database updating in the third example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 30 This is a diagram illustrating an example of database updating in the third example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 31 This is a diagram illustrating an example of database updating in the third example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Figure 32 This is a diagram showing the structure of the management system of the fourth example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 33 This is a diagram showing the structure of the management system of the fifth example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Figure 34 This is a diagram showing the structure of the management system of the sixth example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 35 This is a diagram illustrating an example of updating change information in the sixth example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 36 This is a diagram illustrating an example of updating change information in the sixth example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 37 This is a diagram illustrating an example of updating change information in the sixth example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 38 This is a diagram illustrating an example of updating change information in the sixth example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Figure 39 This is a diagram showing the structure of the management system of the seventh example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 40 This is a diagram illustrating an example of database updating in the seventh example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 41 This is a diagram illustrating an example of database updating in the seventh example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Figure 42 This is a diagram illustrating an example of database updating in the seventh example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Figure 43 This is a diagram illustrating an example of database updating in the seventh example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Figure 44 This is a diagram illustrating an example of database updating in the seventh example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Figure 45 This is a diagram showing the structure of the management system of the eighth example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Figure 46 This is a diagram showing the structure of the management system of the ninth example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] Figure 47 This is a diagram illustrating an example of updating change information in the ninth example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] Figure 48 This is a diagram illustrating an example of updating change information in the ninth example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Figure 49 This is a diagram illustrating an example of updating change information in the ninth example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] Figure 50This is a diagram illustrating an example of the placement area in the eleventh example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] Figure 51A This is a diagram showing another example of the placement area in the eleventh example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Figure 51B This is a diagram showing another example of the placement area in the eleventh example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Figure 52 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the management system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] Figure 53 This is a diagram showing an overall outline of the game table reading system according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] Figure 54 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the game table reading system according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Figure 55 This is a cross-section of the placement area, which serves as the reading area, according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] Figure 56 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the game currency and database according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] Figure 57 This is a diagram illustrating other examples of the readout antenna and readout limiting antenna according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] Figure 58 This is a diagram illustrating another example of a readout-limiting antenna according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0104] (First Implementation)

[0105] use Figure 1 An overview of the desktop game management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described. Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the overall overview of the system. The card game table 1004 has placement areas for P1441, B1442, a tie 1443, P.P1444, and B.P1445, arranged according to each player's position 1131-1135. Furthermore, each player's position has a coin placement area 1025, and a coin reading device 1002 is provided to read the RFID of the coins 1001 placed in this coin placement area.

[0106] Furthermore, each game coin configuration area 1025 has a PAIR area 1026, which is used to place the game coins 1001 taken from the game coin tray 1009 when the dealer pays the game coins 1001 from the game coin tray 1009 of the game table 1004 to the winner.

[0107] Furthermore, it also includes a control device 1003, which monitors the RFID reading results of the game coin 1001 read by the game coin reading device 1002.

[0108] At the start of the game, players place game coins 1001 in the designated placement area within the game coin configuration zone. The game coin reader 1002 reads the RFID tag of the placed game coin 1001, thereby enabling the control device 1003 to access information about the owner of the game coin 1001, linked to the RFID tag's ID information, in the database.

[0109] Based on the game's outcome, if the casino wins, the dealer collects the losing player's game coin 1001 and places it in the game coin tray 1009. The game coin reader 1002 monitors the RFID of the game coin 1001 in the game coin tray 1009, and the control device 1003 records the casino's ownership information (the game coin 1001 collected by the casino) in a database.

[0110] Based on the game's outcome, for the winner, the dealer, according to the game's rules, pays the winner an amount of game coins, 1001, from the game coin tray, corresponding to the amount of game coins placed there.

[0111] When making a payment, the game currency can be placed in the aforementioned PAIR area 1026, or it can be placed in a game currency configuration area outside the PAIR area.

[0112] Here, use Figure 2 This section explains the method for recording the owner information of game currency payments. Figure 2 This is a method of recording information related to the owner of game currency 1001 when paying game currency to the winner.

[0113] When multiple players place game coins in the same player's position, creating two or more stacks, the game coin reading device 1002 reads all game coins 1001 placed in the game coin placement area 1025 together. Therefore, during the game, it does not know which game coin 1001 belongs to which player, but obtains the ID 1010 of the placed game coin. After the game's outcome is determined, when paying the winner, the dealer pays each player (per stack) from the game coin tray 1009. The game coins 1001 taken from the game coin tray 1009 are placed in the game coin placement area 1025. The game coin reading device 1002 reads the ID 1011 of the paid game coin placed in the game coin placement area 1025.

[0114] The paid game coin 1001, along with the initially placed game coin 1001, is received by the winner. At this time, the placed game coin and the paid game coin move outside the game coin placement area 1025, and therefore, the IDs of the placed game coin and the paid game coin disappear from the reading results obtained by the game coin reading device 1002. Thus, the control device 1003, by associating with information related to the owner of the placed game coin, knows which player received the paid game coin.

[0115] The control device 1003 associates and stores the information it has about the owner of the game currency and the ID of the game currency in the database.

[0116] Based on the above, the traceability of the owner of game coin 1001 becomes possible. In cases where game coin 1001 is improperly received, it is possible to discover situations where the owner information stored in the database differs from the actual owner.

[0117] In addition, the actual owner can be identified by using facial recognition technology and IDs such as membership cards.

[0118] Furthermore, in the above description, although the IDs of each game coin are managed on the database, it is also possible to have a structure that stores the owner information in the game coin 1001 itself.

[0119] Furthermore, the aforementioned PAIR area 1026 can be configured either according to the position of each player or as an area independent of the position of each player, and can be read independently by the game coin reading device 1002.

[0120] Furthermore, it can also be configured such that, depending on the reading performance of the game coin reading device 1002, one can choose to use the PAIR area 1026 or not use it.

[0121] Furthermore, this desktop game management system can also be configured to combine an RFID reader that reads game coins in the game coin tray 1009 via RFID, a camera that reads the game coins placed therein, a card-dealing shoe that determines the outcome of the game, and other information that is mutually utilized.

[0122] (Second Implementation)

[0123] First, the game currency used in the game currency management system of the embodiments of the present invention will be described. Figure 3 This represents game coin 1 used within the same system. In the same diagram, game coin 1 has an embedded RFID tag 2 capable of storing various information. RFID tag 2 has a non-rewritable data area 21 and a rewritable data area 22.

[0124] Area 21, where data cannot be rewritten, stores information about game token 1 that remains unchanged, unchanging, or immutable during its use as fixed information 3. Specifically, it stores information such as the production information, product information, casino information, amount information, and serial number of game token 1 as fixed information 3. The production information includes the date the game token was manufactured, the manufacturing machine, etc., and the product information includes, for example, information indicating the game token used in the casino's VIP area, information indicating the type of game token (e.g., information indicating it is used as a transcoding code), etc.

[0125] The area 21 where data cannot be rewritten can be a functionally non-writable area or a locked area in the RFID tag design, so that after the necessary information is written in the writable area, no more data can be written.

[0126] It can rewrite data area 22 to store information about changes in game coin 1 during its use as change information 4. For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, information 221 related to date and time, information 222 related to location and event, information 223 related to owner, and other information related to location are stored as change information 4.

[0127] To prevent unauthorized reading and writing of information, fixed information 3 and variable information 4 can be encrypted. Additionally, fixed information 3 and variable information 4 can be stored as metadata.

[0128] Figure 4 This is an example of a method for recording data representing changes in game currency 1. For example... Figure 4As shown, it is configured such that the information 220 related to the location, consisting of date, time information 221, location, event information 222, and owner information 223, is treated as a block, and the information in this block is linked into a chain, thereby enabling the understanding of the historical record of the information 220 related to the location of the game coin 1.

[0129] exist Figure 4 The diagram illustrates an example of the change information 4 stored in Game Coin 1, allowing us to track the movement of Game Coin 1 as shown below. Mr. A purchased Game Coin 1 at counter 5 at 16:02 on January 28, 2019. Mr. A placed Game Coin 1 at table No. 325 at 16:15 on the same day. Mr. B received Game Coin 1 at table No. 325 at 16:43 on the same day as compensation for winnings from the placement. Mr. B left the casino with Game Coin 1 at 17:01 on the same day.

[0130] Change information 4 can be configured to store only the latest information, or it can store all written information related to the current location. Additionally, as... Figure 4 As shown, several pieces of information related to the location can be selected for storage. When selecting several pieces for storage, multiple pieces of information related to the location, including at least the most recent piece of information 220 from all related information 220, can be stored. Based on the above structure, the usage or movement history of a game coin 1 can be understood based on the change information 4 of that game coin 1. That is, the traceability information of the game coin 1 is configured to be written into the game coin 1 itself and can be monitored.

[0131] The management system for game currency 1 in this embodiment will now be described. Figure 5 A summary of the entire system.

[0132] First, in the factory 6, the game coin 1 is written into the rewritable data area 22 of the RFID tag 2 by the writing device 14, which includes change information 4 including information on completion of manufacturing or shipment from the factory as information 220 related to its location.

[0133] The casino's back-end system 7 receives game tokens 1 shipped from factory 6. In back-end system 7, the reading device 13 reads the change information 4 of the rewritable data area 22 stored in the game token 1. Based on the reading result, the management control device 15 determines whether the information 220 related to the location, which should be written, indicating that it has already been written in factory 6, has been written as the latest change information 4. If there is no write record in factory 6, the game token is considered suspicious and an error signal is generated. Therefore, the casino can refuse to accept the game token or request an investigation from the factory. If there is no problem with the write record, the writing device 14 writes the back-end related information 220 into the rewritable data area 22 of the RFID tag 2. During writing, the back-end location information can be added to the factory location information, or the factory location information can be deleted and the back-end location information written. Furthermore, the reading and writing of game tokens in back-end system 7 can be performed simultaneously with the normal verification and activation of game tokens.

[0134] After the game coin 1 has completed its reception and inspection in the background 7, it is moved to the casino's warehouse 8 or counter 9. In warehouse 8 or counter 9, the reading device 13 reads the change information 4 stored in the rewritable data area 22 of the game coin 1. Based on the reading result, the management control device 15 determines whether the information 220 related to the information already written in the background 7, which should be written, has been written as the latest change information 4. Additionally, it can also check whether the information representing factory 6 has been written into the history of change information 4. Similar to the aforementioned check in the background 7, the management control device 15 determines whether there are any anomalies in the history of the information. If the reading result is correct, the writing device 14 writes the relevant information representing warehouse 8 or counter 9 into the rewritable data area 22.

[0135] A player purchases game token 1 at counter 9. Upon purchase, the time of purchase and information indicating the change of ownership (from casino owner to customer) are written as change information 4 via the writing device 14 located at counter 9. Alternatively, the player can be identified and recorded using facial recognition technology, a casino membership card, an ID card, or other similar means.

[0136] Players use purchased game tokens 1, placing them in placement area 11 on the game table to start the game. A reading device 13 reads information 220 from the RFID tag 2 of the placed game token 1, consisting of date, time information 221, location, event information 222, and owner information 223, related to the token's location. The management control device 15 then determines if there are any anomalies. For example, anomalies can be determined if a certain amount of time has passed since the last recorded usage information at the game table or the date of purchase at the counter, or if the owner information 223 stored in the game token 1 differs from the owner information 223 identified through facial recognition or an ID card.

[0137] If the reading result is correct, the writing device 14 adds the associated information 220 to the data-modifying area 22 for the placed game coin 1. The associated information 220 includes date, time information 221, location, event information 222, and owner information 223. At the game table, for example, the writing device 14 writes change information 4, including the player's location number where the game coin 1 is placed and the player's information. The player's information can be determined via ID card or facial recognition. Typically, since several game coins 1 are placed overlapping in the placement area 11, the writing is performed together while they are overlapping.

[0138] When a player takes game token 1 out of the casino, the exit process is completed at entrance / exit 10. During exit, the reading device 13 reads the relevant information 220, and the management control device 15 determines whether the change information 4 is normal. Additionally, at entrance / exit 10, the writing device 14 writes change information 4, including the exit location, event information 222, and owner information 223.

[0139] When a player enters from the casino side, if they bring in game tokens they previously took out, the reading device 13 reads the relevant information, and the management control device 15 determines whether the change information 4 is normal. For example, if the owner of game token 1 temporarily taken out of the casino is different from the owner at the time of departure from the casino, the system can track the receipt of game tokens outside the casino.

[0140] If the reading result from the reading device 13 indicates an anomaly, the management control device 15 can output an alarm to the counter 9 or the entrance / exit 10. When the owner of the game coin 1 leaves through the entrance / exit 10, an individual check can be performed based on the alarm output by the management control device 15. Furthermore, if the anomaly is detected, the management control device 15 can issue a warning to the dealer at each game table to interrupt the game, or issue a warning to the game table manager, who can then determine whether to interrupt the game, continue the game, or replace the game coin 1. Alternatively, the management control device 15 can be configured to connect to the overall management control device 18 of the casino and issue a warning to the overall management control device 18.

[0141] Furthermore, although the above description describes a method in which the reading device 13 reads and the writing device 14 writes after the management and control device makes a determination, it is also possible to have a structure in which reading and writing are performed simultaneously.

[0142] The following describes the details of application embodiments of the present invention.

[0143] At factory 6, RFID tags 2 are read and / or written upon completion of production and upon shipment. The writing device 14 writes production information and product information as fixed information 3, locks them in a non-rewritable manner as needed, and writes change information 4.

[0144] In the background 6, the game coin 1 shipped from the factory is received, and when it is activated as a usable game coin 1, the RFID tag 2 is read and / or written.

[0145] In warehouse 8, when game coin 1 is moved from warehouse 8 to counter 9, or from counter 9 to warehouse 8, RFID tag 2 is read and / or written. Alternatively, for game coin 1 stored in warehouse 8, RFID tag 2 can be read and / or written at regular intervals or at specified times.

[0146] At counter 9, RFID tags 2 are read and / or written during movement from or to warehouse 8. Owner information 223 can be obtained based on the player's casino ID card, facial recognition system, credit card, etc.

[0147] When players enter and exit through entrance / exit 10, RFID tags 2 are read and / or written. For all game tokens 1 taken out of the casino by players upon exiting, the information indicating the location and event 222 taken out, and the owner information 223 of the player who took them out, are written as change information 4 and registered. Similarly, upon entering, the information indicating the location and event 222 taken in, and the owner information 223 of the player who took them in, are written as change information 4 and the game tokens 1 taken into the casino are registered.

[0148] In placement area 11, RFID tags 2 are read and / or written to game coins 1 placed by players in placement area 11 to participate in the game. Additionally, RFID tags 2 are read and / or written to game coins 1 placed by the dealer in placement area 11 as compensation to players.

[0149] In the game coin tray 12, the RFID tag 2 is read and / or written to the game coins 1 that are returned to the game coin tray and the game coins 1 stored in the game coin tray.

[0150] The game table also has a payment area, which can read and / or write RFID tags 2 to game coins 1 placed in the placement area 11 by the dealer as payment to the players.

[0151] The management and control device 15 has the following function: to determine whether there are any anomalies in the information 220 related to the location obtained from the reading results of the reading device 13 at each location. As a determination of whether it is an anomaly, it can determine whether either the information has not been used for more than a specified time since the last write, or the information related to the location that should have been written has not been written.

[0152] If the data has not been used for a specified period of time since the last write, it falls under any of the following categories.

[0153] 1) The latest relevant information is the information for counter 9, and the next information will be written after a specified period of time;

[0154] 2) The latest relevant information is the entry information at entrance / exit 10. The next information will be written after a specified period of time.

[0155] 3) The latest relevant information is the exit information at entrance / exit 10. The next information will be written after a specified time.

[0156] The failure to write the relevant information that should have been written occurs in any of the following situations:

[0157] 4) When entering the amusement park, the latest information related to the location in area 22, which is the data rewriteable area of ​​game coin 1, is not written, indicating that the player will leave through entrance / exit 10.

[0158] 5) When used at counter 9, information representing backend 7 was not written;

[0159] 6) When leaving the amusement park, information indicating counter 9 or backstage 7 was not written.

[0160] The management control device 15 is capable of determining whether an anomaly is present based on the owner-related information 223 obtained by the reading device 13, using any of the following conditions as a criterion:

[0161] 1) A person who is different from the final owner of the area 22 where the data can be rewritten exchanges game token 1 within the amusement park or leaves the amusement park;

[0162] 2) The game coin is brought into the amusement park by someone who is different from the owner at the time of departure from the area 22 where the data can be rewritten.

[0163] The management control device 15 determines whether an error is due to any one of the following conditions (1) to 4) based on information obtained by the reading device 13 indicating the location of the placement area 11, the location of the game coin tray 12, or the payment area:

[0164] 1) The game coin 1 is used at the game table by someone different from the final owner of the area 22 where the data can be rewritten;

[0165] 2) Using game token 1 within the amusement park that does not contain information indicating counter 9 or backstage 7;

[0166] 3) The latest relevant information is the information indicating the placement area 11 or the payment area. After a specified period of time, it can be used at the game table.

[0167] Figure 8 The database involved in other embodiments of the present invention is shown. In addition to the game coin 1, the management system also includes a database 17 that records the same fixed information 3 and variable information 4. The management control device 15 can record information in the database 17 based on the reading results of the reading device 13, and compare the fixed information 3 and variable information 4 stored in the game coin 1 with the information in the database to determine anomalies.

[0168] In the RFID tag 2 of this embodiment, the area 21 where data cannot be rewritten and cannot be functionally written can be a TID (tag number). After the necessary information is written to the area 21 where data cannot be rewritten, the area locked so that data cannot be rewritten can be an EPC (Electronic Product Code) or a user area. The area 22 where data can be rewritten can be an EPC (Electronic Product Code) or a user area.

[0169] The reading device 13 and the writing device 14 can change their form depending on the location. For example, in factory 6, they can be... Figure 6 The device on the platform shown has a box-shaped entrance / exit 10. The placement area 11 and the coin tray 12 can each function as a reading device 13 and a writing device 14. Furthermore, the coin 1 can be read while directly stacked or stored in a coin box, etc. Additionally, the reading device 13 and the writing device 14 can be integrated into one unit.

[0170] In the above embodiments, the case where the game coin has one RFID tag, and this single RFID tag has areas where data cannot be rewritten and areas where data can be rewritten, has been described. Alternatively, the following configuration can be considered: two RFID tags are placed in the game coin, one of which is locked based on stored fixed information and therefore cannot be rewritten, while the other RFID tag records change information and is therefore pre-set to be rewritable.

[0171] However, in this situation, the following problem arises: when reading multiple game coins together, such as... Figure 7A As shown, since it is possible to read the information group of fixed information 3 and the information group of variable information 4 respectively, it is not possible to determine the combination of fixed information and variable information of a specific game coin, and it is not possible to determine whether there is an abnormal game coin in the variable information.

