Substitute currency for games and its manufacturing method

Abstract

The aim is to provide a substitute currency for gaming where the RFID tag is not easily removed and is less likely to be damaged during use. [Solution] The game currency 10, which incorporates a sticker-type RFID tag 14, comprises an inner member 12 having a predetermined shape for enclosing the RFID tag 14, a main body member 11 that is injection-molded to enclose the inner member 12 containing the RFID tag 14, and a D-cal member 13 that displays the type or amount of the game currency 10. The inner member 12 consists of a first part 121 and a second part 122, and at least the first part 121 or the second part 122 has a flat surface to which the sticker-type RFID tag 14 can be closely attached. The first part 121 and the second part 122 are combined to form the inner member 12, and the sticker-type RFID tag 14 is covered by the first part 121 and the second part 122.

Description

Cross-reference to Related Applications

[0001] In this application, the benefit of Patent Application No. 2020-74504 filed in Japan on April 20, 2020 is claimed, and the contents of the said application are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a gaming token incorporating an RFID tag and a method for manufacturing the same.

Background Art

[0003] Conventionally, gaming tokens incorporating RFID tags as security parts are known. Security information such as authenticity determination information and identification information is stored in this RFID tag, and various information related to the gaming token is stored in a database in association with this security information. If the RFID tag is removed from the gaming token for an improper purpose, it will be decoded and replicated, etc., which has an adverse effect on security.

[0004] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the structure of a conventional gaming token. In the example of FIG. 10, a recess 101 is formed in the central portion of the gaming token 100, and a decal member 103 is attached to this recess. A sticker-type RFID tag 104, which is a security part, is attached to the back of the decal member 103 (for example, see U.S. Patent No. 6,659,875). In the conventional gaming token 100, with this configuration, the security part can be incorporated into the gaming token.

[0005] Also, gaming tokens incorporating a coil-type RFID tag as a security part are known. For a coil-type RFID tag, a gaming token incorporating the RFID tag is configured by molding, for example, a resin main body member so as to enclose it.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, with conventional game currency that incorporates sticker-type RFID tags, the RFID tag can be removed by peeling off the D-Cal component. Therefore, it is easy to remove the RFID tag without damaging it, and the risk of counterfeiting is relatively high. In addition, with conventional game currency that incorporates sticker-type RFID tags, the RFID tag is located close to the surface of the game currency, so there is a relatively high risk of the RFID tag being damaged during use due to external forces transmitted through the D-Cal component.

[0007] Furthermore, in conventional game currency with embedded sticker-type RFID tags, the RFID tags are located close to the surface of the game currency. Therefore, when attempting to read multiple RFID tags simultaneously by stacking multiple game currency, the distance between the RFID tags becomes uneven, resulting in unstable RFID tag reading.

[0008] On the other hand, coil-type RFID tags can be embedded in the center of the thickness of the substitute currency used for gaming, resulting in relatively stable reading even when stacked. Furthermore, since the RFID tags can be covered with molded resin, the risk of counterfeiting by removing the RFID tags and the risk of damage to the RFID tags during use are relatively small. However, substitute currency used for gaming that incorporates coil-type RFID tags has the RFID tags directly covered with molded resin, so there is a risk of damage to the RFID tags during this manufacturing process.

[0009] The present invention solves at least some of the above-mentioned problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] A substitute currency for games according to one aspect of the present invention is a substitute currency for games that incorporates a sticker-type RFID tag, comprising: an encapsulating member having a predetermined shape for encapsulating the RFID tag; a main body member that is injection-molded to encapsulate the encapsulating member containing the RFID tag; and a D-cal member that displays the type or amount of the substitute currency for games, wherein the encapsulating member consists of a first part and a second part, and at least the first part or the second part has a surface that can adhere closely to the sticker-type RFID tag, and the first part and the second part are combined to form the encapsulating member, and the sticker-type RFID tag is covered by the first part and the second part.

[0011] In this configuration, a sticker-type RFID tag is embedded in the game currency while encapsulated within an internal component. Therefore, it is not easy to remove the RFID tag, nor is it damaged during use. Furthermore, since the main body component is injection-molded around the RFID tag while it is encapsulated within the internal component, the possibility of damage to the RFID tag during this manufacturing process is also reduced.

