Prize exchange system, prize management device, and prize exchange method

Abstract

To perform prize exchange quickly and efficiently in a self-operated prize management device.SOLUTION: A self-operated prize management device 60 notifies a put-out preparation instruction to a prize put-out device 80 when an exchange instruction is received on an exchange result screen. The prize put-out device 80 moves a conveyance part and delivers a prize to the conveyance part when the put-out preparation instruction is received. The self-operated prize management device 60 notifies a put-out request to the prize put-out device 80 when a card is taken out. The prize put-out device 80 performs put-out of a prize when the put-out request is received.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a prize exchange system, a prize management device, and a prize exchange method that enable quick and efficient prize exchange in a self-operated prize management device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in gaming establishments such as pachinko parlors, the number of game media acquired by a player through a game is associated with a storage medium such as a card, and the storage medium is brought to a prize counter. When the player hands over the storage medium to an employee at the prize counter, the employee operates the counter to exchange the number of game media associated with the storage medium for a prize.

[0003] In this way, traditionally, prize exchange was carried out by employees, but recently, players themselves have begun to exchange game media for prizes (hereinafter referred to as "self-operation"). In this self-operation, players themselves carry out a series of processes, from reading the storage media, selecting a prize, and receiving the prize.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a self-prize management device that is connected to a special prize payout device, a management device, and a card reader / writer so that they can communicate with each other, and when an exchange operation is performed on the self-prize management device, the self-prize management device associates the update result with the card, and then issues a prize payout instruction to the special prize payout device, which then pays out a prize. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2023-054440 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, in the above-mentioned patent document 1, if an exchange operation is performed in the self-prize management device, it takes time (e.g., 18 seconds) from the time the self-prize management device issues an update instruction to the card reader / writer until the prize is paid out from the special prize payout device, which creates a problem of delays in prize exchange for each player.

[0007] The present invention has been made to solve the problems of the prior art described above, and aims to provide a prize exchange system, a prize management device, and a prize exchange method that enable quick and efficient prize exchange in a self-operated prize management device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a prize exchange system that communicatively connects a storage media processing device that reads and writes information stored in a storage medium, a prize management device that exchanges the number of gaming media associated with the identification information of the storage medium for prizes, and a prize payout device that performs the payout process of prizes corresponding to the number of gaming media, wherein the prize management device is characterized by having a reception means for accepting an exchange operation to exchange the number of gaming media for the prizes, a payout preparation instruction means for, when the exchange operation is accepted by the reception means, issuing a payout preparation instruction to the prize payout device including the number of prizes to be paid out for each type of prize to be paid out, and a payout instruction means for, when the update process of information related to the identification information of the storage medium is completed, issuing a payout instruction to the prize payout device.

[0009] In addition, in the above invention, the prize payout device is characterized in that, when it receives the payout preparation instruction, it delivers the number of prizes to be paid out for each type of prize included in the payout preparation instruction to a predetermined transport position.

[0010] In addition, in the above invention, the present invention is characterized in that when the prize payout device receives the payout instruction, it opens a shutter provided at the payout outlet and pays out the prize that has been delivered to the specified transport position to the payout outlet.

[0011] In addition, in the above invention, the prize management device is characterized in that before accepting the exchange operation, when it displays an exchange result screen on a designated display unit, including the number of prizes that can be exchanged based on the number of gaming media, it notifies the prize payout device of the number of prizes planned to be paid out.

[0012] In addition, in the above invention, the prize payout device is characterized in that, once it accepts the planned number of prizes to be paid out, it controls the transport section that transports the prizes to move to the prize payout position.

[0013] In the present invention, in the above invention, the reception means receives an operation of pressing an exchange button for exchanging the number of game media for the prize.

[0014] In addition, in the above invention, the present invention is characterized in that the update process of the storage medium is a process of updating with a value obtained by subtracting the number of game media corresponding to the prize from the number of game media corresponding to the identification information of the storage medium.

[0015] The present invention also provides a prize exchange system that communicatively connects a storage medium processing device that reads and writes information stored in a member storage medium provided to a member who has registered with an amusement facility, a prize management device that exchanges the number of game media associated with the identification information of the member storage medium for prizes, and a prize payout device that pays out prizes corresponding to the number of game media, and the prize management device displays an exchange result screen on a predetermined display unit, the exchange result screen including the number of prizes that can be exchanged for the number of game media associated with the identification information of the member storage medium. The system is characterized by comprising a transport preparation instruction means for issuing a transport preparation instruction to move the transport section that transports the prizes to the prize payout position, a reception means for accepting an exchange operation to exchange the number of game media for the prizes, a payout preparation instruction means for issuing a payout preparation instruction to the prize payout device including the number of prizes to be paid out for each type of prize once the exchange operation has been accepted by the reception means, and a payout instruction means for issuing a payout instruction to the prize payout device once the update process of information related to the identification information of the member storage medium has been completed.

[0016] The present invention also relates to a prize exchange system that communicatively connects a storage medium processing device that reads and writes information stored in a general-purpose storage medium that can be used by players playing at an amusement facility, a prize management device that exchanges the number of gaming media associated with the identification information of the general-purpose storage medium for prizes, and a prize payout device that pays out prizes corresponding to the number of gaming media, wherein the prize management device is characterized in that it is equipped with a payout preparation instruction means that, when an exchange result screen including the exchange number of prizes that can be exchanged with the number of gaming media associated with the identification information of the general-purpose storage medium is displayed on a specified display unit, issues a payout preparation instruction to the prize payout device, including moving the transport unit that transports the prizes to a prize payout position and paying out the number of prizes to be paid out for each type of prize to be paid out, and a payout instruction means that issues a payout instruction to the prize payout device when the update process of the information related to the identification information of the general-purpose storage medium is completed.

[0017] The present invention also provides a prize management device that is communicatively connected to a storage medium processing device which reads and writes information stored in a storage medium, and a prize payout device which performs a prize payout process and exchanges the number of gaming media associated with the identification information of the storage medium for prizes, the prize management device comprising: a reception means for receiving an exchange operation to exchange the number of gaming media for the prizes; a payout preparation instruction means for issuing a payout preparation instruction to the prize payout device, including the number of prizes to be paid out for each type of prize, when the exchange operation is accepted by the reception means; and a payout instruction means for issuing a payout instruction to the prize payout device when the update process of information related to the identification information of the storage medium is completed.