[0172] In this case, if there is only one RFID tag, such as Figure 7B As shown, even when reading multiple game coins together, it is possible to grasp the correspondence between the fixed and variable information read by the reading device. Therefore, it is believed that it is better to implement this using a single RFID tag.

[0173] Furthermore, generally speaking, the larger the diameter of an RFID tag, the higher the reading accuracy. Therefore, when placing an RFID tag into a game coin, it is desirable for the RFID tag to have a diameter at least equal to the radius of the game coin. However, placing two RFID tags into a game coin results in a smaller diameter for each tag, which is not preferable. Additionally, placing two RFID tags increases the number of RFID tags to be read, thus reducing the reading speed when reading multiple game coins.

[0174] Based on the above, it can be argued that implementing this through a single RFID tag is more effective.

[0175] (Third Implementation)

[0176] The following is a general overview of the management system for tabletop games in an amusement park with multiple game tables according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 A diagram illustrating the overall structure of the same system shows a management system for tabletop games in an amusement park with multiple game tables 2004, comprising: a game recording device 2011 that records games played at the game tables 2004, including game coins 1, as images via multiple cameras 2002; an image analysis device 2012 that performs image analysis on the recorded images; a game coin reading device 25 that reads the RFID tag attached to the game coin 1; and a game result determination device 18 that determines and displays the game results for each game at the game tables 2004.

[0177] The game result determination device 18 is, for example, a card dealing device 2003, which is a so-called electronic card dealing shoe already used by those skilled in the art. Its construction involves pre-programming the game rules, reading the information of the dealt cards C, and determining the winner of the game. For example, in a certain card game, the win of player B, the win of player P, and a draw are basically determined by the face value of 2-3 cards, and the determination result (win / loss result) is indicated by the result display light 2013.

[0178] In the same diagram, game table 2004 is a table for a card game, with five seats numbered 13 ("Seat No. 1" 131, "Seat No. 2" 132, "Seat No. 3" 133, "Seat No. 5" 134, and "Seat No. 6" 135), allowing five players to participate. Each seat number 13 has a placement area 44. Placement areas 44 for seat number 13 include areas for P (PLAYER) 441, B (BANKER) 442, TIE 443, P.P 444, and B.P 445. Each player plays the game by placing a certain amount of game coins (1) in the corresponding position. Figure 9 For example, two game coins 1 are placed in seat number 5, in a tie 443, and two game coins 1 are placed in seat number 5, in a p441, to start the game. The game table 2004 also has a P-side card area 45 for placing drawn P-side cards and a B-side card area 46 for placing drawn B-side cards.

[0179] The control device 2014, with the aid of the camera 2002 and the image analysis device 2012, can determine the location (P, B, tie, PAIR) of each player 2006 in the placement area 2008, the type of the placed game token 1 (game token 1 is divided into different values ​​according to each color), and the number of tokens. That is, for example, the control device 2014 can determine that 2 game tokens 1 are placed in tie 443 at seat 5 and 2 game tokens 1 are placed at P441.

[0180] like Figure 9 As shown, the game coin reading device 25 is configured to read the RFID tags of game coins 1 within each seat number, treating the entire placement area as a single reading area. The RFID tags attached to game coins 1 contain inherent ID information, the amount, type, manufacturing information, and owner information of the game coins 1. Alternatively, the ID information can be stored in a database in association with the amount, type, manufacturing information, and owner information of the game coins 1. By reading the RFID tags attached to the game coins 1, the game coin reading device 25 can identify game coins 1 for each seat number, thereby identifying the total amount or number of coins. For example, it can identify that four game coins are placed at seat number 5, along with their respective types, amounts, and IDs.

[0181] like Figure 10 As shown, the control device 2014, based on the image analysis results of the image analysis device 2012, determines the total amount or total number of game coins 1 for each seat number according to the type and quantity of game coins 1 placed in each placement area of ​​each seat number. This is compared with the total amount or total number of game coins 1 for each seat number obtained based on the RFID information of the game coins 1 read by the game coin reading device 25, to determine if they are consistent. Furthermore, it can output the seat numbers determined to be inconsistent, thus identifying problematic seat numbers.

[0182] If the total amount or number of game coins 1 for each seat number obtained from the reading results of the game coin reading device 25 is less than the total amount or number of game coins 1 for each seat number obtained from the image analysis results of the image analysis device 2012, it is considered that there may be a situation where the RFID attached to the game coin 1 is damaged, is an unreadable RFID, or the game coin 1 is not attached to an RFID. Figure 10 In the above analysis, for game coin 1 placed at seat number 1, the total number of reads obtained from the image analysis results of the image analysis device 2012 is 4, while the total number of reads obtained from the RFID reading of the game coin reading device 25 is 3. Therefore, it is considered that the RFID of one of the four game coins 1 placed at seat number 1 cannot be read.

[0183] If the total amount or number of game coins 1 for each seat number obtained from the reading results of the game coin reading device 25 is greater than the total amount or number of game coins 1 for each seat number obtained from the image analysis results of the image analysis device 2012, it is considered that there may be a situation where the image analysis device 2012 cannot read the game coins 1 due to reasons such as the game coins 1 entering the blind spot of the camera. Figure 10 In the example, for game token 1 placed at seat number 3, the total number of reads obtained by the image analysis device 2012 is 1, while the total number of reads obtained by the RFID reader 25 is 2. Therefore, it is possible that there are 2 game tokens 1 placed at seat number 3, but the image analysis device 2012 can only identify 1.

[0184] The RFID ID information attached to game token 1 is registered in the casino's database, which also records information on production and shipment at the factory, as well as receipt, verification, and activation at the casino. Control device 2014 compares the RFID information read by game token reader 25 with the information in the database to determine the authenticity of the game token registered as a token to be used in the casino.

[0185] According to this structure, the type and number of game coins 1 placed in each placement area can be determined by the camera, and the authenticity or defective game coins 1 can be determined for each seat number based on the RFID information of the game coins 1 read by the game coin reading device 25.

[0186] In addition, the tabletop game management system also includes a participant identification mechanism using a facial recognition system or player ID cards. The control device 2014 can associate the participant information identified by the participant identification mechanism with the seat number. The control device 2014 can store, for each participant and seat number, the amount placed, the amount repaid or recovered, and win / loss information. Furthermore, it can simultaneously store information about multiple games played by participants at multiple game tables.

[0187] The control device 2014 can use the coin tray determining device 12 to determine the total amount of game coins 1 in the coin tray 17 of the dealer 2005 at the game table 2004. After the game ends and settlement is completed, the control device 2014 can compare and calculate whether the total amount of game coins 1 in the coin tray 17 has been increased or decreased based on the amount of game coins 1 lost by each player 2006 and the amount of game coins 90,000 won by the winning player 2006. The coin tray determining device can be configured to use the camera 2002 to photograph the game coins 1 stored in the coin tray 17 and analyze the image based on the image analysis device 2012 to determine the total amount of game coins 1 in the coin tray 17. Alternatively, it can be configured to use an RFID reader installed in the coin tray 17 to detect the total amount of game coins 1 stored in the coin tray 17.

[0188] In this example, since cheating and errors can be detected based on the game's outcome, the location (P, B, tie, or PAIR) of which type of game coin 1 was placed in the placement area 2008, and the increase or decrease in the amount of game coin 1 in the game coin tray 17 after the recovery of lost game coins and the repayment of won game coin 1, cheating and errors can be detected even without knowing the movement of the game coin 1 after the game ends, i.e., whether the placed game coin 1 moved to the player's side or to the dealer's side.

[0189] For example, in the case of a card game, the card dispensing device 2003 reads the face value of the card C drawn in the game, and the winner can be determined according to the rules of the card game. Alternatively, the camera 2002 captures an image of the game table 2004, the image analysis device 2012 analyzes the image, and the control device 2014 compares the analysis results with the game rules to determine the winner. In this case, the camera 2002, the image analysis device 2012, and the control device 2014 constitute the game result determination device. Information about which position (P, B, tie, PP, BP) and what type of game coin 1 each player at seat number 7 placed in the placement area 2008 can be obtained by capturing an image of the game coin 1 placed in the placement area 2008 using the camera 2002 and analyzing the image using the image analysis device 2012 for each player's position 7.

[0190] Furthermore, the increase or decrease in the amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 before and after the recycling of lost game coins 1 and the repayment of won game coins 1 can be calculated as follows: the total amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 before the recycling of lost game coins 1 and the repayment of won game coins 1 is compared with the total amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 after the recycling of lost game coins 1 and the repayment of won game coins 1.

[0191] For example, the total amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 before the game starts is set as Bb, and the total amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 after the game ends and the lost game coins 1 are recovered and the won game coins 1 are repaid is set as Ba. Additionally, in this game, the total amount of game coins 1 placed in area P for all player positions 7 is set as bp, the total amount of game coins 1 placed in area B for all player positions 7 is set as bb, and the total amount of game coins 1 placed in the tie area for all player positions 7 is set as bt. For example, if player B wins the game, Ba - Bb = bp - bb + bt should hold true. Alternatively, the total amount of game coins 1, Ba, in the game coin tray 17 after the game ends should be (Bb + bp - bb + bt). If the above conditions are not met, it can be determined that there is cheating or error in the recovery or repayment of game coins.

[0192] exist Figure 14A The middle section is a detailed diagram showing the game coin tray of this embodiment. Figure 14B This diagram illustrates another example of a game coin tray. The game coin tray 17 includes: a recycling tray 171, which recycles and temporarily holds the game coins 1L placed by the losing player 2006L; and a return tray 172, which holds the returned game coins 1W. The image analysis device 2012 and the control device 2014 determine the location, type, and number of game coins 1L placed by the losing player 2006L, and calculate the increase in the amount of game coins 1L in the game (the expected amount of game coins 1L in the recycling tray 171). Furthermore, the image analysis device 2012 and the control device 2014 determine the actual total amount of game coins 1L in the recycled tray 171, compare the expected total amount with the actual total amount, and determine if there is a discrepancy.

[0193] Furthermore, the control device 2014 is able to repay the corresponding game coins 1, and at the end of the repayment, compare the total amount due on the game coin tray based on the amount due on the game coins in the game with the actual total amount on the game coin tray, and determine whether there is a difference between the total amount due and the actual total amount. The amount due on the game coins in the game is calculated based on the position, type and number of game coins placed by each game participant on the game table, and the game result.

[0194] Furthermore, by repaying the winning player's 2006W game coins 1W, sufficient time is ensured that the image analysis device 2012 and the control device 2014 have sufficient time to grasp the actual total amount of game coins 1L in the recovered game coin tray 171 after the game coins are recovered, through the use of the game coin 1W in the recovery game coin tray 172.

[0195] As described above, in this embodiment, the control device 2014 calculates the income and expenditure of game coins based on the amount of game coins placed on the game table 2004 and the winning or losing result of the game, and verifies the increase in the balance in the game coin tray 17 after the game. If a discrepancy is detected in this verification, the control device 2014 issues a warning or adds a record indicating the detected discrepancy to the recording of the video captured by the camera 2002. The casino operator can investigate the cause of the discrepancy by reviewing the video.

[0196] In the tabletop game management system of this embodiment, the total amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 before each game settlement is added to or subtracted from the amount of increase or decrease in game coins in the game calculated based on the position, type, and number of game coins 1 placed by all players 2006 in the game and the win or loss result of the game obtained by the win or loss result determination device. The system then compares the expected total amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 after the settlement at the end of the game with the actual total amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 at the end of the game obtained by means of the image analysis device 2012, and determines whether there is a difference between the expected total amount and the actual total amount.

[0197] The control device 2014, with the aid of the image analysis device 2012, grasps the position, type, and number of game coins placed by each player. After all the lost game coins placed by each player are collected, the control device 2014 grasps the actual total amount of game coins in the game coin tray. The control device 2014 compares the expected total amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 with the actual total amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 and determines whether there is a difference between the expected total amount and the actual total amount. The expected total amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 is obtained by adding the total amount in the game coin tray before the settlement of each game to the increase in the game coin tray 17 in the game based on the position, type, and number of game coins placed by the losing players.

[0198] The control device 2014 compares the total amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 before each game settlement with the additional amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 obtained by adding the amount of game coins 1 placed by the losing player according to the position, type and number of game coins 1 in the game. If it is determined that there is no difference between the total amount and the actual amount, the control device 2014 compares the total amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 after the game ends with the actual amount of game coins 1 in the game coin tray 17 obtained by means of the image analysis device 2012. If it is determined that there is a difference between the total amount and the actual amount, it determines that there is a payment error and generates a payment error signal to notify of the payment error.

[0199] The game coin tray 17 is equipped with a game coin recycling tray 171, which collects and temporarily stores the game coins 1L placed by the losing player. The image analysis device 2012 compares the expected total amount of game coins 1L in the game coin recycling tray 171 with the actual total amount of game coins 1L in the game coin recycling tray 171, and determines whether there is a difference between the expected total amount and the actual total amount. The expected total amount of game coins 1L in the game coin recycling tray 171 is obtained by adding the increase of game coins 1 in the game based on the position, type and number of game coins 1L placed by the losing player.

[0200] When the control device 2014 determines that there is a discrepancy between the actual total amount of game coins 1 held in the game coin tray 17 of the dealer 2005 at the game table 2004 and the increase or decrease of game coins calculated based on the amount of game coins placed by all players and the winning or losing result of the game, in order to analyze the game record that caused the above discrepancy in the game recording device 2011, the game recording device 2011 can assign an index or time to the obtained image, or determine and recreate the recycling scene or payment scene of game coins 1.

[0201] Thus, the control device 2014 obtains the total amount of game coins in the game coin tray 17 after the game ends, using the image analysis device 2012. However, the determination of "after settlement" in this case refers to the moment when any of the following 1) to 4) occurs:

[0202] 1) The repayment of the won game coins 1 ends;

[0203] 2) When the card C used in the game is recycled and discarded in the discard area 41 or discard slit 42 of the table;

[0204] 3) When the designated button attached to the win / loss result determination device is pressed;

[0205] 4) The symbol indicating win or loss 43 is restored.

[0206] Furthermore, the control device 2014 is constructed using artificial intelligence or deep learning: it can grasp the position (position of P, B, or PAIR) and amount (type and number) of game coins placed at each player's position 7 on the game table 2004, and compare the historical win / loss records and the amount of game coins won (the amount won) of each player 2006 obtained from the win / loss results of each game with statistical data from a large number of past (big data) games to extract anomalies (set by the casino). Typically, the device 2014 is constructed using artificial intelligence or deep learning: if a winning amount of more than a certain amount (1 million points) occurs, or if the amount of game coins placed when losing is less than the amount placed when winning is more in a certain game table 2004 player's position 7 continues in multiple games, this situation can be compared with statistical data from past games (big data, etc.) to extract this as an anomaly.

[0207] Furthermore, the control device 2014 (integrated with the image analysis device 2012) of the management system for this tabletop game is configured to identify individual players 2006 at player positions 7 where abnormal situations have been detected, or at player positions 7 where a player has won by a specified amount or more. For the identification of such players 2006, the image analysis device 2012 obtains a facial image through feature point extraction, etc., and assigns it an identification number (ID, etc.). Moreover, the control device 2014 has a warning function that notifies the other game table of the presence of a specific player 2006 when the player leaves and sits at another game table. Specifically, it notifies the game table manager or the person in charge of each game table (or the dealer) to prevent further abnormalities.

[0208] The control device 2014 can determine the number of game coins 1 collected per seat number based on the RFID ID information of the collected game coin 1 determined by the game coin tray determination device and the RFID ID information of the game coin 1 read by the game coin reading device 25.

[0209] exist Figure 11 In, such as Figure 12 as well as Figure 13As shown in the detailed table, game token 1 is placed. Based on the analysis of the image analysis device 2012, the location (P's place, B's place, etc.) and number (and amount) of game token 1 can be determined. On the other hand, based on the reading of the game token reader 25, the RFID ID attached to the game token 1 for each seat number can be determined. Furthermore, since the game token tray determining device can determine the ID of the game token 1 within the game token tray 17, it can determine the IDs added before and after recycling, thereby determining the recycled game token 1. Figures 11-13 In the case where B wins the game, according to the analysis results of the image analysis device 2012, it can be determined that the two game coins placed on BP should be recycled. It can also be determined that the two game coins ID6 and ID18 placed on seat number 5 are recycled according to the ID of the game coin tray determination device and the game coin reading device 25.

[0210] Furthermore, the control device 2014 can determine the total amount or number of game coins 1 to be recovered for each seat number, based on the game results obtained by the game result determination device and the detection results of the position, amount, and number of game coins 1 obtained based on the image analysis results obtained by the image analysis device. Therefore, the control device 2014 can compare the total amount or number of game coins 1 recovered for each seat number determined based on RFID with the total amount or number of game coins 1 to be recovered based on the image analysis results, and determine whether they are consistent.

[0211] For example, if the reading result of the game coin reading device 25 for seat number 1 is "A, B, C, D, E", the analysis result of the image analysis device 2012 is "2 coins for a tie, 2 coins for player B", the game result is "player B wins", and the reading result of the game coin tray determination device 18 is "A, B", it can be known that the game coins A and B placed in the tie are correctly recovered.

[0212] Furthermore, the control device 2014 can determine whether the RFID ID information of the game coin 1 recovered by the game coin tray determining device matches the RFID ID information of the game coin 1 placed by the game coin reading device 25. Based on this determination, it can be determined whether the game coin 1 recovered by the game coin tray is the game coin placed on the game table, or whether it is the game coin 1 improperly recovered from other locations.

[0213] Furthermore, the control device 2014 can determine the type of game currency, such as transcoded or promotional codes, based on the RFID information read by the game currency reader 25, and can store the amount placed, the amount redeemed, or the amount refunded for each determined type of game currency.

[0214] Transcodes are special game tokens that specific members can purchase, and they are managed according to the amount purchased by each member. By storing the amount of transcodes placed or retrieved based on RFID information read by the game token reader 25, it is possible to know the amount of transcodes that a specific member should hold.

