Counter system and game coin management system

Abstract

A counter system for monitoring movement of game coins in a counter is provided. The counter (10) is divided into a plurality of locations including the receptacles (14). The game coin (70) has an RFID tag (71) in which a game coin ID is stored. A counter system (501) for managing the movement of game coins in a counter (10) of a casino hall (1) is provided with: a game coin reader (123) for reading a game coin ID from an RFID tag (71) of a game coin (70) moving between a plurality of positions in the counter (10); game coin readers (133, 143) for reading a game coin ID from an RFID tag (71) of a game coin (70) moved from the counter (10) to the casino hall (1); and a coin management database (101) in which the coin ID read by the coin reading unit (141, 142, 143) is recorded as a movement history of the coin (70).

Description

[0001] Divisional application This application is a divisional application of the patent filed on June 8, 2021, with patent application number 202180041856.1 and invention titled Counter System and Game Currency Management System.

[0002] Cross-referencing of related applications This application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-102729, filed on June 12, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to a counter system for managing game tokens in a casino and a game token management system including the counter system. Background Technology

[0004] As a system for managing casino game tokens, a game token tracking system is known in which an RFID tag is embedded in the game token, storing at least the game token ID, and the game token ID is associated with a user ID, thereby monitoring which user holds which game token.

[0005] In addition, a game coin security system is known in which a valid game coin ID is pre-stored in a database, and the game coin ID is read from the RFID tag of the game coin in the casino (e.g., at a table) and compared with the database to determine the validity or authenticity of the game coin (e.g., see Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-5565). Summary of the Invention

[0006] Game tokens are brought into the casino through counters, and discarded tokens are removed from the counters and taken outside. Existing token tracking systems may not be able to monitor the movement of all game tokens within the casino, including those inside the counters and those moving between the counters and other locations within the casino.

[0007] Therefore, the present invention provides a counter system for monitoring the movement of game tokens in the counter and the movement between the counter and various locations within the casino, and a game token management system including the system for managing game tokens within the casino.

[0008] The present invention discloses a counter system for managing the movement of gaming tokens within a counter in a casino lobby. The counter is divided into multiple locations, including a cash register. Each gaming token has an RFID tag storing a token ID. The counter system comprises: a first reading mechanism that reads the token ID from the RFID tag of the gaming token moving between the multiple locations; a second reading mechanism that reads the token ID from the RFID tag of the gaming token moving from the counter to the casino lobby; and a recording mechanism that records the token ID read by the first and second reading mechanisms as a movement history record of the gaming token. According to this structure, the movement of gaming tokens within the counter can be managed.

[0009] In the aforementioned counter system, the recording mechanism records the movement destination and / or movement source along with the game currency ID in the movement history. Based on this structure, it is possible to determine whether a movement was performed correctly.

[0010] The aforementioned counter system also includes a management body that determines whether a movement is appropriate based on the movement history. This structure enables the detection of inappropriate movements.

[0011] In the aforementioned counter system, for game coins with a movement history that does not match the pre-set movement history probability, the management agency may record it as cheating or suspected of cheating in the recording agency.

[0012] The aforementioned counter system also includes a third reader that reads the game token ID from the RFID tag of the game token placed into the counter from the casino lobby. This structure allows for complete management of the game tokens within the counter.

[0013] In the aforementioned counter system, if the destination of the game tokens is recorded in the movement history of the tokens moved to the casino lobby, and the tokens are not received at that destination, the management authority can issue an alarm or make a record. Based on this structure, it is possible to detect whether a movement from the counter to a designated location in the casino lobby has not been completed correctly.

[0014] In the aforementioned counter system, if the game currency is not received at the destination within a specified time, the management authority can issue an alarm or record the event. Based on this structure, an anomaly can be determined if the movement is not completed within the specified time.

[0015] The present invention provides a game coin management system having a structure comprising: any of the aforementioned counter systems; and a fourth reading mechanism disposed at the game table to read the game coin ID from the RFID tag of the game coin. According to this structure, game coins within a casino lobby, including the counter, can be managed.

[0016] In the aforementioned game currency management system, the management authority can calculate the total amount of game currency held by players in the casino lobby. Based on this structure, the total debt of the casino can be monitored in real time.

[0017] In the aforementioned game currency management system, the management organization can record date and time information in the movement history record. This structure allows for more detailed recording of movement history.

[0018] In the aforementioned game currency management system, the management authority can detect suspicious movements of the game currency based on the date and time information. This structure enables the detection of various suspicious movements.

[0019] In the aforementioned game currency management system, the management organization can record information about staff involved in movement in the movement history. Based on this structure, in cases of inappropriate movement, the staff associated with the inappropriate movement can be identified. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the overall structure of the casino according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 A perspective view of the game currency involved in the embodiments of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the game currency management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 A schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the game table according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 A diagram illustrating the movement state of game coins according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 A diagram illustrating an example of data updated in the game currency management database by the first method for managing the movement of game currency according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 A diagram illustrating an example of data updated in the game currency management database using the second method for managing the movement of game currency according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 A diagram illustrating an example of data updated in the game currency management database according to the fourth method for managing the movement of game currency according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 A diagram illustrating an example of data updated in the game currency management database by the fifth method for managing the movement of game currency according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This diagram illustrates an example of data updated in the game currency management database using the fourth method for managing the movement of game currency according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0021] The counter system and game coin management system of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the invention is not limited by the following embodiments, and the structural elements of the following embodiments include elements that are readily conceived by those skilled in the art or are substantially the same.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the overall structure of the casino according to an embodiment of the present invention. The casino lobby 1 is equipped with a counter 10 and multiple game tables 42-45. The game pools with game tables 42-45 can be divided into VIP game pools and public game pools. Counter 10 is a room accessible only to security personnel. Counter 10 is divided into a vault 11, a main bank room 12, a pre-bank / office room 13, and a teller's room 14.

[0023] Vault 11 has an entrance 21 connecting to the outside of counter 10. Entrance 22 connects vault 11 to the main bank room 12. Entrance 23 connects the main bank room 12 to the F / C bank room 13. Entrance 25 connects the main bank room 12 to the cashier's room 14. The F / C bank room 13 has an entrance 24 connecting to the casino lobby 1, where game tables 42-45 are located. Cashier's room 14 has entrances (windows) 26-28 connecting to the casino lobby 1. Each entrance 21-25 allows for the passage of people and game tokens, or it can allow only game tokens to pass through, with separate doors for people. Windows 26-28 can be opened to the extent that game tokens can be purchased.

[0024] Vault 11 is staffed with vault staff 31, main bank 12 is staffed with main bank staff 32, F / C bank office 13 is staffed with F / C bank staff 33, and teller office 14 is staffed with teller staff 34-36 corresponding to windows 26-28.

[0025] Casino lobby 1 has game tables 42-45, each with one dealer (52-55). It should be noted that... Figure 1 The example shows only four game tables, but in reality, the casino lobby 1 is configured with many more game tables. Furthermore, multiple adjacent game tables 42 are equipped with game table managers 56.