[0018] The present invention also relates to a prize exchange method in a prize exchange system in which a storage medium processing device which reads and writes information stored in a storage medium, a prize management device which exchanges the number of gaming media associated with the identification information of the storage medium for prizes, and a prize payout device which performs the payout process of prizes corresponding to the number of gaming media are communicatively connected, and is characterized in that it includes a reception process in which the prize management device accepts an exchange operation to exchange the number of gaming media for the prizes, a payout preparation instruction process in which, once the prize management device has accepted the exchange operation through the reception process, it issues a payout preparation instruction to the prize payout device including the number of payouts for each type of prize to be paid out, and a payout instruction process in which, once the prize management device has completed the update process of information related to the identification information of the storage medium, it issues a payout instruction to the prize payout device. Effect of the Invention

[0019] According to the present invention, prize exchange can be carried out quickly and efficiently in a self-operated prize management device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram of an overview of the prize exchange system according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the system configuration of the prize exchange system according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the external configuration of the self prize management device shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the self prize management device shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the prize inventory data and the holding value data shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram (part 1) showing the external configuration of the prize payout device shown in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram (part 2) showing the external configuration of the prize payout device shown in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the prize payout device shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the prize inventory data shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the self prize management device of embodiment 1. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the processing steps for prize payout in embodiment 1. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the processing steps for prize payout in the first modified example. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the processing steps for prize payout in the second modified example. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram (part 1) of an overview of the prize exchange system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram (part 2) of an overview of the prize exchange system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a flowchart (part 1) showing a processing procedure for paying out a prize according to the second embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a flowchart (part 2) showing the processing procedure for paying out prizes according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0021] [Embodiment 1] The prize exchange system, the prize management device, and the prize exchange method according to the first embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0022] In this specification, "held balls" refers to data indicating game media acquired by a player in a game, which can be used again only on the same day (before the closing time of the game establishment). "Number of held balls" refers to the number of game media acquired by a player in a game. "Saved balls" refers to data indicating game media deposited by a player in a game establishment, which can be used again on the following day (after the closing time of the game establishment). "Saved balls" refers to the number of game media deposited by a player in a game establishment. Both regular and member players can use held balls, and are used when a game machine is moved. In principle, only member players can use saved balls, and are used when acquired game media are used to play a game machine on the following day. "Number of balls managed on a game machine" refers to the number of playable balls that a player can use for a game. Furthermore, a "prize" is a prize that can be exchanged for the number of gaming media acquired by a player.

[0023] <Outline of the prize exchange system according to the first embodiment> First, an overview of the prize exchange system according to the present embodiment 1 will be described. Fig. 1 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the overview of the prize exchange system according to the present embodiment 1.

[0024] As shown in Fig. 1, when the self prize management device 60 receives an exchange instruction on the exchange result screen, it notifies a payout preparation instruction to the prize payout device 80. When the prize payout device 80 receives the payout preparation instruction, it moves the transport unit and pays out the prize to the transport unit.

[0025] When the card is removed, the self prize management device 60 notifies a payout request to the prize payout device 80. When the prize payout device 80 receives the payout request, it pays out the prize.

[0026] In this way, the prize exchange system of this embodiment 1 is configured so that the self-prize management device 60 prepares to pay out the prize when it receives an exchange instruction, and pays out the prize when the card is removed from the self-prize management device 60, thereby shortening the time required to process the prize exchange, thereby allowing prize exchanges to be carried out quickly and efficiently in the self-operated prize management device.

[0027] <System configuration> Next, the system configuration of the prize exchange system according to the present embodiment 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the system configuration of the prize exchange system according to the present embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 2, a gaming establishment is equipped with a plurality of gaming machines 20 and a machine-to-machine card processor 10 provided corresponding to each gaming machine 20. The machine-to-machine card processor 10 is connected to a communication line, which is a network within the establishment, via an island controller 30. The island controller 30, a management device 50, a self-prize management device 60, a prize payout device 80, and a settlement machine 90 are connected to the communication line. The self-prize management device 60 and the prize payout device 80 are in one-to-one correspondence.

[0028] The gaming machine 20 is a device that plays games by shooting gaming balls enclosed inside the device onto a gaming board. The gaming balls are physical "balls" used in the game, and are different from "game balls" that the gaming machine 20 treats as data. The gaming board of the gaming machine 20 is provided with a plurality of winning areas (winning holes), and a predetermined number of gaming balls are awarded as prize balls based on the passing of the gaming balls through the winning areas. In addition, the gaming board is provided with a predetermined number of starting areas (starting holes), and a predetermined lottery is performed based on the passing of the gaming balls through the starting areas. If the lottery is a jackpot, a predetermined movable member or the like is operated to increase the probability of the gaming balls passing through the winning areas or other starting areas, and other operations that are advantageous in the game are performed. It is possible for there to be an area that serves as both a starting area and a winning area.

[0029] The winning area is provided with a winning sensor for detecting the passage of a game ball into the winning area, and the winning sensor detects the passage (winning) of a game ball shot into the winning area. The control unit of the gaming machine 20 has a prize ball memory for storing the number of game balls to be awarded as prize balls for each winning area, and a playable number memory for indicating the number of balls managed by the gaming machine. The control unit of the gaming machine 20 also periodically transmits the number of balls managed by the gaming machine to the inter-machine card processing machine 10.

[0030] When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives a deposit from a player, it associates a prepaid value corresponding to the amount of the deposit with a card ID stored inside the machine. This prepaid value can be used to lend game balls. The inter-machine card processing machine 10 can also accept the insertion of a card associated with a prepaid value, possessed balls, saved balls, etc. Then, at the end of a game, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 ejects the card associated with the prepaid value, possessed balls, saved balls, etc., and returns it to the player. The inter-machine card processing machine 10 also transmits a history of operations such as deposit, card insertion, and card ejection to the management device 50.

[0031] When a predetermined number of game balls are shot onto the game board, the game machine 20 transmits out data to the inter-machine card processor 10. When a game ball passes through a winning area (so-called winning) and a predetermined number of prize balls are added to the game balls, the game machine 20 transmits safe data to the inter-machine card processor 10. Furthermore, when a special state such as a jackpot occurs during play, the game machine 20 transmits special prize data indicating the occurrence of such state to the inter-machine card processor 10.

[0032] The out data corresponds to the number of balls inserted, which is the number of balls inserted by the player onto the game board. The safe data corresponds to the number of balls won as a result of winning. Furthermore, the special prize data indicates the status of the gaming machine 20, such as a jackpot. Each piece of data is transmitted to the management device 50 via the inter-machine card processing device 10, and the management device 50 can obtain the operation history of the gaming machine 20 by accumulating the out data, safe data, and special prize data as operating information.

[0033] The inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts deposits, lends gaming balls, and communicates with the management device 50 and the gaming machines 20. When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts bills inserted by a player, it sends a deposit notification including the amount of the deposit to the management device 50, thereby adding the prepaid value equivalent to the amount of the deposit to the prepaid value managed by the management device 50. Then, when a specified ball lending operation is performed, it sends a ball lending request to the management device 50, subtracts the prepaid value managed by the management device 50, and notifies the gaming machine 20 of the number corresponding to the subtracted prepaid value, which is added to the number of balls managed by the gaming machine.

[0034] When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts the insertion of a card, it sends a card insertion notification to the management device 50. Furthermore, when the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives the prepaid value, the balance of held balls, or the balance of saved balls from the management device 50, it stores the balance. When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives and stores the balance of held balls, it sends a request to subtract held balls to the management device 50, thereby clearing the balance of held balls (number of held balls) managed by the management device 50 to zero.

[0035] When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts a held ball replay operation, it subtracts a predetermined number from the number of held balls it manages, notifies the gaming machine 20 of the number corresponding to the subtracted held balls, and adds it to the number of balls managed by the gaming machine. Also, when the inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts a saved ball replay operation, it sends a saved ball replay request to the management device 50, thereby subtracting a predetermined number from the number of saved balls managed by the management device 50, notifies the gaming machine 20 of the number corresponding to the subtracted saved balls, and adds it to the number of balls managed by the gaming machine.

