Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing device, an information processing method and a program capable of reducing a burden for making an installation request for game machines when a user orders the game machines from a plurality of providers.SOLUTION: An information processing device 10 includes a site provision part 122 for providing a user terminal 20 with a website which can select a plurality of game machine providers, a game machine order reception part 124 for receiving order information of game machine providers selected in the website, transmitted from the user terminal through the website, and a request execution part 126 for executing processing on an installation request for game machines related to the plurality of providers in accordance with order information in the case that the game machine order reception part 124 receives the order information of the game machines related to the plurality of providers.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there have been proposed techniques for receiving orders for gaming machines such as pachinko and slot machines. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a method for receiving orders for gaming machines, in which a server device installed in an order center of a gaming machine manufacturer receives desired delivery dates for gaming machines from gaming facilities such as pachinko parlors, and distributes the order details to users, including the models and quantities of gaming machines that can be delivered by the desired delivery date. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2002-373274 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, gaming machines are delivered to an amusement facility according to the delivery period of the provider of the gaming machine (such as a gaming machine manufacturer). The delivery of the gaming machine involves the installation of the gaming machine, and when gaming machines are ordered from multiple gaming machine manufacturers, the gaming machine is installed for each order. For this reason, processing related to the installation request of the gaming machine occurs for each order, which creates a burden.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that enable a user to reduce the burden of requesting installation of gaming machines when ordering gaming machines from multiple providers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a site providing unit that provides a user terminal with a website from which multiple gaming machine providers can be selected, a gaming machine order receiving unit that receives order information for gaming machines of the provider selected on the website transmitted from the user terminal via the website, and a request execution unit that, when the gaming machine order receiving unit receives order information for gaming machines related to the multiple providers, also executes processing related to installation requests for gaming machines related to the multiple providers.

[0007] An information processing method according to another aspect of the present invention is an information processing method by an information processing device having a processor, the information processing method including the processor providing a website to a user terminal from which a user can select providers of multiple gaming machines, accepting order information for gaming machines of the provider selected on the website, transmitted from the user terminal via the website, and, when the order information for gaming machines related to the multiple providers is accepted, also executing processing related to a request for installation of gaming machines related to the multiple providers.

[0008] A program relating to another aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to provide a website on a user terminal from which multiple providers of gaming machines can be selected, accept order information for gaming machines of the provider selected on the website transmitted from the user terminal via the website, and, when order information for gaming machines related to the multiple providers is accepted, also execute processing related to a request for installation of gaming machines related to the multiple providers. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that enable a user to reduce the burden of requesting the installation of gaming machines when ordering gaming machines from multiple providers. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration of a server device according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a storage unit included in the server according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a simulation DB. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a part information DB according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] 2 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration of a processing unit included in the server device according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a user terminal according to the present embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display unit of a user terminal when the user terminal logs in to a website. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displaying a web page of a selected gaming machine manufacturer. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displaying a purchase page for ordering a gaming machine. [Figure 11] A figure showing an example of a web page screen for placing an order for a selected gaming machine. [Figure 12] 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing from when a user terminal accesses a website to when an order for a gaming machine is completed in the information processing system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart showing the flow from the end of the process shown in FIG. 12 until a request for installing a gaming machine is transmitted to the communication terminal of an installation company. [Figure 14] 11 is a flowchart showing a process flow from when a simulation of a gaming machine selected based on a user's operation is executed until the simulation is completed. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing executed in the information processing system when a used gaming machine is bought and sold between two users. [Figure 16]11 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing from when a user terminal transmits a buy-back request to a server device until a process is executed depending on whether or not the gaming machine related to the buy-back request is reusable. [Figure 17] A flowchart showing the flow of processing from when a user terminal transmits parts order information to a server device to when processing is executed depending on whether or not a user's presence is required when replacing a gaming machine related to the order information. [Figure 18] 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a server device, a user terminal, a management device, and various communication terminals according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals denote like or similar components.