[0012] The enclosed member may be completely covered by the injection-molded main body member and the D-cal member. This configuration ensures security because the enclosed member containing the RFID tag is not exposed on the surface of the substitute currency used for gaming.

[0013] The encapsulating member containing the RFID tag may be located in the central part of the substitute currency for the game, and the D-Cal member may be located in the peripheral part in the thickness direction of the substitute currency for the game. With this configuration, the RFID tag can be located inside the D-Cal.

[0014] The RFID tag may store information about the substitute currency used for gaming, and may be readable when multiple substitute currency pieces are stacked together. This configuration allows for the simultaneous reading of multiple RFID tags on multiple substitute currency pieces stacked on a gaming table or chip tray.

[0015] The RFID tag may be embedded within a position within 25% of the thickness of the game currency minus the center of the game currency in the thickness direction. This configuration reduces the variation in distance between multiple adjacent RFID tags even when multiple game currency are stacked, resulting in more stable RFID tag reading.

[0016] The first part and the second part may be combined to form a sealed space for housing the RFID tag. In this configuration, the sticker-type RFID tag is embedded in the substitute currency for games in a sealed state within the sealed space formed by the internal component.

[0017] The sealed space for housing the RFID tag may be formed by press-fitting the first part into the second part. This configuration allows for easy and reliable encapsulation of the RFID tag within the encapsulating member when manufacturing substitute currency for games.

[0018] The sealed space for the RFID tag may be formed by locking the first part and the second part together. This configuration also allows for easy and reliable encapsulation of the RFID tag within the encapsulating member when manufacturing substitute currency for games.

[0019] The first part and the second part may be bonded together to form the sealed space for the RFID tag. This configuration also allows for easy and reliable embedding of the RFID tag within the encapsulating member when manufacturing substitute currency for games.

[0020] The encapsulating member containing the RFID tag may be formed by sandwiching the RFID tag between the first part and the second part. This configuration makes it easy to encapsulate the RFID tag in the encapsulating member when manufacturing substitute currency for games.

[0021] By sandwiching the RFID tag between the first part and the second part and bonding the first part and the second part together, the encapsulated member containing the RFID tag may be formed. With this configuration, when manufacturing substitute game tokens, the RFID tag can be reliably encapsulated in the encapsulated member.

[0022] The first part and the second part may be connected. With this configuration, the operation of encapsulating the RFID tag in the encapsulated member becomes easier.

[0023] The first part and the second part may be connected in a hinge shape. With this configuration, the operation of encapsulating the RFID tag in the encapsulated member becomes easier.

[0024] The diameter of the RFID tag may be larger than the diameter of the decal member. In a conventional RFID tag attached to the back side of a decal, the RFID tag could not be made larger than the decal. However, by adopting a configuration in which the body member is injection-molded to cover the encapsulated member containing the RFID tag, the size of the RFID tag is not restricted by the size of the decal and can be made sufficiently large.

[0025] The specific gravity of the encapsulated member may be larger than the specific gravity of the body member. With this configuration, the substitute game token can be made to have an arbitrary weight.

[0026] The specific gravity of the encapsulated member may be smaller than the specific gravity of the body member. With this configuration, the substitute game token can be made to have an arbitrary weight.

[0027] The encapsulated member may be formed into the predetermined shape by injection molding. With this configuration, the encapsulated member can be easily manufactured.

[0028] The manufacturing method of a gaming substitute coin according to one aspect of the present invention includes a first step of attaching the sticker-type RFID tag to a first part having a flat surface in advance for attaching the sticker-type RFID tag, a second step of covering the first part to which the RFID tag is attached with a second part to form an encapsulating member that encapsulates the RFID tag, and a third step of forming a main body that encapsulates the encapsulating member that encapsulates the RFID tag by insert molding with the encapsulating member that encapsulates the RFID tag as an insert part.