[0026] exist Figure 1 In the example, there are players 61-69 in Casino Lobby 1. Players in Casino Lobby 1 are as follows... Figure 1 As shown in Player 61, players purchase game tokens through any of the windows 26-28. Players who purchase game tokens at counter 10 can place them on game tables 42-45 to participate in the game. If a player loses the game, their game tokens are taken back by the dealer; if they win, they receive a refund from the dealer corresponding to the game rules and the amount placed. In this way, a player's game tokens increase or decrease through gameplay. If a player runs out of game tokens, they can purchase more at counter 10 (buy in).

[0027] At game tables 42-45, game coins are collected from losing players and paid out to winning players. This causes an increase or decrease in the number of game coins held by the dealer (casino) at the game tables. If there are insufficient game coins on the table, the game coin handler 51 receives game coins from entrance 24 of the F / C bank room 13 and transports them to the game table to replenish it. This act of replenishing game coins at the table is called "filling". Furthermore, if there are excess game coins on the table, the game coin handler 51 transports the game coins from the game table to the counter 10, where they are stored in the F / C bank room 13 via entrance 24. This act of returning game coins from the game table to the counter 10 is called "crediting".

[0028] It should be noted that when managing the movement history of game currency in Game Lobby 1, the movement source, movement destination, and the places that can exist in between will be referred to as "location" in the following text. Figure 1 In some cases, for example, the rooms and game tables within counter 10 are referred to as “positions”.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the game coin involved in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 The image shows a 100-point game coin. The game coin 70 has a round shape, with its face value displayed on both surfaces. Figure 1 In the case of "100 points", the coin has multiple layers stacked in the thickness direction in the order of white layer, colored layer, and white layer. The sides have a striped pattern formed by white layers sandwiching colored layers. The color of the colored layers varies depending on the face value; therefore, the face value of the coin can be determined by judging the color of the colored layers.

[0030] The game coin 70 has an internally integrated RFID tag 71. The RFID tag 71 stores the game coin's ID and face value. It should be noted that the RFID tag 71 can be a writable RFID tag. In this case, the current location of the game coin and even the holder's information can be recorded on the RFID tag 71. Furthermore, past locations and even the holder's historical records can also be recorded on the RFID tag 71. The game coin 70 can be constructed by pressing together multiple sheets of material, or it can be formed by resin molding.

[0031] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the structure of a game currency management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The game currency management system 1000 includes a counter system 501 and multiple desktop systems 502. Desktop systems 502 are located at each game table. The counter system 501 includes a game currency management computer 100 and a game currency management database 101 for unified management of game currency within the counter 10 and the casino lobby 1.

[0032] In addition, the counter system 501 includes a vault computer 111 installed in the vault 11, and a vault card reader 112 and a vault coin reader 113 connected to the vault computer 111. Furthermore, the counter system 501 includes a main bank computer 121 installed in the main bank room 12, and a main bank card reader 122 and a main bank coin reader 123 connected to the main bank computer 121. Furthermore, the counter system 501 includes an F / C bank computer 131 installed in the F / C bank room 13, and an F / C bank card reader 132 and an F / C bank coin reader 133 connected to the F / C bank computer 131. Furthermore, the counter system 501 includes a teller computer 141 installed in the teller room 14 corresponding to each of the windows 26-28, and a teller card reader 142 and a teller coin reader 143 connected to the teller computer 141.

[0033] Desktop system 502 includes a desktop computer 151, a desktop card reader 152, a desktop game coin reader 153, a game coin tray reader 154, and multiple game coin readers for placement areas connected to the desktop computer 151. It should be noted that... Figure 3 Although only one desktop system 502 is shown, multiple desktop systems 502 can be set up to correspond to multiple game tables.

[0034] The vault computer 111, main bank computer 121, F / C bank computer 131, teller computer 141, desktop computer 151, and game currency management database 101 are all connected to the game currency management computer 100. It should be noted that the game currency management computer 100 and other computers, as well as the game currency management database 101, can be connected via a local network using wired or wireless connections. Alternatively, the game currency management computer 101 and the game currency management database 101 can be located on a wide area network (e.g., the Internet) and connected to other computers via the WAN. That is, the game currency management computer 100 and the game currency management database 101 can be located in the cloud instead of in the casino.

[0035] Each computer 100, 111, 121, 131, 141, and 151 is connected to an input device (not shown) for receiving input operations from the corresponding staff. Input devices include, for example, keyboards, mice, buttons, touchpads, touch panels, and voice input devices. It should be noted that by simply leaving these input devices and communication devices in their respective locations, the functions of each computer can be integrated into the game coin management computer 100. In this case, various signals (e.g., input signals to input devices, signals read by game coin readers, etc.) can be directly transmitted between the input devices, card readers, game coin readers, and management computer 100 at each location.

[0036] Card readers 112, 122, 132, 142, and 152 at each location read staff IDs or player IDs from the ID cards held by staff or players. Specifically, vault card reader 112, main bank card reader 122, and F / C bank card reader 132 read staff IDs from the corresponding staff's ID cards, and teller card reader 142 reads staff IDs from the teller's ID card and purchases game tokens from the teller's machine. Additionally, tabletop card reader 152 reads the staff ID of the corresponding dealer and the player ID of the player playing the game.

[0037] The game coin readers 113, 123, 133, 143, 153, and 155 at each location read information from the RFID tag 71 of the game coin 70 and write information to the RFID tag 71. In particular, each game coin reader 113, 123, 133, 143, and 153 reads the RFID tag 71 when the game coin 70 moves from another location to this location, and when the game coin moves from this location to another location (i.e., when the game coin 70 leaves this location).

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a game table according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4The image shows a game table 42. The game table 42 has multiple play positions. On its surface, the game table 42 includes multiple placement areas corresponding to the play positions, a coin tray for storing the dealer's coins, a dealer area for reading and writing information from the RFID tags 71 of the coins 70, and an ID card area for reading the dealer's and players' ID cards.

[0039] The coin tray is equipped with a tray antenna 514 for reading the RFID tags 71 of the coins 70 stored in the coin tray. Each of the multiple placement areas has placement area antennas 515a-515e inside the table for reading the RFID tags 71 of the coins 70 placed in that area. The dealer area has a dealer antenna 513 inside the table for reading the RFID tags 71 of the coins 70 placed in the dealer area. The ID card area has an ID card antenna 512 inside the table.

[0040] Each antenna 512-515 is connected to the desktop computer 151, transmitting the read signals to the desktop computer 151. The desktop computer 151 decodes the signals from each antenna to obtain various information stored in the RFID tag 71 or ID card.

[0041] Staff assigned to each location begin work after reading their card ID using the corresponding card reader. The computer at each location transmits the read staff ID, along with the date and time, to the game currency management computer 100. The game currency management computer 100 stores the staff ID read by the card reader at each location, along with the location, date, and time information, in the game currency management database 101.