[0036] When the inter-machine card processor 10 accepts a card return operation, it sends a ball addition request including the number of held balls to the management device 50, and after having the management device 50 add the number of held balls, it sends a card ejection notification to the management device 50 and controls the ejection of the card. Note that if a counting operation is accepted from the gaming machine 20 before the card return operation, the number of gaming machine managed balls is added to the number of held balls.

[0037] The inter-machine card processing device 10 has a function of acquiring a gaming machine ID from the gaming machine 20, and authenticating the gaming machine 20 using the acquired gaming machine ID and an authentication key received from the management device 50. This authentication is performed at the time of opening a store, etc., and the gaming machine 20 becomes available for play on condition that the authentication is successful.

[0038] The between-machine card processor 10 performs various display controls based on the state of the gaming machine 20, and transmits the state of the gaming machine 20 to the management device 50. The between-machine card processor 10 stores the number of gaming machine balls notified by the gaming machine 20, and periodically notifies the management device 50 of the number of gaming machine balls and the number of balls held.

[0039] The island controller 30 is a device that bundles together a group of gaming machines 20 and inter-machine card processors 10 installed on the gaming island, and relays various information to the management device 50.

[0040] When the management device 50 receives a card insertion notification from the inter-machine card processing device 10, it manages the card ID of the inserted card in association with the inter-machine card processing device 10, and transmits the prepaid value and the ball balance associated with the card ID to the inter-machine card processing device 10. Also, if the card ID indicated in the card insertion notification is the card ID of a membership card, it transmits the stored ball replay data to the inter-machine card processing device 10.

[0041] In addition, when the management device 50 receives a request to subtract balls held from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, it clears the balance of held balls to zero, and when it receives a request to add balls held from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, it adds the number of held balls indicated in the request to add balls held to the balance of held balls.

[0042] Furthermore, when the management device 50 receives a ball lending request from the inter-machine card processing device 10, it subtracts a predetermined value from the prepaid value associated with the card ID and transmits ball lending permission to the inter-machine card processing device 10. When the management device 50 receives a saved ball replay request, it transmits saved ball replay data to the inter-machine card processing device 10.

[0043] The management device 50 also acquires a gaming machine ID from the inter-machine card processor 10 and manages the gaming machines 20 installed in its own arcade. It also acquires an authentication key for authenticating the gaming machines 20 set in its own arcade from an authentication key management center (not shown) outside the arcade and distributes it to the inter-machine card processor 10.

[0044] The management device 50 also manages the member management data of the members who are registered with the gaming establishment. Specifically, the management device 50 manages the number of balls, points, PIN number, name, etc., in association with the card ID of the member card issued to the member.

[0045] Furthermore, when the management device 50 receives a card insertion notification from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, it transmits stored ball replay data including the balance of stored balls and the PIN number corresponding to the card ID indicated in the card insertion notification to the inter-machine card processing machine 10. Furthermore, when the management device 50 receives a stored ball replay request from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, it subtracts a predetermined number from the balance of stored balls associated with the card ID indicated in the stored ball replay request, and transmits stored ball replay data including the balance of stored balls after the subtraction to the inter-machine card processing machine 10.

[0046] The self-service prize management device 60 is a device that controls the prize exchange during self-service operation. When the self-service prize management device 60 receives prize inventory data from the prize payout device 80, it stores the received data.

[0047] Furthermore, when the self prize management device 60 reads the card ID, it requests the balance of held balls and saved balls associated with the card ID from the management device 50. When the self prize management device 60 receives the balance of held balls and saved balls associated with the card ID from the management device 50, it stores the balance of held balls and saved balls in the holding value data.

[0048] Furthermore, the self prize management device 60 uses the remaining balance of held balls stored in the holding value data to calculate the number of prizes that can be exchanged for each prize, and displays an exchange result screen including this number of prizes. When the self prize management device 60 accepts an exchange instruction on the displayed exchange result screen, it notifies the management device 50 of a ball withdrawal notice including the number of held balls required for prize exchange. It then writes the number of held balls after withdrawal onto a card, and issues a receipt on which the prize name and number of prizes are printed.

[0049] Furthermore, when the receipt issuing process is completed, the self prize management device 60 notifies the prize payout device 80 of a payout preparation instruction and displays a card removal request screen. When the card is removed and the self prize management device 60 receives a payout preparation completion notification from the prize payout device 80, it notifies the prize payout device 80 of a payout request.

[0050] The prize payout device 80 is a device that pays out prizes. If the number of prizes in stock changes, the prize payout device 80 transmits the current number of prizes in stock to the self prize management device 60 as prize stock data.

[0051] Furthermore, when the prize payout device 80 receives a payout preparation instruction from the self-prize management device 60, it moves the transport unit to a payout position corresponding to the prize code included in the payout preparation instruction and pays out the prize to the transport unit. The prize payout device 80 repeats the above process until all prizes for the prize codes included in the payout preparation instruction have been paid out. Then, when all prizes have been paid out, it notifies the self-prize management device 60 that payout preparation has been completed.

[0052] Furthermore, when the prize payout device 80 receives a payout request from the self prize management device 60, it moves the transport section carrying the prize to the payout outlet and pays out the prize.

[0053] The settlement device 90 is a device that settles the balance of the prepaid value associated with the card. When the settlement device 90 accepts a card ID, it notifies the management device 50 of a request for the balance of the prepaid value associated with this card ID. When the settlement device 90 receives the balance of the prepaid value associated with the card from the management device 50, it performs settlement processing.

[0054] Next, a description will be given of the ball lending process in the prize exchange system according to the present embodiment 1. When a player performs a ball lending operation on the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 transmits a message addressed to the local address of the management device 50. This message includes the card ID of the card inserted into the inter-machine card processing machine 10, an address or any identification information that identifies the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that is the sender, and a ball lending request.

[0055] When the management device 50 receives a message including a ball lending request, it updates the card management data by subtracting a predetermined value (for example, 5 units, which represents 500 yen when 1 unit is 100 yen) from the prepaid value associated with the card ID in the message, and transmits ball lending permission to the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that sent the message. The inter-machine card processing machine 10 that has received the ball lending permission transmits an addition signal to the gaming machine 20, requesting the addition of a number corresponding to the subtracted prepaid value (for example, "125") to the number of balls managed by the gaming machine.

[0056] The gaming machine 20 that has received the addition signal adds up the number of balls managed by the gaming machine, and transmits the number of balls managed by the gaming machine after the addition to the inter-machine card processing machine 10. The inter-machine card processing machine 10 compares the sum of the number of balls managed by the gaming machine before the addition and the number of balls lent out with the number of balls managed by the gaming machine after the addition, and determines whether the addition of the number of balls managed by the gaming machine has been performed appropriately.

[0057] Next, a description will be given of the ball replay process in the prize exchange system according to the present embodiment 1. When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts the insertion of a general card or a membership card, it transmits a message addressed to the local address of the management device 50. This message includes the card ID of the card inserted into the inter-machine card processing machine 10, an address or any identification information that identifies the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that is the sender, information for identifying the rate of the inter-machine card processing machine 10, and a card insertion notification.