[0029] With this configuration, it is possible to manufacture a gaming substitute coin in which a sticker-type RFID tag is incorporated in a state of being encapsulated in an encapsulating member.

[0030] A gaming substitute coin according to one aspect of the present invention is a gaming substitute coin incorporating an RFID tag, and includes an encapsulating member having a predetermined shape for encapsulating the RFID tag, a main body member injection-molded so as to encapsulate the encapsulating member that encapsulates the RFID tag, and a decal member for displaying the type or amount of the gaming substitute coin. The first part and the second part are combined to form the encapsulating member, and the RFID tag is covered by the first part and the second part. Further, the encapsulating member is covered by the main body member and the decal member with the encapsulating member as the center.

[0031] With this configuration, the RFID tag is incorporated into the gaming substitute coin in a state of being encapsulated in the encapsulating member. Therefore, it is not easy to take out the RFID tag, and the RFID tag is not damaged by use. Further, since the main body member is injection-molded around the RFID tag in a state of being encapsulated in the encapsulating member, the possibility of the RFID tag being damaged in this manufacturing process can also be reduced.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0032] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a gaming substitute coin according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a substitute currency for games according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a substitute currency for games according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart of the method for manufacturing substitute currency for games according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5A] Figure 5A shows a stack of conventional game tokens in which RFID tags are unevenly distributed along one side in the thickness direction of the game tokens. [Figure 5B] Figure 5B shows a stack of game substitute coins according to the first embodiment of the present invention, in which the RFID tag is positioned in the center in the thickness direction of the game substitute coin. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the configuration of the internal member according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the configuration of the internal member according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a game substitute coin according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a substitute currency for games according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the structure of a conventional substitute currency used for games. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of the encapsulating member and RFID tag of a game substitute currency according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a plan view of an RFID tag according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the encapsulating member and RFID tag of a substitute currency for gaming according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of a game substitute coin according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0033] The substitute currency for games according to this invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the following, a disc-shaped gaming chip will be described as a substitute currency for games according to an embodiment of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. For example, the shape of the substitute currency for games may be a rectangular plate or other shape. The substitute currency for games may also be a plaque. Furthermore, the components in the embodiments described below include those that can be easily imagined by a person skilled in the art or that are substantially the same.

[0034] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a game substitute coin according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the game substitute coin 10 has a disc shape as a whole. Hereinafter, the two planes of the disc shape will be referred to as the surface. The game substitute coin 10 comprises a main body member having an outer surface that is at least a part of the game substitute coin 10, and a D-cal member 13 located in the center of both surfaces of the game substitute coin 10. On the surface of the game substitute coin 10, the main body member 11 appears in a donut shape, with the D-cal member 13 arranged inside, and the main body member 11 positioned around the D-cal member 13.

[0035] The sides of the game currency 10 are made of the main body component 11. The sides are divided into three layers in the thickness direction. The two outer layers on both sides are the same color, while the middle layer is a different color from the two outer layers. As a result, the game currency 10 has a striped pattern on its sides where the color changes in the thickness direction.

[0036] Furthermore, the substitute currency 10 for gaming has patterns arranged at predetermined angular intervals, extending from the edge of one surface of the main body member 11 through the side to the edge of the other surface. As a result, striped patterns with circumferential color changes are formed on the side, and striped patterns with circumferential color changes at predetermined intervals are also formed on the edges of the surfaces. The above patterns on the peripheral edges and sides of the surface of the main body member 11 and the colors that constitute them represent at least one of the types or amounts (values) of the substitute currency 10 for gaming.

[0037] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a game substitute currency according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 3 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the game substitute currency according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the game substitute currency 10 consists of a main body member 11, an internal enclosing member 12, a D-cal member 13, and an RFID tag 14.

[0038] The RFID tag 14 is enclosed within the encapsulating member 12. The main body member 11 is formed to cover the edges of both surfaces of the encapsulating member 12 around its entire circumference. The D-CAL member 13 is positioned at the step between the main body member 11 and the encapsulating member 12. As a result, on the surface, the main body member 11 and the D-CAL member 13 are substantially on the same plane.