[0215] The game coin reader 25 also has a region verification function and can read the game coins 1 placed for repayment. For example... Figure 15 As shown, when repaying the debt to family B at seat number 2, game coin 1 for repayment is placed in the game coin reading device 25 and read. Figure 15 In the middle, the winning game coin 1 is placed next to the one placed at seat number 2 (B). The control device 2014 can compare the repayment amount determined based on the game results obtained from the game result determination device and the image analysis results obtained from the image analysis device (based on the measurement results of the position, amount, and number of game coins 1), with the amount of game coins 1 placed for each seat number obtained based on the reading results of the game coin reading device 25, and determine and output whether the repayment amount is consistent. Figure 16 In the case of seat number 1, the total number of game coins 1 payable is 4, while the game coin reading device 25 reads 3, indicating a discrepancy. In the event of a discrepancy in the repayment amount, a discrepancy signal is output, allowing the dealer to reposition the game coins 1 used for repayment based on the output signal. Upon repositioning the game coins 1, a second judgment is made, and the judgment result is output. The area where the game coins 1 used for repayment are placed can be any location within the game coin reading device 25. Additionally, as... Figure 15 As shown, the payment confirmation area 26 can be configured separately from the placement area on the dealer's side of the placement area. Figure 15 In the process, the game coin 1 used for repayment is placed in the payment confirmation area 26 of seat number 6. The game coin reading device 25 reads the coin, and the control device 2014 makes a judgment. The repayment game coin is then placed next to the winning game coin 1 placed in B's house.

[0216] In addition, the image analysis device 2012 also performs image analysis on the confirmed area, and the control device 2014 compares it with the reading result of the game coin reading device 25 to determine whether the total number of coins is consistent.

[0217] The control device 2014 can output signals based on the implemented decision. The signals can be output by displaying them on the display unit of the coin tray 17 or the display unit of the card dispensing device 2003, or by the game table manager or the casino's back office.

[0218] Game coin reader 25 can be like Figure 17As shown, all placement areas are treated as one read area for each seat number, or as follows: Figure 18 As shown, for each seat, the P home placement area and the B home placement area are treated as one read area, and the local office placement area, the P home placement area, and the B home placement area are treated as another read area. Additionally, as... Figure 19 and Figure 22 As shown, the side placement areas of the TP, PP, and BP placement areas can also be used as a single reading area.

[0219] Next, the game coin 1 used in the embodiments of the present invention will be described. Figure 20 This is the appearance image of the game coin 1 used in this system. Figure 21 This is a front sectional view. The game coin 1 is formed with the following multi-layered structure: multiple plastic layers of different colors are stacked, with a colored layer 101 at least in the middle. White layers 102 or light-colored layers (not shown, but any layer lighter than the colored layer 101) are stacked on both sides of the colored layer 101. This multi-layered structure, with a colored layer 101 and white layers 102 or light-colored layers (not shown, but any layer lighter than the colored layer 101) stacked on both sides of the colored layer 101, thus... Figure 20 As shown, a striped pattern with overlapping direction is formed on the side. By changing the color of the coloring layer 101 (red, green, yellow, blue, etc.), the type of game coin 1 (10 points, 20 points, 100 points, 1000 points, etc.) can be determined.

[0220] Shading layer 101 can also be like Figure 21 As shown, through multiple colored layers (in) Figure 21 It is formed by three layers. Due to the multiple layers being colored (in... Figure 21 The middle layer consists of 3 layers that are heat-pressed together, therefore, as Figure 21 As shown, the three-layer structure is not visually perceptible. Figure 21 The description indicates three layers. Furthermore, a portion of the cutout B is provided in the middle layer of the three colored layers 101, where an RFID tag is concealed.

[0221] In addition, the game coin 1 is not limited to the structure of the laminated plastic layer, but can also be a structure with the same appearance as the coloring layer 101.

[0222] The method by which the image analysis device 2012 analyzes the game coin 1 is described in detail below. The image analysis device 2012 performs image analysis on the image recorded by the recording device 11, identifying at least two colors: a specific color 121 at least partially attached to the game coin 1, and a reference color R present in the image that is different from the specific color 121. Furthermore, the specific color 121 is attached to a predetermined location on the game coin 1 or at least partially attached to the game coin 1 in a predetermined shape. For example, it can be attached as a coloring layer 101, attached circumferentially to the side of the game coin 1, or attached as a predetermined mark to the surface of the game coin 1. In addition, the reference color R can be, for example, the color of a specific area of ​​the game table 2004, or a color attached to the game coin 1 at a different location than the specific color 121.

[0223] The image analysis device 2012 includes, for example, an artificial intelligence device 12a that determines specific colors using deep learning technology, and determines the number and type of game coins 1 arranged on the game table 2004. The image analysis device 2012 can also determine the position of the game coins 1 on the game table 2004.

[0224] The image analysis device 2012 acquires multiple images of the game coin 1 and the reference color R illuminated under different illumination levels. Through manual instruction, it uses the acquired images and the correct colors of the game coin 1's specific color 121 and the reference color R in each image as teacher data to learn and create a learning model 13a (recognition program). Furthermore, for images of the game coin 1 and the reference color R illuminated under the same illumination conditions, it can obtain the relative relationship between the specific color 121 and the reference color R by illuminating them under the same illumination. For example, this relative relationship can be used for the recognition of the specific color 121.

[0225] Furthermore, the image analysis device 2012 can also extract the center line C of the game coin 1 by taking pictures and recording them as images using the camera 2002, without using artificial intelligence, and by using the results of image analysis to detect features on the image such as shape, brightness, color saturation, and hue.

[0226] The artificial intelligence device 12a also has the following structure: by performing image analysis on a peripheral image of a predetermined range around the extracted center line C (e.g., a range of 8 pixels orthogonal to the center line centered on the center line), it identifies at least two colors in the peripheral image, namely the specific color 121 and the reference color R which is different from the specific color 121. Furthermore, when performing image analysis on the peripheral image of the predetermined range around the extracted center line C, the image can be analyzed directly, or it can be analyzed after image processing such as color enhancement and noise removal, to more easily identify the specific color 121.

[0227] In summary, the artificial intelligence device 12a of the image analysis device 2012 has the following features: extracting the center line C from the image of the game coin 1; performing image analysis on the surrounding images within a predetermined range centered on the center line C; identifying the structure of at least two colors in the surrounding images, namely a specific color 121 and a reference color R different from the specific color 121; and teaching multiple surrounding images of the game coin 1 and the reference color R illuminated under different illuminations as teacher data.

[0228] In other embodiments of the present invention, the control device 2014 further includes the function of determining at least one of the following:

[0229] 1) In each game, from the time the starting cards are drawn or from the start of the dealer's game until the game's outcome is displayed by the card-distributing device, are there any changes in the game currency?

[0230] 2) After each game ends, during the period when the dealer collects the game coins placed by the losers among the game participants, were there any changes in the game coins caused by anyone other than the dealer?

[0231] 3) After each game ends, during the period when the dealer is collecting the game coins placed by the losers among the game participants, are additional game coins added?

[0232] 4) After each game, did the dealer pay out the winning coins placed by the participants?

[0233] 5) After each game, did the winners among the game participants take the placed game coins and the game coins that were paid out?

[0234] Furthermore, the control device 2014 may also be configured to detect the movement of the dealer's and game participants' hands, the movement of game coins, or the movement of the hands and the movement of game coins by using the analysis results of the image analysis device 2012, thereby determining at least one of 1) to 5).

[0235] The control device 2014, according to the rules of a certain card game, has the functions shown in 1) to 5) below, which are characteristic functions of this invention, determining whether cheating that violates the rules has not occurred. That is,

[0236] 1) In each game, the image analysis device 2012 uses information obtained from the camera 2002 to monitor whether there is any change in the game coin 1 from the signal of drawing the starting card obtained from the card dispensing device 2003, or from the start operation of the game initiated by the dealer 2005 pressing the start button for 4 seconds, until the game result is displayed by the card dispensing device 2003.

[0237] 2) After each game ends, the image analysis device 2012 uses the information obtained by the camera 2002 to monitor whether the loser 6 took the game coin 1 without cheating during the period when the dealer 2005 was collecting the game coin 1 placed by the loser among the game participants 2006.

[0238] 3) After each game ends, the image analysis device 2012 uses the information obtained from the camera 2002 to monitor whether anyone other than the dealer 2005 (winner or loser) has added the won game coin 1W, or whether the game coin 1 has not been replaced on the winning side where it was not placed, during the period when the dealer 2005 is collecting the game coin 1 placed by the loser among the game participants.

[0239] 4) After each game, the image analysis device 2012 uses the information obtained by the camera 2002 to monitor whether the dealer 2005 has placed the game coin 1 in the position of the winner among the game participants 2006, and correctly placed the game coin 1W to be paid.

[0240] 5) After each game ends (the dealer 2005 operates the card distribution device 2003 and the display light 13 shows the winning and losing results), the image analysis device 2012 uses the information obtained from the camera 2002 to monitor whether the winner 6W among the game participants 2006 has taken the placed game coin 1 and the game coin 1W that has been paid.

[0241] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the image analysis device 2012 and the control device 2014 are devices with artificial intelligence-efficient or deep learning structures. Specifically, the image analysis device 2012 and the control device 2014 can be scale-invariant feature transform (SIFT) algorithms, convolutional neural networks (CNNs), deep learning, machine learning, or perform image analysis and the aforementioned various controls using the same methods. These techniques are for image recognition of camera images to identify objects contained within the images. In particular, in recent years, deep learning techniques that utilize multi-layered neural networks have been used to identify objects with high accuracy. This deep learning technique generally achieves high-accuracy object recognition by overlapping layers across multiple stages in the intermediate layers between the input and output layers of the neural network. Among these deep learning techniques, convolutional neural networks, in particular, have attracted attention because they have higher performance than object recognition based on existing image feature quantities.

[0242] In convolutional neural networks (CNNs), labeled images of target objects are learned, and the main objects included in these images are identified. When multiple main objects exist within the learning image, they are designated using rectangular regions, and labels are added to the images corresponding to these designated regions for learning. Furthermore, the CNN can then determine the main objects within the image and their locations.

[0243] To further explain convolutional neural networks, in the object recognition process, edge extraction and other processing are performed on the image of the object to be recognized. Based on local features, candidate regions are extracted. These candidate regions are then input into the convolutional neural network, and classification is performed based on the extracted feature vectors. The candidate region with the highest confidence level is obtained as the recognition result. Confidence level refers to how much higher the similarity between a given image region and the main body of the image learned along with the label is compared to other levels of similarity.

[0244] The above describes various embodiments of the present invention. However, those skilled in the art can certainly modify the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention, and the device of this embodiment can be appropriately modified according to the needs of the applicable game.

[0245] (Fu Ji)

[0246] To address the aforementioned problems, the game coin management system of the present invention is configured as follows:

[0247] A single RFID tag, containing both areas where data cannot be rewritten and areas where data can be rewritten, is attached to the game coin.

[0248] The non-rewritable data area of ​​the RFID tag stores at least one of the following as fixed information: the production information, product information, casino information, amount information, and serial number of the game coin.

[0249] The area capable of rewriting data stores information related to the location of the game coin as variable information.

[0250] From the fixed information stored in the area where the data cannot be rewritten, it is possible to extract the change information of the area where the data can be rewritten within the same RFID tag.

[0251] The system also has:

[0252] A writing device that writes information related to the location of the game coin into the area capable of rewriting data;

[0253] A reading device capable of simultaneously reading fixed information stored in the unmodifiable data regions of multiple game coins, and based on the read fixed information, reading information related to the location stored in the rewritable data regions paired with each piece of fixed information; and

[0254] The management and control device reviews the information related to the location obtained by the reading device.

[0255] The area capable of rewriting data stores multiple pieces of information related to its location, including at least the most recent piece of information related to its location from all information related to its location written by the writing device.

[0256] The management and control device is configured to determine whether there is an anomaly in the historical record of information related to the location obtained by the reading device; if an anomaly is found, an error signal is generated, and the fixed information of the game currency that is determined to be abnormal is identified.

[0257] Furthermore, the area capable of rewriting data is configured to store information related to the location and information about the time when the writing device writes the game currency. The management control device is configured to determine whether any of the following situations exist, based on the information related to the location obtained by the reading device as a determination of whether the anomaly exists: the game currency has not been used for more than a specified time since the last write, or the information related to the location that should have been written has not been written.

[0258] Furthermore, the relevant information includes at least one of the following: information indicating the counter, information indicating entry or exit, or information indicating the backstage area.

[0259] The condition that the device has not been used for a specified period of time since the last write is any one of the following conditions.

[0260] 1) The latest information related to the location is the counter information, and the next information will be written after a specified period of time;

[0261] 2) The latest information related to the location is the entry information; the next information will be written after a specified period of time.

[0262] 3) The latest information related to the location indicates the exit information, and the next information will be written after a specified time.

[0263] The following are possible scenarios where the relevant information that should have been written has not been written:

[0264] 4) When entering the amusement park, no information indicating exit was written, which is not related to the latest location of the area where the game coin's data can be rewritten;

[0265] 5) When used at the counter, information indicating the backend was not written;

[0266] 6) When leaving the amusement park, no information indicating the counter or backstage was written.

[0267] Furthermore, the information related to the location also includes information related to the owner of the game currency.

[0268] Furthermore, the management and control device has the following function: based on the information related to the owner obtained by the reading device, it can determine either 1) or 2) below to determine whether the abnormality exists.

[0269] 1) A person who is different from the ultimate owner of the area where the data can be rewritten purchases game tokens within the amusement park or leaves the amusement park;

[0270] 2) The game coin is brought into the amusement park by a person who is different from the owner at the time of departure from the area where the data can be rewritten.

[0271] Furthermore, information related to the owner of the game currency can be determined through facial recognition or ID card reading.

[0272] In addition, the information related to the location may also include information indicating the location of the coin tray at the specific game table, or information indicating the location of the placement area or payment area.

[0273] Furthermore, the management device also has the following function: based on the information obtained by the reading device regarding the location of the game coin tray of the arcade table, or information indicating the location of the placement area and payment area, it determines any one of the following situations (1) to 4) as a criterion for determining whether the abnormality exists.

[0274] 1) The game coin is used at the game table by someone different from the ultimate owner of the area where the data can be rewritten;

[0275] 2) Using game tokens in amusement parks that do not contain information indicating a counter or back office;

[0276] 3) The latest location-related information indicates the placement area or payment area, and can be used at the game table after a specified period of time.

[0277] Furthermore, the information contained in the RFID tag can be encrypted.

[0278] Furthermore, the area where data cannot be rewritten can be a structure that cannot functionally rewrite data, or a structure that is locked to prevent data rewriting.

[0279] Furthermore, the reading device is configured to simultaneously read the fixed information stored in the area where the data cannot be modified, and the related information stored in the area where the data can be modified;

[0280] The management and control device can be configured to extract and grasp the relevant information of the area where the data can be rewritten in the same RFID tag from the fixed information of the multiple game coins read by the reading device.

[0281] To address the aforementioned problems, the game coin of the present invention comprises a single RFID tag having both a region where data cannot be rewritten and a region where data can be rewritten.

[0282] The area where data cannot be rewritten stores at least one of the following as fixed information: the game coin's production information, product information, casino information, amount information, and serial number.

[0283] The area capable of rewriting data is configured to store the information related to the location of the game coin, written by the writing device, as change information.

[0284] It is possible to extract, from the fixed information stored in the area where the data can be rewritten, the change information stored in the same RFID tag.

[0285] Furthermore, the game coin can be structured as follows: a reading device can read the fixed information stored in the area of ​​the non-rewritable data of multiple game coins, and based on the read fixed information, can read the related information stored in the area of ​​the rewritable data.

[0286] To address the aforementioned problems, the desktop game management system of the present invention includes:

[0287] Game tokens, each with an attached RFID tag that can be individually identified;

[0288] A game table used for playing games using the game coins;

[0289] A game recording device that uses a camera to record images of game coins placed by each player during a game at the arcade table;

[0290] An image analysis device that performs image analysis on the recorded image of the game coin;

[0291] A game coin reading device that reads the RFID tags attached to the game coins placed by each game participant; and

[0292] The control device monitors the image analysis results from the image analysis device and the reading results from the game coin reading device.

[0293] The game table has multiple placement areas, and each seat number includes at least a home placement area P and a home placement area B.

[0294] The game coin reading device reads the game coins by treating all placement areas as a single reading area for each seat number, or by dividing the entire area into fewer reading areas than the number of placement areas, and reading the game coins for each of the aforementioned reading areas.

[0295] The control device has the following structure: based on the image analysis results of the image analysis device, it can independently determine the type and number of game coins placed in each placement area, including at least the P home placement area and the B home placement area; it can determine whether the total amount or total number of game coins for each seat number or each reading area obtained based on the image analysis results of the image analysis device is consistent with the total amount or total number of game coins for each seat number or each reading area obtained based on the reading results of the game coin reading device; and it outputs the determination result.

[0296] Furthermore, the control device can be a structure capable of outputting seat numbers that do not conform to the determination results.

[0297] The control device may also have the following structure: when the total amount or number of game coins for each seat number obtained based on the reading result of the game coin reading device is less than the total amount or number of game coins for each seat number obtained based on the image analysis result of the image analysis device, a signal can be generated indicating that the RFID attached to the game coin may be damaged, or that the game coin may not have an RFID attached.

[0298] Furthermore, the control device may also have the following structure: if the total amount or number of game coins for each seat number obtained based on the reading result of the game coin reading device is greater than the total amount or number of game coins for each seat number obtained based on the image analysis result of the image analysis device, a signal may be generated indicating that the image analysis device may have made an error in reading the game coins.

[0299] In addition, it has a database that stores the IDs of the RFID tags attached to the game tokens.

[0300] The control device can have the following structure: it can compare the RFID ID obtained from the reading result of the game coin reading device with the ID stored in the database to determine the authenticity of the game coin and output the determination result.

[0301] In addition, it also has,

[0302] A coin tray that holds the coins used by the dealer at the game table;

[0303] A game coin tray detection device, capable of determining the type and quantity of game coins stored in the game coin tray; and

[0304] The game result determination device determines the game results of each game on each game table.

[0305] The control device has the following calculation function: using the game results obtained by the game result determination device and the determination results of the position, amount and number of game coins obtained based on the image analysis results of the image analysis device, the income and expenditure of the entertainment side of the game table are calculated according to the recycling and repayment of each game.

[0306] It can also have:

[0307] The coin recycling judgment function compares the amount of coins to be recycled with the actual amount recycled from the coin tray at the end of the recycling process for each player. It determines if there is a discrepancy between the expected and actual amount recycled, thereby identifying any cheating or error in the coin recycling process. The expected amount of coins to be recycled is calculated based on the position, type, and number of coins placed by each player on the game table, and the game results.

[0308] The repayment determination function repays the corresponding game coins. At the end of the repayment, it compares the total amount due to be repaid based on the game coins in the game with the actual total amount of the game coin tray. If there is a difference between the total amount due and the actual total, it is determined that there is cheating or error in the repayment. The amount due to be repaid for the game coins in the game is calculated based on the position, type, and number of game coins placed by each game participant on the game table and the game result.