[0058] When the management device 50 receives a card insertion notification from the inter-machine card processing machine 10, it notifies the inter-machine card processing machine 10 of the balance of balls held at the rate specified by the message, among the balls held associated with the card ID in the message.

[0059] The inter-machine card processing machine 10 stores the balance of held balls received from the management device 50. Then, it transmits a message to the management device 50, including information specifying the card ID and rate, and a request to subtract held balls. When the management device 50 receives the request to subtract held balls, it clears the balance of held balls specified by the card ID and rate to zero. Furthermore, when the inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts a request to replay held balls, it subtracts a fixed number from the balance of held balls, notifies the gaming machine 20 of the corresponding number, and adds it to the number of balls managed by the gaming machine.

[0060] When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 receives a management transfer request from the gaming machine 20 to transfer the management of the gaming machine 20 by making the number of gaming machine managed balls of the inter-machine card processing machine 10 the balls held by the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 adds the number of gaming machine managed balls indicated in the management transfer request to the balls held by the own machine. After that, when the card return operation is accepted, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 transmits a message including a request to add the balls held to the management device 50. This message includes the card ID of the card to be discharged, an address or any identification information that identifies the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that is the sender, information for identifying the rate of the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the balance of the balls held, and a request to add the balls held.

[0061] When the management device 50 receives the request to add the balls in hand, it updates the balance (number of balls in hand) of the balls in hand associated with the card ID in the message to the received value. After that, the card processor 10 transmits a card ejection notification to the management device 50 and controls the ejection of the card.

[0062] Next, the stored ball replay process in the prize exchange system according to the present embodiment 1 will be described. When the inter-machine card processing machine 10 accepts a membership card or reads identification information corresponding to the card ID from a mobile terminal that can be used as a membership card, it transmits a message addressed to the local address of the management device 50. This message includes the card ID of the card inserted into the inter-machine card processing machine 10 (or identification information corresponding to the card ID read from the mobile terminal), an address or any identification information that identifies the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that is the sender, information for identifying the rate of the inter-machine card processing machine 10, and a card insertion notification.

[0063] The management device 50 transmits stored ball replay data to the inter-machine card processing machine 10, the data including the PIN number associated with the card ID in the message and the remaining balance of stored balls at the rate specified by the message.

[0064] The inter-machine card processing device 10 stores the received saved ball replay data, and when the balance of saved balls indicated in the saved ball replay data is equal to or greater than the number of game ball payout units in saved ball replay (number of saved ball replay units, for example "125 balls"), it is capable of accepting a saved ball replay operation.

[0065] When the inter-machine card processor 10 receives a saved ball replay operation for the first time after storing the saved ball replay data, it requests the player to input a PIN number and checks whether the input PIN number matches the PIN number shown in the saved ball replay data.

[0066] If the PIN numbers match, the inter-machine card processing machine 10 sends a message addressed to the local address of the management device 50. This message includes the card ID of the card inserted in the inter-machine card processing machine 10, an address or any identification information that identifies the inter-machine card processing machine 10 that is the sender, information for identifying the rate of the inter-machine card processing machine 10, and a request to replay the stored balls.

[0067] The management device 50 subtracts a predetermined value from the balance of stored balls at the rate specified by the message among the stored balls associated with the card ID in the message, and transmits stored ball replay data including the balance after subtraction to the inter-machine card processing machine 10.

[0068] The inter-machine card processing device 10 receives the stored ball replay data, updates the balance of stored balls, and notifies the gaming machine 20 of the number corresponding to the number of stored ball replay units to add it to the number of balls managed by the gaming machine. It also determines whether the updated balance of stored balls is less than the number of stored ball replay units. If the updated balance of stored ball data is equal to or greater than the number of stored ball replay units, it is possible to accept a stored ball replay operation again, and if a stored ball replay operation is accepted, it transmits a stored ball replay request. For the second or subsequent stored ball replay operations, it is not necessary to confirm the PIN. If the updated balance of stored ball data is less than the number of stored ball replay units, it is not possible to accept a stored ball replay operation.

[0069] Next, the transition from held balls to saved balls during the store closing process will be explained. The management device 50 checks the balance of held balls in the card management data during the store closing process, and if there are held balls whose balance is greater than "0", it adds the balance of the held balls to the balance of saved balls to update it. After that, the management device 50 clears the balance of the held balls to zero.

[0070] <Configuration of the self-service prize management device 60> Next, the configuration of the self prize management device 60 shown in Fig. 2 will be described. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the external configuration of the self prize management device 60 shown in Fig. 2, and Fig. 4 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the self prize management device 60 shown in Fig. 2.

[0071] As shown in Fig. 3, the self prize management device 60 is a small computer operated by the player himself, and is placed on a table of a prize counter provided at a predetermined position in the game facility. A prize payout device 80 that pays out special prizes is placed on the prize counter, and is connected to the self prize management device 60 so as to be able to communicate with it.

[0072] The self prize management device 60 is connected to a card reader / writer 61 and a receipt issuing unit 62. The card reader / writer 61 is a processing unit that reads the card ID from the card of the player and writes ball holding rate information and the number of balls held onto the card. The receipt issuing unit 62 is a thermal printer or the like, and issues various receipts, such as receipts on which information specifying the selected prize is printed.

[0073] As shown in Fig. 4, the self prize management device 60 has a display operation unit 64, a communication unit 65, a memory unit 66, and a control unit 67. Although not shown here, a store clerk tag reader that reads the identification code of a store clerk tag carried by a store clerk can also be provided. The employee operating the self prize management device 60 is identified by such identification code. Also, a mobile terminal reader that reads the ID from the mobile terminal of a registered player can also be provided.

[0074] The display operation unit 64 is an input / output device such as a liquid crystal touch panel. The communication unit 65 is an interface unit for the self prize management device 60 to communicate with the management device 50 and the prize payout device 80 via a communication line.

[0075] The memory unit 66 is a storage device such as a hard disk drive or non-volatile memory, and stores prize inventory data 66a and holding value data 66b.

[0076] The prize inventory data 66a is data for managing the inventory of prizes in the prize payout device 80. The held value data 66b is data indicating the value associated with the card read by the card reader / writer 61.

[0077] The control unit 67 is a control unit that controls the entire self-prize management device 60, and has a prize inventory management unit 67a, a holding value management unit 67b, a prize exchange control unit 67c, a receipt issuance processing unit 67d, and a prize payout control unit 67e. In practice, programs corresponding to these functional units are stored in a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (not shown), and these programs are loaded into a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and executed, thereby causing the prize inventory management unit 67a, the holding value management unit 67b, the prize exchange control unit 67c, the receipt issuance processing unit 67d, and the prize payout control unit 67e to execute processes corresponding thereto.

[0078] The prize inventory management unit 67a is a processing unit that manages the prize inventory data 66a. When the prize inventory management unit 67a receives the prize inventory data from the prize payout device 80, the prize inventory management unit 67a stores the received data in the prize inventory data 66a.

[0079] The holding value management unit 67b is a processing unit that manages the holding value data 66b. When the holding value management unit 67b reads the card ID by the card reader / writer 61, it requests the management device 50 for the balance of the held balls and the saved balls associated with the card ID.

[0080] In addition, when the holding value management unit 67b receives the balance of held balls and saved balls associated with the card ID from the management device 50, it stores the balance of held balls and saved balls in the holding value data 66b.

