Prize acquisition game device, prize management system, and server device

Abstract

To reduce a burden on a manager who performs setting work.SOLUTION: The present invention is a prize acquisition game device configured to be able to play a prize acquisition game for acquiring a prize in a housing space in which the prize is housed, the prize acquisition game device including a reading unit capable of reading electronic information included in a recording medium, and a display control unit configured to display a prize list including one or a plurality of prizes on a screen based on prize information obtained from the electronic information. And a setting part for setting the selected prize as a prize currently stored in the prize acquisition game device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a prize acquisition game device, a prize management system, and a server device. [Background technology]

[0002] In a prize acquisition game device configured to allow a prize acquisition game to be played within a storage space in which prizes are stored, an administrator (e.g., a store staff member) directly inputs the prize ID corresponding to the prize placed in the storage space using a software keyboard provided on the prize acquisition game device, thereby associating the device ID of the prize acquisition game device with the prize ID of the prize and managing the data (e.g., Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-186530 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In order to manage which prizes are housed in which prize acquisition game devices, the administrator must perform a setting operation to set the prizes actually housed in the housing space as the prizes currently housed in the prize acquisition game devices. The greater the number of prize acquisition game devices installed in a store, the more burdensome this setting operation becomes for the administrator.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to reduce the burden on the administrator who performs the setting work. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The main invention of the present invention to solve the above problems is: A prize acquisition game device configured to enable a player to play a prize acquisition game in which a prize is acquired in a storage space in which the prize is stored, a reading unit capable of reading electronic information stored in a recording medium; a display control unit that displays a prize list including one or more prizes on a screen based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information; a setting unit that, when an administrator selects a prize from the prize list displayed on the screen, sets the selected prize as the prize currently contained in the prize acquisition game device; A prize acquisition game device comprising: Other features of the present invention will become apparent from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] 1 is a configuration diagram showing an example of a prize management system 1 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is an external view showing an example of an information medium 5 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a store terminal 10 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a server device 20 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of carton information according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of store information according to the present embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of administrator information according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of game device information according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] 1 is an external view showing the configuration of a prize acquisition game device 50 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] 1 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a prize acquisition game device 50 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 11]2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a moving unit 60 according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 12] 12A is an enlarged view showing a state in which an information medium 5 is inserted into the insertion slot 78. Fig. 12A is an enlarged view showing a state in which one information medium 5 is inserted into the insertion slot 78. Fig. 12B is an enlarged view showing a state in which a plurality of information media 5 are inserted into the insertion slot 78. [Figure 13] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting information according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of an operation relating to prize setting of the prize acquisition game device 50 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 5 is an image diagram showing an example of a setting screen 500 in this embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is an image diagram showing another example of the setting screen 500 in this embodiment. [Figure 17] 10 is a flowchart for explaining another example of the operation of the prize setting of the prize acquisition game device 50 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of a setting screen 600 according to the present embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 6 is an image diagram showing another example of the setting screen 600 in this embodiment. [Figure 20] 10 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the prize setting and sample setting of the prize acquisition game device 50 according to the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] At least the following matters will become clear from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings. That is, a prize acquisition game device configured to enable a player to play a prize acquisition game in which a player acquires a prize in a storage space in which the prize is stored, a reading unit capable of reading electronic information stored in a recording medium; a display control unit that displays a prize list including one or more prizes on a screen based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information; a setting unit that, when an administrator selects a prize from the prize list displayed on the screen, sets the selected prize as the prize currently contained in the prize acquisition game device; A prize acquisition game device comprising: With this type of prize acquisition game device, when the administrator operates the prize acquisition game device to read the electronic information from the recording medium, a prize list containing one or more prizes is displayed on the screen based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information.The administrator then simply selects the prize from the prize list displayed on the screen that matches the prize to be actually stored in the storage space, and the selected prize is set as the prize currently stored in the storage space of the prize acquisition game device.As a result, it is possible to reduce the burden on the administrator who performs the setting work.

[0009] In addition, in the prize acquisition game device, The display control unit When prize information and management information are obtained from the electronic information, the prize list including one or more prizes is displayed on the screen based on the prize information; In the case where prize information is obtained from the electronic information but management information is not obtained, the prize list may not be displayed on the screen. With such a prize acquisition game device, when an administrator operates the prize acquisition game device to read electronic information from a recording medium, if management information is obtained from that electronic information, it can be confirmed that the person attempting to perform the setup work is the administrator himself / herself.Therefore, only when prize information and management information are obtained from the electronic information, can a prize list including one or more prizes based on the prize information be displayed on the screen, thereby preventing fraudulent operations by persons other than the administrator.

[0010] In addition, in the prize acquisition game device, The display control unit On the condition that the manager door is open, the prize list including one or more prizes is displayed on the screen based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information; The prize list may be hidden on the screen on the condition that the manager's door is closed. With such a prize acquisition game device, when an administrator operates the prize acquisition game device to read electronic information from a recording medium, if the administrator door, which is only handled by the administrator, is in an open state, it is possible to confirm that the person attempting to perform the setup work is the administrator himself / herself.Therefore, by providing that this state is met, a prize list containing one or more prizes based on the prize information can be displayed on the screen, thereby preventing fraudulent operations by persons other than the administrator.

[0011] In addition, in the prize acquisition game device, The display control unit may be configured to display at least one of the name, initial quantity, and size of the prize in the prize list based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information. With this type of prize acquisition game device, the administrator can see the name, initial quantity, size, etc. of the prize on the screen when selecting the prize that will actually be stored in the storage space from the prize list displayed on the screen.

[0012] In addition, in the prize acquisition game device, The setting unit may request a server device connected via a network to associate the set prize with the prize-acquiring game device and manage them. According to such a prize acquisition game device, data indicating which prize is contained in which prize acquisition game device can be collectively managed by the server device.

[0013] In addition, in the prize acquisition game device, a storage unit that stores sample information in which setting contents corresponding to at least one of the type, shape, size, and weight of a prize are associated with setting items related to a prize acquisition game and registered in advance; The setting unit may automatically set setting contents that match at least one of the type, shape, size, and weight of the prize that has been set based on the sample information to the setting items related to the prize acquisition game. With this type of prize acquisition game device, the administrator can operate the device to automatically set the settings for the prize acquisition game that match the type of prize currently stored in the storage space of the prize acquisition game device, thereby further reducing the burden on the administrator.

[0014] Also, there is provided a prize management system having a prize acquisition game device configured to be able to play a prize acquisition game in which prizes are acquired in a storage space in which the prizes are stored, and a server device connected to the prize acquisition game device via a network, The prize acquisition game device includes: a reading unit capable of reading electronic information stored in a recording medium; a display control unit that displays a prize list including one or more prizes on a screen based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information; a setting unit that, when an administrator selects a prize from the prize list displayed on the screen, requests the server device to set the selected prize as a prize currently contained in the prize acquisition game device and to associate and manage the set prize with the prize acquisition game device; The server device a management unit that manages the set prize and the prize acquisition game device in association with each other based on a request from the prize acquisition game device; It is a prize management system. According to this prize management system, when the administrator operates the prize acquisition game device to read the electronic information from the recording medium, a prize list containing one or more prizes is displayed on the screen based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information.The administrator then simply selects the prize from the prize list displayed on the screen that matches the prize to be actually stored in the storage space, and the selected prize is set as the prize currently stored in the storage space of the prize acquisition game device.As a result, the burden on the administrator performing the setting work can be reduced.Then, by complying with management requests from the prize acquisition game devices, the server device can collectively manage data indicating which prizes are stored in which prize acquisition game devices.