[0309] Furthermore, the control device can have the following structure:

[0310] Based on the RFID ID information of the game coins collected as determined by the game coin tray determination device and the RFID ID information of the game coins read by the game coin reading device, the number of game coins collected for each seat number is determined. The determined ID, amount, or number of game coins is compared with the ID, amount, or number of game coins to be collected for each seat number, and it is determined whether they are consistent for each seat number. The ID, amount, or number of game coins to be collected for each seat number is determined using the measurement results of the position, amount, and number of game coins obtained based on the game results obtained by the game result determination device and the image analysis results obtained by the image analysis device.

[0311] Furthermore, the control device can be structured as follows: in each game, it can determine the type of game coin based on the RFID ID information of the game coin read by the game coin reading device, according to the purpose or use of the game coin, and store the amount, or the amount to be recovered or the amount to be repaid for each type of game coin according to each seat number.

[0312] Furthermore, the control device can be structured such that, in multiple games, it can store, for each seat number, the cumulative amount placed, the cumulative amount recovered, or the cumulative amount repaid for each type of game coin.

[0313] In addition, the game currency can be at least a transcode or a promotional code.

[0314] In addition, the control device can be structured as follows: it can determine the owner based on the ID information of the transcoded data, and store the cumulative amount of the transcoded data, or the cumulative amount of the recovered data, or the cumulative amount of the repaid data for each owner.

[0315] In addition, the game coin reading device reads the game coins placed in the device for repayment according to each seat number.

[0316] The control device may have the following structure: it compares the repayment amount determined based on the game result obtained by the game result determination device and the image analysis result obtained by the image analysis device, which determines the position, amount and number of game coins, with the amount of game coins placed according to each seat number obtained based on the reading result of the game coin reading device, and determines and outputs whether the repayment amount is consistent or inconsistent.

[0317] Furthermore, the control device can be structured as follows: if the determination result of the repayment amount is inconsistent, it can display inconsistency; and if the amount of game coins placed in the game coin reading device for each seat number changes, it can make a determination again and output consistency or inconsistency again.

[0318] Furthermore, the control device can be structured as follows: capable of comparing the amount of game coins placed for repayment according to each seat number, and the increase or decrease in the amount of game coins in the tray before and after repayment, to determine whether there is a difference.

[0319] In addition, the game coin reading device may have a payment confirmation area located on the dealer's side of the placement area for placing the game coins used for repayment.

[0320] In addition, it can also be equipped with a system for identifying game participants using facial recognition or player ID cards.

[0321] The control device may be a structure capable of associating the seat number with information about the game participants determined by the game participant determination agency.

[0322] In addition, it also includes a display device that displays the output of the control device.

[0323] In addition, the game table also has a side-mounted placement area.

[0324] The side placement area is arranged adjacent to each placement area for each seat number.

[0325] The game coin reading device can read at least one of the side placement areas simultaneously.

[0326] The control device can have the following structure: based on the image analysis results of the image analysis device, it can determine the type and number of game coins placed in the at least one side placement area, and determine whether the total amount or total number of game coins in the at least one side placement area obtained based on the image analysis results of the image analysis device is consistent with the total amount or total number of game coins in the side placement area obtained based on the reading results of the game coin reading device, and output a signal of the determination result.

[0327] Furthermore, other embodiments of the present invention include a desktop game management system, as follows.

[0328] It has the following characteristics:

[0329] Game tokens, each with an attached RFID tag that can be individually identified;

[0330] A game table used for playing games using the game coins;

[0331] A game recording device that uses a camera to record images of game coins placed by each player during a game at the arcade table;

[0332] An image analysis device that performs image analysis on the recorded image of the game coin;

[0333] A game coin reading device that reads the RFID tags attached to the game coins placed by each game participant; and

[0334] The control device monitors the image analysis results from the image analysis device and the reading results from the game coin reading device.

[0335] The game table has a placement area consisting of a P home placement area, a B home placement area, and a side placement area.

[0336] The side placement area is arranged adjacent to each placement area for each seat number.

[0337] The game coin reading device can read at least one of the side placement areas simultaneously.

[0338] The control device has the following structure: based on the image analysis results of the image analysis device, it can independently determine the type and number of game coins placed in the at least one side placement area, determine whether the total amount or total number of game coins in the at least one side placement area obtained based on the image analysis results of the image analysis device is consistent with the total amount or total number of game coins placed on that side obtained based on the reading results of the game coin reading device, and output the determination result signal.

[0339] Furthermore, the control device can be a side-mounted structure capable of outputting inconsistent determination results.

[0340] Furthermore, the control device may also have the following structure: when the total amount or number of game coins placed on each side obtained based on the reading result of the game coin reading device is less than the total amount or number of game coins placed on each side obtained based on the image analysis result of the image analysis device, a signal may be generated indicating that the RFID attached to the game coin may be damaged, or that the game coin may not have an RFID attached.

[0341] Furthermore, the control device may also have the following structure: if the total amount or number of game coins in each of the side placement areas obtained based on the reading result of the game coin reading device is greater than the total amount or number of game coins in each of the side placement areas obtained based on the image analysis result of the image analysis device, a signal may be generated indicating that there may be a reading error of the game coins by the image analysis device.

[0342] In addition, it also has a database that stores the IDs of the RFID tags attached to the game tokens.

[0343] The control device can have the following structure: it can compare the RFID ID obtained from the reading result of the game coin reading device with the ID stored in the database to determine the authenticity of the game coin.

[0344] Furthermore, the control device can be structured as follows: it can determine the number of game coins collected in each side-placed area based on the RFID ID information of the collected game coins determined by the game coin tray determination device and the RFID ID information of the game coins read by the game coin reading device; it compares the ID, amount, or number of game coins to be collected in each side-placed area with the ID, amount, or number of game coins collected in each side-placed area, and determines whether the collected amount is consistent or inconsistent for each side-placed area. The determination of the ID, amount, or number of game coins to be collected in each side-placed area is obtained by using the measurement results of the game coin position, amount, and number of game coins obtained based on the game result obtained by the game result determination device and the image analysis result obtained by the image analysis device.

[0345] (Fourth Implementation)

[0346] The fourth embodiment of the present invention will now be described.

[0347] (first example)

[0348] Figure 23 This diagram illustrates the structure of a management system according to a first example of the fourth embodiment of the present invention. The management system 110 does not use a database to track the owners of game coins. Instead, the game coins store owner information. The management system 110 includes a generally oval-shaped game table 4004. Player 82 is located on one side of the game table 4004. Figure 23 The dealer is located on the opposite side (illustration omitted). The top of the game table 4004 is divided into placement areas 41a to 41e (hereinafter collectively referred to as "placement area 41") for each of the multiple player positions. Placement area 41 is for players 82 to play by placing their game coins 83. A game coin tray 12 for placing the dealer's game coins 83 is provided on the dealer's side of the game table 4004.

[0349] The game coin 83 has the same structure as the game coin in the above-described embodiment. Specifically, the game coin 83 embeds an RFID tag 2, which has a non-writable area 21 for storing fixed information 3 and a writable area 22 for storing variable information 4. The RFID tag 2 stores a game coin ID (identification information) to uniquely identify the game coin 83, as inherent information 3. Furthermore, the RFID tag 2 stores a user ID to uniquely identify the owner of the game coin 83, as variable information 4.

[0350] It should be noted that when the casino or dealer has a common user ID, and the casino holds game coins 83 (including those stored in game coin tray 12), the change information 4 stores the user ID of the casino or dealer.

[0351] Each placement area 41a-41e of the game table 4004 is equipped with RFID antennas 511a-511e (hereinafter collectively referred to as "RFID antennas 511"). Specifically, the RFID antennas 511 are embedded under the fabric of the game table 4004 at positions corresponding to the placement areas 41. In addition, the coin tray 12 is also equipped with an RFID antenna 513.

[0352] RFID antenna 511 reads and writes data to the RFID tag 2 embedded in the game coin 83 placed in the corresponding placement area 41. RFID antenna 513 reads and writes data to the RFID tag 2 embedded in the game coin 83 placed in the game coin tray 12.

[0353] RFID antennas 511a-511e and RFID antenna 513 are connected to the RF control device 54. It should be noted that... Figure 23 In the accompanying drawings, for ease of reading, only the line connecting antenna 511e and RF control device 54 is shown; the lines connecting antennas 511a-511d and RF control device 54 are omitted from the diagram. Similar to antenna 511e, antennas 511a-511d are also connected to RF control device 54. This is also the case in the following drawings. RF control device 54 controls each antenna to perform read and write operations. RF control device 54 distinguishes each antenna separately for control of read and write operations. For this purpose, each antenna is assigned a region ID, which uniquely identifies the region through which read and write operations are performed. Furthermore, during read operations, RF control device 54 performs read operations periodically.

[0354] By comparing the area ID, it is possible to determine whether the read game coin 83 is located in the game coin tray 12 or in the placement area 41. For the placement area 41, it is also possible to determine which player's placement area 41a to 41e it is located in.

[0355] When reading data, the RF control device 54 receives data read from each antenna and determines the area (area ID) where the data was read. Similarly, when writing data, the RF control device 54 determines the antenna to be written to (area ID) and sends the write data. Thus, the RF control device 54 can control the reading and writing of each antenna separately.

[0356] Based on the data read from each antenna, the RF control device 54 outputs the user ID of the game coin 83. Figure 23 The "UserID" and the region ID of the region where the user ID was read. Figure 23 The management system 110 also includes a management control device 56 connected to the RF control device 54. The management control device 56 receives the user ID and area ID from the RF control device 54 and assigns the user ID written to the RFID tag 2 to the RF control device 54.

[0357] It should be noted that, as explained below, the user ID stored in the RFID tag 2 of the game coin 83 changes as the game coin 83 moves. In addition to the latest user ID, the RFID tag 2 also stores past user IDs as change information 4. Therefore, by comparing this change information 4, it is possible to investigate the changes in ownership of each game coin 83. Furthermore, in the following explanation, expressions such as "rewriting user ID" refer to at least changing the latest user ID, and do not necessarily mean that past user ID information must be deleted simultaneously.

[0358] The management control device 56 updates the change information 4 of the game coin 83 based on the data (user ID and region ID) received from the RF control device 54. The method for updating the change information 4 will be described below.

[0359] Figures 24-26 A diagram illustrating an example of updating change information. (e.g.) Figure 24 As shown, the player placed game coins 831 in placement area 41b. The management control device 56 inputs the user ID of the player who placed the game coins (hereinafter also referred to as "placed game coins 831") obtained by reading the RFID tag 2 of the game coins placed in the placement area, and the area ID of the placement area 41b.

[0360] During the placement phase, such as Figure 24 As shown, the same user ID was read from placement area 41b (in Figure 24 In the example, "P1"), the same ID was also read from the game coin tray 12 (in Figure 24 In the example, "D" indicates that the owner is the casino or the dealer. In the case that player wins the game, such as... Figure 25 As shown, the dealer pays (repays) game coins (hereinafter also referred to as "pay game coins 832") from the game coin tray 12 and places them next to the placement game coins 831 in the placement area 41b.

[0361] In this way, in placement area 41b, in addition to reading "P1", "D" is also read as the user ID. When there are two types of user IDs for the game coins 83 read from the same placement area 41, one of which is "D" and the other is the user ID assigned to the player, the management control device 56 controls the RF control device 54 to rewrite the user IDs of all game coins 83 in that placement area 41 to the user ID assigned to that player (in...). Figure 25 In the case of "P1", it is "P1". It should be noted that in this case, in the game coin 831 where "P1" is stored as the user ID, "P1" is also added as the latest user ID.

[0362] On the other hand, when a player loses the game, such as Figure 26 As shown, the dealer returns game token 831 to the game token tray 12. Thus, in the game token tray 12, in addition to reading "D" as the user ID, "P1" is also read. Among the user IDs of game token 83 read from the game token tray 12, there are user IDs other than "D" assigned to the player (in... Figure 26 In the example, if it is "P1", the management control device 56 will rewrite the user ID of all game coins 83 in the game coin tray 12 to "D".

[0363] It should be noted that a recycling platform is provided for temporarily storing and recycling game coins 83 to the game coin tray 12. The antenna is separated from other parts by the recycling platform, so that only the game coins 83 recycled to the recycling platform can be processed as described above.

[0364] The user ID stored in the game coin 83 is updated in response to changes in the actual owner through the processing performed by the management control device 56. That is, in this embodiment, the user ID is stored in the RFID tag 2 of the game coin 83, and since the user ID is updated to ensure that the owner who pays the game coin 832 is the same as the owner who places the game coin 831, even without using the post-database and player identification system described later, and even without the management control device 56 knowing the progress of the game (placement phase, game phase, settlement phase), it is possible to track changes in the owner caused by the game played at the game table 4004.

[0365] It should be noted that when a player purchases 83 game coins, the player is identified using the player identification system described later. The casino's or dealer's user ID is then changed to the identified player's user ID. Based on this, the 83 game coins are given to the player.

[0366] (Second example)

[0367] Figure 27This diagram illustrates the structure of the management system in the second example of the fourth embodiment. In addition to the structure of the management system 110 in the first example, the management system 120 also incorporates a player identification system. The player identification system may include an image recognition system composed of a camera 52 and an image recognition device 55, and a card authentication system composed of a membership card 81 and a card reader 53, or either of these.

[0368] Camera 52 captures the face of player 82 located at the player's position and outputs the resulting image to image recognition device 55. Image recognition device 55 has a face recognition engine based on a neural network that learns from facial images of multiple pre-registered players 82 (hereinafter, registered players are referred to as "members"). Image recognition device 55 inputs the image from camera 52 into the neural network to determine which member's face image the input facial image belongs to. It should be noted that if image recognition device 55 determines that the image from camera 52 does not belong to any of the registered members, it outputs the result that the facial image belongs to a non-member.

[0369] Furthermore, the image recognition device 55 determines the player's location based on the position of the face within the authenticated image. The image recognition device 55 then compares the member's user ID with the image from camera 52. Figure 27 The "User ID" and the region ID of the determined player's location (in the text). Figure 27 The image recognition device 55 outputs "Unknown" as the user ID when it cannot determine which member the user belongs to.

[0370] Card reader 53 scans the membership card 81 handed to the dealer by player 82, reading the information stored in the membership card 81. Membership card 81 is a magnetic card with a magnetic stripe, which stores at least the user ID of player 82 (the member). The dealer receives membership card 81 from player 82, scans it with card reader 53, and inputs player 82's position into card reader 53. Card reader 53 will then read the user ID from membership card 81... Figure 27 The "UserID" in the card list, and the region ID of the player's position entered by the dealer. Figure 27 The output is "AreaID".

[0371] The management control device 56 inputs the user ID and region ID stored in the game coin 83, which are read by the RF control device 54 using the antenna 511; it also inputs the user ID and region ID determined by the image recognition device 55 based on the player's facial image; and it inputs the user ID obtained by the card reader 53 reading the membership card 81 and the region ID specified by the dealer.

[0372] For the same area ID, if the user ID read by antenna 511, i.e., the user ID stored as the owner of the game coin 83 placed in the placement area 41, is inconsistent with the user ID read by membership card 81 or the user ID determined by image recognition device 55, i.e., the player determined by the player determination system, the management control device 56 controls RF control device 54 to rewrite the user ID stored as the owner in the variable area 4 of the game coin 83 placed in the placement area 41 to the user ID of the player determined by the player determination system.

[0373] The RF control device 54 uses antenna 511 to write the player's user ID, determined by the player identification system, into the writable area 22 of the RFID tag 2 of the game coin 83 placed in the placement area 41. At the same time, the RF control device 54 can also record in the writable area 22 the situation where the user ID, used as owner information, is rewritten due to inconsistency. Therefore, when the casino or dealer obtains the game coin 83, by comparing the ownership change history, it is possible to identify situations where ownership is inconsistent and to determine the player involved in the inconsistency.

[0374] It should be noted that the player identification system can utilize either facial recognition or membership card 81 for player identification. That is, when a registered member is seated at a player's location, player identification via membership card 81 is not mandatory; in this case, facial recognition alone is sufficient. Furthermore, even if facial recognition is unsuccessful due to an unsuccessful facial capture, player identification via membership card 81 is still possible.

[0375] Furthermore, there are cases where a player can be identified through either facial recognition or membership card 81. In this case, the user ID of the player identified through facial recognition may differ from the user ID of the player identified through membership card 81. If either of these user IDs matches the user ID read from game coin 83, the management control device 56 controls the RF control device 54 to record the user ID that does not match the user ID read from game coin 83, along with the fact that it does not match the player identified by the player identification system, in the writable area 22 of game coin 83.

[0376] In this example, similar to the first example, the user ID stored in game currency 83 is updated based on the actual owner. Furthermore, in this example, if the user ID of a player determined by the player identification system does not match the user ID stored in game currency 83, the discrepancy is corrected, and the occurrence of this discrepancy is recorded in game currency 83. Thus, by comparing this record in game currency 83, it is possible to know whether game currency 83 has been exchanged between players, and to identify the players involved.

[0377] (Third case)

[0378] Figure 28 This diagram illustrates the structure of the management system in the third example of the fourth embodiment. In addition to the structure of the management system 110 in the first example, the management system 130 also includes a database 57. In the database 57, a game coin ID (used to uniquely identify game coin 83) is stored. Figure 28 The "Chip ID" in the database is stored in association with the user ID of the player holding the game coin 83. It should be noted that, as mentioned above, the ownership of the game coin 83 changes due to purchase and use in the game, and database 57 records the historical records of past owners. Therefore, by comparing data with database 57, it is possible to know the changes in ownership of each game coin 83.

[0379] In this example, the game coin 83 may have a non-writable area 21 but not a writable area 22. That is, the game coin 83 may store at least the game coin ID. Furthermore, the RF control device 54 may be an RF reader that only has read functionality and not write functionality.

[0380] The management control device 56 updates the database 57 based on the data (game currency ID and region ID) of the game currency 83 received from the RF control device 54. The method for updating the database 57 will be described below.

[0381] Figures 29-31 This is a diagram illustrating an example of updating database 57. (See diagram below.) Figure 29 As shown, the player places game coins 831 in placement area 41b. The management control device 56 inputs the game coin ID of the placed game coin 831 and the area ID of the placement area 41b, which are obtained by reading the RFID tag 2 of the game coin 831 placed by the player in placement area 41b.

[0382] During the placement phase, such as Figure 29As shown, "C00001" to "C00005" are read from placement area 41b as game coin IDs, and "C20001" to "C20100" are read from game coin tray 12 as game coin IDs. Furthermore, the RF control device 54 outputs the combination of the game coin IDs read through antennas 511 and 513 and the area IDs corresponding to those antennas 511 and 513 to the management control device 56. Figure 29 In the example, the RF control device 54 obtains the combination of game coin ID "C00001" to "C00005" and area ID "Area2", as well as the combination of game coin ID "C20001" to "20100" and area ID "Area T" (representing the area ID of the game coin tray 12), and outputs these combinations to the management control device 56.