[0081] The prize exchange control unit 67c is a processing unit that controls the prize exchange. The prize exchange control unit 67c calculates the number of prizes that can be exchanged for each prize using the balance of the held balls stored in the holding value data 66b, and displays an exchange result screen including the number of prizes on the display operation unit 64.

[0082] In addition, when the prize exchange control unit 67c receives an exchange instruction on the exchange result screen displayed on the display operation unit 64, it notifies the management device 50 of a ball withdrawal notice including the number of balls required for the prize exchange. Then, the card reader / writer 61 writes the number of balls after withdrawal to the card.

[0083] The receipt issuing processing unit 67d is a processing unit that issues a receipt for the prize exchange. When the prize exchange control unit 67c finishes writing the number of balls held after withdrawal to the card, the receipt issuing processing unit 67d issues a receipt on which the name of the prize to be exchanged and the number of prizes are printed.

[0084] The prize payout control unit 67e is a processing unit that controls the payout of prizes. When the receipt issuing processing unit 67d has completed the receipt issuing processing, the prize payout control unit 67e notifies the prize payout device 80 of a payout preparation instruction. This payout preparation instruction includes the prize code of the prize to be exchanged and the number of prizes. The prize payout control unit 67e then displays a card removal request screen on the display operation unit 64.

[0085] In addition, when the card is removed from the card reader / writer 61 and a payout preparation completion notification is received from the prize payout device 80, the prize payout control unit 67e notifies the prize payout device 80 of a payout request.

[0086] Next, an example of data stored in the storage unit 66 of the self prize management device 60 shown in Fig. 4 will be described. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the prize inventory data 66a and the holding value data 66b shown in Fig. 4.

[0087] The prize inventory data 66a shown in Figure 5 (a) associates, for prize code "0001", a state in which the prize name is "grand prize", the group code is "01", the storage capacity is "100", and the stock quantity is "20", for prize code "0002", a state in which the prize name is "medium prize", the group code is "01", the storage capacity is "300", and the stock quantity is "150", and for prize code "0003", a state in which the prize name is "small prize", the group code is "01", the storage capacity is "500", and the stock quantity is "230".

[0088] The holding value data 66b shown in Figure 5 (b) indicates a state in which the number of balls held by ball 1 is "1000", the number of balls held by ball 2 is "0", the number of balls held by ball 3 is "0", the number of saved balls for ball 1 is "0", the number of saved balls for ball 2 is "0", and the number of saved balls for ball 3 is "0".

[0089] <External configuration of prize payout device 80> Next, a description will be given of the external configuration of the prize payout device 80 shown in Fig. 2. Figs. 6 and 7 are diagrams showing the external configuration of the prize payout device 80 shown in Fig. 2.

[0090] 6, the prize payout device 80 is composed of a housing 81 for storing the prizes and a door 82 that opens and closes when replenishing the prizes, etc. The prize payout device 80 is provided with a display operation unit 86 that displays the number of prizes to be paid out, etc., and a shutter 84 that serves as a prize payout outlet.

[0091] 7, the prize payout device 80 is provided with a payout unit 83 for storing prizes by type and a transport unit 85 for transporting the paid-out prizes. The payout unit 83 is divided into a number of units for storing the prizes by type. For example, when storing three types of prizes, a grand prize, a medium prize, and a small prize, the units are divided into payout units 83a, 83b, and 83c.

[0092] <Configuration of prize payout device 80> Next, a description will be given of the configuration of the prize payout device 80 shown in Fig. 2. Fig. 8 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the prize payout device 80 shown in Fig. 2. As shown in Fig. 8, the prize payout device 80 has a display operation unit 86, a communication unit 87, a memory unit 88, and a control unit 89.

[0093] The display operation unit 86 is an input / output device such as a touch panel display that displays the number of prizes to be paid out, etc. The communication unit 87 is an interface unit for performing data communication with the self prize management device 60.

[0094] The storage unit 88 is a storage device including a hard disk drive, a non-volatile memory, etc. The storage unit 88 stores prize inventory data 88a. The prize inventory data 88a is data indicating the number of prizes stored by the prize payout device 80 in stock.

[0095] The control unit 89 is a control unit that controls the entire prize payout device 80, and has a prize inventory management unit 89a, a prize payout unit 89b, and a prize transport unit 89c. In practice, programs corresponding to these functional units are stored in a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (not shown), and these programs are loaded into the CPU and executed, thereby causing the prize inventory management unit 89a, the prize payout unit 89b, and the prize transport unit 89c to execute processes corresponding to each of them.

[0096] The prize inventory management unit 89a is a processing unit that manages the prize inventory data 88a. When prizes are paid out or replenished, the prize inventory management unit 89a subtracts the number of paid out prizes from the prize inventory data 88a in the case of a payout, and adds the number of replenished prizes to the prize inventory data 88a in the case of a replenishment, thereby updating the data.

[0097] In addition, when the prize inventory management unit 89a updates the prize inventory data 88a, it transmits this prize inventory data 88a to the self prize management device 60.

[0098] The prize payout section 89b is a processing section that controls the payout of prizes. When the transport section 85 is moved to the payout position of the payout unit 83 by the prize transport section 89c, the prize payout section 89b pays out to the transport section 85 the number of prizes corresponding to the prize code included in the payout preparation instruction received from the self-service prize management device 60. For example, if the prize corresponding to the prize code included in the payout preparation instruction is a grand prize, the grand prize is paid out from the payout unit 83a that stores the grand prize.

[0099] In addition, when the payout preparation instruction contains multiple prize codes, if the payout of all prizes for these prize codes has not been completed, the prize payout unit 89b passes a movement instruction to the prize transport unit 89c.

[0100] In addition, when the prize payout unit 89b has completed the payout of all prizes for the prize codes included in the payout preparation instruction, it notifies the self prize management device 60 of the completion of payout preparation.

[0101] The prize transport unit 89c is a processing unit that controls the transport of prizes. When the prize transport unit 89c receives a payout preparation command from the self-prize management device 60, it moves the transport unit 85 to the payout position of the payout unit 83 corresponding to the prize code included in the payout preparation command.

[0102] Furthermore, when the prize transport section 89c receives a movement instruction from the prize pay-out section 89b, it moves the transport section 85 to the pay-out position of the pay-out unit 83 that corresponds to the next prize code included in the pay-out preparation instruction.

[0103] Furthermore, when the prize transport unit 89c receives a payout request from the self prize management device 60, it opens the shutter 84 and moves the transport unit 85 to the position of the shutter 84. When the prize is removed from the transport unit 85, the prize transport unit 89c closes the shutter 84 and moves the transport unit 85 to a predetermined position.

[0104] Next, an example of data stored in the storage unit 88 of the prize payout device 80 shown in Fig. 8 will be described. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the prize inventory data 88a shown in Fig. 8.

[0105] The prize inventory data 88a shown in Figure 9 associates, for prize code "0001", a state in which the prize name is "grand prize", the group code is "01", the storage capacity is "100", and the stock quantity is "20", for prize code "0002", a state in which the prize name is "medium prize", the group code is "01", the storage capacity is "300", and the stock quantity is "150", and for prize code "0003", a state in which the prize name is "small prize", the group code is "01", the storage capacity is "500", and the stock quantity is "230".