[0015] Also, a prize acquisition game device configured to be able to play a prize acquisition game in which a prize is acquired in a storage space in which the prize is stored, and a server device connected via a network, This server device is equipped with a reading unit capable of reading electronic information contained in a recording medium, a display control unit that displays on a screen a prize list including one or more prizes based on prize information obtained from the electronic information, and a setting unit that, when an administrator selects a prize from the prize list displayed on the screen, sets the selected prize as the prize currently contained in the prize acquisition game device, and a management unit that associates and manages the set prize with the prize acquisition game device based on a request from the prize acquisition game device. With this type of server device, when the administrator operates the prize acquisition game device to read the electronic information from the recording medium, a prize list containing one or more prizes is displayed on the screen based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information.The administrator then simply selects the prize from the prize list displayed on the screen that matches the prize to be actually stored in the storage space, and the selected prize is set as the prize currently stored in the storage space of the prize acquisition game device.The server device then follows management requests from the prize acquisition game device, allowing it to collectively manage data indicating which prizes are stored in which prize acquisition game devices.

[0016] === Implementation form === In the following embodiments, a prize management system that manages prizes for each prize acquisition game device in each store (for example, an amusement facility) will be specifically described as an example. Note that the present invention is not limited to multiple prize acquisition game devices, but can also be applied to a prize management system that manages prizes for a single prize acquisition game device. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to multiple stores, but can also be applied to a prize management system that manages prizes for prize acquisition game devices in a single store.

[0017] <<Configuration of Prize Management System 1>> 1 is a configuration diagram showing an example of a prize management system 1 according to this embodiment. In the prize management system 1 according to this embodiment, a player who visits a store 2 can use a prize acquisition game device 50 in the store to play a prize acquisition game. In addition, a manager of the store 2 (for example, a store staff member) can use the prize acquisition game device 50 in the store to make various settings related to the prize acquisition game and to replenish and replace prizes.

[0018] As shown in Figure 1, the prize management system 1 of this embodiment has a server device 20, a store terminal 10 used by the manager of store 2, and a prize acquisition game device 50 used by the manager of store 2 and players who visit the store.

[0019] The server device 20 is connected to each of the store terminal 10 and the prize acquisition game device 50 via a communication network so as to be able to communicate information with them. The prize acquisition game device 50 can read electronic information stored in the information medium 5.

[0020] 2 is an external view showing an example of an information medium 5 according to this embodiment. The information medium 5 is an electronic key incorporating an IC tag in which electronic information is stored. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, two types of electronic keys are used by the administrator of the prize acquisition game device 50: a prize electronic key 5a incorporating an IC tag in which electronic information related to the prize (prize information) is stored, and a management electronic key 5b incorporating an IC tag in which electronic information related to the management of the prize acquisition game device 50 (management information).

[0021] It goes without saying that the prize management system 1 in Fig. 1 is just one example, and there are various system configuration examples depending on the application and purpose. For example, the server device 20 in Fig. 1 may be configured as a distributed system across multiple computers. Furthermore, the server device 20 may assume some of the functions of the store terminal 10 and the prize acquisition game device 50, or the store terminal 10 and the prize acquisition game device 50 may assume some of the functions of the server device 20. Furthermore, the server device 20 and the communication network may be installed in the store 2.

[0022] The prize acquisition game device 50 can also be connected to the server device 20 (external server) via a relay device (internal server) installed in the same store 2. The relay device relays information between the server device 20 and the prize acquisition game device 50, transmitting and receiving various information, and is a device that performs some of the functions of the server device 20. In other words, the relay device is not only connected to the server device 20 via a communication network, but also connected to the prize acquisition game device 50 installed in the same store 2 via a communication network. In this case, the server device 20 may perform some of the functions of the relay device.

[0023] <<Configuration of store terminal 10>> 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the store terminal 10 according to this embodiment. The store terminal 10 is an information processing device (for example, a personal computer, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a mobile phone terminal, etc.) that can be used by the manager of the store 2.

[0024] The manager can access the server device 20 using the store terminal 10 to view setting information and the like related to the prize acquisition game devices 50 in the store.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 3, the store terminal 10 according to this embodiment includes a terminal control unit 11, a terminal storage unit 12, a terminal operation unit 13, a terminal display unit 14, and a terminal communication unit 15.

[0026] The terminal control unit 11 controls the entire store terminal 10, and is realized by the CPU executing a program stored in a predetermined memory.

[0027] The terminal memory unit 12 has a ROM, which is a read-only memory area in which various programs and information required by the store terminal 10 are stored, and a RAM, which is a rewritable memory area used as a work area for calculation processing by the terminal control unit 11.

[0028] The terminal storage unit 12 in this embodiment stores administrator software, administrator information in which a terminal ID for identifying the store terminal 10 and the like are set, and the like.

[0029] The terminal operation unit 13 is for receiving operation inputs from the administrator. The terminal display unit 14 is for displaying screen images in accordance with the progress of the administrator software based on instructions from the terminal control unit 11.

[0030] The terminal communication unit 15 is used to communicate with the server device 20, and has the function of a receiving unit that receives various data and signals transmitted from the server device 20, and the function of a transmitting unit that transmits various data and signals to the server device 20 in response to instructions from the terminal control unit 11.

[0031] <<Configuration of Server Device 20>> 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server device 20 according to this embodiment. The server device 20 is an information processing device (for example, a workstation or a personal computer) used by the system operator to operate and manage various services related to the prize acquisition game.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 4, the server device 20 in this embodiment includes a server control unit 21, a server storage unit 22, a server input unit 23, a server display unit 24, and a server communication unit 25.

[0033] The server control unit 21 controls the entire server device 20, and is realized by the CPU executing a program stored in a predetermined memory. The server control unit 21 in this embodiment includes at least a management unit 211.

[0034] The management unit 211 manages the association between the prize group to be managed and the prize acquisition game device. In this embodiment, the management unit 211 manages the prize information of the prize group housed in the housing space in association with each prize acquisition game device 50.

[0035] The server memory unit 22 has a ROM, which is a read-only memory area in which various programs and information required by the server device 20 are stored, and a RAM, which is a rewritable memory area used as a work area for calculation processing by the server control unit 21, and is realized by a non-volatile memory device such as a flash memory or a hard disk.

[0036] The server storage unit 22 in this embodiment stores carton information, which is information about a carton (prize packing box) in which one or more prizes are packed as one set, and store information, which is information about the store 2.

[0037] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of carton information according to this embodiment. The carton information shown in Fig. 5 includes items such as a prize group ID, a prize group name, prize composition, initial quantity, prize unit price, and manufacturing information. Note that the items in the carton information may be the same as or partly the same as the items in the prize information contained in the prize electronic key 5a.