[0012] In addition, in this specification and drawings, elements having substantially the same functional configuration may be distinguished by adding different alphabets after a common reference symbol. For example, multiple elements having substantially the same functional configuration may be distinguished as necessary, such as user terminals 20a and 20b. However, when there is no need to particularly distinguish between multiple elements having substantially the same functional configuration, only the common reference symbol is added to each element. For example, when there is no need to particularly distinguish between user terminals 20a and 20b, these are simply referred to as "user terminal 20."

[0013] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a server device 10 (information processing device), a user terminal 20, a management device 30 of a management company, a communication terminal 40 of an installation company, a communication terminal 50 of a gaming machine manufacturer, and a communication terminal 60 of a gaming machine parts manufacturer.

[0014] The server device 10, the user terminal 20, the management device 30, and various communication terminals 40, 50, 60 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via a communication network 70. The communication network 70 may take various forms. For example, the communication network 70 may be a data transmission network (WAN) or a local area network (LAN) that connects the devices to each other through dedicated lines. Here, the communication network 70 will be described as being the Internet, which is a representative public network.

[0015] A user is someone who uses a web page to order gaming machines and gaming machine parts, etc. In this embodiment, the user of the user terminal 20 is assumed to be an operator of an amusement facility. Note that while FIG. 1 shows user terminals for two amusement facilities, amusement facility A and amusement facility B, the information processing system 1 may include user terminals for one or three or more amusement facilities. In addition, the user is not limited to an operator of an amusement facility, and may be an individual or a gaming machine manufacturer, etc.

[0016] In this embodiment, the management company is a company that manages the server device 10 using the management device 30. For example, the management company manages a website for ordering gaming machines (e.g., pachinko and pachinko slot machines) stored in the server device 10. The management company can update the website in response to requests from gaming machine manufacturers. For example, the management company can use the management device 30 to obtain information such as various images and banners from gaming machine manufacturers and create web pages for the gaming machine manufacturers based on the obtained information. Note that, although one management company is shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 may include communication terminals of multiple management companies.

[0017] The installation company is a company that performs operations related to the distribution of gaming machines and gaming machine parts, etc., ordered via a website. The installation company performs operations such as managing the distribution of gaming machines and parts, operations related to the installation of ordered gaming machines, visual inspection of gaming machines, etc., attendance at the time of replacement of ordered parts, and issuance of warranties, etc. Note that although one installation company is shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 may include communication terminals of multiple installation companies.

[0018] A gaming machine manufacturer is a company that manufactures various gaming machines. In response to an order from a user, the gaming machine manufacturer provides the ordered gaming machine to the user. Note that, in this embodiment, the provider of the gaming machine is described as being the gaming machine manufacturer, but the provider of the gaming machine may be a company entrusted with sales by the gaming machine manufacturer. Note that, although two gaming machine manufacturers are shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 may include communication terminals of one or three or more gaming machine manufacturers.

[0019] A parts manufacturer is a company that manufactures parts that constitute gaming machines. In response to an order from a user, the parts manufacturer can provide the ordered parts to the user. Note that the parts manufactured by the parts manufacturer may be parts that are commonly used in multiple types of gaming machines, or may be parts that are mainly used in a specific type of gaming machine. Note that while FIG. 1 shows one parts manufacturer, the information processing system 1 may include communication terminals of multiple parts manufacturers.

[0020] The configuration of the server device 10 according to this embodiment will be described in more detail below with reference to Fig. 2 to Fig. 6. Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the server device 10 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the server device 10 includes a storage unit 100, a processing unit 120, and a communication unit 150.

[0021] The storage unit 100 stores various types of information. For example, the storage unit 100 stores information necessary for the processing unit 120 to execute information processing and results of information processing by the processing unit 120. Details of the information stored in the storage unit 100 will be described later with reference to Figs. 3 to 5.

[0022] The processing unit 120 executes various processes related to the use of the website. For example, the processing unit 120 executes various processes such as providing the website, simulating gaming machines, buying and selling gaming machines, and ordering gaming machines or parts. Details of the processes executed by the processing unit 120 will be described later with reference to FIG. 6.