[0106] <An example of display on the self prize management device 60 according to embodiment 1> Next, an example of the display on the self prize management device 60 according to this embodiment 1 will be described. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the display on the self prize management device 60 according to this embodiment 1. Here, an example of an exchange result screen and a card removal request screen displayed on the self prize management device 60 will be described.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 10(a), the exchange result screen displays the remaining number of balls available for prize exchange and the prizes that can be exchanged with this remaining number. For example, the screen displays that the total number of remaining balls in a "4 yen pachinko" game is "1000", the number of exchange balls that can be exchanged for prizes is "875", and the remaining number of balls that will be left as end balls is "125". It also displays that the prizes that can be exchanged with the "1000" exchange balls are "0" grand prize, "1" medium prize, and "1" small prize.

[0108] Also displayed are an "Exchange" button for receiving an instruction to carry out the exchange process, a "Cancel Transaction" button for canceling the exchange process, and a "Back" button for returning the display screen to the previous screen.

[0109] As shown in Figure 10(b), the card removal request screen displays the contents of the prize exchange process, including the request to remove the card and the contents of the prize exchange. For example, it displays "Please remove your card and receipt. The prize will be given out next. Please be careful not to forget to remove them." Then, the contents of the prize exchange are displayed as "0 grand prizes, 1 medium prize, 1 small prize, 2000 yen remaining, 125 balls remaining, 3 points for visiting."

[0110] <Processing procedure for prize payment in the first embodiment> Next, a description will be given of the processing procedure relating to the prize payout according to the present embodiment 1. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure relating to the prize payout according to the present embodiment 1.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 11, when the self prize management device 60 accepts the card (step S101), it displays an exchange result screen including the number of exchangeable prizes (step S102).

[0112] If an exchange instruction is accepted on this exchange result screen (step S103), a ball withdrawal notice including the number of balls required for prize exchange is sent to the management device 50 (step S104). The management device 50 withdraws the balls based on the received ball withdrawal notice (step S105).

[0113] The self-prize management device 60 writes the number of balls held after withdrawal onto the card (step S106), prints the name of the prize to be exchanged and the number of prizes on a receipt and issues it (step S107), and notifies the prize payout device 80 of a payout preparation instruction (step S108), and displays a card removal request screen (step S109).

[0114] The prize payout device 80 moves the transport section 85 to the payout position of the payout unit 83 corresponding to the prize code included in the received payout preparation instruction (step S111), and pays out the number of prizes corresponding to the prize code included in the payout preparation instruction to the transport section 85 (step S112).Then, it notifies the self prize management device 60 of the completion of payout preparation (step S113).

[0115] When the card is removed from the card reader / writer 61 (step S110) and the self prize management device 60 receives a notification from the prize payout device 80 that payout preparation is complete (step S113), the self prize management device 60 notifies the prize payout device 80 of a payout request (step S114).

[0116] The prize payout device 80 opens the shutter 84 (step S115), moves the transport section 85 to the position of the shutter 84, and pays out the prize (step S116), completing the process.

[0117] As described above, in the prize exchange system of this embodiment 1, the self-prize management device prepares to pay out the prize when it receives an exchange instruction, and pays out the prize when the card is removed from the self-prize management device, thereby shortening the time required to process the prize exchange, thereby enabling prize exchanges to be carried out quickly and efficiently in the self-operated prize management device.

[0118] [Variation 1] In the above embodiment 1, a configuration was described in which, once the self-prize management device has written to the card and printed a receipt, the prize payout device moves the transport section and dispenses the prize; however, the present invention is not limited to this.

[0119] It is also possible to configure the prize payout device to move the transport unit and dispense prizes while the self-service prize management device is writing to the card and printing the receipt.In this variation 1, a prize exchange system is described in which the prize payout device moves the transport unit and dispenses prizes while the self-service prize management device is writing to the card and printing the receipt.

[0120] <Processing procedure for prize payout related to Modification 1> A description will be given of the processing procedure for prize payout according to Modification 1. Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure for prize payout according to Modification 1.

[0121] As shown in FIG. 12, when the self prize management device 100 accepts the card (step S201), it displays an exchange result screen including the number of prizes that can be exchanged (step S202), and notifies the prize payout device 200 of the number to be paid out (step S203).

[0122] The prize payout device 200 moves the transport section 85 to the payout position of the payout unit 83 that corresponds to the prize code included in the received planned payout quantity (step S204). Note that the transport section 85 is moved before the exchange instruction is accepted on the exchange result screen, and even if a cancellation of the transaction is accepted at this point, the prize has not been paid out and therefore the exchange process can be cancelled without any problems.

[0123] When the self prize management device 100 receives an exchange instruction on the exchange result screen (step S205), it notifies the management device 50 of a ball withdrawal notification including the number of balls required for prize exchange (step S206).

[0124] The management device 50 withdraws the held balls based on the received held ball withdrawal notification (step S207), and notifies the self prize management device 100 of a withdrawal completion notification (step S208). Upon receiving the withdrawal completion notification, the self prize management device 100 notifies the prize payout device 200 of a payout preparation instruction (step S209).

[0125] The prize payout device 200 delivers to the transport section 85 the number of prizes corresponding to the prize code included in the received payout preparation instruction (step S210). It then notifies the self prize management device 100 of the completion of payout preparation (step S215). Note that since the prize exchange transaction is completed when the withdrawal process of the held balls is successful in the management device 50, the prize exchange transaction is not canceled after this withdrawal process.

[0126] The self-prize management device 100 writes the number of balls held after withdrawal onto the card (step S211), prints the name of the prize to be exchanged and the number of prizes on a receipt and issues it (step S212), and displays a card removal request screen (step S213).

[0127] When the card is removed from the card reader / writer 61 (step S214) and a notification that payout preparation is complete is received from the prize payout device 200 (step S215), the self prize management device 100 notifies the prize payout device 200 of a payout request (step S216).

[0128] The prize payout device 200 opens the shutter 84 (step S217), moves the transport section 85 to the position of the shutter 84, pays out the prize (step S217), and ends the process.

[0129] As described above, the prize exchange system of this variant example 1 is configured to reduce the time required to process prize exchange by moving the transport section and paying out prizes in the prize payout device while the self-operated prize management device writes onto the card and prints the receipt, thereby enabling prize exchange to be carried out quickly and efficiently in the self-operated prize management device.

[0130] [Variation 2] In the above embodiment 1, a configuration was described in which, once the self-prize management device has written to the card and printed a receipt, the prize payout device moves the transport section and dispenses the prize; however, the present invention is not limited to this.

[0131] It can also be configured to compare and check whether there are any discrepancies in the notification contents related to prize exchange that are notified in stages from the self-prize management device to the prize payout device. In this variation 2, a prize exchange system is described that compares and checks whether there are any discrepancies in the notification contents related to prize exchange that are notified in stages from the self-prize management device to the prize payout device.

[0132] <Processing procedure for prize payout in Modification 2> A description will be given of the processing procedure relating to the prize payout in the present modified example 2. Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure relating to the prize payout in the present modified example 2.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 13, when the self prize management device 300 accepts the card (step S301), it displays an exchange result screen including the number of prizes that can be exchanged (step S302), and notifies the prize payout device 400 of the number to be paid out (step S303).