[0042] The game currency management database 101 stores the following tables: Player Table, Game Currency Table, Game Table Table, Staff Table, and Movement History Table. The Player Table stores the login information of each player. In addition to storing player IDs and various player attributes, the Player Table also stores player statuses such as VIP, suspected, and blacklisted players. The Game Currency Table stores game currency IDs, face value, type, and manufacturing information, as well as game currency statuses such as valid, whereabouts unknown, stolen, and invalid. The Game Table Table stores table IDs, game types, etc. The Staff Table records staff IDs and various staff attributes. The Movement History Table records the location and even the holder's historical records for game currency 70.

[0043] (Management of game currency movement) Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the movement state of game coins according to an embodiment of the present invention. (See diagram below.) Figure 5As shown, at locations other than the vault, when game coins are returned, there is a possibility that they may move from multiple sources, and when they are moved out, there is also a possibility that they may move to multiple destinations. The game coin management system of this embodiment identifies these movements. Several methods can be used for this purpose.

[0044] (First Method) In the first method, when a game coin 70 is returned to a computer at each location, the computer at that location designates its movement source and reports the designation along with the game coin ID of the returned game coin 70 to the game coin management computer 100. When the game coin 70 is moved out of each location, the computer reports the information of the location, i.e., the movement source, and the game coin ID of the game coin 70 to the game coin management computer 100.

[0045] For example, when game token 70 moves from the main bank room 12 to the F / C bank room 13, the main bank computer 121 reads the game token ID of game token 70 through the main bank game token reader 123, and reports the removal of the game token from the main bank room 12 along with the read game token ID to the game token management computer 100. The game token management computer 100 responds to this report by updating the game token management database 101.

[0046] Furthermore, in the F / C Bank room 13, where game coins 70 are received from the main bank room 12, the F / C Bank staff 33 operates the input device of the F / C Bank computer 131, inputting the designation that the game coin 70 was moved from the main bank room 12 (the moving source), and uses the F / C Bank game coin reader 133 to read the game coin ID of the game coin 70. The F / C Bank computer 131 reports the designation that the moving source is the main bank room 12 along with the read game coin ID to the game coin management computer 100. The game coin management computer 100 updates the game coin management database 101 in response to this report.

[0047] Figure 6 This diagram illustrates an example of data updated in a game currency management database using a first method for managing the movement of game currency according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 The example shows the movement history of game currency 70 with game currency ID "24825". As the movement history information of game currency 70, the game currency management database 101 stores the game currency ID 601, entry and exit information 602, movement source information 603, movement destination information 604, and date and time 605.

[0048] According to the first method, such as Figure 6As shown, for the game coin 70 that is moved out of the location, information about its movement source is obtained (historical record H61). For the game coin 70 that is put into the location, information about its movement source and movement destination is obtained (historical record H62). Therefore, based on historical record H61 and historical record H62, it can be confirmed that the game coin 70 was indeed moved out of the main bank room 12 and then received by the F / C bank room 13.

[0049] (Second Method) In the second method, when the game coin 70 is removed from the computer at each location, the destination is specified on the computer at that location, and the specified destination, along with the game coin ID of the removed game coin 70, is reported to the game coin management computer 100. When the game coin 70 is placed into each location, the location information, i.e. the destination, and the game coin ID of the game coin 70 are reported to the game coin management computer 100.

[0050] For example, when moving game token 70 from table 4 to F / C Bank 13 (depositing), the dealer uses the tabletop game token reader 153 to read the game token ID of game token 70, operates the input device of desktop computer 151, and designates F / C Bank 13 as the destination (designated deposit). Desktop computer 151 reports the table ID of table 4 (the source of the move), the game token ID, and F / C Bank 13 (the destination) to game token management computer 100. Game token management computer 100 updates game token management database 101 in response to this report.

[0051] In F / C Bank room 13, which serves as the destination for the mobile device, if game token 70 is received, F / C Bank staff 33 uses F / C Bank game token reader 133 to read the game token ID of the game token 70. F / C Bank computer 131 reports the read game token ID and the fact that the game token has been placed in F / C Bank room 13 to game token management computer 100. Game token management computer 100 updates game token management database 101 in response to this report.

[0052] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates an example of data updated in a game currency management database using a second method for managing the movement of game currency according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 The example also shows the movement history of game currency 70 with game currency ID "24825". As the movement history information of game currency 70, the game currency management database 101 stores the game currency ID 601, entry and exit information 602, movement source information 603, movement destination information 604, and date and time 605.

[0053] According to the second method, such as Figure 7As shown, for the game coin 70 that is moved out of the position, information about its movement source and movement destination is obtained (history history H71). For the game coin 70 that is put into the position, information about its movement destination is obtained (history history H72). Therefore, based on history history H71 and history history H72, it can be confirmed that the game coin 70 was indeed moved out of table 4 and then received by F / C bank room 13.

[0054] (Third method) The third method is a combination of the first and second methods. That is, in each computer location, when game coin 70 is inserted, its movement source is specified, and when game coin 70 is removed, its movement destination is specified.

[0055] (Fourth method) In the fourth method, staff at each location use the input device of their respective computer to specify whether game coin 70 is being moved out or placed in, and report this specification along with the game coin ID of game coin 70 read by the game coin reader to the game coin management computer 100. Based on this report, the game coin management computer 100 updates the entry / exit information and location information in the game coin management database 101.

[0056] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates an example of data updated in the game coin management database using the fourth method for managing the movement of game coins according to an embodiment of the present invention. As historical movement information of game coin 70, the game coin management database 101 stores information including the game coin ID 601, entry / exit information 602, location information 603, and date and time 604 for that game coin.

[0057] According to the fourth method, such as Figure 8 As shown, since the entry and exit information 602 and the location information 603 are recorded, it is possible to confirm, based on the historical records H81 and H82, that the game coin 70 was indeed moved out of the vault 11 and then received by the main bank room 12.

[0058] (Fifth Method) In the fifth method, only location information is recorded. That is, when game coin 70 is present at a location, staff at each location use the game coin reader at that location to read the game coin ID of game coin 70 and report it to the game coin management computer 100. The game coin management computer 100 updates the game coin management database 101 in response to the report. Staff at each location can read the game coin ID when game coin 70 moves to that location, when game coin 70 moves out of that location, or at any time.

[0059] Figure 9This diagram illustrates an example of data updated in the game coin management database using the fifth method for managing the movement of game coins according to an embodiment of the present invention. As historical movement information of game coin 70, the game coin management database 101 stores information including the game coin ID 601, location information 603, and date and time 604 for that game coin.

[0060] According to the fifth method, such as Figure 9 As shown, since location information 603 is recorded, it is also possible to confirm, based on historical records 91 and 92, that game coin 70 was indeed moved out of vault 11 and then received by main bank room 12.

[0061] The method described in the first to fifth methods can be chosen based on the various combinations of the movement source and the movement destination. For example, for the movement of game coins 70 within counter 11, the fourth or fifth method can be used; for the movement from F / C bank room 13 to the game table, the second method, which specifies the movement destination in the movement source, can be used; and for the movement from the game table to F / C bank room 13, the first method, which specifies the movement source in the movement destination, can be used.