[0038] The prize group ID is information for uniquely identifying a prize group consisting of one or more prizes packed in each carton, and is information indicating, for example, the prize category (stuffed toy, figure, key chain, etc.). Note that carton-specific identification information, such as the carton number, can also be used as the prize group ID.

[0039] The prize group name is information indicating the name of the prize group, and is information indicating the name of the prize (XX (character name) mascot figure, XX (character name) action figure, △△ (character name) fluffy stuffed animal, etc.).

[0040] The prize composition is information for specifying the composition of the prize group packed in each carton, and includes the prize name and prize ID for identifying the prizes that make up the prize group. For example, the composition of a prize group may be composed of prizes of the same type but with some different specifications (different colors, patterns, shapes, etc.). The initial quantity is information that indicates the number of each prize that makes up the prize group packed in an unopened carton.

[0041] The prize unit price is information indicating the unit price of the prize, and is information used when calculating the sales (income) of the prize acquisition game device 50. The manufacturing information is information related to the manufacturing of the prize. This manufacturing information includes, for example, information for identifying the country of manufacture of the prize, the manufacturing factory of the prize, the manufacturing date of the prize, etc.

[0042] In this embodiment, it is possible to configure a prize group by grouping multiple prizes of the same type, by grouping multiple prizes of multiple types, or by grouping multiple prizes one by one.It is also possible to configure a prize group by grouping only one prize (for example, a large prize).

[0043] In addition, the carton according to this embodiment contains a prize group consisting of one or more prizes, as well as an electronic prize key 5a incorporating an IC tag that stores electronic information about the prizes. The electronic prize information stored in the electronic prize key 5a includes data such as the prize ID, prize name, and initial quantity corresponding to the one or more prizes packed in the carton.

[0044] Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of store information according to this embodiment. The store information shown in Fig. 6 includes items such as a store ID, a store name, manager information, and game device information.

[0045] The store ID is information for uniquely identifying the store 2. The store name is information indicating the name of the store 2. The manager information is information related to the manager of the store 2. The game device information is information related to the prize acquisition game device 50 installed in the store 2.

[0046] 7 is a diagram showing an example of administrator information according to this embodiment. The administrator information shown in FIG. 7 includes items such as an administrator ID and an administrator name.

[0047] The administrator ID is information for uniquely identifying the administrator of the store 2. Note that the administrator ID may also be terminal-specific identification information (terminal ID), such as the MAC address of the store terminal 10 operated by each administrator of the store 2. The administrator name is information indicating the name of the administrator.

[0048] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of game device information according to this embodiment. The game device information shown in Fig. 8 includes items such as a game device ID, a device name, setting information, and sales information.

[0049] The game device ID is information for uniquely identifying the prize acquisition game device 50 installed in the store 2. The device name is information indicating the name of the prize acquisition game device 50 installed in the store 2. The setting information is information indicating the setting contents related to the prize acquisition game device 50. The sales information is information related to the sales (income) of the prize acquisition game device 50.

[0050] The server input unit 23 is used by a system administrator or the like to input various data, and is realized by, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The server input unit 23 may be configured to be connectable as needed.

[0051] The server display unit 24 is for displaying an operation screen for the system administrator based on instructions from the server control unit 21, and is realized by, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or the like. The server display unit 24 may be configured to be connectable as needed.

[0052] The server communication unit 25 is used to communicate between the store terminal 10 and the prize acquisition game device 50 installed in the store 2, and has the function of a receiving unit that receives various data and signals transmitted from the store terminal 10 and the prize acquisition game device 50, and the function of a transmitting unit that transmits various data and signals to the store terminal 10 and the prize acquisition game device 50 in response to instructions from the server control unit 21.

[0053] <<Configuration of Prize Acquisition Game Device 50>> An example of the configuration of the prize acquisition game device 50 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 9 to 11. Fig. 9 is an external view showing the configuration of the prize acquisition game device 50 according to this embodiment. Fig. 10 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the prize acquisition game device 50 according to this embodiment. Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the moving unit 60 according to this embodiment. Fig. 12 is an enlarged view showing a state in which an information medium 5 is inserted into an insertion slot 78. Fig. 12A is an enlarged view showing a state in which one information medium 5 is inserted into the insertion slot 78. Fig. 12B is an enlarged view showing a state in which multiple information media 5 are inserted into the insertion slot 78. Fig. 13 is a configuration diagram showing an example of setting information according to this embodiment.

[0054] In the following explanation, each direction is defined as shown in each figure. That is, the vertical direction is defined as the "up-down direction," and "up" and "down" are defined according to gravity. Furthermore, based on the view from the player playing the game facing the prize acquisition game device 50, the near side is defined as the "front" and the far side is defined as the "rear," defining the "front-to-back direction." Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to the up-down and front-to-back directions is defined as the "left-to-right direction," and based on the view from the player, "right" and "left" are defined.

[0055] The prize acquisition game device 50 is an arcade game device that is installed in the store 2 and used by players and managers. Players who enter the store 2 can play the prize acquisition game using the prize acquisition game device 50 in the store. In addition, the manager of the store 2 (for example, a store staff member) can use the prize acquisition game device 50 in the store to replenish and display prizes and make various settings related to the prize acquisition game.

[0056] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the prize acquisition game device 50 in this embodiment has a prize storage section 51, a prize display section 52, a prize acquisition section 55, a movement section 60, a game operation section 56, a setting operation section 57, a game device control section 71, a game device memory section 72, a game device display section 73, a game device communication section 74, a reading section 75, a coin insertion slot 76, an opening / closing detection section 77, an insertion slot 78, a prize removal opening 79, and an administrator's door 80.

[0057] As shown in Fig. 9, the prize storage section 51 stores one or more prizes (a group of prizes) inside the prize acquisition game device 50, and its front and left and right sides are made of transparent materials (for example, transparent resin, glass, etc.) so that players can see the prizes stored inside (the storage space). An opening and closing door 51a is provided on the front of the prize storage section 51, allowing an administrator to display and replenish prizes. Pillars 51b are provided at the four corners of the prize storage section 51.

[0058] The storage space enclosed by the prize storage section 51 is used as a play area for players to play the prize acquisition game. If the pillars 51b on both sides of the opening and closing door 51a are made of a mirrored or transparent material, they will not stand out visually, making the play area appear larger.

[0059] As shown in Figure 9, the prize storage section 51 in this embodiment has a prize acquisition section 55 that performs the prize acquisition operation in the storage space, a moving section 60 that moves the prize acquisition section 55 in the storage space, and a prize display section 52 for displaying the prizes in the storage space.

[0060] In the prize storage section 51 of this embodiment, a first play area (hereinafter also referred to as the "first storage area") where the player plays the prize acquisition game is formed on the left side of the storage space, and a second play area (hereinafter also referred to as the "second storage area") is formed on the right side of the storage space.

[0061] 9, a prize display section 52 and a prize acquisition section 55 are arranged corresponding to the first play area on the left side and the second play area on the right side, respectively. Therefore, within each play area, each prize acquisition section 55 can move to acquire a prize displayed in each prize display section 52.