[0383] In the case where the player wins the game, such as Figure 30 As shown, the dealer pays (repays) game coins 832 from the game coin tray 12 and places them next to the game coin 831 in the placement area 41b. In this way, the RF control device 54 obtains combinations of game coin IDs "C00001" to "C00005" and "C20001" to "C20005" with the area ID "Area2", and combinations of game coin IDs "C20006" to "C20100" with the area ID "Area T", and outputs these combinations to the management control device 56.

[0384] The management control device 56 compares all the game currency IDs it reads with the database 57 and obtains the user ID associated with that game currency ID. Furthermore, the management control device 56 compares the combinations of game currency IDs and region IDs obtained from the RF control device 54. If multiple game currency IDs associated with the same region ID have different user IDs, the management control device 56 updates the database 57 to make these user IDs the same.

[0385] Specifically, when multiple game tokens 83 are read from the same placement area 41 and there are both player user IDs and casino or dealer user IDs, the management control device 56 rewrites the casino or dealer user IDs to the player user IDs, thereby unifying the user IDs of game tokens that are combined with the same area IDs.

[0386] On the other hand, when a player loses the game, such as Figure 31As shown, the dealer retrieves the game coin 831 from the game coin tray 12. In this way, in addition to reading "C20001" to "C20100", "C00001" to "C00005" are also read from the game coin tray 12 as game coin IDs. The RF control device 54 obtains the combination of the game coin IDs "C20001" to "C20100" and "C00001" to "C00005" with the area ID "Area T" of the game coin tray 12, and outputs this combination to the management control device 56.

[0387] The management control device 56 compares all the game currency IDs it reads with the database 57 and obtains the user ID associated with that game currency ID. Furthermore, the management control device 56 compares the combinations of game currency IDs and region IDs obtained from the RF control device 54. If the user IDs of multiple game currency IDs forming a combination with the same region ID are different, the management control device 56 updates the database 57 to make these user IDs the same.

[0388] Specifically, when multiple game tokens 83 are read from the area ID of the game token tray 12, and there are both player user IDs and casino or dealer user IDs, the management control device 56 rewrites the player's user ID to the casino or dealer's user ID, thereby rewriting the user IDs of all game token IDs associated with the area ID of the game token tray 12 to the casino or dealer's user ID.

[0389] Through the aforementioned processing by the management control device 56, the user ID stored in the database 57 is updated according to the actual owner. That is, in this embodiment, for different game coins 83 associated with user IDs existing in the same area, the database 57 is rewritten to unify them into any one of these user IDs based on the area. Thus, even without using the aforementioned player determination system, or even if the management control device 56 does not know the progress of the game (placement phase, game phase, settlement phase), it is possible to track the change of owner caused by the game played at the game table 4004.

[0390] Furthermore, in the above example, the management control device 56 determines that the game coin is the payment game coin 831 based on reading the payment game coin 831 in the placement area 41 and setting the user ID to "D" in the database 57, and rewrites the user ID of the game coin to the player's user ID as its replacement. Alternatively, it can determine the game coin ID of the payment game coin 832 based on the difference between the game coin IDs read from the game coin tray 12 before and after payment.

[0391] For example, in Figure 29 and Figure 30In the example, before payment, such as Figure 29 As shown, game currency IDs “C20001” to “C20100” are read from the game currency tray 12. Correspondingly, after payment, as... Figure 30 As shown, game currency IDs “C20006” to “C20100” are read from the game currency tray 12. Based on this difference, the management control device 56 can determine that game currency IDs “C20001” to “C20005” are the game currency IDs that were paid.

[0392] (Fourth case)

[0393] Figure 32 This diagram illustrates the structure of the management system in the fourth example of the fourth embodiment. In addition to the structure of the management system 110 in the first example, the management system 140 also includes a player determination system, a database 57, and a card dispensing device (electronic card dispenser) 4003. Furthermore, in the game table 4004, payment areas 42a to 42e (hereinafter, collectively referred to as "payment areas 42") are provided on the dealer's side, further from the player's position area 41. Additionally, antennas 512a to 512e (hereinafter, collectively referred to as "antennas 512") are provided corresponding to each payment area 42a to 42e.

[0394] When the dealer pays (repays) the winning player 82 with game coins 83, the game coins 83 taken from the game coin tray 12 are placed in the winning player 82's payment area 42 and then placed in the player 82's placement area 41.

[0395] In this example, camera 52 not only captures images of player 82, but also of the game tokens 831 placed in placement area 41. Furthermore, image recognition device 55 performs image recognition processing not only on the player's face, but also on the game tokens 831 placed in placement area 41 to identify which placement object (P, B, tie, PP, BP, etc.) each game token 831 is placed in within placement area 41, and uses this recognition result as the placement content. Figure 32 The output is the "placement" in the text.

[0396] It should be noted that the camera that captures the face of player 82 and the camera that captures the image of the placed game coin 831 can be different cameras. Furthermore, the image recognition device that identifies the player based on their facial image and the image recognition device that identifies the placed content based on the image of the placed game coin 831 can be different devices.

[0397] In this example, the card dispensing device 4003 determines the game's progress status (i.e., placement, gameplay, or settlement) and outputs it to the RF control device 54. When the first card is drawn, the card dispensing device 4003 determines that the game has started; according to a certain card game rule, based on the reading result of the drawn card, it determines that the game has ended. Furthermore, when the game start button is pressed, the card dispensing device 4003 determines that settlement has ended and begins placement.

[0398] In addition, the card dispensing device 4003 reads at least the face value of the drawn cards and determines the game result, such as P's win, B's win, tie, PP, BP, etc., according to the rules of a certain card game.

[0399] The management control device 56 determines which player's location received payment based on the placement content obtained from the image recognition device 55 and the game results obtained from the card dispensing device 4003. The management control device 56 also obtains the user ID of the player at each player's location from the image recognition device 55 or the card reader 53, and therefore can determine which player received payment based on this information.

[0400] When the game status received from the card dispensing device 4003 is "in progress," the RF control device 54 activates the antenna 512 of the payment area 42 to read and write the RFID tag of the game coin 83.

[0401] If the user ID associated with the game coin ID of the game coin 832 read from the payment area 42 is the user ID of the casino or dealer, the management control device 56 will rewrite the user ID associated with the game coin ID of the game coin 831 placed in the corresponding placement area 41.

[0402] It should be noted that when the dealer reclaims the lost player's placed game currency 831, the antenna 512 of the payment area 42 may read the game currency ID of the placed game currency 831. In this case, the game currency ID read in the payment area 42 is consistent with the game currency ID read in the corresponding placement area 41 before. Therefore, it is determined that the game currency ID was read in the payment area 42 during the reclamation. In this case, the user ID of the game currency 83 read in the payment area 42 is not rewritten.

[0403] It should be noted that, in this example, the management system 140, which has a player identification system, a database 57, and a card dispensing device (electronic card dispenser) 4003, has been described. However, similar to the first example, in a management system that does not have a player identification system, a database 57, and a card dispensing device (electronic card dispenser) 4003, the payment area 42 and the antenna 512 corresponding to the payment area can be set, and the user ID can be updated.

[0404] In the management system 140 of this example, a payment area 42 is set up, and the reading and writing of the RFID tags of the game coins 83 are performed separately from the placement area 41. This allows for high-speed reading and writing of the payment game coins 832 paid from the game coin tray 12. That is, as shown in the first to third examples above, if the payment game coins 832 are read and written using the antenna 512 in the same way as the placement game coins 831, then reading and writing of the placement game coins 831 is also required for the reading and writing of the payment game coins 832, which takes time. However, in the payment area 42, only the payment game coins 832 can be read and written. Therefore, reading and writing can be performed in a shorter time without causing significant obstacles to the operation of the game.

[0405] (Fifth case)

[0406] Figure 33 This diagram illustrates the structure of the management system in the fifth example of the fourth embodiment. The management system 150 has a... Figure 32 The fourth example shown has the same structure as the management system 140. That is, in addition to having the structure of the management system 110 in the first example, the management system 150 also has a player determination system, a database 57, and a card dispensing device (electronic card dispenser) 4003.

[0407] In this example, camera 52 not only captures images of player 82, but also of the game tokens 831 placed in placement area 41. Furthermore, image recognition device 55 performs image recognition processing not only on the player's face, but also on the game tokens 831 placed in placement area 41, identifying which placement object (P, B, tie, PP, BP, etc.) each game token 831 in each placement area 41 is placed in, and using this identification result as the placement content. Figure 33 The output is the "placement" option.

[0408] It should be noted that the camera that captures the face of player 82 and the camera that captures the image of the placed game coin 831 can be different cameras. Furthermore, the image recognition device that identifies the player based on their facial image and the image recognition device that identifies the placed content based on the image of the placed game coin 831 can be different devices.

[0409] The card dispensing device 4003 determines the game result, including P's win, B's win, tie, PP, and BP, according to the rules of a certain card game by reading at least the face value of the cards drawn in sequence.

[0410] The management control device 56 determines which player's position accepts payment (repayment) based on the placement content obtained from the image recognition device 55 and the game results obtained from the card dispensing device 4003. The management control device 56 also obtains the user ID of the player at each player's position from the image recognition device 55 or the card reader 53, and thus can determine which player accepts (repays) based on this information.

[0411] For each placement area 41, the combination of the area ID of the placement area 41 and the game currency ID of the placed game currency 831 read in that placement area 41 is input from the RF control device 54 to the management control device 56. As described above, the management control device 56 determines which player's location receives the payment. Therefore, it compares the data with the database 57 and obtains the user ID associated with the game currency ID read at the player's location receiving the payment. Using this obtained user ID, it updates the user ID associated with the game currency ID of the paid game currency 832.

[0412] It should be noted that the management control device 56 will identify game coin IDs not read from the game coin tray 12 before or after payment as the game coin IDs for payment game coins 832. Furthermore, in the presence of multiple players accepting payment, the dealer pays sequentially from one end to a predetermined direction (e.g., sequentially from the dealer's right-hand side to the left-hand side). Therefore, even in the presence of multiple players accepting payment, it is possible to determine which player's position or to which player the payment game coin 832 is taken from the game coin tray 12.

[0413] In addition, the management control device 56 can determine the player position of the losing player, and therefore updates the database 57 to use the user ID associated with the game currency ID read from the placement area 41 of that player position as "D" to represent the casino or dealer.

[0414] As described above, in this example, the management control device 56 has access to the placement content and game results. Therefore, it can determine which player or player location placed game currency 831 was paid out, which player or player location placed game currency 831 was recycled, and it can also identify the game currency IDs of these placed game currency 831 and the game currency 832 that was paid out. Therefore, in the database 57, it can determine which game currency IDs were updated with the associated user IDs, and which user IDs should be updated accordingly. Thus, it is possible to track the owner of the game currency 83.

[0415] (Sixth case)

[0416] Figure 34 This diagram illustrates the structure of the management system in the sixth example of the fourth embodiment. The management system 160 has the same structure as the second example. In a certain card game, as described above, multiple player positions are provided at the game table 4004, and a placement area 41 is provided for each player position at the corresponding location on the game table 4004. In principle, one player plays the game at each player position.

[0417] However, even when all player seats are full, players may appear behind the seated player (the player with a seat) to place items in the designated area 41 allocated to that seated player (the player placing the items later), as permitted by the casino or game table 4004. Due to this placement, multiple game tokens 83 with different user IDs may be placed in the same area. In this example, the management system 160 is able to track the owners of the game tokens 83 even in this situation.

[0418] In the management system 160 of this example, similar to the second example, the user ID of the game coin 83 is stored in the rewritable area 22 of the RFID tag 2 of the game coin 83, without using a database. However, there is a player identification system that identifies the player.

[0419] exist Figure 35 In the example, in the same placement area 41b, there are two game coins: one with user ID "P1" (placed as game coin 831a) and the other with user ID "P2" (placed as game coin 83b). At this time, the user IDs of game coins 83 can be read from placement area 41b as "P1" and "P2".

[0420] Figures 36-38 A diagram illustrating an example of payouts when both players win the game. First, as... Figure 35 As shown, a payment is made to player 82a with user ID "P1". At this time, the management system 160 cannot distinguish whether the payment is made to player 82a with user ID "P1" or player 82b with user ID "P2". Furthermore, for multiple game coins 83 existing in a placement area 41, it is impossible to write different information. Therefore, the management control device 56 controls the RF control device 54 to rewrite the user ID of all game coins 83 existing in the placement area 41b with selective information such as "P1 or P2".

[0421] The player 82a who receives the payment removes their own placed game currency 831a and the payment game currency 832a from the placement area 41b, as follows: Figure 37As shown, in placement area 41b, there is still game currency 831b with user ID "P1 or P2" remaining. The dealer confirms that player 82a takes game currency 83, and so on. Figure 38 As shown, game coins 831b with user ID "D" are paid out. At this time, the management control device 56 controls the RF control device 54 and rewrites the user IDs of all game coins 83 in the placement area 41 to "P1 or P2".

[0422] Therefore, players 82a and 82b, who placed their items in the same placement area 41, both possess game currency 83 with the user ID record "P1 or P2".

[0423] Suppose that players 82a and 82b place these game coins 83 again in the same placement area 41, and both 831a and 831b record "P1 or P2" as their user ID. Alternatively, some of the placed game coins may include game coins 83 with user IDs of either "P1" or "P2". In these cases, when making payments according to the game results, the management control device 56 controls the RF control device 54 to selectively write "P1 or P2" as the user ID for all game coins 83 placed in the placement area 41 during payment.

[0424] It should be noted that when the user ID is "P1 or P2", and the game coin 831 is returned to the game coin tray 12, "D", representing the casino or dealer, is written as the user ID.

[0425] Subsequently, when players 82a and 82b individually place game coins 83 that selectively record user IDs of multiple users in the placement area 41, and the user ID of the player determined by the system matches any one of the user IDs in the selection, the management control device 56 controls the RF control device 54 to rewrite the selective user ID of the game coin 83 to the matching user ID.

[0426] For example, if player 82a places game token 83, whose user ID is recorded as "P1 or P2", in placement area 41, the RF control device 54 reads the user ID "P1 or P2" from the placed game token 831 in placement area 41. The player identification system identifies the user ID of the player placed in placement area 41 as "P1". In this case, the user ID "P1" is consistent, therefore, the management control device 56 controls the RF control device 54 to rewrite the user ID of the placed game token 831 in placement area 41 to "P1".

[0427] On the other hand, when a player with game currency 83 whose user ID is selectively recorded places a game currency, in the same placement area 41, a player with a user ID that is not in the options places a game currency. When accepting payment according to the game result, the user ID of the game currency 83 is also selectively written into the user ID of that player so that it is included in the options.

[0428] For example, if player 82a places game currency 83 with "P1 or P2" as user ID in placement area 41, and other players place game currency 83 with "P3" as user ID in the same placement area 41, when making payment according to the game result, management control device 56 controls RF control device 54 to rewrite the user IDs of all game currency 83 in placement area 41, including those for payment, to "P1 or P2 or P3".

[0429] As mentioned above, in this example, selective recording of user IDs is allowed, enabling owner tracking even when multiple players place items in the same area. Furthermore, by using a player identification system, the selectively recorded user IDs can be reliably rewritten.

[0430] It should be noted that when multiple players place their tokens in the same placement area 41, and some players win while others lose, the tokens placed by the losing players are recycled first. Therefore, when the token tray 12 reads the recycled tokens, "D" can be recorded as the user ID. The above processing is performed on the tokens that receive payment tokens 832 and the payment tokens that pay for the tokens placed.

[0431] (Seventh case)

[0432] Figure 39 This diagram illustrates the structure of the management system in the seventh example of the fourth embodiment. The management system 170 has the same structure as the management system 130 in the third example. In the management system 170, even when multiple players place items in the same placement area 41, it is possible to track the owner of the game coins 83.

[0433] Figures 40-44 This diagram illustrates an example of updating database 57. Player 82a places game coin 831a in placement area 41b. If player 82b places game coin 831b in the same placement area 41b, then... Figure 40As shown, in the RF control device 54, the game coin IDs "C00001" to "C00005" for game coins placed in the placement area 41b and the game coin IDs "C10001" to "C10005" for game coins placed in the placement area 41b are read as user IDs, and the combination with the area ID "Area 2" of the placement area 41 is output to the management control device 56. Furthermore, the game coin IDs "C20001" to "C20100" are read from the game coin tray 12, and the management control device 56 obtains the combination with the area ID "Area T" of the game coin tray 12.

[0434] like Figure 40 As shown, at this point in time, in database 57, game currency IDs “C00001” to “C00005” are associated with user ID “P1”, game currency IDs “C10001” to “C10005” are associated with user ID “P2”, and game currency IDs “C20001” to “C20100” are associated with user ID “D”.

[0435] If the game results in a win for player 82a and 82b, then as follows: Figure 41 As shown, firstly, the dealer pays out either the game coin 831a or the game coin 831b. At this time, in the placement area 41b, in addition to the game coin IDs "C00001" to "C00005" for the game coin 831a and "C10001" to "C10005" for the game coin 831b, the game coin IDs "C20001" to "C20005" for the game coin 832a are also read, and the combination of this ID with the area ID "Area2" of the placement area 41 is output to the management control device 56.

[0436] At this stage, the management control device 56 cannot determine whether the game coins 831a with game coin IDs “C00001” to “C00005” have been paid, or whether the game coins 831b with game coin IDs “C10001” to “C10005” have been paid. Therefore, the database 57 is not updated.

[0437] Next, if player 82a takes away the placed game coin 831a and the payment game coin 832a from the placement area 41b, then as follows: Figure 41As shown, only the game currency IDs "C10001" to "C10005" of the remaining game currency 831b are read in the placement area 41b. Based on this change, the management control device 56 determines that the payment game currency 832a with game currency IDs "C20001" to "C20005" read in the placement area 41b is paid to the placed game currency 831a with game currency IDs "C00001" to "C00005". The user ID associated with game currency IDs "C20001" to "C20005" in the database 57 is rewritten from "D" to "P1", that is, rewritten to the user ID associated with the placed game currency 831a taken from the placement area 41b together with the payment game currency 832a with game currency IDs "C20001" to "C20005".

[0438] The dealer confirms whether the placed game token 831a and the paid game token 832a have been removed from the placement area 41b. Figure 43 As shown, in the same placement area 41b, game coins 832b are paid to game coins 831b. In this way, the game coin IDs "C10001" to "C10005" of the game coins 831b and the game coin IDs "C20006" to "C20010" of the game coins 832b are read from the placement area 41b and recorded in the management control device 56 in combination with the area ID "Area2" of the placement area 41.