[0062] (Purchases and exchanges in cashier's account) Furthermore, when game coins 70 move from the cashier 14 to the player (the player purchases game coins 70 from the cashier), the cashier computer 141 reads the game coin ID of the game coin 70 via the cashier game coin reader 143 and reads the player ID from the player's ID card via the cashier card reader 142. It then reports the designated player as the destination along with the read game coin ID to the game coin management computer 100. The game coin management computer 100 updates the game coin management database 101 in response to this report.

[0063] Furthermore, as game coins 70 move from the player to the cashier's room 14, the cashier computer 141 reads the game coin ID of game coins 70 via the cashier game coin reader 143 and reads the player ID from the player's ID card via the cashier card reader 142. It then reports the player's identity as the source of the movement, along with the read game coin ID, to the game coin management computer 100. The game coin management computer 100 updates the game coin management database 101 in response to this report.

[0064] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates an example of data updated in the game currency management database using the fourth method for managing the movement of game currency according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10In the example, player 5 purchases 70 game coins at cashier 2 (history records H101, H102), and then exchanges the 70 game coins at cashier 3 (history records H103, H104). It should be noted that in the cases of the first to third methods 3, the entry and exit information 602 only records the information of the movement source (cashier) and the movement destination (player) as N / A.

[0065] Furthermore, for example, in a cashier machine, the cashier can read the game coin ID of game coin 70 using the cashier game coin reader 143 after receiving game coin 70 from a player and indicating that the player has received the game coin. When handing over game coin 70 to a player, the cashier can read the game coin ID of game coin 70 using the cashier game coin reader 143 after indicating that the player has handed over the game coin.

[0066] Therefore, by using a single game coin reader, it is possible to clearly determine whether game coin 70, whose game coin ID is read by the reader, has been placed into or removed from that location. Furthermore, in the case of game coin exchange, it is possible to clearly distinguish between game coin 70 received from the player and game coin 70 given to the player, and to identify the game coin ID using the game coin reader.

[0067] (Recovery and repayment) Players who purchase 70 game coins can play games at the game table. At this time, on the game table, firstly, the desktop card reader 152, equipped with an ID card antenna 512, reads the player's ID card. When the desktop card reader 152 reads the player's ID card, it specifies the player's playing position. Thus, it is possible to identify which player is located in which placement area. It should be noted that the placement area antennas 515a~515e can be one or more antennas that unify multiple placement areas into one placement area without distinguishing individual player positions, and read the game coins 70 placed in that one placement area. Alternatively, placement area antennas may not be provided.

[0068] If a player loses the game at the table, the placed game coins 70 are retrieved. In this case, the game coin tray antenna 514 reads the game coin ID of the game coin 70 stored in the game coin tray before and after retrieval. The desktop computer 151 identifies the game coin ID of the newly acquired game coin tray (i.e., the one retrieved from the player) by comparing the game coin IDs of the game coin trays before and after retrieval.

[0069] Desktop computer 151, upon designating the movement of game coins 70 recovered from a player to the game coin tray on the game table, simultaneously reports the game coin ID read by the game coin tray antenna 14 to game coin management computer 100. Game coin management computer 100 responds to this report by updating game coin management database 101.

[0070] It should be noted that by using the placement area antennas 515a-515e to identify the game coin ID of the placed game coins 70 and to identify the game result, when the desktop computer 151 can determine whether each placed game coin 70 should be recycled, if it is determined that it should be recycled, the movement history of the game coin 70 from when it was taken out by the player and moved to the game table can be updated in the game coin management database 101. Through this update and the subsequent update of the situation where the game coin is received by the game coin tray, it can be confirmed whether the game coin 70 that should be recycled has actually been recycled to the game coin tray. That is, regardless of whether there is a movement history record of the entry / exit information 602 being recorded as "OUT" and the position information 603 being recorded as which player's movement history, as long as there is no subsequent record of movement history received by the game coin tray, it is clear that the game coin 70 that should be recycled has not been correctly recycled.

[0071] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the game coin IDs newly added to the game coin tray after recycling are obtained by comparing the game coin IDs read from the game coin trays before and after recycling. However, instead, a recycling game coin area can be specially set up in the game coin tray to temporarily store the recycled game coin trays. An antenna independent of other game coin tray parts is set up in this recycling game coin area to obtain the game coin ID of the recycled game coins 70.

[0072] Alternatively, for the recycled game token 70, the game token ID of the recycled game token 70 can be determined by reading RFID 71 via the dealer's antenna while it is moving from the placement area to the game token tray.

[0073] If a player wins the game, they receive a refund of 70 game coins. The dealer places the 70 game coins to be paid from the game coin tray in the dealer's area of ​​the game table. At this time, the dealer's antenna 513 reads the game coin ID from the RFID tag 71 of the game coin 70 in the dealer's area. Since the desktop computer 151 knows which player is playing the game in each placement area, it can associate the refunded game coins 70 with the player receiving the refund (the location information of the refunded game coins 70 is regarded as that player).

[0074] It should be noted that the method of determining the game currency ID of the repaid game currency 70 and associating it with the player is not limited to the method described above. For example, the desktop computer 151 can determine the game currency ID of the repaid game currency 70 by reading the game currency ID stored in the game currency tray before and after the repayment, and associate it with the player who received the repayment.

[0075] Furthermore, when the returned game coins 70 are placed in the placement area, the game coin ID of the game coin 70 can be read through the placement area antenna 515. In this case, while reading the game coin ID of the returned game coin 70 (associated with the dealer or even the casino), the game coin ID of the placed game coin 70 (associated with the player) can also be read. The game coin management computer 100 associates the game coin ID of the returned game coin 70 with the player associated with the game coin ID of the placed game coin 70.

[0076] Furthermore, antennas and reading areas for RFID tags 71 used to read the returned game coins 70 can be installed at each player's position. Such antennas and reading areas can be positioned between the placement area at each player's position and the dealer. Even in this case, since it is known which player is at each player's position, the returned game coins 70 can be associated with the player ID. In this scenario, the dealer first uses the antenna to read the returned game coins 70 in the reading area of ​​the corresponding player's position. Then, the dealer moves the returned game coins 70 to the side of the game coin placement area, and the dealer allows the corresponding player to take the returned game coins 70 placed in the reading area.

[0077] Desktop computer 151 reports the combination of the game coin ID of the repaid game coin 70 and the player ID of the player receiving the repaid game coin to game coin management computer 100. In response to the report, game coin management computer 100 updates the movement history of the game coin 70 on the game table to the player in game coin management database 101.

[0078] Even at the time of repayment, the game coin ID of the game coin 70 can be temporarily determined by reading the RFID tag 71 of the game coin 70 taken from the game coin tray using the dealer's antenna.