[0062] The prize display section 52 is used to display the prizes in the prize storage section 51, and forms the bottom surface of the play area as shown in Figure 9. In this embodiment, the prize display section 52 is composed of a frame and a panel (not shown).

[0063] The frame is configured to be able to support a plurality of panels. The panels are configured to be able to display one or more prizes on their upper surfaces, and are supported so as to be detachable from the frame.

[0064] It should be noted that a metal rod-shaped bar can be used in place of or together with the panel in the prize display section 52. Like the panel, this bar is also detachably supported by the frame.

[0065] The area where the panels are placed becomes a display area where prizes can be displayed, while the empty area where no panels are placed becomes an opening area through which prizes can pass. Prizes that are captured by the prize capturing unit 55 and then dropped fall through the opening area of ​​the prize display unit 52.

[0066] A prize that falls from the opening area of ​​the prize display section 52 is detected by an optical sensor and then guided along a guide path to the prize outlet 79. The optical sensor detects the presence or absence of a prize using a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element attached on the guide path.

[0067] The prize capturing section 55 is for capturing the prizes stored in the prize storage section 51 (prize displayed in the prize display section 52) by opening and closing the arms. As shown in Fig. 11, the prize capturing section 55 in this embodiment is configured so that it can grasp the prizes with two arms 30, and is connected to the lower end of the lifting section 62a.

[0068] 11, the moving unit 60 is disposed at the top of the prize storage unit 51 and moves the prize capturing unit 55 within the play area formed by the prize storage unit 51. The moving unit 60 has a horizontal moving unit 61 and a vertical moving unit 62.

[0069] The horizontal movement unit 61 moves the prize capture unit 55 horizontally (i.e., forward / backward and left / right) in the play area. The vertical movement unit 62 moves the prize capture unit 55 vertically (i.e., up / down) in the play area.

[0070] 11, the horizontal movement unit 61 in this embodiment has a left-right movement unit 63 and a front-back movement unit 64. The left-right movement unit 63 moves the prize capture unit 55 left and right in the play area.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 11, the left-right movement section 63 in this embodiment has a pair of fixed rails 63a extending in the left-right direction, a left-right movement motor 63b, and a limit sensor (not shown).

[0072] The pair of fixed rails 63a are fixed to the upper part of the prize storage section 51 so as to be parallel to each other in the left-right direction. A front-rear moving section 64 is attached to the pair of fixed rails 63a so as to be slidable in the left-right direction. By driving the left-right movement motor 63b, the front-rear moving section 64 can be moved in the left-right direction along the fixed rails 63a.

[0073] The limit sensor (not shown) is for detecting when the forward / backward moving section 64 has reached its limit position in the left / right direction (i.e., when the prize capturing section 55 has reached its limit position in the left / right direction).

[0074] The front-rear movement unit 64 moves the prize capture unit 55 in the front-rear direction in the play area. As shown in Fig. 11, the front-rear movement unit 64 in this embodiment has a movable rail 64a extending along the front-rear direction, a front-rear movement motor 64b, and a limit sensor (not shown).

[0075] A vertical moving part 62 is attached to the movable rail 64a so as to be slidable in the front-rear direction. By driving a front-rear movement motor 64b, the vertical moving part 62 can be moved in the front-rear direction along the movable rail 64a.

[0076] The limit sensor (not shown) is for detecting that the vertical moving section 62 has reached its limit position in the forward / backward direction (i.e., that the prize capturing section 55 has reached its limit position in the forward / backward direction).

[0077] The vertical movement unit 62 moves the prize capture unit 55 in the vertical direction (i.e., up and down) in the play area. As shown in Fig. 11, the vertical movement unit 62 in this embodiment has a lifting unit 62a configured to be extendable and retractable along the up and down direction, a wire winding unit (not shown), a motor for up and down movement (not shown), an upper limit sensor (not shown), and a lower limit sensor (not shown).

[0078] The lifting section 62a is configured by fitting a number of pipes of successively smaller diameters together in a slidable manner in a nested manner. The prize capturing section 55 is attached to the lower end of the lifting section 62a and is connected to a wire that passes through the inside of the pipes.

[0079] The wire winding section is driven by a motor for vertical movement to wind up the wire, thereby successively storing the lower pipes in the upper pipe and raising the prize capturing section 55, or to unwind the wire, thereby successively sending out the lower pipes from the upper pipe and lowering the prize capturing section 55.

[0080] The upper limit sensor detects whether the prize capturing unit 55 has stopped rising by winding up the wire connected to the prize capturing unit 55. The lower limit sensor detects whether the prize capturing unit 55 has stopped falling based on a change in tension of the wire connected to the prize capturing unit 55.

[0081] In addition, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 9, a game operation unit 56, a setting operation unit 57, a game device display unit 73, a coin insertion slot 76, and a prize withdrawal slot 79 are arranged in correspondence with the first play area on the left and the second play area on the right, respectively.

[0082] The game operation unit 56 is used by the player to operate the game. In this embodiment, the game operation unit 56 has at least two operation buttons.

[0083] For example, when a player operates one operation button, the moving unit 60 operates to move the prize capturing unit 55 horizontally. When the player operates another operation button, the moving unit 60 stops and the position of the prize capturing unit 55 in the horizontal direction can be determined.

[0084] The setting operation unit 57 is used by the manager of the store 2 to perform various operations. The setting operation unit 57 in this embodiment is configured as a touch panel, and accepts input instructions from the operator from the positions pressed on the touch panel.

[0085] The touch panel is layered on top of the game device display unit 73, and when a touch operation is performed on the screen, the pressed position (contact position) can be detected based on the change in capacitance between the fingertip and the conductive film.

[0086] A predetermined number of coins equivalent to the play fee are inserted into the coin insertion slot 76. The coins inserted into the coin insertion slot 76 by the player are detected by the coin detection unit 81.

[0087] The coin detection unit 81 is, for example, an optical sensor, and detects the presence or absence of coins inserted through the coin slot 76 using a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element attached to the coin passage. Coins that have passed through the coin passage in this way are stored in the coin box.

[0088] The prize removal opening 79 is located at the lower front of the device body and is used to remove a prize that has fallen when the prize acquired by the prize acquisition section 55 falls from the opening area in the prize display section 52.

[0089] The reading unit 75 is a reader that reads electronic information stored in the information medium 5. The reading unit 75 according to this embodiment can read electronic information stored in the IC tags of the prize electronic key 5a and the management electronic key 5b via contactless communication. The reading unit 75 can also write electronic information to the IC tags of the prize electronic key 5a and the management electronic key 5b via contactless communication. In other words, the reading unit 75 can function as a reader / writer and also as a writing unit.

[0090] The insertion slot 78 is provided in the center of the front surface of the device body, and allows the prize electronic key 5a and the management electronic key 5b to be inserted therein.

[0091] In this embodiment, when the prize electronic key 5a and the administrator electronic key 5b are inserted into the insertion slot 78 by the administrator, they are placed within the communication range of the antenna of the reading unit 75.

[0092] When this state is reached, the electronic information recorded on the IC tags of the inserted prize electronic key 5a and management electronic key 5b is read by the reading unit 75 through short-range communication using electromagnetic induction technology.