[0039] The internal component 12 consists of a first part 121 and a second part 122. The first part 121 and the second part 122 are each formed by injection molding of resin. The first part 121 has a peripheral wall 121a on its disc-shaped periphery and is roughly tray-shaped. The inner bottom 121b inside the peripheral wall 121a is flat so that a sticker-type RFID tag 14 can adhere to it. The second part is disc-shaped and has a flange 122a on its peripheral edge.

[0040] The specific gravity of the internal component 12 may be heavier or lighter than the specific gravity of the main component 11. The weight of the game substitute currency 10 is determined by appropriately setting the specific gravity of the internal component 12. That is, once the size (diameter and thickness) of the game substitute currency 10 is determined and the material of the main component 11 is determined, the specific gravity of the internal component 12 is determined in order to obtain the required weight of the game substitute currency 10. Alternatively, after the size of the game substitute currency 10 and the material of the internal component 12 have been determined, the specific gravity of the main component 11 may be determined in order to obtain the required weight of the game substitute currency 10. The specific gravity of the internal component 12 and the main component 11 is adjusted by mixing metal powder into their respective materials.

[0041] The RFID tag 14 is a sticker-type RFID tag and is attached to the flat inner bottom 121b of the first part 121. The first part 121 and the second part 122 are joined together when the second part 122 is press-fitted into the peripheral wall of the first part 121, and the flange 122a of the second part 122 abuts against the upper part of the peripheral wall 121a of the first part 121. At this time, a sealed space 12a for housing the RFID tag 14 is formed between the first part 121 and the second part 122. The contact portion between the first part 121 and the second part 122 is bonded with adhesive.

[0042] The RFID tag 14 is a passive type RFID tag that is excited by electromagnetic waves emitted from an RFID reader to obtain power. The RFID reader reads the information stored in the RFID tag 14 using electromagnetic waves. The RFID reader can simultaneously read multiple RFID tags 14 embedded in multiple stacked game currency 10.

[0043] The RFID tag 14 stores information about the substitute currency 10 used for gaming. This information includes at least one of the following: an identification information (ID) that uniquely identifies the substitute currency 10, the type of substitute currency 10, and its value. It may also include information indicating the location or ownership history of the substitute currency 10.

[0044] As described above, the encapsulating member 12 is a hollow, disc-shaped capsule that encloses the RFID tag 14 in a sealed space 122a. The RFID tag 14 is sandwiched between the first part 121 and the second part 122 and covered by the first part 121 and the second part 122. The RFID tag 14 also adheres tightly to the planar inner bottom 121b of the first part 121.

[0045] The main body member 11 is formed by injection molding so as to cover the entire periphery and sides of the surface of the inner member 12, which contains the RFID tag 14. As a result, the main body member 11 is formed in a donut-shaped hollow circle, enclosing the inner member 12 inside. In other words, the main body member 11 is injection molded to enclose the inner member 12.

[0046] When the main body member 11 is formed around the inner part of

[0047] The D-Cal member 13 has substantially the same shape as the recess 12b, is placed within the recess 12c, and is attached to the exposed portion 12b. As a result, the surface of the D-Cal member 13 and the annular surface of the main body member 11 are at approximately the same height.

[0048] The surface of the D-Cal member 13 displays at least one of the types and amounts of the substitute currency 10 used for the game. The back surface of the D-Cal member 13 is coated with adhesive, which is used to attach it to the exposed portion 12b of the inner component 12.

[0049] As described above, the entire surface of the inner component 12 is covered by the main body component 11 and the D-cal component 13, so that the inner component 12 is not partially exposed in the game currency 10. Therefore, the possibility of the inner component 12 being damaged during use is low.

[0050] The RFID tag 14 has an adhesive applied to its back surface, and this adhesive allows it to be attached to the inner bottom 121b of the first part 121 of the encapsulating member 12. Furthermore, the height of the sealed space formed inside the encapsulating member 12 is greater than the thickness of the RFID tag 14, so when the RFID tag 14 is attached to the inner bottom 121b of the first part, the RFID tag 14 does not come into contact with the inner surface of the second part 122.