[0023] The communication unit 150 transmits and receives various information. Specifically, the communication unit 150 can receive information for the processing unit 120 to execute various processes, and transmit the results of information processing by the processing unit 120. For example, the communication unit 150 can transmit data of various web pages and data related to simulation of gaming machines (image data, audio data, etc.) to the user terminal 20. Alternatively, the communication unit 150 can transmit an installation request to the communication terminal 40 of an installation company, transmit ordering information of a gaming machine to the communication terminal 50 of a gaming machine manufacturer, or transmit ordering information of parts to the communication terminal 60 of a parts manufacturer. In addition, the communication unit 150 can receive an ordering request for a gaming machine, an ordering request for parts of a gaming machine, a purchase request for a gaming machine, a sale request for a gaming machine, etc.

[0024] Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the storage unit 100 included in the server device 10 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, the storage unit 100 according to this embodiment includes a user DB (database) 102, a provider information DB 104, website information 106, a simulation DB 108, a request DB 110, a part information DB 112, and a attendance information DB 114.

[0025] The user DB 102 is a database that stores various information related to users. In the user DB 102, various information is associated with identification information for each user. For example, the address of the gaming facility of the user, the purchase history of gaming machines, and the amount of the purchased gaming machines are associated with each identification information. Points according to the amount of the gaming machines purchased by the user may also be associated with the identification information. Alternatively, a grade evaluation according to the purchase history of the user may be associated with the identification information. The user may receive preferential treatment according to the grade evaluation.

[0026] The provider information DB 104 is a database in which various information is associated with identification information of each provider of a gaming machine. For example, the identification information of a gaming machine manufacturer may be associated with various information related to the gaming machine manufacturer, such as the name and address of the gaming machine manufacturer.

[0027] The website information 106 includes information about a website that allows ordering of gaming machines. In this embodiment, the website is a website that allows a user to select from multiple gaming machine manufacturers. In other words, by using the website, a user can order gaming machines from multiple gaming machine manufacturers. Furthermore, by using the website, a user can not only order new gaming machines, but also buy used gaming machines, sell used gaming machines, or order parts for gaming machines. Furthermore, in this embodiment, a user can experience a simulation of a gaming machine through the website.

[0028] The simulation DB 108 is a database in which identification information indicating the type of gaming machine is associated with game-related parameters of a simulation of the gaming machine carried out via a website. The game-related parameters are, for example, various parameters such as the probability of a big win and the probability of reaching a winning jackpot. The simulation of the gaming machine on the website is carried out based on the information stored in the simulation DB 108. The various parameters stored in the simulation DB 108 may be appropriately changed based on the operation of the user or the management company, etc. If the user can change the parameters, the parameters may be managed for each user.

[0029] The request DB 110 stores information on various requests. For example, the request DB 110 stores information on requests for selling gaming machines and requests for buying back gaming machines. The requests for selling gaming machines and requests for buying back gaming machines are transmitted, for example, from the user terminal 20 of the gaming facility.

[0030] A sales request is information including a desire by an arcade to sell a specific type of gaming machine and the conditions for selling the gaming machine (e.g., the selling price, etc.). The selling price may be indicated as a range of prices, such as "10,000 to 20,000 yen," or may be indicated as a specific price. A purchase request is information including a desire to purchase a specific type of gaming machine and the conditions for purchasing the gaming machine (e.g., the selling price, etc.).

[0031] The parts information DB112 is a database that stores information about parts of gaming machines that can be purchased via a website (hereinafter, also referred to as "parts information"). The parts information DB112 mainly stores information about parts of used gaming machines. In this embodiment, information about parts of used gaming machines is mainly provided by users such as gaming arcades who wish to sell used gaming machines. Furthermore, the information stored in the parts information DB112 may include parts information of gaming machines related to sales requests stored in the request DB110.

[0032] Furthermore, parts information DB 112 may include information about parts that can be ordered via a website. Each identification number assigned to a part may be associated with information such as the type of part, the parts manufacturer, and the selling price. Information about parts that can be ordered may be displayed, for example, on a web page for ordering parts, and a user may refer to the information to select a part to order. Note that different parts manufacturers may manufacture the same type of part. In this case, information about the parts sold by each parts manufacturer (e.g., selling price, etc.) may be displayed on the web page for ordering parts, and a user may refer to the information to select a parts manufacturer to order from.