[0093] For example, as shown in Figure 12A, when only the prize electronic key 5a is inserted into the insertion slot 78, the electronic information recorded on the IC tag of the inserted prize electronic key 5a is read by the reading unit 75 via contactless communication.

[0094] For example, as shown in Figure 12B, when a prize electronic key 5a and a management electronic key 5b are inserted side by side into the insertion slot 78, the electronic information recorded in the IC tags of the inserted prize electronic key 5a and management electronic key 5b is read all at once by the reading unit 75 via contactless communication.

[0095] The manager's door 80 is located in the center of the front of the device body and can be opened by the manager using a key to unlock it. In other words, the manager's door 80 is an opening and closing door that can only be used by the manager. On the inside of the manager's door 80, a switch panel and the like are provided for configuring various settings of the prize acquisition game device 50.

[0096] The open / close detection unit 77 is a door sensor for detecting the open / close state of the manager's door 80. The open / close detection unit 77 according to this embodiment can detect that the manager's door 80 is in the open state when the manager uses a key to unlock and open the manager's door 80. In addition, the open / close detection unit 77 can detect that the manager's door 80 is in the closed state when the manager uses a key to lock and close the manager's door 80.

[0097] The game device control unit 71 controls the entire prize acquisition game device 50, and is realized by the CPU executing a program stored in a predetermined memory. As shown in Fig. 10, the game device control unit 71 in this embodiment has a prize acquisition game control unit 711, a display control unit 712, and a setting unit 713.

[0098] The prize acquisition game control unit 711 performs various controls related to the prize acquisition game. In this embodiment, the prize acquisition game control unit 711 operates the prize acquisition unit 55, the movement unit 60, etc. based on the game operation of the player, thereby progressing the prize acquisition game.

[0099] The display control unit 712 controls the screen display of the prize acquisition game device 50. When the electronic information on the information medium 5 is read by the reading unit 75, the display control unit 712 according to this embodiment displays on the screen a prize list including one or more prizes based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information.

[0100] The setting unit 713 performs various settings for the prize acquisition game device 50. When a prize list including one or more prizes is displayed on the screen based on the prize information held by the information medium 5, and an operation to select one of the prizes from the displayed prize list is performed by the manager of the store 2, the setting unit 713 according to this embodiment sets the selected prize as the prize currently housed in the prize acquisition game device. Furthermore, based on the setting operation of the manager of the store 2, the setting unit 713 sets the gripping force, movement speed, etc. of the prize acquisition unit 55.

[0101] The game device memory unit 72 has a ROM, which is a read-only memory area in which various programs and information related to the prize acquisition game are stored, and a RAM, which is a rewritable memory area used as a work area for calculation processing by the game device control unit 71, and is realized by a non-volatile memory device such as a flash memory or a hard disk.

[0102] In this embodiment, the game device memory unit 72 stores, in addition to the game program and the setting program, game device information (game device ID of the prize-acquiring game device 50, setting information, sales information, etc.) and management information (management ID of the prize-acquiring game device 50, etc.), similar to the server memory unit 22.

[0103] The setting information of the prize acquisition game device 50 is information indicating the current setting contents of the prize acquisition game device 50 associated with each of the first play area (first storage area) and the second play area (second storage area).

[0104] The setting information in this embodiment includes, for example, as shown in Figure 13, the current prize (such as the prize name and prize ID currently stored in the storage space of the prize acquisition game device 50), the current gripping force and movement speed of the prize acquisition unit 55, the current play fee, etc.

[0105] In this embodiment, the game device memory unit 72 stores pre-prepared sample information (such as settings such as the gripping force and movement speed of the prize acquisition unit 55, which are determined in advance in correspondence with the prize ID of the prize).

[0106] The sample information is pre-registered information in which the setting contents corresponding to the prize ID of the prize are associated with the setting items related to the prize acquisition game. The sample information can be used as is as a model for the administrator, and is protected so that the setting contents cannot be changed (overwritten) or deleted.

[0107] The game device display unit 73 is used to display a setting screen when the manager of store 2 performs setting operations to change the settings of the prize acquisition game device 50, and is realized, for example, by a liquid crystal display (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) or the like.

[0108] The game device communication unit 74 is used to communicate with the server device 20, and has the function of a receiving unit that receives various data and signals transmitted from the server device 20, and the function of a transmitting unit that transmits various data and signals to the server device 20 in response to instructions from the game device control unit 71.

[0109] <<Operation of Prize Acquisition Game Device 50>> An example of the operation of the prize acquisition game device 50 according to this embodiment will be described below. In the following, a setting operation for linking the prize acquisition game device 50 with the prize contained in the prize acquisition game device 50 will be specifically described.

[0110] <Example 1> In specific example 1, an example of the operation for setting the prize that is actually stored in the prize storage section 51 as the prize currently stored in the prize acquisition game device 50 will be explained using Figures 14 to 16.

[0111] Fig. 14 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of prize setting in the prize acquisition game device 50 according to this embodiment. Fig. 15 is an image diagram showing an example of a setting screen 500 according to this embodiment. Fig. 16 is an image diagram showing another example of the setting screen 500 according to this embodiment.

[0112] Since the setting operations for the first and second containing areas are the same, the setting operations for the first containing area will be described as an example, and the description of the setting operations for the second containing area will be omitted.

[0113] As shown in Figure 14, first, the reading unit 75 of the prize acquisition game device 50 reads the electronic information recorded on the recording medium 5 when the manager, who has removed the prize from the carton and placed it in the prize storage unit 51, inserts the recording medium 5 into the insertion slot 78 (step S101).

[0114] In this embodiment, for example, when an administrator inserts the prize electronic key 5a and the management electronic key 5b one by one in sequence into the insertion slot 78, the reading unit 75 sequentially reads the electronic information recorded on the IC tags of each of the prize electronic key 5a and the management electronic key 5b via contactless communication.

[0115] For example, when the administrator inserts the prize electronic key 5a and the management electronic key 5b one on top of the other into the insertion slot 78, the reading unit 75 reads the electronic information recorded on the IC tags of the prize electronic key 5a and the management electronic key 5b all at once via contactless communication.

[0116] Next, the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 determines whether prize information, which is electronic information related to the prizes (prize ID, prize name, initial quantity, etc. associated with one or more prizes packed in the carton), has been obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75 (step S102).

[0117] Then, if it is determined that prize information cannot be obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75 (step S102: NO), the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 ends the processing of this flowchart. On the other hand, if it is determined that prize information has been obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75 (step S102: YES), it determines whether or not management information (a management ID associated with the prize acquisition game device 50), which is electronic information related to the management of the prize acquisition game device 50, has been obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75 (step S103).

[0118] Next, if management information is not obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75 (step S103: NO), the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 determines whether the manager's door 80 is open (step S104).

[0119] Then, if the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 determines that the manager's door 80 is not in the open state (i.e., in the closed state) (step S104: NO), the processing of this flowchart ends. On the other hand, if the setting unit 713 determines that the manager's door 80 is in the open state (i.e., not in the closed state) (step S104: YES), the processing proceeds to the next step S105.