[0134] The prize payout device 400 moves the transport section 85 to the payout position of the payout unit 83 corresponding to the prize code included in the received planned payout number (step S304).

[0135] When the self prize management device 300 receives an exchange instruction on the exchange result screen (step S305), it notifies the management device 50 of a ball withdrawal notification including the number of balls required for prize exchange (step S306), and also notifies the prize payout device 400 of a payout preparation instruction including the number of balls prepared for payout (step S307).

[0136] The prize payout device 400 compares the number of ready-to-payout coins included in the received payout preparation instruction with the number of coins to be paid out (step S308). If the number of ready-to-payout coins and the number of coins to be paid out are not equal (step S308; No), an error is displayed (step S319) and the process ends.

[0137] If the number of prizes ready to be paid out is equal to the number of prizes scheduled to be paid out (step S308; Yes), the number of prizes ready to be paid out is delivered to the transport unit 85 (step S309). Then, a notification of completion of the payout preparation is sent to the self prize management device 300 (step S314).

[0138] The self prize management device 300 writes the prize code and the number of prizes to be exchanged onto the card (step S310), prints the prize name and the number of prizes to be exchanged onto a receipt and issues it (step S311), and displays a card removal request screen (step S312).

[0139] When the card is removed from the card reader / writer 61 (step S313) and the self prize management device 300 receives a notification from the prize payout device 400 that payout preparation is complete (step S314), it notifies the prize payout device 400 of a payout request including the payout amount (step S315).

[0140] The prize payout device 400 compares the payout amount included in the received payout request with the planned payout amount (step S316). If the payout amount and the planned payout amount are not equal (step S316; No), an error is displayed (step S319) and the process ends.

[0141] If the payout amount is equal to the planned payout amount (step S316; Yes), the shutter 84 is opened (step S317), the transport section 85 is moved to the position of the shutter 84, the prizes are paid out (step S318), and the process ends.

[0142] As described above, the prize exchange system of this variant example 2 is configured to compare the contents of each notification regarding prize exchange that are sent in stages from the self-service prize management device to the prize payout device to check for any discrepancies, thereby enabling prize exchange to be carried out quickly and efficiently in the self-operated prize management device.

[0143] In the above-mentioned modified example 2, the configuration in which the planned payout number is fixed has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. If the planned payout number is not fixed, it is also possible to configure the system to specify an allowable range as the planned payout number and notify it.

[0144] [Embodiment 2] Incidentally, in the above embodiment 1, a configuration was described that shortens the time required to process prize exchange regardless of the type of card accepted in the self-prize management device, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0145] It is also possible to configure the self-service prize management device to change the procedure for shortening the time required for prize exchange processing depending on the type of card accepted. In this embodiment 2, a prize exchange system is described in which the procedure for shortening the time required for prize exchange processing is changed depending on the type of card accepted in the self-service prize management device.

[0146] <Outline of the prize exchange system according to the second embodiment> An overview of the prize exchange system according to the present embodiment 2 will be described. Figures 14 and 15 are explanatory diagrams for explaining the overview of the prize exchange system according to the present embodiment 2. In the present embodiment 2, the prize exchange processing procedure is changed depending on whether a membership card or a general card is received, so the case where a membership card and a general card are received will be described.

[0147] As shown in Fig. 14, when the self prize management device 500 accepts the membership card and displays the exchange result screen, it notifies the prize payout device 600 of a transport preparation instruction. When the prize payout device 600 receives the transport preparation instruction, it moves the transport section to the prize payout position.

[0148] When the self prize management device 500 receives an exchange instruction on the exchange result screen, it notifies a payout preparation instruction to the prize payout device 600. When the prize payout device 600 receives the payout preparation instruction, it pays out the prize to the transport unit.

[0149] When the membership card is removed, the self prize management device 500 notifies a payout request to the prize payout device 600. When the prize payout device 600 receives the payout request, it pays out the prize.

[0150] 15, when the self prize management device 500 accepts a general card and displays the exchange result screen, it notifies a payout preparation instruction to the prize payout device 600. When the prize payout device 600 receives the payout preparation instruction, it moves the transport unit and pays out the prize to the transport unit.

[0151] When the general card is removed, the self prize management device 500 notifies a payout request to the prize payout device 600. When the prize payout device 600 receives the payout request, it pays out the prize.

[0152] <Processing procedure for prize payment in embodiment 2> The processing procedure for prize payout in this embodiment 2 will be described. Figures 16 and 17 are flowcharts showing the processing procedure for prize payout in this embodiment 2. In this embodiment 2, the processing procedure for prize exchange is changed depending on whether it is a membership card or a general card, so the processing procedures when a membership card and a general card are accepted will be described.

[0153] As shown in Fig. 16, when the self prize management device 500 receives a membership card (step S401), it receives a PIN number (step S402). If multiple rates are selected (step S403; Yes), it receives the selection of the rate to be exchanged (step S404). Then, it calculates the number of prizes to be paid out (step S405). At this time, if multiple rates are selected, it calculates for each rate.

[0154] The self prize management device 500 displays an exchange result screen including the number of exchangeable prizes (step S406), and notifies the prize payout device 600 of a transportation preparation instruction (step S407).

[0155] The prize payout device 600 moves the transport section 85 to the payout position of the payout unit 83 that corresponds to the prize code included in the transport preparation instruction (step S408).

[0156] If a change in the number of prizes to be exchanged is selected (step S409; Yes), the self prize management device 500 accepts the change in the number of prizes (step S410). Then, if an exchange instruction is accepted (step S411), a payout preparation instruction is notified to the prize payout device 600 (step S412).

[0157] The prize payout device 600 delivers the prize to the transport unit 85 based on the payout preparation instruction (step S413). Then, it notifies the self prize management device 500 of the completion of the payout preparation (step S418).

[0158] The self prize management device 500 writes the prize code and the number of prizes to be exchanged onto the card (step S414), prints the prize name and the number of prizes to be exchanged onto a receipt and issues it (step S415), and displays a card removal request screen (step S416).

[0159] When the card is removed from the card reader / writer 61 (step S417) and the self prize management device 500 receives a notification from the prize payout device 600 that payout preparation is complete (step S418), the self prize management device 500 notifies the prize payout device 600 of a payout request (step S419).

[0160] The prize payout device 600 opens the shutter 84 (step S420), moves the transport section 85 to the position of the shutter 84, pays out the prize (step S421), and ends the process.

[0161] As shown in Fig. 17, the self prize management device 500 accepts a general card (step S501), and if multiple rates are selected (step S502; Yes), accepts the selection of the rate to be exchanged (step S503). Then, the number of prizes to be paid out is calculated (step S504). At this time, if multiple rates are selected, the calculation is performed for each rate.

[0162] The self prize management device 500 displays an exchange result screen including the number of exchangeable prizes (step S505), and notifies the prize payout device 600 of a payout preparation instruction (step S506).

[0163] The prize payout device 600 moves the transport section 85 to the payout position of the payout unit 83 corresponding to the prize code included in the payout preparation instruction (step S507), and pays out the prize (step S508). Then, it notifies the self prize management device 500 of the completion of the payout preparation (step S514).