[0079] It should be noted that, in the above... Figures 6-10 In the example, the movement history of each game coin 70 can record not only location information but also the staff ID of the staff associated with that movement at that location. Furthermore, each movement history can record statuses such as "valid," "invalid," "destination unknown," "suspicious," and "unplayable" as status information for the game coin 70. Additionally, a flag can be used to indicate whether it is valid or invalid. And, in the above... Figures 6-10 In the example, each movement history record has a game coin ID of 70 game coins, as well as information about its face value.

[0080] As described above, by reading the game coin ID at each location, the movement history of each game coin 70 can be recorded in the game coin management database 101. Therefore, the game coin management computer 100 can perform the various functions described below.

[0081] (Detection of time limits and incorrect travel destinations) In this function, the game coin management computer 100 monitors the movement of game coins 70 between the F / C bank room 13 and the game table, and issues an alarm if a problem occurs. Specifically, the game coin management computer 100 sets the destination of a game coin 70 to any game table, and starts a timer when the F / C bank computer 131 receives a report that the coin 70 has been moved from the F / C bank room 13. Furthermore, the game coin management computer 100 can issue an alarm if it does not receive a report from the desktop computer 151 of the game table (the destination table) that the game coin 70 has been received within a specified time (e.g., 5 minutes). This alarm can be sent to the dealer of the corresponding game table, the game table manager, etc. At this time, the game coin management computer 100 can update the status of the game coin 70 in the game coin management database 101 to "destination unknown" or "unplayable," etc.

[0082] Furthermore, the game coin management computer 100 can also issue an alarm if, after designating any game table as the destination for a game coin 70 and receiving a report from the F / C bank computer 131 that the coin 70 has been moved from the F / C bank room 13, a report is received from the desktop computer 151 of a game table other than the designated destination that the game coin 70 has been received. In this case, the game coin management computer 100 can also update the status of the game coin 70 in the game coin management database 101 to "Destination Error," "Unplayable," or similar terms.

[0083] (Detection of inappropriate movement) In this function, the game coin management computer 100, referring to the game coin management database 101, issues an alarm if there is inappropriate movement of game coins 70. The movement of game coins 70 is limited to... Figure 5 The movement patterns shown are considered inappropriate. Therefore, the game currency management computer 100 determines whether the movement related to the update is appropriate each time it updates the game currency management database 101.

[0084] For example, counter 10 has Figure 1 In the illustrated configuration, if game coins 70 are not moved directly from vault 11 to cashier 14, and, for example, if game coins 70 are not moved from cashier 14 to a player but are not collected from the game table, but their movement history is found, the game coin management computer 100 determines this to be inappropriate. Furthermore, if game coins 70 held by a player are exchanged by another player at the cashier, suspicious activity is suspected. In such cases, the game coin management computer 100 detects inappropriate movements and issues an alarm.

[0085] (Real-time total amount of in-game currency for players) In this function, the game currency management computer 100, by referring to the game currency management database 101, extracts only the game currency 70 held by any player from the latest information in the movement history, calculates the total amount of these game currencies, and thus calculates the total amount of game currency 70 held by all players at that moment. That is, it has the function of calculating the casino's debt balance at that moment.

[0086] Furthermore, the total amount of a player's game currency can be calculated by subtracting the total amount of all game currency 70 on the counter 10 and the total amount of all game currency 70 on the game table from the total amount of all game currency managed by the game currency management database 101.

[0087] (Central management of replenishment / deposit) In this function, the game coin management computer 100 retrieves the game coins 70 from each game table by referring to the game coin management database 101, and checks the number of coins of each denomination. Furthermore, if there is an insufficient number of game coins 70 of a certain denomination, a notification can be sent to the F / C bank computer 131 in the F / C bank room 13 and the desktop computer 151 of the game table to replenish the game coins 70 of that denomination (replenishment). This notification specifies the number of game coins 70 to be replenished for each denomination, or the total amount of game coins 70 to be replenished for each denomination.

[0088] Furthermore, the game coin management computer 100, by referring to the game coin management database 101, retrieves game coins 70 from each game table and detects the total number of game coins 70 on the table. If the total number of game coins is close to or exceeds the maximum capacity of the game table, a notification can be sent to the F / C bank computer 131 in the F / C bank room 13 and the desktop computer 151 of the game table to retrieve (deposit) game coins 70 from the table. This notification specifies the number of game coins 70 to be replenished for each denomination, or the total amount of game coins 70 to be replenished for each denomination.

[0089] Furthermore, notifications can also be sent regarding the movement of game coins 70 within counter 10. For example, when the number of game coins 70 in a window of the teller room 14 decreases, a notification can be sent to the teller computer 141 and the main bank computer 121 to urge the replenishment of game coins 70 to the teller room 14.

[0090] It should be noted that, in the above, a notification urging movement is sent to either the destination or the source of movement. However, alternatively, a notification may be sent to only either the destination or the source of movement. At the location receiving the notification urging movement, the staff instructs the computer at that location via an input device whether the movement suggestion is accepted. If the computer at that location accepts the suggestion at either the destination or the source of movement, it can then send the movement order to the other location.

[0091] (Management of multiple game coins) The above describes a method for managing movement by updating the movement history of each game coin 70 in the game coin management database 101. However, when multiple game coins 70 move between locations, it is possible to manage whether these multiple game coins 70 have been moved without any defects.

[0092] The following explanation uses the case of moving multiple game coins 70 from F / C Bank Room 13 to the game table (replenishment) as an example. When game coins 70 are moved from F / C Bank Room 13 to the designated game table, F / C Bank staff 33 uses the F / C Bank game coin reader 133 in F / C Bank Room 13 to read the game coin ID of the game coin 70 to be moved. F / C Bank computer 131 reports the read game coin ID to game coin management computer 100. While storing the game coin IDs of the replenished game coins 70 (moving source game coin IDs), game coin management computer 100, based on the report and referring to game coin management database 101, obtains the face value of these game coin IDs to determine the total amount of replenished game coins 70 (moving source total amount). Thus, based on the information from F / C Bank computer 131, game coin management computer 100 determines the moving source game coin IDs, the total number of replenished game coins 70 (moving source total number of coins), and the moving source total amount.

[0093] If game coins 70 are moved to the game table, the dealer uses the tabletop game coin reader to read the game coin ID of the moved game coins 70. The desktop computer 151 reports the read game coin IDs to the game coin management computer 100. While storing these game coin IDs (movement destination game coin IDs), the game coin management computer 100, based on the report and referring to the game coin management database 101, obtains the face value of these game coin IDs to determine the total amount of game coins 70 added (movement destination total amount). Thus, based on the information from the desktop computer 151, the game coin management computer 100 determines the movement destination game coin IDs, the total number of game coins 70 added (movement destination total number of coins), and the total movement destination amount.

[0094] The game currency management computer 100 compares the game currency ID of the source and the game currency ID of the destination, and determines whether they are completely identical. Furthermore, the game currency management computer 100 compares the total amount of the source and the total amount of the destination, and determines whether they are identical. Further, the game currency management computer 100 compares the total number of coins in the source and the total number of coins in the destination, and determines whether they are identical. If any of the above comparisons are inconsistent, the game currency management computer 100 determines that the movement was not performed correctly and issues an alarm.