[0120] Next, if management information is obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75 (step S103: YES), or if the manager's door 80 is open (step S104: YES), the display control unit 712 of the prize acquisition game device 50 displays the setting screen 500 shown in Figure 15 or Figure 16 on the left game device display unit 73 corresponding to the first storage area (step S105).

[0121] In this way, if not only prize information but also management information can be obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75, it can be confirmed that the person attempting to perform the setting work is the administrator. Therefore, on the condition that management information has also been obtained from the electronic information, the setting screen 500 is displayed on the game device display unit 73, thereby making it possible to prevent unauthorized operations by persons other than the administrator.

[0122] Furthermore, even if only prize information is obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75, if the administrator's door 80, which is handled only by the administrator, is in an open state, it is possible to confirm that the person attempting to perform the setting work is the administrator himself / herself. Therefore, by displaying the setting screen 500 on the game device display unit 73 on the condition that the administrator's door 80 is in an open state, it is possible to prevent unauthorized operations by persons other than the administrator.

[0123] In this embodiment, when multiple prizes are packed in a carton, the prize information read by the reading unit 75 from the prize electronic key 5a of the carton includes a prize ID and the like associated with each of the multiple prizes, and therefore, as shown in Fig. 15, a setting screen 500 on which a prize list 501 including multiple prizes is arranged is displayed on the game device display unit 73. The prize list 501 displays the prize name, initial quantity, prize size (dimensions), and the like contained in the prize information read by the reading unit 75. Note that at least one of the prize name, initial quantity, and prize size contained in the prize information may be displayed on the prize list 501.

[0124] In such a case, the administrator uses the selection button 502 to select the prize from the prize list 501 displayed on the setting screen 500 shown in Figure 15 that is the same prize that was selected from the carton and actually placed in the first storage area of ​​the prize storage section 51, and then selects the setting registration button 503 from the setting registration button 503 associated with the first storage area and the setting registration button 504 associated with the second storage area.

[0125] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a single prize is packed in a carton, the prize information read by the reading unit 75 from the prize electronic key 5a of that carton will contain the prize ID and other information for only that prize, and therefore, as shown in Fig. 16, a setting screen 500 on which a prize list 501 containing only one prize is arranged is displayed on the game device display unit 73. This prize list 501 displays the prize name, initial quantity, prize size (dimensions), etc. contained in the prize information read by the reading unit 75. Note that at least one of the prize name, initial quantity, and prize size contained in this prize information may be displayed on the prize list 501.

[0126] In such a case, the administrator looks at the prize list 501 displayed on the setting screen 500 shown in Figure 16, confirms that the prize is the same as the prize that was actually removed from the carton and stored in the first storage area of ​​the prize storage section 51, and then selects the setting registration button 503 from the setting registration button 503 associated with the first storage area and the setting registration button 504 associated with the second storage area.

[0127] Next, the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 determines whether the administrator has performed an operation to confirm the prize selection in the prize list by pressing the setting registration button 503 on the setting screen 500 shown in Figure 15 or Figure 16 (step S106).

[0128] Then, when such a prize selection operation is performed by the administrator (step S106: YES), the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 sets the selected prize as the prize currently contained in the first containment area of ​​the prize acquisition game device 50 (step S107).

[0129] Specifically, the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 associates the prize selected on the setting screen 500 with the first storage area of ​​the setting information stored in the game device memory unit 72, as shown in Figure 13, and sets and registers the prize (prize name, prize ID, etc.) as the current prize.

[0130] Next, when the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 sets the prize selected on the setting screen 500 as the prize currently contained in the first storage area of ​​the prize acquisition game device 50, it transmits various information necessary for management (store ID, game device ID of the prize acquisition game device 50, prize ID of the set prize, etc.) to the server device 20 and requests the server device 20, which is connected via a network, to associate and manage the set prize with the prize acquisition game device 50 (step S108).

[0131] Next, based on a management request from the prize acquisition game device 50, the management unit 211 of the server device 20 manages the prize storage status of the prize acquisition game device by registering the set prize (prize ID) and the prize acquisition game device 50 (game device ID) in association with each other in the game device information stored in the server memory unit 22 (step S109).

[0132] In this way, in the prize management system of this embodiment, when the administrator operates the prize acquisition game device 50 to read the electronic information of the prize electronic key 5a included in the carton, one or more prizes (i.e., one or more prizes packed in the carton) are displayed on the screen of the prize acquisition game device 50 based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information. Then, the administrator simply selects from the prizes displayed on the screen the prize that is the same as the prize that will be removed from the carton and actually stored in the first storage area, and the selected prize is set as the prize currently stored in the first storage area of ​​the prize acquisition game device 50. As a result, it is possible to reduce the burden on the administrator who performs the setting work.

[0133] <Example 2> In specific example 2, an example of operation for setting the prizes and their number to be actually stored in the prize storage section 51 as the prizes and their number currently stored in the prize acquisition game device 50 will be explained using Figures 17 to 19.

[0134] Fig. 17 is a flowchart for explaining another example of the operation of prize setting in the prize acquisition game device 50 according to this embodiment. Fig. 18 is an image diagram showing an example of a setting screen 600 according to this embodiment. Fig. 19 is an image diagram showing another example of the setting screen 600 according to this embodiment.

[0135] Since the setting operations for the first and second containing areas are the same, the setting operations for the first containing area will be described as an example, and the description of the setting operations for the second containing area will be omitted.

[0136] Furthermore, the processing in steps S201 to S204 in the flowchart shown in Fig. 17 is the same as the processing in steps S101 to S104 in the flowchart shown in Fig. 14. Therefore, the processing from step S205 onwards will be explained below.

[0137] As shown in Figure 17, when management information is obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75 (step S203: YES), or when the manager's door 80 is open (step S204: YES), the display control unit 712 of the prize acquisition game device 50 displays the setting screen 600 shown in Figure 18 or 19 on the left game device display unit 73 corresponding to the first storage area (step S205).

[0138] In this embodiment, when multiple prizes are packed in a carton, the prize information read by the reading unit 75 from the prize electronic key 5a of the carton includes a prize ID and the like associated with each of the multiple prizes, and therefore, as shown in Fig. 18, a setting screen 600 on which a prize list 601 including multiple prizes is arranged is displayed on the game device display unit 73. The prize list 601 displays the prize name, initial quantity, prize size (dimensions), and the like contained in the prize information read by the reading unit 75. Note that at least one of the prize name, initial quantity, and prize size contained in the prize information may be displayed on the prize list 601.

[0139] In such a case, the administrator uses the selection button 602 to select the prize from the prize list 601 displayed on the setting screen 600 shown in Figure 18 that is the same as the prize that was selected from the carton and actually stored in the first storage area of ​​the prize storage section 51, and then selects the same number of prizes as the number of prizes that can be stored, and then selects the setting registration button 603 from the setting registration button 603 associated with the first storage area and the setting registration button 604 associated with the second storage area.

[0140] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a single prize is packed in a carton, the prize information read by the reading unit 75 from the prize electronic key 5a of that carton contains the prize ID and other information of only that prize, and therefore, as shown in Fig. 19, a setting screen 600 on which a prize list 601 containing only one prize is arranged is displayed on the game device display unit 73. This prize list 601 displays the prize name, initial quantity, prize size (dimensions), etc. contained in the prize information read by the reading unit 75. Note that at least one of the prize name, initial quantity, and prize size contained in this prize information may be displayed on the prize list 601.