[0439] Then, if player 82b takes away the game coin 831b and pays game coin 832b, then... Figure 44 As shown, no game currency ID can be read from the placement area 41b; only the game currency ID read from the game currency tray 12 is input into the management control device 56. Based on this change, the management control device 56 determines that the payment game currency 832b for game currency IDs “C20006” to “C20010” is delivered to the same player as the player with game currency IDs “C10001” to “C10005”, and updates the database 57 so that the user ID associated with game currency IDs “C20006” to “C20010” and the user ID associated with game currency IDs “C10001” to “C10005” are the same in the database 57.

[0440] As described above, according to the management system 170 in this example, it detects that the placed game currency 831 and the paid game currency 832 were taken away from the placement area together, and updates the database 57 so that the user ID of the paid game currency 832 is the same as the user ID of the placed game currency 831. Therefore, even if multiple players' game currency 83 is placed in the same placement area 41, by paying these players sequentially, it is possible to determine which player the paid game currency 832 was paid to, update the database 57, and track the owner of the game currency.

[0441] (Case 8)

[0442] Figure 45 This diagram illustrates the structure of the management system in the eighth example of the fourth embodiment. The management system 180 has the same structure as the management system 140 in the fourth example. However, in the management system 180, a PP area 44, a sum area 45, and a BP area 46 are provided on the game table 4004 as placement areas. Furthermore, antennas 514, 515, and 516 are provided on the game table 4004 corresponding to the PP area 44, the sum area 45, and the BP area 46.

[0443] These areas 44 to 46 are divided according to each player's position. When players place their game coins in these areas 44 to 46, they place the game coins in the positions (divided) corresponding to their respective player positions within these areas.

[0444] That is, PP area 44, tie area 45, and BP area 46 are shared placement areas used by multiple players. Figure 45 In the example, players 82a to 82c participate in the game, and players 82b and 82c place game tokens 831b and 831c in the tie area 45 respectively.

[0445] In this example, for shared placement areas 44-46, the owner of game coins 83 can be tracked, similar to the sixth or seventh example. It should be noted that even if the management system 180 does not have database 57, the owner of game coins 83 can still be tracked, similar to the sixth example; and even if the management system 180 does not have a player identification system, the owner of game coins 83 can still be tracked for shared placement areas, similar to the seventh example.

[0446] (Case 9)

[0447] Figure 46This diagram illustrates the structure of the management system in the ninth example of the fourth embodiment. The management system 190 includes a player identification system. In this example, the tracking of game coins 83 is performed without using the database 57. Furthermore, the game table 4004 is provided with payment areas 42a-42e and antennas 512a-512e corresponding to the payment areas. In addition, the fixed information 3 of the RFID tag 2 of the game coin 83 stores information indicating the amount (value) of the game coin 83, and the change information 4 stores the owner's user ID.

[0448] It should be noted that in this example, database 57 can be used. In this case, game currency 83 stores game currency ID, and the amount (value) of game currency 83 and the owner's user ID are stored in database 57 in a way that is associated with the game currency ID.

[0449] like Figure 47 As shown, if player 82a's placed game coins 831a (5 game coins with an amount of "100") and player 82b's placed game coins 831b (2 game coins with an amount of "1000") are placed in placement area 41b, then 5 game coins 83 with an amount of "100" and user ID "P1" are read from placement area 41b, and 2 game coins 83 with an amount of "1000" and user ID "P2" are read. These, along with "Area2", which is the area ID of placement area 41, are output to management control device 56.

[0450] For each placement area 41, the management control device 56 calculates the total amount of game coins placed by each player, thereby detecting the placement amount of each player. Figure 47 In the middle, the management control device 56 detected that the placement amount of user ID "P1" was "500" and the placement amount of user ID "P2" was "2000".

[0451] If both players 82a and 82b win the game, the dealer pays out (repays) the game coins placed on 831a and 831b in sequence. For example... Figure 48 As shown, firstly, when paying game coin 832a to place game coin 831a, the dealer places the paying game coin 832a in the payment area 42b.

[0452] At this time, the RF control device 54 reads the game coins 83 in the payment area 42b. It reads that there are 5 game coins 83 with the amount "100" and outputs this information to the management control device 56. The management control device 56 calculates the total amount of game coins 832a read in the payment area 42b, thereby detecting the payment amount.

[0453] The management control device 56 compares the payment amount of game coins 832a with the placement amount of each player in the placement area 41b, and determines the player whose placement amount matches the payment amount. Figure 48 In the middle, five game coins 832a with an amount of "100" are read from the payment area 42b, and the payment amount is detected as "500". The management control device 56 determines that the payment amount "500" is consistent with the placement amount "500" of the game coin 831a placed by user ID "P1", and rewrites the user ID of the game coin 832a to "P1".

[0454] Then, if player 82a takes away the payment game currency 832a and the placement game currency 831a, then as follows Figure 49 As shown, the placement area 41b contains the remaining game coins 831b of player 82b. If the dealer places the payment game coins 832b, which are paid out to the placement game coins 831b, in the payment area 42b, the management control device 56 calculates the total amount of the payment game coins 832b to detect the payment amount of the payment game coins 832b.

[0455] The management control device 56 compares the payment amount of game coins 832b with the placement amount of each player in the placement area 41b, and determines the player whose placement amount matches the payment amount. Figure 49 In the process, two game coins 832b with a value of "1000" are read from the payment area 42b, and the payment amount is detected as "2000". The management control device 56 determines that the payment amount "2000" is consistent with the placement amount "2000" of the game coin 831b placed by user ID "P2", and rewrites the user ID of the game coin 832b to "P2".

[0456] As described above, in the management control system 190 of this example, even when multiple players place items in the same placement area 41, if these placement amounts are different, it is determined which player the game currency was paid to based on the placement amount and the amount of game currency paid.

[0457] (Case 10)

[0458] In the first to ninth examples above, where player 82 is a non-member who registered without being a member, such a non-member does not have a user ID attached, therefore, player 82 cannot be identified through the player identification system. Furthermore, as mentioned above, for the game coins 83 owned by the non-member, the RFID tag 2 or database 57 does not store a valid user ID, therefore, the user ID is recorded as "Unknown".

[0459] When paying game currency 832 to a non-member player, the management system records the user ID of the paying game currency 832 as "Unknown". When retrieving game currency 831 from a non-member player, the user ID of the placing game currency 831 is recorded as "D".

[0460] When a member player and a non-member player are placed in the same placement area 41, and both players win the game, the dealer may pay out according to the rule that payouts usually start with non-members or usually with members.

[0461] For example, when applying a rule that payments are typically made starting with non-members, the management system rewrites the user ID of the first payment of game currency 832 to "Unknown". For subsequent payments of game currency 832, the system rewrites the user ID of the member player, using the same example.

[0462] Furthermore, for example, when using a rule that typically starts payments from the member, the management system rewrites the user ID of the first paid game currency 832 to the user ID determined by placing game currency 831, and rewrites the user ID of the subsequent paid game currency 832 to "Unknown".

[0463] It should be noted that when the dealer uses a card authentication system to identify players, personally scanning the membership card 81 allows them to determine which player is a member. However, when identifying players using a facial recognition system, it is impossible to determine which player is a member. Furthermore, the facial recognition system's results can be displayed to the dealer via monitors or similar means, showing the location or placement area of ​​the player whose user ID has been identified.

[0464] (Case 11)

[0465] Figure 50 This diagram illustrates an example of the placement area in the eleventh example of the fourth embodiment. In this example, the placement area 41 for each player's position is divided into a placement area 411 for members and a placement area 412 for non-members, and the antenna is also divided into an antenna 5111 for members and an antenna 5112 for non-members.

[0466] The management control device 56 controls the RF control device 54 to rewrite the user ID of the game coins 831 placed in the member's placement area 411, as in the first to ninth examples above. For the game coins 831 placed in the non-member's placement area 412, the user ID of the payment game coins 832 that paid for the game coins placed there is rewritten to "Unknown".

[0467] In this example, there is no situation where game currency 83 with the user ID attached to the player is stored in the game currency itself or in database 57, and game currency 83 with the user ID attached to the player but not stored in the game currency itself or in database 57 (user ID is "Unknown") are mixed and read. Game currency 83 with the user ID attached to the player is effectively tracked.

[0468] It should be noted that, in this example, antennas 5111 and 5112 can be used instead of a single antenna across the member-only placement area 411 and the non-member-only placement area 412. In this case, when game coins 83 are placed in both the member-only and non-member-only placement areas 411 and 412, the dealer can identify which game coin 831 belongs to a member and which belongs to a non-member.

[0469] Furthermore, when all game coins 831 are paid out, the dealer can pay out according to the rule of paying out member game coins 831 first. Therefore, the management system can determine that the first paid game coin 832 is a game coin paid to a member. It should be noted that the dealer can also pay out according to the rule of paying out non-member game coins 831 first. In this case, the management system can determine that the first paid game coin 832 is a game coin paid to a non-member.

[0470] Figures 51a and 51b are diagrams illustrating other examples of the placement area in the eleventh example of the fourth embodiment. In this example, the placement area 41 for each player position is selectively set to either the member placement area 41 shown in Figure 51a or the non-member placement area 41 shown in Figure 51b.

[0471] Each placement area 41 is equipped with a display unit 413 nearby. The display unit 413 can change the display to show whether the placement area 41 is set as a member area or a non-member area. The display unit 413 is set under the fabric of the game table 4004, and the displayed information can be set so that it can be visually confirmed by the player through the fabric.

[0472] It should be noted that the structure for visually displaying whether each placement area 41 is set to be for members or non-members is not limited to the display unit 413 embedded under the fabric of the game table 4004. For example, the setting of each placement area 41 to be for members or non-members can be displayed by a monitor that is set on the game table 4004 in a way that is visible to the player.

[0473] The management control device 56 controls the RF control device 54 to rewrite the user ID of the game coins 831 placed in the area when the placement area 41 is set to be for members, as shown in the first to ninth examples above. When the placement area 41 is set to be for non-members, the user ID of the game coins 832 that were paid to the game coins placed in the area is rewritten to "Unknown".

[0474] In this example, there is no situation where game currency 83 with the user ID attached to the player is stored in the game currency itself or in database 57, and game currency 83 with the user ID attached to the player but not stored in the game currency itself or in database 57 (user ID is "Unknown") are mixed and read. This allows for effective tracking of game currency 83 with the user ID attached to the player and stored in the game currency itself or in database 57.

[0475] (Case 12)

[0476] In the first to ninth examples described above, when game coins 83 are exchanged between the dealer and the player at the game table 4003, it is also possible to track the owner of the game coins 83. In this case, the management system has a mechanism for determining the progress of the game (i.e., whether it is in progress, in play, or in settlement). The card dispensing device 4003 or any other mechanism can be used as the progress determination mechanism.

[0477] In this example of the management system, during placement, the management control device 56 controls the RF control device 54 to cause each antenna to periodically read at predetermined time intervals. During placement, the management control device 56 determines to exchange game coins 83 if it reads game coins 83 with user ID "D" in any placement area 41 or any payment area 42 (hereinafter referred to as "reading area of ​​game table 4004").

[0478] The reason is that, in the operation of a certain card game, during placement, except for exchange, it is impossible to move game coins 83 from the game coin tray 1 to the game table 4003, and the player's game coins 83 on the game table 4003 cannot be moved to the game coin tray 12. It should be noted that when the game is in progress, such movement of game coins 83 is considered cheating. Therefore, when the management control device 56 detects the movement of game coins 83 as described above during the game, it can output an alarm.

[0479] During placement, if the management control device 56 reads game coins 83 with a user ID attached to the member or "Unknown" in the game coin tray 12, it determines that the game coin 83 is the game coin 83 taken from the player to the game table 4004 for exchange between game coins (game coin before exchange).

[0480] Specifically, if the game coin 83 itself stores a user ID, when the management control device 56 reads the user ID attached to the member or "Unknown" from the game coin tray 12 during placement, it determines that an exchange is in progress. If the user ID is stored in the database 57, when the number of game coins 83 read from the game coin tray 12 during placement decreases, it determines that an exchange is taking place. Alternatively, if the user ID is stored in the database 57, when the number of game coins 83 read from the game coin tray increases during placement, it can be determined that an exchange is in progress.

[0481] Furthermore, during placement, if the management control device 56 reads from the reading area of ​​the game table 4004 that the user ID is a game coin 83 representing a "D" held by the casino or dealer, the game coin 83 is determined to be the game coin 83 (the game coin after exchange) given to the player corresponding to the game coin before exchange.

[0482] Specifically, when the user ID is stored in the game coin 83 itself, when the management control device 56 reads the user ID "D" from the reading area of ​​the game table 4004 during placement, it determines that it is a redemption. When the user ID is stored in the database 57, the management control device 56 periodically reads the reading area of ​​the game table 4004 during placement. For each read, by referring to the database 57, it is determined that the game coin 83 with the user ID "D" was read from the reading area of ​​the game table 4004.

[0483] The management control device 56 rewrites the user ID of the game token before redemption to "D" representing the casino or dealer, and rewrites the user ID of the game token after redemption to the user ID of the game token before redemption. Specifically, when the user ID is stored in the RFID tag 2 of the game token 83, the management control device 56 controls the RF control device 54 to rewrite the user IDs stored in the corresponding game tokens before and after redemption. When the user ID and game token ID are stored in the database 57 in association, the management control device 56 rewrites the user ID associated with the corresponding game token ID in the database 57.

[0484] In addition, after determining the game currency before and after the exchange, the management control device 56 controls the RF control device 54 to change these user IDs (when the user ID is stored in the game currency 83) or update the database 57 (when the user ID is stored in the database 57).

[0485] It should be noted that in the above embodiment, the membership card 81 is a magnetic stripe card, and the card reader 53 is a magnetic stripe card reader that reads information from the magnetic stripe of the membership card 81. Alternatively, an RFID tag can be embedded in the membership card 81, and the user ID can be recorded in the RFID tag. In this case, an RFID reader consisting of an antenna and an RF control device 54 is used as the card reader 53. Furthermore, such an antenna can be set at each player's position. In this case, it is not necessary for the player to personally hand their membership card 81 to the dealer; the card can be read at each player's position. The information determining the player's position, along with the user ID read from the membership card 81, is sent from each antenna to the RF control device 54. Further, the antenna 511 and the RF control device 54 set in the placement area 41 can be used as an RFID reader for reading the membership card 81. In this case, the antenna 511 can read the user ID by the player placing the membership card 81 in the placement area 41 at their own player's position.

[0486] The following technology will be disclosed through the first to eleventh examples of the fourth embodiment described above.

[0487] (A1) A management system for managing game currency, comprising:

[0488] The owner determination agency, when the game coin is used, refers to the storage agency that stores the owner of the game coin and determines the owner of the game coin;

[0489] A player identification agency that identifies the player who uses the game currency when it is used; and

[0490] A control mechanism, in the event that the owner determined by the owner determination mechanism and the player determined by the player determination mechanism are inconsistent, will store the player determined by the player determination mechanism as the owner in the storage mechanism.

[0491] (A2) According to the management system of (A1), in the case where the owner determined by the owner determination agency and the player determined by the player determination agency are inconsistent, the control agency will store the inconsistency in the storage agency.

[0492] (A3) According to the management system of (A1), the player identification agency identifies the player using the game currency by facial recognition or ID card reading.

[0493] (A4) According to the management system of (A1), the storage institution is a database or an RFID tag built into the game coin.

[0494] (A5) A management system for managing game currency, comprising:

[0495] A storage facility that stores the owners of the game currency;

[0496] The player-identifying institution determines the player who will accept repayment of the game currency; and

[0497] The control mechanism, upon the redemption of the game currency, causes the storage mechanism to store the player as the owner.

[0498] (A6) According to the management system of (A5), in which,

[0499] The determining agency also determines the placement area allocated to the player.

[0500] The control device determines which placement area the game coins were returned to, thereby determining which player the game coins were returned to.

[0501] (A7) According to the management system of (A5), in which,

[0502] The control device, when the placement area contains game coins stored by a player identified by the determining mechanism as the owner, and game coins stored by a player identified by the determining mechanism as not being the owner,

[0503] For game coins that are redeemed for game coins stored by a player identified by the determining authority as the owner, the player identified by the determining authority will be stored as the owner of the game coins.

[0504] (A8) According to the management system of (A5), in which,

[0505] It also has a detection device that detects the amount of game currency repaid.

[0506] The control device, when the placement area contains game coins stored by a player identified by the determining mechanism as the owner, and game coins stored by a player identified by the determining mechanism as not being the owner,

[0507] When the detection device detects an amount equivalent to the repayment of game coins stored by a player not identified as an owner by the determining agency, and the game coins are returned to the placement area, the player identified by the determining agency will be stored as the owner of the game coins.

[0508] (A9) According to the management system of (A5), in which,

[0509] It also has a detection device that detects the amount of game currency repaid.

[0510] The control device, when the placement area contains game coins stored by a player identified by the determining mechanism as the owner, and game coins stored by a player identified by the determining mechanism as not being the owner,

[0511] For the game coin that is first detected by the detection device in the placement area, the player identified by the determining agency is stored as the owner of the game coin.

[0512] (A10) The management system according to any one of (A6) to (A9), wherein,

[0513] The placement area includes: an area for placing game coins stored by a player identified by the determining agency as the owner; and an area for placing game coins stored by a player identified by the determining agency as not being the owner.

[0514] (A11) The management system according to any one of (A6) to (A10), wherein,

[0515] It also has an output mechanism for outputting visual information, which is used to distinguish between the placement area where game coins stored by a player identified by the determining mechanism as the owner are placed, and the placement area where game coins stored by a player identified by the determining mechanism as not being the owner are placed.

[0516] (A12) A management system for managing game currency, comprising:

[0517] A storage facility that stores the owners of the game currency;

[0518] The player-identifying institution determines a stack of multiple backup players who may receive the paid game currency; and

[0519] A control mechanism, for each of the game coins constituting the payment stack, causes the storage mechanism to store the plurality of backup players as the owners.

[0520] (A13) According to the management system of (A12), where,

[0521] The player determination agency identifies multiple players who accept the payment when placed in the same placement area as the multiple backup players.

[0522] (A14) According to the management system of (A12), where,

[0523] The player determination agency determines the player who places the game currency.

[0524] The management system also includes an owner determination mechanism that, for the placed game currency, determines the plurality of reserve players stored in the storage facility as the owner.

[0525] If the player determined by the player determination agency matches any one of the plurality of replacement players determined by the owner determination agency, the control agency determines the matching replacement player as the owner and causes the storage agency to store it.

[0526] (B1) A management system for managing and storing game coins with identification information used in games on a game table, comprising:

[0527] The first identification device reads the identification information stored in the game coins placed in the placement area of ​​the game table;

[0528] A second identification device acquires the identification information stored in the game currency used to pay the game currency; a storage device stores the identification information and the owner of the game currency containing the identification information in association; and

[0529] The control device stores the owner associated with the identification information read by the first identification device from the game coin placement as the owner associated with the identification information of the game coin payment obtained by the second identification device in the storage device.