[0051] On the other hand, the height of the sealed space formed inside the encapsulating member 12 is only slightly higher than the RFID tag 14. Therefore, if someone tries to illegally remove the encapsulating member 12 from the main body member 11, or tries to remove the RFID tag 14 by destroying the encapsulating member 12, there is a high probability that the RFID tag 14 will be damaged. Thus, in the game substitute currency 10 of this embodiment, it is difficult to remove the RFID tag 14 without damaging it.

[0052] As described above, in the substitute currency 10 for gaming of this embodiment, the encapsulating member 12 containing the RFID tag 14 is located in the center of the thickness direction of the substitute currency 10 for gaming, and the D-cal member 13 is located in the peripheral part of the thickness direction of the substitute currency 10 for gaming. Therefore, the RFID tag 14 is located approximately in the center of the thickness direction of the substitute currency 10 for gaming. Specifically, the RFID tag 14 is positioned within plus or minus 25% of the center of the thickness direction of the substitute currency 10 for gaming. Therefore, even if multiple substitute currency 10s for gaming are stacked on top of each other in any orientation, there is little to no variation in the distance between adjacent RFID tags 14, and reading by an RFID reader using electromagnetic waves is stable.

[0053] Furthermore, in the game currency 10 of this embodiment, the size of the RFID tag 14 is not limited by the size of the D-Cal member 13, and the RFID tag 14 can be made large enough to be read by an RFID reader. In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the diameter of the RFID tab 14 is larger than the diameter of the D-Cal member 13.

[0054] Figure 4 is a flowchart of a method for manufacturing a substitute currency for games according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the method for manufacturing the substitute currency for games 10, first, a first part 121 and a second part 122 that constitute the internal component 12 are prepared. Then, a sticker-type RFID tag 14 is first attached to the center of the planar inner bottom 121b of the first part 121 (step S41).

[0055] Next, the second part 122 is press-fitted into the first part 121, which has the RFID tag 14 attached to its inner bottom 121b, thereby closing the first part 121 and the second part 122 with the RFID tag 14 housed in an internal sealed space (step S42). The contact areas between the first part 121 and the second part 122 are bonded together with adhesive.

[0056] Next, the internal component 12 containing the RFID tag 14 is held in the mold as an insert component, thereby forming the main body component 11 by insert injection molding (step S43). Next, the D-cal component 13 is attached to each of the two exposed surfaces 12b of the internal component 12 in the structure in which the internal component 12 and the main body component 11 are integrated, thereby completing the substitute currency 10 for the game (step S44).

[0057] As described above, in the manufacturing method of the game currency 10 of this embodiment, the first part 121 and the second part 122 constituting the encapsulating member 12 are pre-shaped so that when combined, they form a sealed space for enclosing the RFID tag 14. Therefore, the first part 121 and the second part 122 do not deform significantly between the stage in which the RFID tag 14 is encased and the stage in which the game currency 10 is completed, and the RFID tag 14 is protected by the encapsulating member 13 during the manufacturing process of the game currency 10, so that no large external force is applied to the RFID tag 14. Thus, the possibility of damage to the RFID tag 14 during the manufacturing process can be reduced.

[0058] Furthermore, as described above, in the substitute currency 10 for gaming of this embodiment, the RFID tag 14 is located approximately in the center of the thickness direction of the substitute currency 10 for gaming. Therefore, regardless of which side of the substitute currency 10 is facing upwards, the distance from the bottom and top surfaces to the RFID tag 14 is approximately uniform.

[0059] Figure 5A shows a stack of conventional game substitute coins in which the RFID tags are positioned off-center in the thickness direction of the game substitute coins, and Figure 5B shows a stack of game substitute coins according to this embodiment in which the RFID tags are positioned in the center in the thickness direction of the game substitute coins. Figures 5A and 5B schematically show game substitute coins 100 and 10, and for the convenience of explaining the effects of this embodiment, the dimensional ratio of the game substitute coins is shown differently from that in the figures above.