[0141] In such a case, the administrator looks at the prize list 601 displayed on the setting screen 600 shown in Figure 19, selects the same number of prizes as the number of prizes actually removed from the carton and stored in the first storage area of ​​the prize storage section 51, and then selects the setting registration button 603 from the setting registration button 603 associated with the first storage area and the setting registration button 604 associated with the second storage area.

[0142] Next, the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 determines whether the administrator has performed an operation to confirm the prize selection and quantity selection from the prize list by pressing the setting registration button 603 on the setting screen 600 shown in Figure 18 or Figure 19 (step S206).

[0143] When the administrator performs such a prize and quantity selection operation (step S206: YES), the reading unit 75 of the prize acquisition game device 50 updates the electronic information regarding the prize held by the prize electronic key 5a by writing the remaining number obtained by subtracting the number of prizes selected on the setting screen 600 from the initial quantity into the prize electronic key 5a (step S207).

[0144] By doing this, for example, when the reading unit 75 of another prize acquisition game device 50 reads the electronic information of the prize electronic key 5a, the administrator can check the remaining number of prizes (i.e., the number of prizes remaining in the carton) on the screen of the game device display unit 73.

[0145] Next, when the electronic information of the prize electronic key 5a is updated, the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 sets the selected prizes and their number as the prizes and their number currently contained in the first storage area of ​​the prize acquisition game device 50 (step S208).

[0146] Specifically, the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 sets and registers the prize information (prize name, prize ID, etc.) of the prize selected on the setting screen 600, along with the number of selected prizes, in association with the first storage area of ​​the setting information stored in the game device memory unit 72, as shown in Figure 13.

[0147] Next, when the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 sets the prize and its number selected on the setting screen 600 as the prize and its number currently stored in the first storage area of ​​the prize acquisition game device 50, it transmits various information necessary for management (store ID, game device ID of the prize acquisition game device 50, prize ID of the set prize, number of set prizes, etc.) to the server device 20 and requests the server device 20, which is connected via a network, to associate and manage the set prize and its number with the prize acquisition game device 50 (step S209).

[0148] Next, based on a management request from the prize acquisition game device 50, the management unit 211 of the server device 20 manages the prize storage status of the prize acquisition game device by registering the set prize (prize ID) and its quantity in association with the prize acquisition game device 50 (game device ID) in the game device information stored in the server memory unit 22 (step S210).

[0149] In this way, in the prize management system of this embodiment, when the administrator operates the prize acquisition game device 50 to read the electronic information of the prize electronic key 5a included in the carton, one or more prizes (i.e., one or more prizes packed in the carton) are displayed on the screen of the prize acquisition game device 50 based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information. Then, the administrator simply selects from the displayed prizes the prizes that will be removed from the carton and actually stored in the first storage area, and selects the same number of prizes as the storage capacity of those prizes, and the selected prizes and their number are set as the prizes and their number currently stored in the first storage area of ​​the prize acquisition game device 50. As a result, it is possible to reduce the burden on the administrator who performs the setting work.

[0150] <Example 3> In specific example 3, an example of operation for automatically reflecting sample settings suitable for a prize that is actually stored in the prize storage section 51 while setting the prize that is currently stored in the prize acquisition game device 50 will be explained using Figure 20.

[0151] FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the prize setting and sample setting of the prize acquisition game device 50 according to this embodiment.

[0152] Since the setting operations for the first and second containing areas are the same, the setting operations for the first containing area will be described as an example, and the description of the setting operations for the second containing area will be omitted.

[0153] Furthermore, the processes of steps S301 to S306 and steps S308 to S310 in the flowchart shown in Fig. 20 are the same as the processes of steps S101 to S106 and steps S107 to S109 in the flowchart shown in Fig. 14. Therefore, only the process of step S307 will be described below.

[0154] As shown in Figure 20, when the administrator confirms the prize selection by pressing the setting registration button 503 on the setting screen 500, the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 automatically reflects the setting contents of the sample information corresponding to the selected and confirmed prize in the settings of the prize acquisition game in the first containing area (first play area) (step S307).

[0155] Specifically, the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 refers to the sample information stored in the game device memory unit 72, reads the setting data that has been pre-registered for the prize that has been selected and confirmed by operation on the setting screen 500, and reflects the setting contents of the sample information corresponding to the selected and confirmed prize in the current setting contents of the setting information of the prize acquisition game device 50.

[0156] For example, if "prize A" is selected and confirmed by the administrator's operation, and the sample information stored in the game device memory unit 72 has the gripping force of the prize acquisition unit 55, "level 20," pre-registered in association with the prize ID of "prize A," the setting unit 713 will change and set the current setting for the gripping force of the prize acquisition unit 55 in accordance with that "level 20."

[0157] In this way, in the prize management system of this embodiment, by operation of the administrator, in conjunction with the setting of the prize currently contained in the first containing area of ​​the prize acquisition game device 50, the gripping force of the prize acquisition unit 55 that matches the type of prize that has been set is automatically reflected in the setting items related to the prize acquisition game 50. This further reduces the burden on the administrator.

[0158] ===Other embodiments=== The above-described embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. The present invention may be modified or improved without departing from the spirit thereof, and equivalents thereof are also included in the present invention. In particular, the embodiments described below are also included in the present invention. In other words, the present invention can be configured by appropriately combining the above-described embodiments with the embodiments described below.

[0159] Furthermore, various inventions can be constructed by appropriately combining multiple invention-specifying matters disclosed in the above embodiments. For example, an invention may be constructed by deleting some invention-specifying matters from all invention-specifying matters disclosed in the above embodiments, or an invention may be constructed by appropriately combining all invention-specifying matters disclosed in the above embodiments with invention-specifying matters disclosed in the embodiments described below.

[0160] Furthermore, although the present invention is described using claims that alternatively cite two or more other claims (referred to as "multiple claims") in the claims of this application, this is not limited to this. For example, the present invention also includes claims that cite at least one of the multiple claims described in the claims of this application (referred to as "multiple multiple claims").

[0161] <Reading unit> In the above embodiment, the information medium 5 is an electronic key incorporating an IC tag in which electronic information is stored, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0162] For example, it may be an electronic key on which a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code is written as electronic information. In this case, the reading unit 75 may be an imaging camera that recognizes the one-dimensional code or the two-dimensional code as an image.

[0163] <Electronic key> In the above embodiment, the information medium 5 is configured with the prize electronic key 5a and the management electronic key 5b, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0164] For example, the reader 75 can read the management information from the management electronic key 5b and write the management information to the prize electronic key 5a, thereby consolidating the prize information and management information into a single electronic key, thereby improving the convenience of prize management.

[0165] In this case, there is a risk that the number of management electronic keys 5b may increase inadvertently, leading to a risk of misuse. Therefore, from a security perspective, to mitigate such risks, the management functions may be limited to a certain extent, such as only allowing prizes to be set based on the prize information. Furthermore, when the remaining number of prizes included in the electronic information reaches zero, the management information may be automatically erased, thereby limiting the functions of the management electronic key 5b.