[0095] The process of moving multiple game coins 70 from the game table to the F / C bank room 13 (deposit) is as follows. When game coins 70 are moved from the game table to the F / C bank room 13, the dealer uses the game table's desktop game coin reader 153 to read the game coin ID of the game coin 70 to be moved. The desktop computer 151 reports the read game coin ID to the game coin management computer 100. While storing the game coin IDs of the multiple deposited game coins 70 (moving source game coin IDs), the game coin management computer 100, based on the report and referring to the game coin management database 101, obtains the face value of these game coin IDs to determine the total amount of deposited game coins 70 (moving source total amount). Thus, based on the information from the desktop computer 151, the game coin management computer 100 determines the moving source game coin IDs, the total number of deposited game coins 70 (moving source total number of coins), and the moving source total amount.

[0096] If game coins 70 are moved to F / C Bank Room 13, F / C Bank staff 33 uses F / C Bank game coin reader 133 to read the game coin IDs of the moved game coins 70. F / C Bank computer 131 reports the read game coin IDs to game coin management computer 100. While storing these game coin IDs (destination game coin IDs), game coin management computer 100, based on the report and referring to game coin management database 101, obtains the face value of these game coin IDs to determine the total amount of game coins 70 deposited (destination total amount). Thus, based on the information from F / C Bank computer 131, game coin management computer 100 determines the destination game coin IDs, the total number of game coins 70 deposited (destination total number of coins), and the destination total amount.

[0097] The game currency management computer 100 compares the game currency ID of the source and the game currency ID of the destination, and determines whether they are completely identical. Furthermore, the game currency management computer 100 compares the total amount of the source and the total amount of the destination, and determines whether they are identical. Further, the game currency management computer 100 compares the total number of coins in the source and the total number of coins in the destination, and determines whether they are identical. If any of the above comparisons shows a discrepancy, the game currency management computer 100 determines that the movement was not performed correctly and issues an alarm.

[0098] It should be noted that while the game currency ID, total amount, and total number of coins were compared above, it is also possible to compare only any one of these to determine whether the movement was performed correctly. Furthermore, the total amount and total number of coins can be calculated and compared according to the face value of each denomination of 70 game currency. For example, the total amount of the movement source and the total amount of the movement destination can be calculated as, for example, "600 points for 10-point game currency and 400 points for 100-point game currency."

[0099] Furthermore, when the game currency management computer 100 issues a notification urging movement to the movement destination or movement source, it can be determined whether the movement was performed correctly by comparing the notification with the total amount of the movement source, the notification with the total amount of the movement destination, the notification with the total number of coins in the movement source, or the notification with the total number of coins in the movement destination, at least one of these comparisons.

[0100] (Management based on the replenishment of additional funds on the game table) When game coins 70 are moved from F / C Bank Room 13 to the game table to replenish the game table (replenishment), the game coin ID of the game coins 70 moved to the game table is read by F / C Bank game coin reader 133, and these game coin IDs are reported from F / C Bank computer 131 to game coin management computer 100. Game coin management computer 100 calculates the total amount of game coins 70 reported (total replenishment amount) by referring to game coin management database 101.

[0101] The game coin management computer 100 retrieves the game coins 70 from the game table before replenishment by referring to the game coin management database 101 and calculates their total amount (existing total amount). Furthermore, the game coin management computer 100 adds the calculated existing total amount to the replenishment amount to calculate the theoretical total amount of game coins 70 on the game table after replenishment (theoretical total amount after replenishment).

[0102] If game coins 70 are moved from F / C Bank Room 13 to the game table, the game coin reader 153 on the game table reads the game coin ID of the moved game coin 70 and reports it to the game coin management computer 100 via desktop computer 151. The game coin management computer 100, upon receiving the reported game coin ID, refers to the game coin management database 101 and obtains the face value to calculate the actual total amount of game coins 70 in the game coin tray (the total amount after actual replenishment).

[0103] It should be noted that the game table is equipped with a cabinet or a two-tiered game coin tray. That is, if the game table has a place to store game coins other than the game coin tray, the desktop computer 151 calculates the total amount of game coins 70 of the entire game table, including the game coin tray and such storage place (but excluding the game coins of players placed in the placement area), as the total amount after actual replenishment.

[0104] The game coin management computer 100 compares the theoretical total amount after replenishment with the actual total amount after replenishment, and issues an alarm if the two are inconsistent. Based on this structure, it can be confirmed whether the game coins 70 on the game table have been correctly replenished due to replenishment.

[0105] Furthermore, within the F / C Bank Room 13, the game coin IDs of all game coins 70 that have left the F / C Bank Room 13 are monitored. Even on the game table, the game coin IDs of all game coins 70 removed from the F / C Bank Room 13 can be detected. Therefore, if the total amount after theoretical replenishment differs from the actual amount after replenishment, the game coin IDs of the game coins 70 causing the discrepancy can be identified. The game coin management computer 100 will change the status of the game coins 70 causing the discrepancy to "invalid," "unplayable," or similar states.

[0106] It should be noted that, in the above, although the total amount after theoretical replenishment is compared with the total amount after actual replenishment, the number of coins (total number of coins) can be used instead of the total amount of 70 game coins (total amount) to compare the theoretical total number of 70 game coins on the game table (theoretical total number of coins after replenishment) with the actual total number of 70 game coins on the game table (actual total number of coins after replenishment), thereby determining whether the replenishment was completed without any surplus or shortage.

[0107] (Based on the reduced deposit management on the game table) When excess game coins 70 are transferred from the game table to the F / C bank room 13 (deposit), the desktop game coin reader 153 reads the game coin IDs of the game coins 70 transferred to the F / C bank room 13, and these game coin IDs are reported from the desktop computer 151 to the game coin management computer 100. The game coin management computer 100 refers to the game coin management database 101 to calculate the total amount of the reported game coins 70 (total deposit amount).

[0108] The game coin management computer 100 refers to the game coin management database 101, retrieves the game coins 70 on the game table before depositing them, and calculates their total amount (existing total amount). Furthermore, the game coin management computer 100 subtracts the deposit amount from the calculated existing total amount to calculate the theoretical total amount of the game coins 70 on the game table after the deposit (theoretical total amount after deposit).

[0109] If game coins 70 are moved to the F / C bank room 13 at the game table, the game coin reader 154 on the game table's game coin tray reads the game coin ID of the game coin 70 stored on the game table and reports it to the game coin management computer 100 via the desktop computer 151. For the reported game coin ID, the game coin management computer 100 refers to the game coin management database 101 to obtain the face value and calculate the actual total amount of game coins 70 in the game coin tray (the actual total amount after deposit).

[0110] It should be noted that the game table is equipped with a cabinet or a two-tiered game coin tray. That is, if there is a place on the game table to store game coins other than the game coin tray, the desktop computer 151 calculates the total amount of game coins 70 of the entire game table, including the game coin tray and such storage place (but excluding the game coins of players placed in the placement area), as the total amount after actual deposit.