[0060] As shown in Figure 5A, in conventional game currency 100, the RFID tags 104 are arranged unevenly on one surface. Therefore, when multiple game currency 100 are stacked in any orientation, the spacing between adjacent RFID tags 104 becomes uneven. Experiments have shown that when an RFID reader attempts to read multiple RFID tags 104 of multiple game currency 100 stacked in this manner simultaneously, the reading becomes unstable.

[0061] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 5B, in the substitute currency 10 for gaming in this embodiment, the RFID tag 14 is located in the center in the thickness direction of the substitute currency. Therefore, even when multiple substitute currency 10 are stacked in any orientation, the spacing between adjacent substitute currency 10 is uniform. Experiments have shown that when multiple RFID tags 14 of multiple substitute currency 10 stacked in this way are read simultaneously by an RFID reader, reading can be performed more stably compared to the case shown in Figure 5A.

[0062] To obtain such effects, it is desirable that the RFID tag 14 be positioned within plus or minus 25% of the center of the thickness direction of the substitute currency 10 for gaming, more preferably within plus or minus 10% of the center of the thickness direction of the substitute currency 10 for gaming, and even more preferably within plus or minus 5% of the center of the thickness direction of the substitute currency 10 for gaming.

[0063] In the above embodiment, the first part 121 and the second part 122 are fixed to each other by the second part 122 being press-fitted into the first part 121. However, in addition to or instead of this, the first part 121 and the second part 122 may be fixed to each other by locking claws. In this case, locking claws are formed on one of the first part 121 and the second part 122, and a locking recess that engages with these locking claws is formed on the other.

[0064] Figure 6 shows the configuration of an internal member according to a second embodiment of the present invention. In the example shown in Figure 6, the first part 121 and the second part 122 constituting the internal member 12 are connected by a connecting piece 123. The connecting piece 123 is flexible, and the angle between the first part 121 and the second part 122 can be arbitrarily changed before combining them. With this configuration as well, the RFID tag 14 can be housed in a sealed space by placing the RFID tag 14 between the first part 121 and the second part 122 and fixing the first part 121 and the second part 122 to each other by press-fitting or locking.

[0065] The first part 121 and the second part 122 may be connected in a hinge-like manner. In this case as well, the first part 121 and the second part 122 can be connected, and an RFID tag 14 can be inserted between them, and the first part 121 and the second part 122 can be assembled together with the RFID tag 14 housed in a sealed space by press-fitting or locking.

[0066] Figure 7 shows the configuration of the encapsulating member in the third embodiment of the present invention. In the example of Figure 7, the encapsulating member 12' is made of a bag-shaped film. That is, the sheet-like first part 121' and the sheet-like second part 122' are partially bonded together and partially open. By inserting the RFID tag 14 between the first part 121' and the second part 122' from the open end, the RFID tag 14 can be sandwiched between the first part 121' and the second part 122'. In this example as well, a sealed space for accommodating the RFID tag 14 is formed between the first part 121' and the second part 122', protecting the RFID tag 14.

[0067] Furthermore, the sheet-like first part 121' and the sheet-like second part 122' may be bonded together with the RFID tag 14 sandwiched between them. This would prevent the RFID tag 14 from being removed from the internal component 12'. Also, the sheet-like first part 121' and the sheet-like second part 122' do not have to be connected. In this case as well, the first part 121' and the second part 122' may be bonded together with the RFID tag 14 sandwiched between them.

[0068] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a game substitute coin according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 9 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the game substitute coin according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Components similar to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted. In the game substitute coin 10' of this embodiment, the encapsulating member 12'' is thinner than the encapsulating member 12 of the first embodiment. The main body member 11 is injection molded to cover the entire surface of the encapsulating member 12'', not just the edges.

[0069] Specifically, the main body member 11 is formed by insert molding using an inner member 12'' containing the RFID tag 14 as the insert member. At this time, the inner member 12'' is supported by a support member within the mold, so a hole corresponding to this support member is formed on the surface of the main body member 11'' to which the D-cal member 13 is attached. This hole is covered when the D-cal member 13 is attached and is not exposed in the completed game currency 10''.

[0070] In the game substitute currency 10' of this embodiment, the entire surface of the inner component 12'' is covered by the main body component 11', so even if the D-cal component 13 is peeled off, the RFID tag 14 will not be exposed.