[0164] When the self prize management device 500 receives an exchange instruction (step S509), it writes the prize code and the number of prizes to be exchanged onto the card (step S510), prints the name of the prize and the number of prizes to be exchanged onto a receipt and issues it (step S511), and displays a card removal request screen (step S512).

[0165] When the card is removed from the card reader / writer 61 (step S513) and the self prize management device 500 receives a notification from the prize payout device 600 that payout preparation is complete (step S514), the self prize management device 500 notifies the prize payout device 600 of a payout request (step S515).

[0166] The prize payout device 600 opens the shutter 84 (step S516), moves the transport section 85 to the position of the shutter 84, and pays out the prize (step S517), completing the process.

[0167] As described above, the prize exchange system of this embodiment 2 is configured to change the procedure to shorten the time required to process prize exchange depending on the type of card accepted in the self-service prize management device, so that prize exchange can be carried out quickly and efficiently in the self-service prize management device.

[0168] In each of the above embodiments, a configuration in which the present invention is applied to a smart pachinko machine that uses game balls as a game medium has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the present invention can also be configured to be applied to a smart pachislot machine that uses medals as a game medium.

[0169] In addition, the configurations illustrated in the above embodiments are merely functional schematics, and are not necessarily physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that illustrated, and all or part of the devices can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc. [Industrial Applicability]

[0170] The prize exchange system, prize management device, and prize exchange method of the present invention are suitable for performing quick and efficient prize exchange in a self-operated prize management device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0171] 10 Card Processing Machines 20 Gaming Machines 30 Island Controller 50 Management device 60 Self-prize management device 61 Card reader / writer 62 Receipt Issuance Department 64 Display operation section 65 Communications Department 66 Memory section 66a Prize inventory data 66b Holding Value Data 67 Control Unit 67a Prize Inventory Management Department 67b Holding Value Management Department 67c Prize exchange control unit 67d Receipt issuing processing unit 67e Prize payout control unit 80 Prize payout device 81 Case 82 Door 83, 83a, 83b, 83c Payout unit 84 Shutter 85 Transport section 86 Display operation section 87 Communications Department 88 Memory section 88a Prize inventory data 89 Control Unit 89a Prize Inventory Management Department 89b Prize Payout Section 89c Prize Delivery Department 90 Payment machine 100 Self-prize management device 200 Prize payout device 300 Self-prize management device 400 Prize payout device 500 Self-prize management device 600 Prize payout device

Claims

1. A prize exchange system in which a storage medium processing device that reads and writes information stored in a storage medium, a prize management device that exchanges a number of game media associated with identification information of the storage medium for prizes, and a prize payout device that pays out prizes corresponding to the number of game media are communicatively connected, The prize management device includes: a receiving means for receiving an exchange operation for exchanging the number of game media for the prize; a payout preparation instruction means for issuing a payout preparation instruction including the payout number for each type of prize to be paid out to the prize payout device when the exchange operation is accepted by the accepting means; a payout instruction means for instructing the prize payout device to pay out prizes when the update process of the information related to the identification information of the storage medium is completed; A prize exchange system comprising:

2. The prize payout device is The prize exchange system according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the payout preparation instruction is received, the number of prizes to be paid out for each type of prize included in the payout preparation instruction is delivered to a predetermined transport position.

3. The prize payout device is The prize exchange system according to claim 2, characterized in that, when the payout instruction is received, a shutter provided at the payout outlet is opened and the prize that has been delivered to the specified transport position is paid out to the payout outlet.

4. The prize management device includes: The prize exchange system described in claim 1, characterized in that before accepting the exchange operation, an exchange result screen including the number of prizes that can be exchanged based on the number of gaming media is displayed on a designated display unit, and the prize payout device is notified of the number of prizes planned to be paid out.

5. The prize payout device is The prize exchange system according to claim 4, characterized in that, when the planned number of prizes to be paid out is accepted, a transport unit that transports the prizes is controlled to move to a prize payout position.

6. The receiving means is 6. The prize exchange system according to claim 1, further comprising an exchange button for exchanging the number of game media for the prize when the player presses the exchange button.

7. The update process of the storage medium includes: A prize exchange system as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the process updates the number of gaming media corresponding to the identification information of the storage medium by subtracting the number of gaming media corresponding to the prize.

8. A prize exchange system in which a storage medium processing device which reads and writes information stored in a member storage medium provided to a member who has registered with an amusement facility, a prize management device which exchanges the number of game media associated with the identification information of the member storage medium for prizes, and a prize payout device which pays out prizes corresponding to the number of game media are communicatively connected, The prize management device includes: a transport preparation instruction means for issuing a transport preparation instruction to move a transport unit for transporting the prizes to a prize delivery position when an exchange result screen including the number of exchangeable prizes that can be exchanged based on the number of game media associated with the identification information of the member storage medium is displayed on a predetermined display unit; a receiving means for receiving an exchange operation for exchanging the number of game media for the prize; a payout preparation instruction means for issuing a payout preparation instruction including the payout number for each type of prize to be paid out to the prize payout device when the exchange operation is accepted by the accepting means; a payout instruction means for issuing a payout instruction to the prize payout device when the update process of the information related to the identification information of the member storage medium is completed; A prize exchange system comprising:

9. A prize exchange system in which a storage medium processing device that reads and writes information stored in a general storage medium that can be used by players playing at an amusement facility, a prize management device that exchanges the number of game media associated with the identification information of the general storage medium for prizes, and a prize payout device that pays out prizes corresponding to the number of game media are communicatively connected, The prize management device includes: a payout preparation instruction means for, when an exchange result screen including the number of exchangeable prizes that can be exchanged with the number of game media associated with the identification information of the general storage medium is displayed on a specified display unit, giving a payout preparation instruction to the prize payout device including moving a transport unit that transports the prizes to a prize payout position and paying out the number of prizes to be paid out for each type of prize; a payout instruction means for issuing a payout instruction to the prize payout device when the update process of the information related to the identification information of the general-purpose storage medium is completed; A prize exchange system comprising:

10. A prize management device is communicatively connected to a storage medium processing device that reads and writes information stored in a storage medium and a prize payout device that performs a prize payout process, and exchanges a number of game media associated with the identification information of the storage medium for prizes, a receiving means for receiving an exchange operation for exchanging the number of game media for the prize; a payout preparation instruction means for issuing a payout preparation instruction including the payout number for each type of prize to be paid out to the prize payout device when the exchange operation is accepted by the accepting means; a payout instruction means for instructing the prize payout device to pay out prizes when the update process of the information related to the identification information of the storage medium is completed; A prize management device comprising:

11. A prize exchange method in a prize exchange system in which a storage medium processing device which reads and writes information stored in a storage medium, a prize management device which exchanges a number of game media associated with identification information of the storage medium for a prize, and a prize payout device which pays out a prize corresponding to the number of game media are communicatively connected, a receiving step in which the prize management device receives an exchange operation for exchanging the number of game media for the prize; a payout preparation instruction step of issuing a payout preparation instruction including the payout number for each type of prize to be paid out to the prize payout device when the prize management device accepts the exchange operation through the accepting step; a payout instruction step of issuing a payout instruction to the prize payout device when the prize management device has completed the update process of the information related to the identification information of the storage medium; A method of exchanging prizes, comprising:

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