[0111] The game coin management computer 100 compares the theoretical total amount deposited with the actual total amount deposited, and issues an alarm if the two are inconsistent. Based on this structure, it can be confirmed whether the game coins 70 on the game table have been correctly deducted due to deposits.

[0112] Furthermore, the game coin management computer 100 can detect the game coin IDs of all game coins 70 moved from the game table to the F / C bank room 13, and can also detect the game coin IDs of all game coins 70 moved from the game table even in the F / C bank room 13. Therefore, if the total amount deposited theoretically is inconsistent with the total amount deposited actually, the game coin IDs of the game coins 70 causing the inconsistency can be identified. The game coin management computer 100 will change the status of the game coins 70 causing the inconsistency to "invalid" or "unplayable" status.

[0113] It should be noted that the above compares the theoretical total amount after deposit with the actual total amount after deposit. However, you can also use the amount (total number of coins) of 70 game coins as a basis, or use the amount (total number of coins) of 70 game coins instead of the number of coins (total number of coins), to compare the theoretical total number of 70 game coins deposited on the game table (theoretical total number of coins after deposit) with the actual total number of 70 game coins deposited on the game table (actual total number of coins after deposit) to determine whether the deposit was completed without any surplus or deficit.

[0114] Furthermore, in the above description, the game token reader 153 reads the game tokens 70 transported from the F / C bank room 13 to determine the total deposit amount. The theoretical total deposit amount is calculated by subtracting the deposit amount from the existing total amount (the total amount of game tokens 70 on the game table before the deposit). However, it can be replaced by the following: The game token management computer 100 sends a notification to the game table urging a deposit. If the game table responds to the notification and makes a deposit, the total amount or total number of game tokens 70 specified in the notification (which can be specified according to each denomination) is used as the deposit amount. This deposit amount is subtracted from the existing total amount to calculate the theoretical total deposit amount. If the theoretical total deposit amount is calculated, the game token management computer 100 compares the theoretical total deposit amount with the actual total deposit amount (the actual total amount of game tokens 70 on the game table after deposit) in the same manner as described above to confirm whether the specified amount or number of game tokens 70 have left the game table for the purpose of deposit.

[0115] (In response to the inspection of staff work shifts) To prevent unauthorized entry, counter 10 should be locked, allowing staff to enter or exit the room only when security conditions are met. Furthermore, the same entry and exit security measures should be implemented between the rooms within counter 10. Staff working within counter 10 must authenticate themselves upon entering and leaving the room where they are stationed. During the authentication process for staff leaving the room, the coin management computer 100 verifies whether there has been any improper movement of coin 70 since the staff entered the room. The coin management computer 100, in conjunction with the locking system, prevents staff from leaving the room if improper movement of coin 70 is detected.

[0116] Similarly, at the game table, when the dealer leaves the table after completing their assigned task, the dealer uses the table card reader 152 to read their ID card. At this time, the game coin management computer 100 checks whether there has been any improper movement of game coins 70 since the dealer arrived at the table, and issues an alarm if improper movement is found. Furthermore, when the dealer changes shifts, the game coin management computer 100 checks whether the game coins 70 that should be present on the table during the period from when the dealer left the table until the next dealer arrives; that is, it checks whether the departing dealer did not take game coins 70 from the table, and issues an alarm if a problem is found.

[0117] It should be noted that the game coins 70 can also be stored in a location other than the game coin tray on the game table. For example, the game coin tray is configured with two layers; the replenishing game coins 70 can be stored in the lower game coin tray, or the replenishing game coins 70 can be stored in a cabinet provided with the game table. In these cases, the game table also has an antenna for reading the RFID tags 71 of the game coins 70 stored as described above. Preferably, the desktop computer 151 can read the RFID tags 71 of all game coins 70 on the game table at all times.

[0118] (Monitoring of players' inappropriate purchases / exchanges) In this function, for each player, the game currency management computer 100 checks the purchase and exchange history of game currency and issues an alert if suspicious activity is detected. For example, if a player purchases a specified amount of game currency 70 or more within a specified time and then exchanges that amount, such behavior is considered suspicious and an alert is issued. Furthermore, if game currency 70 is purchased but not used at the game table before being exchanged, and the amount exceeds the specified limit, this behavior is also considered suspicious and an alert is issued. Alternatively, for players who purchase a specified amount of game currency 70 or more within a specified time, this behavior is considered suspicious and an alert is issued.

[0119] (Effecting / Invalidating the Counter) Game tokens 70 can be validated within counter 10. Therefore, if a game token 70 is stolen between its manufacture and its placement in counter 10, it will be unusable because it was not validated, thus ensuring security. To this end, the game token management database 101 has a table storing the game token IDs of valid game tokens 70. Whenever the cash register or the game table's game token reader reads the game token ID of a game token 70, the game token management computer 100 refers to the table to verify the validity of that game token ID.

[0120] Furthermore, even in the case of discarded game token 70, it can be invalidated inside counter 10 before being taken outside counter 10. Therefore, even if game token 70 taken outside counter 10 for disposal is stolen, it cannot be used at the cash register or game table, thus ensuring security.

[0121] (Unregistered player) Even unregistered players can purchase Game Coins 70 and use them to play games at the game table. A common anonymous player ID is used for unregistered players. Therefore, Game Coins 70 can be continuously tracked as they move from counter 10 to its return, even if they are moved to an unregistered player's location.

[0122] (other) A display device can be provided at the cashier's window to show the total amount and validity confirmation results of the game coins 70. The cashier places the game coins 70 given to the player or received from the player into the cashier game coin reader 143. The cashier game coin reader 143 reads the face value and status stored on the RFID tags 71 of the game coins 70 (usually multiple). The cashier computer 141 displays the total value obtained by summing the face values ​​read by the cashier game coin reader 143 on the display device. It should be noted that, in addition to the total count, the number of game coins 70 of each face value can also be displayed.

[0123] Furthermore, if the cashier computer 141 finds an invalid game coin 70 among the RFID tags 71 it reads, it will display an error message on the display device; if all game coins 70 are valid, it will display a valid message or show nothing. In addition to displaying the status, it can also display whether there has been any inappropriate movement history to date. Therefore, the receipt and disbursement of game coins 70 can be based on a consensus between the cashier and the player that the game coins given to or received from the player are valid and their total amount.

[0124] In the above embodiment, when the RFID tag 7 of the game coin 70 is read by the game coin reader at each location, the game coin management computer 100 can verify the validity of the game coin ID by checking whether the read game coin ID is a valid game coin ID, and issue an alarm if there is a problem. For this purpose, the game coin management database 101 pre-records a table of valid game coin IDs, and the game coin management computer 100 refers to this table to verify the validity of the game coin ID read at each location. It should be noted that the game coin ID can be encrypted.

[0125] In the above-described embodiments, the game coin management computer 100 may, on the basis of issuing an alarm, or alternatively, mark an indication of an anomaly in the records of the corresponding player, game coins 70, or movement history, and record the time thereafter.