[0071] Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of the encapsulating member and RFID tag of a substitute currency for games according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. The encapsulating member 120 is formed by bonding a first part 1201 and a second part 1202 together. The first part 1201 and the second part 1202 have the same shape, with a raised portion 1203 formed on the edge of the disc shape, and a disc-shaped protrusion 1204 formed in the center of the disc shape. The height of the raised portion 1203 on the periphery and the protrusion 1204 in the center are the same, and the upper surfaces of each are flat.

[0072] Figure 12 is a plan view of an RFID tag according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. The RFID tag 14 is a sticker type and consists of a circular sheet-shaped film. An adhesive is provided on one side of the film. A circuit 141 is provided on the periphery of the film. An antenna 142 extends from one side of the circuit 141. The antenna 142 extends in a spiral shape along the outer circumference of the film and is connected to the circuit 141. In this way, the RFID tag 14 of this embodiment has the antenna positioned along the periphery and outer circumference, avoiding the central part. This makes it possible to receive radio waves over a wider range.

[0073] As shown in Figure 11, the RFID tag 14 is aligned approximately with the center of the first part 1201 or the second part 1202 and is fixed by being adhered to the protrusion 1204 of the first part 1201 or the second part 1202 (the side facing the adhesive surface of the RFID tag 14). At this time, the antenna 142 is positioned to avoid the protrusion 1204.

[0074] Figure 13 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the encapsulating member and RFID tag of a substitute currency for games according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. As described above, first, the adhesive surface of the RFID tag 14 is centered and adhered to the protrusion 1204 of either the first part 1201 or the second part 1202. Then, the respective bank portions 1203 and protrusions 1204 of the first part 1201 and the second part 1202 are bonded to each other with adhesive. As shown in Figure 13, the diameter of the RFID tag 14 is slightly smaller than the inside of the bank portions 1203 of the first part 1201 and the second part 1202 that constitute the encapsulating member 120, so even if the bank portions 1203 of the first part 1201 and the bank portions 1203 of the second part 1202 are bonded together, the RFID tag 14 does not interfere with them.

[0075] In this way, the internal component 12 containing the RFID tag 14 can be completed, and the circuit and antenna of the RFID tag 14 are not compressed by the first part 1201 and the second part 1202 of the internal component 12, and the RFID tag 14 is fixed inside the internal component 120. The disc-shaped internal component 12 is completed by aligning and bonding the first part 1201 and the second part 1202 with the bank portion 1203 and the protrusion portion 1204.

[0076] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of a game substitute currency according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. A main body member 11 is provided to enclose a disc-shaped enclosing member 12 containing an RFID tag 14. The main body member 11 is provided to cover the entire circumference of the enclosing member 12, from the side surface to the peripheral edges of both flat surfaces. In the center of the donut-shaped main body member 11, which holds the enclosing member 12 at its inner edge, the central portions of both flat surfaces of the enclosing member 12 are exposed. A D-Cal member 13 is attached to the enclosing member 12 so as to cover this exposed portion.

[0077] As a result, the encapsulating member 12 containing the RFID tag 14 is covered on its flat periphery and sides by the main body member 11, and the remaining portion, i.e., the central part of both flat surfaces, is covered by the D-Cal member 13, so that there are no exposed parts and it is embedded in the substitute currency for games. In this way, since the periphery and sides of the flat surface are all covered by the main body member 11, the encapsulating member 12, and by extension the RFID tag 14, are protected from impact even if the substitute currency for games is subjected to an impact (for example, if the substitute currency for games is dropped).

[0078] Furthermore, the inner component 12 and the main component 11 may be made of different materials. In addition, information for identifying the RFID tag 14 may be inscribed on the surface of the inner component 12 by laser engraving or ink printing. This allows the RFID tag 14 to be identified by referring to the inscription, even if the RFID tag 14 malfunctions and becomes unreadable.

[0079] In the above embodiment, the RFID tag 14 was of the sticker type, but the RFID tag 14 is not limited to this, and may be, for example, a sheet type without an adhesive surface. The RFID tag 14 may also be of the coil type. Furthermore, the RFID tag 14 may be of the active type.