[0166] Furthermore, for example, the reader 75 can read prize information from the prize electronic key 5a and write the prize information to the management electronic key 5b, thereby consolidating the prize information and management information into a single electronic key, thereby improving the convenience of prize management.

[0167] <Insert slot> In the above embodiment, an example was given in which the prize acquisition game device 50 has one insertion slot 78 located in the center of the front of the device body, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0168] For example, an insertion slot 78 corresponding to the first storage area of ​​the prize acquisition game device 50 and an insertion slot 78 corresponding to the second storage area of ​​the prize acquisition game device 50 may be provided independently on the device body. In other words, multiple insertion slots 78 may be provided corresponding to the respective storage areas (play areas).

[0169] <Sample information> In the above-described embodiment, an example was given in which the sample information contains pre-registered settings for the prize acquisition game corresponding to the prize ID of the prize, in correspondence with the setting items of the prize acquisition game, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0170] For example, the sample information may be configured so that setting contents corresponding to at least one of the type, shape, size, and weight of the prize are registered in advance in association with the setting items of the prize acquisition game. In this case, the setting unit 713 of the prize acquisition game device 50 may automatically set setting contents corresponding to at least one of the type, shape, size, and weight of the registered prize to the setting items related to the prize acquisition game device 50 based on the sample information.

[0171] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was given in which sample information is stored in advance in the game device storage unit 72, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0172] For example, the sample information may be stored in the server storage unit 22 of the server device 20. In this case, the prize acquisition game device 50 installed in the store may download the sample information from the server device 20 via the network and store the sample information in the game device storage unit 72.

[0173] In this way, even if a new prize is released that is not compatible with the previous pre-settings of the sample information, by uploading sample information having settings corresponding to this new prize to the server device 20, even an existing prize acquisition game device 50 can download the settings corresponding to this new prize and play the game.

[0174] <Displaying the settings screen> In the above-described embodiment, an example was given in which the display control unit 712 of the prize acquisition game device 50 displays the setting screen 500 on the game device display unit 73 on the condition that prize information is obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75 and that management information is obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0175] For example, the display control unit 712 of the prize acquisition game device 50 may cause the setting screen 500 to be displayed on the game device display unit 73 only on the condition that prize information has been obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75.

[0176] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the display control unit 712 of the prize acquisition game device 50 is described as displaying the setting screen 500 on the game device display unit 73 on the condition that prize information is obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75 and the manager's door 80 is in an open state, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0177] For example, the display control unit 712 of the prize acquisition game device 50 may cause the setting screen 500 to be displayed on the game device display unit 73 only on the condition that prize information has been obtained from the electronic information read by the reading unit 75.

[0178] <Prizes> In the above embodiment, the prizes stored in the prize storage section 51 are not limited to items that can be directly acquired by the player (e.g., stuffed toys, etc.), but also include items that are stored as targets for acquisition in the game and can be exchanged for other prizes after acquisition, as well as items that are not provided themselves but are used to compete for points or rankings. [Explanation of symbols]

[0179] 1 Prize Management System 2 stores 5 Information media 5a Electronic prize key 5b Management electronic key 10 Store terminals 11 Terminal control unit 12 Terminal memory section 13 Terminal operation unit 14 Terminal display 15 Terminal communication unit 20 Server device 21 Server control unit 22 Server storage unit 23 Server Input Section 24 Server display 25 Server Communication Department 30 Arm 50 Prize acquisition game device 51 Prize storage section 51a Opening and closing door 51b Column 52 Prize Exhibition Section 55 Prize Collection Department 56 Game control section 57 Setting operation section 60 Mobile Division 61 Horizontal moving part 62 Vertical moving section 62a Lifting section 63 Left and right moving part 63a Fixed rail 63b Left and right movement motor 64 Forward / backward moving part 64a Movable rail 64b Forward / backward movement motor 71 Game device control unit 72 Game device memory unit 73 Game device display unit 74 Game device communication unit 75 Reading unit 76 Coin slot 77 Open / close detector 78 Insertion port 79 Prize outlet 80 Administrator's Door 211 Management Department 500 Settings screen 501 Prize List 502 Select button 503 Settings registration button 504 Settings registration button 600 Settings screen 601 Prize List 602 Select button 603 Setting registration button 604 Settings registration button 711 Prize acquisition game control unit 712 Display control unit 713 Settings

Claims

1. A prize acquisition game device configured to enable a player to play a prize acquisition game in which a prize is acquired in a storage space in which the prize is stored, a reading unit capable of reading electronic information stored in a recording medium; a display control unit that displays a prize list including one or more prizes on a screen based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information; a setting unit that, when an administrator selects a prize from the prize list displayed on the screen, sets the selected prize as the prize currently contained in the prize acquisition game device; A prize acquisition game device comprising:

2. The display control unit When prize information and management information are obtained from the electronic information, the prize list including one or more prizes is displayed on the screen based on the prize information; When prize information is obtained from the electronic information but management information is not obtained, the prize list is not displayed on the screen. The prize acquisition game device according to claim 1.

3. The display control unit On the condition that the manager's door is open, the prize list including one or more prizes is displayed on the screen based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information; The prize list is not displayed on the screen on the condition that the manager door is closed. The prize acquisition game device according to claim 1.

4. the display control unit displays at least one of the name, initial quantity, and size of the prize in the prize list based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information; The prize acquisition game device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. the setting unit requests a server device connected via a network to manage the set prize in association with the prize-winning game device; The prize acquisition game device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. a storage unit that stores sample information in which setting contents corresponding to at least one of the type, shape, size, and weight of a prize are associated with setting items related to a prize acquisition game and registered in advance; the setting unit automatically sets setting contents that match at least one of the type, shape, size, and weight of the set prize to setting items related to the prize acquisition game based on the sample information; The prize acquisition game device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. A prize management system including a prize acquisition game device configured to be able to play a prize acquisition game in which prizes are acquired in a storage space in which the prizes are stored, and a server device connected to the prize acquisition game device via a network, The prize acquisition game device includes: a reading unit capable of reading electronic information stored in a recording medium; a display control unit that displays a prize list including one or more prizes on a screen based on the prize information obtained from the electronic information; a setting unit that, when an administrator selects a prize from the prize list displayed on the screen, requests the server device to set the selected prize as a prize currently contained in the prize acquisition game device and to associate and manage the set prize with the prize acquisition game device; The server device a management unit that manages the set prize and the prize acquisition game device in association with each other based on a request from the prize acquisition game device; Prize management system.

8. A prize acquisition game device configured to be able to play a prize acquisition game in which a prize is acquired in a storage space in which the prize is stored, and a server device connected via a network, A server device comprising: a reading unit capable of reading electronic information contained in a recording medium; a display control unit that displays on a screen a prize list including one or more prizes based on prize information obtained from the electronic information; a setting unit that, when an administrator selects a prize from the prize list displayed on the screen, sets the selected prize as the prize currently contained in the prize acquisition game device; and a management unit that associates and manages the set prize with the prize acquisition game device based on a request from the prize acquisition game device.

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