[0126] Furthermore, the structure of the room at counter 10 is not limited to the structure described above; the number of rooms and their configuration can be arbitrary. Additionally, the game table can be a table for card games, or it can be used as a base for other games such as roulette.

[0127] Each of the aforementioned computers has a processor and a memory. The processor performs the above-mentioned actions by executing computer programs stored in the memory. The program can be provided to the computer via a non-temporary storage medium or can be provided to the computer in the form of a download. Furthermore, communication between the computers can be wired or wireless. In addition, in the above embodiment, ID cards are read by card readers to identify staff or players at various locations, but biometric methods such as fingerprints, facial images, iris scans, and voiceprints can be used to identify staff or players instead of ID cards.

[0128] It should be noted that, in the above embodiment, as an example of the location, the movement of game coins 70 between the rooms and game tables in the counter 10 is described. However, the location is not limited to this. For example, the location in the above embodiment can be: a game coin tray on the game table where the dealer collects the game coins and pays back the game coins; a cabinet on the table for storing game coins; and the upper and lower game coin trays when the game coin tray is configured as a two-layer structure. The movement of game coins 70 between the locations can be managed in the same way as described above.

[0129] For example, it can track the token ID, total amount, and / or total number of tokens (70) taken from a game table's cabinet, and issue an alarm if these token IDs, total amount, and / or total number of tokens do not move within a specified time in the same game table's token tray. Furthermore, for example, in a two-tiered token tray system, it can confirm whether token 70 taken from the lower tray moves to the upper tray or vice versa.

[0130] Furthermore, during replenishment, the dealer antenna 513, placement area antenna 515, or tray antenna 514 are used to read the game coins 70 transported from the F / C bank room 13 to the game table. The game coin tray has buttons that can identify the start and end of the replenishment operation, compare the game coins 70 on the game coin tray before replenishment with the game coins 70 on the game coin tray after replenishment, and identify the game coins 70 added due to replenishment as the replenished game coins 70.

[0131] During deposit, the dealer antenna 513, the placement area antenna 515, or the coin tray antenna 514 reads the coins 70 being transported to the F / C bank room 13. The coin tray has buttons that can identify the start and end of the deposit operation, compare the coins 70 on the coin tray before the deposit with the coins 70 after the deposit, and recognize the coins 70 that are reduced due to the deposit as the deposited coins 70.

[0132] The game currency management computer 100 can output the inventory (game currency ID) of game currency at various locations (counter, game currency tray, etc.). The game currency management computer 100 can also specify a past time and output the inventory at that time.

[0133] In addition, an alarm can be triggered if someone tries to exchange suspicious game currency (game currency marked with a symbol) at the cashier.

[0134] In addition, the game currency management database 101 can store the exchange history of each player. Furthermore, the game currency management computer 100 can output the game currency ID that each player should possess.

[0135] The RFID tag 71 can be written with information such as game coin group, casino information, location information, and redemption possibility. Alternatively, this information can be stored in the game coin management database 101 in association with the game coin ID. When the RFID tag 71 is read at a location, the game coin management computer 100 or the computers at each location can check whether it is the game coin 70 that should be present at that location based on this information.

[0136] Furthermore, the groups (coin groups) and types of game coins 70 that can be used can be set for each area. For example, when the RFID tag 71 is read on a game table, the desktop computer 151 or the game coin management computer 100 checks whether it is a group of game coins that should be used on that game table.

[0137] For game coins 70 that have been in use for a fixed number of years, a marker associated with the game coin ID can be created. The location of game coins 70 that have been in use for a fixed number of years can be determined and they can be recycled. When a player possesses game coins 70 that have been in use for a fixed number of years, a signal is output when the game coin ID is detected by the cashier or game table.

[0138] When a player carrying potentially stolen game currency 70 arrives at the table, the desktop computer 151 or the game currency management computer can issue an alert to staff (monitors). The cashier computer 141 or the game currency management computer 100 detects game currency purchased but not used in games to prevent suspicious activity.

[0139] At the cashier, when exchanging or purchasing game currency in amounts exceeding a certain threshold, the player's photo is associated with their game currency ID. Additionally, anonymous players (those without a membership card) are assigned unique IDs to track their game currency. Furthermore, for anonymous players, their faces are photographed when purchasing game currency, and their player IDs are associated with their facial images and pre-registered in the game currency management database 101. Subsequently, at various locations (desks, cashiers, etc.), the player ID can be identified through facial recognition. The game currency management computer 100 can invalidate all game currency associated with blacklisted players.

[0140] When a player without a membership card places game tokens 70 on the game table, the game token management computer 100 associates the unique ID issued on the spot with the player ID associated with the game tokens 70 and records the game in the game token management database 101. At this time, an ID based on a facial image or facial recognition can be associated with the game record. Furthermore, if a membership card is identified later, the game record can be traced back and associated with the membership card ID and recorded.

[0141] Symbol explanation: 1. Casino Lobby 10 counters 11 Vault 12 Main Bank Room 13 F / C Bank Room 14. Cashier's Office Entrances and Exits 21-28 Personnel 31-36 Game table 42~45 Dealer 52~55 Players 61-69 70 game coins 71 RFID tags 1000 Game Coin Management System 501 Counter System 502 Desktop System 100 Game Coins Management Computer 101 Game Currency Management Database 111 Vault Computer 112 Vault Card Reader 113 Vault Game Coin Reader 121 Main Bank Computer 122 Main Bank Card Reader 123 Main Bank Game Coin Reader 131 F / C Bank Computer 132 F / C Bank Card Reader 133 F / C Bank Game Coin Reader 141. Cashier's Computer 142 Cashier Card Reader 143 Cashier Game Coin Reader 151 Desktop Computers 152 Desktop Card Reader 153 Desktop Game Coin Reader 154 Game Coins Tray Reader 155 Placement Area Game Coin Reader.

Claims

1. A management system for managing game coins in a casino lobby comprising multiple game tables, wherein, The game coin is equipped with an RFID tag, which stores information used to determine the face value of the game coin. The management system has the following features: A recording device, for the plurality of game tables, records the number of each denomination of game coins at each game table based on the reading results of the RFID tags on the plurality of game tables; The management device, referring to the recording device, sends a replenishment request notification to the game table where the game coins are insufficient if the number of game coins is less than the specified number of game coins of face value, so as to replenish the game coins of face value. A first game coin reader reads the RFID tag of the game coin that has been moved to the game table due to the replenishment; as well as A second game coin reader reads the RFID tags of the game coins that have moved to the back of the game table due to the replenishment.

2. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, The request notification includes the number of each of the stated face values ​​of the game coins that should be replenished.

3. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, When the management device, referring to the recording device, detects that the number of game coins exceeds the specified number by an amount of face value, it sends a deposit request notification to the game table where the game coins are found to be in excess, in order to reclaim the game coins of that face value.

4. The management system according to claim 1, wherein, The management device determines whether there is a gap between the RFID tag read by the first game coin reader and the RFID tag read by the second game coin reader.

Images