[0530] (B2) According to the management system of (B1), where,

[0531] The second identification device is the first identification device, and it obtains the identification information stored in the payment game coin by reading the identification information stored in the payment game coin placed in the placement area.

[0532] (B3) According to the management system of (B1), in which,

[0533] The second identification device is a device for reading the identification information stored in multiple game coins in the dealer's game coin tray, and for obtaining the identification information stored in the payment game coins based on the difference between the multiple identification information read before the payment game coins are paid and the multiple identification information read after the payment game coins are paid.

[0534] (B4) According to the management system of (B1), where,

[0535] The second identification device obtains the identification information stored in the payment game token by reading the identification information stored in the payment game token which is placed on the game table but is different from the placement area.

[0536] (B5) According to the management system of (B1), in which,

[0537] The first identification device periodically reads the identification information.

[0538] When the identification information read by the first identification device from the placed game coins is not read by the first identification device, the control device stores the owner associated with the unread identification information as the owner associated with the identification information of the paid game coins obtained by the second identification device in the storage device.

[0539] (B6) According to the management system of (B1), in which,

[0540] The second identification device acquires the identification information by periodically reading the identification information stored in the payment game currency.

[0541] When the identification information read by the second identification device from the game coins is not read by the second identification device, the control device stores the owner associated with the identification information read by the first identification device from the game coins as the owner associated with the unread identification information in the storage device.

[0542] (B7) A management system for managing game coins containing identification information used in games at arcade tables, comprising:

[0543] The first identification device acquires the identification information stored in the game coins that the player took out to the game table before the exchange for the game coins;

[0544] The second identification device acquires the identification information stored in the game currency after exchange, which corresponds to the game currency before exchange and is given to the player.

[0545] A storage device that stores the identification information and, in association, the owner of the game coin containing the identification information; and

[0546] The control device stores the owner associated with the identification information of the game currency before exchange obtained by the first identification device as the owner associated with the identification information of the game currency after exchange obtained by the second identification device in the storage device.

[0547] (B8) According to the management system of (B7), in which,

[0548] The control device also stores the owner associated with the identification information of the game currency before exchange obtained by the second identification device as the owner associated with the identification information of the game currency after exchange obtained by the first identification device in the storage device.

[0549] (B9) According to the management system of (B7), in which,

[0550] The first identification device is a reading device that reads the identification information of multiple game coins in the dealer's game coin tray, and acquires the added identification information as the identification information stored in the game coins before exchange.

[0551] (B10) According to the management system of (B7), in which,

[0552] The second identification device is a reading device that reads the identification information from multiple game coins in the dealer's game coin tray, and obtains the reduced identification information as the identification information stored in the exchanged game coins.

[0553] (B11) A management system for managing the exchange of game coins containing identification information, used in games at arcade tables, comprising:

[0554] A reading device that reads the identification information stored in the game tokens placed in the reading area on the game table for redemption;

[0555] A storage device that stores the identification information in association with the owner of the game coin containing the identification information;

[0556] The control device stores the owner associated with the identification information stored in the first game coin as the owner associated with the identification information stored in the second game coin, when the owner associated with the identification information stored in the first game coin (read by the reading device) is different from the owner associated with the identification information stored in the second game coin (read by the reading device).

[0557] (Sixth Implementation Method)

[0558] The following describes a game table reading system that reads RFID tags on a game table. In the following embodiments, a card game game table used for playing card games is used as an example; however, the present invention is not limited to card game game tables and can be applied to any game table.

[0559] Figure 53 This diagram illustrates a game table according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. The game table (hereinafter simply referred to as the "table") 6004 has a generally elliptical or semi-circular shape. One side of the table 6004 is the dealer's position (adjacent to the coin tray 51 described later), and the other side has multiple player positions for the players during the game. Figure 53 In the example, there are five player positions on the underside of table 6004.

[0560] A coin tray 51 is provided at the dealer's position, embedded in the table 6004, for storing the dealer's coins 83. The coin tray 51 is double-layered, and the upper layer can be removed to replenish or remove the coins 83 from the lower layer.

[0561] The game coin 83 has an embedded RFID tag 831 (see reference). Figure 56 The RFID tag 831 stores at least game coin identification information (hereinafter also referred to as "game coin ID") to uniquely identify the game coin. The RFID tag 831 may also store information indicating the value of the game coin.

[0562] Placement areas 41a to 41e (hereinafter collectively referred to as "placement area 41") are provided at each player's position. These areas are used for placing game coins 83 onto the target object by the player playing the game at that player's position. Placement areas 41 are depicted on the top of table 6004. Adjacent placement areas 41 are distinguished by one or two lines. The distance between adjacent placement areas 41 is relatively close, with the closest distance being 0 to 15 cm, for example, smaller than the diameter of the game coin 83.

[0563] Although the illustrations are omitted, the placement areas 41a-41e at each player's position are arranged adjacent to each other in a non-overlapping manner, including a PP area for placing pairs of P's hands, a BP area for placing pairs of B's ​​hands, a tie area for placing hands of P and B with the same rank, a P area for placing hands of P to win, and a B area for placing hands of B to win. Hereinafter, these PP, BP, tie, P, and B areas will be referred to as "placement object areas." Adjacent placement object areas are distinguished by one or two lines. Alternatively, no lines may be used between adjacent placement object areas; they can be distinguished by painting them with different colors, or by painting them with a different color from the background. The closest distance between adjacent placement object areas is 0-10cm, for example, smaller than the diameter of 83 coins.

[0564] Each player's position has a payment area 42a-42e (hereinafter collectively referred to as "payment area 42"), which is used to read the game coins when the dealer pays game coins 83 to the player. The payment area 42 is drawn on the top of the table 6004. Adjacent payment areas 42 are distinguished by one or two lines. Alternatively, no lines may be set between adjacent payment areas 42, but they may be distinguished by being painted with different colors, or by being painted with a different color from the background. In addition, adjacent payment areas 42 and placement areas 41 are distinguished by one or two lines. Alternatively, no lines may be set between adjacent payment areas 42 and placement areas 41, but they may be distinguished by being painted with different colors, or by being painted with a different color from the background. The distance between adjacent payment areas 42 is relatively short, with the closest distance being 0-10cm, for example, smaller than the diameter of the game coin 83. Furthermore, the distance between the payment area 42 and the placement area 41 at each player's position is relatively short or, at the closest distance, 0-15cm, for example, smaller than the diameter of the game coin 83.

[0565] Reading antennas 511a-511e (hereinafter collectively referred to as "reading antennas 511") are provided in placement areas 41a-41e for reading the RFID tags 831 embedded in the game coins 83 placed in placement areas 41a-41e respectively. Reading antennas 521a-521e (hereinafter collectively referred to as "reading antennas 521") are provided in payment areas 42a-42e for reading the RFID tags 831 embedded in the game coins 83 placed in payment areas 42a-42e respectively. Reading antenna 531 is provided in the game coin tray 51 for reading the RFID tags 831 embedded in the game coins 83 stored in the game coin tray 51. It should be noted that, as described above, the game coin tray 51 is double-layered, and the reading antenna 531 can be located, for example, inside the upper tray.

[0566] In addition, reading restriction antennas 512a-512e (hereinafter collectively referred to as "reading restriction antennas 512") are provided in placement areas 41a-41e to restrict or prevent the RFID tags 831 embedded in the game coins 83 placed in placement areas 41a-41e from being read by reading antennas in other areas. Reading restriction antennas 522a-522e (hereinafter collectively referred to as "reading restriction antennas 522") are provided in payment areas 42a-42e to restrict or prevent the RFID tags 831 embedded in the game coins 83 placed in payment areas 42a-42e from being read by reading antennas in other areas. Reading restriction antenna 532 is provided in game coin tray 51 to restrict or prevent the RFID tags 831 embedded in the game coins 83 stored in game coin tray 51 from being read by reading antennas in other areas.

[0567] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the reading antenna 511 and reading limiting antenna 512 of the placement area 41 are shaped along the outer edge of the placement area 41, the reading antenna 521 and reading limiting antenna 522 of the payment area 42 are shaped along the outer edge of the payment area 42, and the reading antenna 531 and reading limiting antenna 532 of the coin tray 51 are shaped along the outer edge of the coin tray 51. However, the shape of the antennas is not limited to these. Furthermore, in Figure 53 In the example, the readout limiting antenna is located inside the readout antenna. However, the positional relationship between the readout antenna and the readout limiting antenna is not limited to this. The readout limiting antenna can be located outside the readout antenna, and in a top view, the readout limiting antenna and the readout antenna can intersect. Furthermore, multiple readout limiting antennas can be set relative to one readout antenna, and conversely, one readout limiting antenna can be set relative to multiple readout antennas.

[0568] A card dispensing device 58 is placed on table 6004. The card dispensing device 58 holds multiple decks of cards. The dealer 91 can draw cards one by one from the card dispensing device 58. The card dispensing device 58 has the function of reading the suit and face value of the drawn cards. Based on the minimum face value of the drawn cards, the card dispensing device 58 determines the game result according to the rules of a certain card game. The card dispensing device 58 displays the determined game result via lights, etc., and outputs the data representing the game result to the outside. In this way, the card dispensing device 58 functions as a game result determination device.

[0569] The table 6004 is also equipped with a camera 52 and a card reader 53. The camera 52 captures images of the face of the player 82 playing the game in the player's position and the game coins 83 on the table 6004. It should be noted that the camera used to capture the player's face and the camera used to capture images of the game coins 83 on the table 6004 can be set up separately.

[0570] Card reader 53 reads information stored in membership card 81 by scanning the membership card 81 held by a registered player (member). An RFID tag is built into membership card 81, storing at least the user ID assigned to that player. Card reader 53 has an operation unit (not shown) for dealer 91 to designate player positions. When dealer 91 scans membership card 81 through card reader 53, it designates the player position. Thus, card reader 53 outputs a combination of player position and user ID. Furthermore, card reader 53 has a cancellation operation unit (not shown). When player 82 leaves the table, dealer 91 designates the player position and operates the cancellation operation unit. Thus, card reader 53 outputs the player position and cancellation instruction.

[0571] At table 6004, when player 81 is playing a card game, player 82 first takes a seat at a player's position on table 6004 and then hands their membership card 81 to the dealer 91. The dealer 91 scans the membership card 81 using a card reader 53. Player 81 places game coins 83 in any of the following placement areas of the placement area 41 located at their player's position: P area, B area, tie area, PP area, and BP area.

[0572] When all players (82) have placed their cards, dealer 9 stops the placement process and draws cards one by one from card dispensing device 58. In a certain card game, following the order of Player P's hand, Player B's hand, Player P's hand, Player B's hand, four cards are drawn first. At this point, if PP is not valid, the placement coins placed in PP are returned to the coin tray 51 by dealer 91. Furthermore, if BP is not valid at this point, the placement coins placed in BP are returned to the coin tray 51 by dealer 91.

[0573] According to the rules of a certain card game, the dealer 91 draws cards from the fifth card onwards as needed. Upon finalizing the game result, the dealer 91 retrieves the losing player's placed game coin 83 to the game coin tray 51, and then pays the winning player's placed game coin 83 from the game coin tray 51. During this payment, the dealer 91 first temporarily places the game coin in the payment area 42 of the player's position where the payable game coin 83 is placed, and then places the payable game coin 83 next to the placed game coin 83. The winning player receives the game coin (payable game coin) placed next to the placed game coin 83 as their placed game coin. When starting the next game (i.e., when placing the game coin), the dealer 91 presses the game start button located on the card dispensing device 58.

[0574] Figure 54 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of a game table reading system according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. The game table reading system 100 includes a card dispensing device 58, a player determination system 55, a reading control device 561, a reading restriction control device 562, a management control device 56, a database 57, reading antennas 511, 521, and 531, and reading restriction antennas 512, 522, and 532.

[0575] The player identification system 55 includes a camera 52, a card reader 53, and a facial recognition device 502. The facial recognition device 502 authenticates the player based on an image of the player's face captured by the camera 52. The facial recognition device 502 can use machine learning techniques for facial authentication. The facial recognition device 502 also determines the location of the authenticated player, i.e., the player's position, based on the position of the player's face. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a player can be identified using a facial authentication system including the camera 52 and the facial recognition device 502, and the player can also be identified by reading the membership card 81 using the card reader 53; however, players can also be identified without using any of the above methods.

[0576] The card dispensing device 58 outputs the game progress status (i.e., in the middle of a transaction, between the end of the game and the next game, or in the middle of placement) to the management and control device 56 based on the card value drawn by the button operation or reading, and outputs the game result (P's hand wins, B's hand wins, tie, P's hand is PAIR, B's hand is PAIR, etc.) to the management and control device 56.

[0577] The reading control device 561 reads the RFID tag 831 in the reading area corresponding to the reading antenna by controlling the reading antennas 511, 521, and 531. The reading restriction control device 562 controls the reading restriction antennas 521, 522, and 523 to prevent the RFID tag in the reading area corresponding to the reading restriction antenna from being read by the reading antennas corresponding to other reading areas.

[0578] Based on the game progress from the card dispensing device 58, the management control device 56, as needed and referring to information stored in the database 57, controls the reading control device 561 and the reading restriction control device 562 to sequentially read RFID tags from multiple reading areas. The management control device 56 updates the database 57 by associating the information read from the RFID tags by the reading antennas with the players identified by the player identification system 555 and storing this association in the database 57. Each reading antenna 511, 521, and 531 is attached with antenna identification information (antenna ID) for uniquely identifying that antenna.

[0579] The reading control device 561 packages the information read by the reading antennas 511, 521, and 531 together with the antenna ID of the reading antenna and sends it to the management control device 56. It should be noted that the reading control device 561 can be set up for each reading antenna. In this case, for each reading control device 561, instead of the antenna ID, the reader identification information (reader ID) used to uniquely identify the reading control device 561 can be sent to the management control device 561.

[0580] like Figure 54 As shown, the reading antennas 511, 521, and 531 are partially open loops in their respective reading areas, with one end and the other end connected to the reading control device 561. The reading control device 561 reads RFID tags by causing current to flow through the reading antennas, thereby creating an electromagnetic field in the reading area.

[0581] One end and the other end of each of the reading antennas 511, 521, and 531 are connected to the reading control device 561 via a switch (not shown). The reading control device 561 controls the opening and closing of the switch. Specifically, for reading antennas 511, 521, and 531 in reading areas that are not being read, the reading control device 561 opens their switches, thereby opening the loop of reading antennas 511, 521, and 531. The electromagnetic field generated by the reading antennas 511, 521, and 531 in adjacent reading areas prevents the induced current from flowing through the reading antennas 511, 521, and 531 that are not being read.

[0582] The read restriction antennas 512, 522, and 532 have a ring around their corresponding read areas, and switches 521s, 522s, and 532s have closed or open loops. The read restriction control device 562 opens and closes switches 521s, 522s, and 532s. When switches 521s, 522s, and 532s are closed to form a closed loop (in the event of a short circuit), the read restriction antennas 512, 522, and 532 perform the function of restricting reads; when switches 521s, 522s, and 532s are opened to form an open loop, they do not restrict reads.

[0583] Figure 55 This is a cross-section of placement areas 41b and 41c, which serve as reading areas. A substrate 401 for mounting reading antennas 511 and 521 and a substrate 402 for mounting reading restriction antennas 512 and 522 are stacked below the surface 6004a of the table 6004. In this embodiment, substrate 401 is positioned below substrate 402, but the arrangement order can be appropriately changed. Furthermore, the vertical distance between reading antennas 511 and 521 and reading restriction antennas 521 and 522 is appropriately set based on the intensity of the electromagnetic waves, the shapes of the reading antennas 511 and 521 and reading restriction antennas 521 and 522, etc. Moreover, reading antennas 511 and 521 and reading restriction antennas 512 and 522 can be mounted on the same substrate.

[0584] When reading is performed on reading area 41b, a closed loop is formed in reading area 41c adjacent to reading area 41b by closing the switch 512s of reading restriction antenna 512c. Through reading restriction antenna 512c, the induced power generated by the electromagnetic field formed by reading antenna 511b in adjacent reading area 41b creates a restrictive (interference) electromagnetic field. This restrictive electromagnetic field shapes the electromagnetic field of reading antenna 511b, thereby restricting (interfering) reading of the game coin 83c placed in adjacent reading area 41c by reading antenna 41b. The game coin 83b placed in reading area 41b corresponding to the energized reading antenna 41b is read by reading antenna 41b.

[0585] Figure 55 The intensity distribution 5111b of the electromagnetic field generated by the readout antenna 511b for reading in the placement area 41b is shown, as well as the intensity distribution 5111c of the electromagnetic field generated by the readout limiting antenna 511c during reading in the placement area 41b. Furthermore, Figure 55 The following diagram shows the intensity distribution 5112b when the electromagnetic field generated by the read antenna 511b is weakened by the electromagnetic field generated by the read restriction antenna 512c of the adjacent placement area 41c, and the intensity distribution 5112c when the electromagnetic field generated by the read antenna 511c is weakened by the electromagnetic field generated by the read restriction antenna 512b of the adjacent placement area 41c.

[0586] like Figure 55 As shown, when the reading antenna 511b generates an electromagnetic field with an intensity distribution 5111b for reading the RFID tag 831 of the game coin 83b in the placement area 41b, by closing the switch of the reading restriction antenna 512c in the adjacent placement area 41c, an induced current flows through the restriction antenna 512, thereby generating an electromagnetic field for reading obstruction. As a result, the electromagnetic field with an intensity distribution 5111b generated by the reading antenna 511b is shaped into an electromagnetic field such as the intensity distribution 5112b that is sufficiently small and flat within the adjacent placement area 41c. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the RFID tag 831 of the game coin 83c in the placement area 41c from being read by the reading antenna 511b.

[0587] Furthermore, an aluminum strip is attached to the substrate 402 as a shielding component or blocking means for shielding electromagnetic waves from adjacent reading areas. It should be noted that the shielding component can be in a form other than a strip, such as a plate, film, sheet, coating, or foil. Furthermore, the material of the shielding component can be other than aluminum, such as silver, gold, copper, or nickel, or it can be a material containing aluminum, silver, gold, copper, or nickel. The shielding component can also be a mesh. In addition to limiting the reading of antennas 512b and 512c, this shielding component can also limit the reading of reading antennas in adjacent reading areas.

[0588] It should be noted that, in Figure 55 In the example, the shielding member can be disposed on the substrate 402 for accommodating the readout limiting antennas 513 and 512c, but the shielding member can also be disposed on the substrate 401 for accommodating the readout antennas 511 and 521. Alternatively, the shielding member can be disposed on the surface of the substrate 402 opposite to the readout limiting antennas 512b and 512c, or on the surface of the substrate 401 opposite to the readout antennas 511b and 511c. Alternatively, the shielding member can be disposed on a plane different from both the substrate 401 and the substrate 402.