[0080] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the substitute currency 10 and 10' for games were disc-shaped, but the shape of the substitute currency for games is not limited to this, and may be, for example, rectangular. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 10, 10´, 10´´ Substitute coin for games 11, 11' Main body components 12, 12' Internal component 121, 121' Part 1 122, 122' Part 2 13 D-Cal components 14 RFID tags

Claims

1. A substitute currency for games that incorporates a sticker-type RFID tag, An internal member having a predetermined shape for enclosing the RFID tag, A main body member is injection-molded to enclose the enclosing member containing the RFID tag, A D-Cal member that displays the type or amount of the substitute currency for the game, Equipped with, The enclosed member consists of a first part and a second part. At least the first part or the second part has a flat surface to which the sticker-type RFID tag can be attached, The first part and the second part are combined to form the encapsulating member, and the sticker-type RFID tag is covered by the first part and the second part. Substitute money for games.

2. The enclosed member is a substitute currency for games according to claim 1, wherein the entire surface of the enclosed member is covered by the injection-molded main body member and the decal member.

3. The game currency according to claim 1, wherein the entire surface of the enclosed member is covered by the injection-molded main body member.

4. The game substitute currency according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the encapsulating member containing the RFID tag is located in the central part of the game substitute currency, and the D-cal member is located in the peripheral part in the thickness direction of the game substitute currency.

5. The RFID tag stores information about the substitute currency for gaming, and the substitute currency for gaming is readable when multiple pieces are stacked together, as described in any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The substitute game currency according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the RFID tag is embedded within a position within 25% of the thickness of the substitute game currency, from the center in the thickness direction of the substitute game currency.

7. The substitute currency for games according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first part and the second part are combined to form a sealed space for housing the RFID tag.

8. The substitute currency for games according to claim 7, wherein the sealed space for housing the RFID tag is formed by press-fitting the first part into the second part.

9. The substitute currency for games according to claim 7, wherein the sealed space for having the RFID tag is formed by locking the first part and the second part together.

10. The substitute currency for games according to claim 7, wherein the first part and the second part are bonded together to form the sealed space for having the RFID tag.

11. The substitute currency for games according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the RFID tag is sandwiched between the first part and the second part to form the enclosing member containing the RFID tag.

12. The game substitute currency according to claim 11, wherein the RFID tag is sandwiched between the first part and the second part, and the first part and the second part are bonded together to form the enclosing member containing the RFID tag.

13. The first part and the second part are connected, as described in any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The first part and the second part are connected in a hinge-like manner, as described in claim 13, for use as a substitute currency for games.

15. The gaming substitute currency according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the diameter of the RFID tag is larger than the diameter of the D-cal member.

16. The game currency according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the specific gravity of the enclosed member is greater than the specific gravity of the main body member.

17. The specific gravity of the enclosed member is less than the specific gravity of the main body member, a substitute currency for games according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

18. The enclosed member is formed by injection molding into the predetermined shape, as described in any one of claims 1 to 17, for use as a substitute currency for games.

19. A first step involves attaching a sticker-type RFID tag to a first part that has a flat surface for attaching the sticker-type RFID tag, A second step involves placing a second part over a first part to which the RFID tag is in close contact, thereby forming an internal member that encloses the RFID tag. A third step involves insert molding the enclosing member containing the RFID tag as an insert part to construct a main body containing the enclosing member containing the RFID tag, A method for manufacturing substitute currency for games, equipped with [a specific feature / feature].

20. A substitute currency for games that has an RFID tag embedded in it, An internal member having a predetermined shape for enclosing the RFID tag, A main body member is injection-molded to enclose the enclosing member containing the RFID tag, A D-Cal member that displays the type or amount of the substitute currency for the game, Equipped with, The first part and the second part are combined to form the encapsulating member, and the RFID tag is covered by the first part and the second part. Furthermore, a substitute currency for games, having a structure in which the enclosed member is centered and the enclosed member is covered by the main body member and the D-cal member.

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