[0589] The game table reading system 100 of this embodiment uses a database 57 to manage game coins 83. The database 57 stores information about the RFID tags embedded in the game coins 83 in association with prescribed association information. The management control device 56 updates the database 57 based on the information from the RFID tags read by the reading antennas 511, 521, and 531 and the relationship between the reading areas 41, 42, and the game coin tray 51, which serve as reading areas. In this way, the management control device 56 updates the database 57 used for managing the game coins 83 according to the information from the RFID tags of the game coins 83 read in each reading area of ​​the game table 6004.

[0590] The following explains the management of database 57 for game currency 83. Figure 56 This is a diagram representing the data structure of game currency 83 and database 57. As mentioned above, game currency 83 has a built-in RFID tag 831. RFID tag 831 stores game currency ID 573. Database 57 has two types of tables: a game currency management table 571 for managing game currency 83 and a user management table 572 for managing users.

[0591] In the game currency management table 571, for each game currency 83, the game currency ID 573 of that game currency 83 is associated with its value information 574, user identification information (user ID) 575 used to uniquely identify the user holding the game currency, and location information 576 indicating the location of the game currency 83, as association information. It should be noted that while the value information 574 for game currency ID 573 remains unchanged, the user ID 575 and location information 576 associated with game currency ID 573 will change as the game currency 83 is used in the casino. Therefore, in the database 57, for game currency ID 573, in addition to the latest user ID and location information, fixed past user IDs and location information can be stored, or only the latest user ID and location information can be stored.

[0592] In the user management table 572, for each user, for user ID 575, the value information 574 of the game currency held by the user, the placement information 577 indicating the user's historical placement in the game, and the location information 576 indicating the user's current location are associated as related information. The value information 574, placement information 577, and location information 576 associated with user ID 575 will change because the game currency 83 is used in the casino. Therefore, in database 57, for user ID 575, in addition to the latest value information, placement information, and location information, fixed past value information, placement information, and location information can be stored, or only the latest value information, placement information, and location information can be stored.

[0593] The game table reading system 100 updates the game coin management table 571 and the user management table 572 in the database 57 based on the information read by the reading antenna from the RFID tag 831, thereby managing the game coins 83. The specific method for managing the game coins 83 using the database 57 can employ any of the methods described in the above embodiments. The following description, which also includes repetitions of the above description, explains the management of the game coins 83 in this embodiment.

[0594] It should be noted that in the following description, the management control device 56 updates the database 57. However, the management control device 56 updates the database based on the information read by each reading antenna from the RFID tag 831 and the game status at the time of reading that information. In this embodiment, the management control device 56 grasps the game status by obtaining information about the game status (in play, in place, in settlement, in rest, etc.) from the card dispensing device 58.

[0595] First, the management control device 56 updates the game coin management table 571 of the database 57 by associating the game coin ID of the game coin 83 paid to the winning user with the user ID of the winning user. Furthermore, the management control device 56 updates the game coin management table 571 of the database 57 by associating the game coin ID of the game coin 83 placed by the losing user with the user ID assigned by the dealer. Therefore, even if the owner of the game coin 83 changes due to its use in the game, the game coins held by each user can be determined by referring to the database 57.

[0596] Furthermore, the management control device 56 updates the database 57 by associating the game coin ID of the game coin 83 read in the payment area 42 with the user ID of the user playing the game at the corresponding player position in the payment area 42. According to the above embodiment, the user ID of the user playing the game at each player position can be determined by the player identification system 55.

[0597] Specifically, in the game coin management table 571 of the database 57, the management control device 56 records the user ID of the user located at the player's position in the payment area 42 for the game coin ID of the game coin 83 read in the payment area 42. By updating the database 57 in this way, the situation where the owner changes from the dealer to the user due to payment can be reflected in the database 57.

[0598] Furthermore, the management control device 56 updates the user management table 572 in the database 57 by adding the value of the game coins 83 paid to the winning user to the value information 574 associated with the user ID 575 of the winning user, and subtracting the value of the game coins 83 recovered from the losing user from the value information 574 associated with the user ID 575 of the losing user. By updating the database 57 in this way, the value, i.e., the amount of game coins 83 held by each user can be managed in the database 57.

[0599] Furthermore, when the game coin ID of the game coin 83 being paid is read in the payment area 42, the management control device 56 updates the database 57 by associating the game coin ID of the game coin 83 being paid with the user ID associated with the game coin 83 placed in the corresponding placement area 41 of the payment area 42.

[0600] Alternatively, when the game coin ID of the paid game coin 83 is read in the placement area 41, the management control device 56 updates the database 57 in a manner that associates the game coin ID of the paid game coin 83 with the user ID associated with the game coin 83 placed in the placement area 41. Thus, the database 57 can be updated in the same way as the owner of the game coin 83 that was paid for it.

[0601] Furthermore, when all player positions are occupied and there are players waiting to be placed, i.e., when multiple players are placing their cards in a single player position, the management control device 56 manages the game currency 83 as described below. Specifically, if the player identification system 55 can determine the user IDs of two users simultaneously in the same player position, the management control device 56 manages the game currency 83 for each user in the same manner as described above. If the player identification system 55 can determine the user ID of one of the two users simultaneously playing in the same player position but cannot determine the user identification information of the other, the dealer pays out according to the rule of paying out to the player whose user ID was determined first. The management control device 56 updates the database 57 by associating the game currency ID of the game currency 83 paid out to that player position with the user ID determined by the player identification system 55. The management control device 56 associates the game currency ID of the subsequently paid game currency 83 with "unknown" as the user ID.

[0602] The reading antenna and reading control device 561 for reading the RFID tag 831 embedded in the game coin 83 can be located at various locations within the casino facility. In this case, the reading control device 561 can be located at various locations within the casino facility, and the management control device 56 can communicate with these multiple reading control devices 561. As described above, the information of the RFID tag 831 read by the reading antenna, along with the antenna ID of the reading antenna or the reader ID of the reading control device 561, can be sent from the reading control device 561 to the management control device 56. The management control device 56 has a table associated with information about the location of the reading antenna corresponding to each antenna ID or each reader ID (location information, such as counter number, table number, game coin tray number, entrance / exit number, etc. used to identify counters, tables, game coin trays, entrances / exits, etc.).

[0603] If the management control device 56 receives the read game coin ID and antenna ID (or reader ID) from the reading control device 561, it updates the location information 474 associated with the game coin ID in the game coin management table 571 of the database 57 based on this information. Furthermore, the management control device 56 also updates the location information 576 associated with the game coin ID in the user management table 572.

[0604] Therefore, by referring to database 57, we can know where each game coin 83 is located, or where each user is located. In addition, by storing past information as location information in game coin management table 571 and user management table 572, we can know the movement history of game coins 83 and users.

[0605] Furthermore, the management control device 56 obtains user ID information of users playing games at each player's location from the player identification system 55. If game coins 83 are placed in the placement area 41, the management control device 56 obtains the game coin ID as an RFID tag from the reading antenna 511 at each player's location. The management control device 56 uses the user ID and game coin ID to update the user management table 572 in the database 57. Specifically, the management control device 56 refers to the game coin management table 571, obtains the value information 574 of the acquired game coin ID 573, and adds the value of this value information 574 to the placement information of the acquired user ID in the user management table 572.

[0606] Accordingly, the management control device 56 updates the database 57 by adding the value of the game coins 83 read by the reading antenna 511 of the placement area 41 to the placement information 577 associated with the user ID 575 of the user determined at the player position corresponding to the reading antenna 511. By updating the database 57 in this way, the value of the game coins 83 placed by each user, i.e., the placement amount, can be managed in the database 57. It should be noted that the placement amount can also be managed as the corresponding reward points.

[0607] The information stored in the RFID tag 831 of the game coin 83, namely the game coin ID 573, is used to determine the authenticity of the game coin 83. When the reading antenna reads the information of the RFID tag 831, the management control device 56 compares this information with the database 57. If the information does not exist in the database 57, i.e., the comparison fails, the management control device 56 determines that the game coin 83 is defective or improper. If the management control device 56 determines that the game coin 83 is defective or improper, it outputs a warning. Thus, a warning can be output if an improper game coin 83 is used at the game table 6004. The output warning can be timely in a visually or audibly perceptible manner (i.e., at the moment it is determined to be defective or improper), or the information of the situation when the defect or improperness occurs (table number, date, and time, etc.) can be recorded in a recording device.

[0608] Figure 57 This diagram illustrates other examples of read antennas and read-limit antennas. In this example, a read antenna is set for each player position and each placement object, i.e., each P, B, and side placement for a tie, PAIR, etc. For example... Figure 57 As shown, each placement area 41 has multiple placement target areas, including P area 411, B area 412 set up near each player's position, draw area 413, PP area 414, and BP area 415 which serve as side placement areas.

[0609] Reading antennas and reading restriction antennas are provided in the respective placement areas, which are designated as reading areas, thereby allowing for the differentiation of reading from each placement area. Specifically, reading antenna 5111 and reading restriction antenna 5112 are provided in area P 411, reading antenna 5121 and reading restriction antenna 5122 are provided in area B 412, reading antenna 5131 and reading restriction antenna 5132 are provided in area 413, reading antenna 5141 and reading restriction antenna 5142 are provided in area PP 414, and reading antenna 5151 and reading restriction antenna 5152 are provided in area BP 415.

[0610] In this way, by treating the placement areas of each player's location as separate reading areas and setting up reading antennas for each, it is possible to determine which placement object a player placed 83 game coins on at each player's location. Therefore, in this example, if... Figure 57As shown, even with multiple reading areas densely arranged, the game table reading system 100 can still read the RFID tag 831 from each of these reading areas. The management control device 56 can determine which player's position won the game, i.e., which player's position should be paid, based on the game result information from the card dispensing device 58 and the placement information obtained from each player's position. If the determination result is inconsistent with the actual payment, the management control device 56 can detect the inconsistency and output a warning.

[0611] Figure 58 This is a diagram illustrating other examples of readout-limited antennas. In Figure 58 The diagram only shows placement areas 41b, 41c, and 41d, and their corresponding payment areas 42b, 42c, and 42d. In this example, multiple read-limiting antennas are provided in a placement area that serves as a read area. These multiple read-limiting antennas shape the electromagnetic field generated by each of the read antennas in several adjacent other read areas.

[0612] Specifically, for example, in addition to the reading antenna 511c that reads the entire placement area 41c, which serves as the reading area, three reading restriction antennas 512c1, 512c2, and 512c3 are also provided in the placement area 41c, which serves as the reading area. Reading restriction antenna 512c1 is configured so that the reading antenna 511d of the adjacent right-side placement area 41d does not read the RFID tag 831 of the game coin 83 placed in placement area 41c. Reading restriction antenna 512c2 is configured so that the reading antenna 511b of the adjacent left-side placement area 41b does not read the RFID tag 831 of the game coin 83 placed in placement area 41c. Reading restriction antenna 512c3 is configured so that the reading antenna 521c of the adjacent upper-side payment area 42c does not read the RFID tag 831 of the game coin 83 placed in placement area 41c.

[0613] When the read control device 561 controls the read antenna 511d to read the RFID tag 831 in the placement area 41d, the read restriction control device 56 closes the switch of the read restriction antenna 512c1 in the placement area 41c, causing the read restriction antenna 512c1 to generate electromagnetic waves that prevent the read antenna 511d from reading the RFID tag 831 in the placement area 41c. When the read control device 561 controls the read antenna 511b to read the RFID tag 831 in the placement area 41b, the read restriction control device 562 closes the switch of the read restriction antenna 512c2 in the placement area 41c, causing the read restriction antenna 512c2 to generate electromagnetic waves that prevent the read antenna 511b from reading the RFID tag 831 in the placement area 41c. Furthermore, when the reading control device 561 controls the reading antenna 521c to read the payment area 42c, the reading restriction control device 562 closes the switch of the reading restriction antenna 512c3 in the placement area 41c, causing the reading restriction antenna 512c3 to generate electromagnetic waves to prevent the reading antenna 521c from reading the RFID tag 831 in the placement area 41c.

[0614] In this manner, synchronously with the read control device 561 driving the read antennas to read in sequence, the read restriction control device 562 closes the switch of the corresponding read restriction antenna to generate interference electromagnetic waves.

[0615] As described above, according to the game table reading system 100 of this embodiment, when multiple reading areas on the game table 6004 are set at close intervals, it is possible to distinguish which reading area the RFID tags 831 are located in. Specifically, even when multiple placement areas are set at close intervals, by providing reading antennas to each placement area 41, it is possible to prevent the reading antennas from reading the RFID tags 831 of adjacent placement areas 41 or payment areas 42. Furthermore, even when a payment area 42 is set corresponding to each of the multiple placement areas 41 and a reading antenna is provided therein, it is also possible to prevent the reading of RFID tags 831 of adjacent payment areas 42 or placement areas 41.

[0616] It should be noted that in the sixth embodiment described above, the read restriction antennas 512, 522, and 532 generate induced currents through the electromagnetic fields generated by the read antennas 511, 521, and 531 in adjacent read areas, producing electromagnetic fields to hinder reading in the corresponding read areas. However, this approach can be substituted by generating the hindering electromagnetic field by flowing current in the read restriction control device 562. Furthermore, in this case, switches that block the loop can be provided on the read restriction antennas 512, 522, and 532. When read antennas 511, 521, and 531 located in the same read area are reading, the switch can be opened to open the loop.

[0617] Symbol explanation:

[0618] 41 Placement Area

[0619] 42 Payment Area

[0620] 53 Card Reader

[0621] 56 Management and control devices

[0622] 57 Databases

[0623] 58 Card Dispensing Device

[0624] 81 Membership Card

[0625] 82 players

[0626] 83 game coins

[0627] 91 Dealer

[0628] 100 Game Table Reading System

[0629] 511, 521, 531 Antenna Reading

[0630] 512, 522, 532 Readout Limitation Antenna

[0631] 561 Reading control device

[0632] 562 Read restriction control device

[0633] 831 RFID tag

[0634] 6004 Game table.

Claims

1. A game table reading system, wherein, This game table reading system has the following features: A game table, which has one or more placement areas; Multiple reading antennas are provided, corresponding to each of the payment area and each of the multiple smaller areas constituting the placement area, and are used to read the RFID tags embedded in the game coins placed in the payment area and each of the multiple smaller areas; A read-limiting antenna is provided corresponding to at least one of the plurality of small regions, and the read-limiting antenna is provided in such a way that the read-limiting antenna provided corresponding to a small region other than that small region does not read the RFID tag of the game coin in that small region; The management and control device, when the RFID tag is read by the reading antenna, determines the location of the game coin whose RFID tag has been read based on the small area corresponding to the reading antenna; A coin tray is provided on the game table; A game coin tray reading antenna, used to read the RFID tags embedded in the game coins stored in the game coin tray; and A reading restriction component is used to prevent the RFID tag embedded in the game coins stored in the game coin tray from being read by the reading antenna of the payment area. The reading restriction component restricts the reading antenna of the game coin tray from reading the RFID tag of the game coin in the small area.

2. The game table reading system according to claim 1, wherein, The payment area is located between the placement area and the game coin tray.

3. The game table reading system according to claim 1, wherein, The read restriction component is a shielding component used to shape the electromagnetic field in a way that weakens the electromagnetic field generated by the read antenna corresponding to the payment area outside the payment area.

4. The game table reading system according to claim 3, wherein, The shielding component is a plate, strip, film, coating or sheet containing at least one of aluminum, silver, copper, gold or nickel.

5. The game table reading system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The shielding component and the reading antenna are disposed on the same plane.

6. The game table reading system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The shielding component and the readout limiting antenna are disposed on the same plane.

7. The game table reading system according to claim 3, wherein, The shielding component is shaped in such a way that the electromagnetic field generated by the readout antenna corresponding to the payment area is flattened outside the payment area.

8. The game table reading system according to claim 1, wherein, The game table reading system has multiple reading restriction antennas, which are arranged corresponding to each of the multiple small areas.

9. The game table reading system according to claim 8, wherein, The management and control device sequentially reads the RFID tags of game coins in each of the plurality of small areas by using antennas in each of the groups consisting of each of the read antennas and each of the read restriction antennas in sequence, wherein the read restriction antenna is provided in correspondence with at least one of the small areas other than the small area to which each read antenna is provided.

10. The game table reading system according to claim 1, wherein, The placement area has a plurality of smaller areas that are substantially the same shape.

11. The game table reading system according to claim 1, wherein, The placement area is a placement area set up according to each seat position, and the multiple small areas are placement object areas.

12. The game table reading system according to claim 1, wherein, The game table reading system also features: A database that stores the information of the RFID tags in association with related information; and The management and control device updates the database based on the relationship between the information of the RFID tag read by the reading antenna and the small area where the RFID tag was read.

13. The game table reading system according to claim 12, wherein, The information in the RFID tag includes game coin identification information. The associated information includes user identification information of the user holding the game currency. The management control device updates the database by associating the game currency identification information paid to the user who wins the game with the user identification information of the user who wins the game.

14. The game table reading system according to claim 13, wherein, When the game currency identification information of the paid game currency is read in the small area, the management control device updates the database by associating the game currency identification information of the paid game currency with the user identification information associated with the game currency placed in the small area.

15. The game table reading system according to claim 12, wherein, The information in the RFID tag includes information used to determine the authenticity of the game currency. The game table reading system refers to the database, compares the information used for the authenticity determination read by the reading antenna, and outputs a warning if the comparison fails.

16. The game table reading system according to claim 3, wherein, In order to shape the electromagnetic field generated by multiple readout antennas corresponding to multiple other small regions adjacent to one of the small regions, multiple readout limiting antennas are provided corresponding to the one of the small regions.

17. A game table reading system, wherein, This game table reading system has the following features: The game table is laid out with multiple small areas; Multiple reading antennas are provided, corresponding to each of the multiple small areas, and are used to read the RFID tags embedded in the game coins placed in each of the multiple small areas; A read-limiting antenna is provided corresponding to at least one of the plurality of small regions, and the read-limiting antenna is provided in such a way that the read-limiting antenna provided corresponding to a small region other than that small region does not read the RFID tag of the game coin in that small region; The management and control device, when the RFID tag is read by the reading antenna, determines the location of the game coin whose RFID tag has been read based on the small area corresponding to the reading antenna; A coin tray is provided on the game table; A game coin tray reading antenna, used to read the RFID tags embedded in the game coins stored in the game coin tray; and A reading restriction component is included to prevent the RFID tag embedded in the game coins stored in the game coin tray from being read by the reading antenna in the small area. The reading restriction component restricts the reading antenna of the game coin tray from reading the RFID tag of the game coin in the small area.

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