[0033] The presence information DB114 is a database in which presence information indicating whether or not a specific qualified person needs to be present when replacing a part is associated with each type of part of the gaming machine. When a part of the gaming machine is replaced, the presence of a specific qualified person is required depending on the type of part. By referring to the presence information DB114, it is possible to determine whether or not the presence of a person when replacing a part is required.

[0034] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the simulation DB 108. Each identification number is associated with a model of a gaming machine and parameters related to a game in the simulation. The parameters related to a game in the simulation include the probability of a big win and the probability of a reach. Note that the information associated with each identification number is not limited to the information shown in FIG. 4. For example, the parameters related to a game in the simulation may include information such as the probability of a specific performance occurring. Also, the format of the simulation DB 108 is not limited to a table format.

[0035] 5 is a diagram showing an example of the parts information DB 112 according to this embodiment. In the parts information DB 112, the model name and the manufacturer of the gaming machine are associated with each identification number. In this embodiment, the gaming machines in the parts information DB 112 are gaming machines that can be ordered via a website and are second-hand gaming machines that have been used at least once in the past.

[0036] Each identification number is associated with information about a part of the gaming machine. The part information includes information about parts such as various boards (main control board, etc.) and levers that the gaming machine is equipped with. The information about each part includes the name of the part, the name of the part manufacturer, the period of use and useful life of the part, etc. In FIG. 5, boards and levers are shown as types of parts, but the types of parts are not limited to these and may be, for example, a housing, an LCD screen, various motors, etc.

[0037] Fig. 6 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the processing unit 120 included in the server device 10 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 6, the processing unit 120 includes a site providing unit 122, a gaming machine order receiving unit 124, a request executing unit 126, a simulation executing unit 128, a changing unit 130, a buy-back request receiving unit 132, a sales request receiving unit 134, a buying and selling executing unit 136, a determining unit 138, a parts order receiving unit 140, and a parts request unit 142.

[0038] The site providing unit 122 provides the user terminal 20 with a website that allows the user to select a provider of a gaming machine. Specifically, the site providing unit 122 provides the user terminal 20 with a web page by causing the communication unit 150 to transmit data of the web page in response to a request from the user terminal 20. For example, the site providing unit 122 can provide the user terminal 20 with a login page for logging in to the website in response to an access request from the user terminal 20. After the user terminal 20 logs in to the website, the site providing unit 122 can provide the user terminal 20 with various web pages, such as a web page for ordering a gaming machine, in response to a request from the user terminal 20. For example, the site providing unit 122 can provide the user terminal 20 with a web page for selecting a provider of a gaming machine. Furthermore, when a provider is selected based on a user's operation via the web page, the site providing unit 122 can provide the user terminal 20 with a web page for selecting a gaming machine provided by the selected provider.

[0039] The gaming machine order receiving unit 124 receives order information for a gaming machine of a provider selected on the website, which is transmitted from the user terminal 20 via the website. When the gaming machine order receiving unit 124 receives the gaming machine order information, it transmits the order information to the request execution unit 126. The gaming machine order information may include information such as the model of the gaming machine, the gaming machine manufacturer, and the desired delivery time. In addition, the gaming machine order receiving unit 124 can receive order information for gaming machines related to multiple gaming machine manufacturers from the same user.

[0040] When the gaming machine order receiving unit 124 receives order information for gaming machines related to multiple providers, the request executing unit 126 also executes processes related to installation requests for gaming machines related to multiple providers. The processes related to the installation request for gaming machines are, for example, processes of providing an installation request for gaming machines to the communication terminal 40 of an installation company and providing order information for gaming machines to a gaming machine manufacturer. These processes may be executed through the communication unit 150, for example.

[0041] For example, it is assumed that the gaming machine order receiving unit 124 receives order information for gaming machines related to two gaming machine manufacturers (gaming machine manufacturer A and gaming machine manufacturer B). At this time, the request executing unit 126 can provide the order information of gaming machine manufacturer A to gaming machine manufacturer A, and can provide the order information of gaming machine manufacturer B to gaming machine manufacturer B. In addition, the request executing unit 126 can provide the order information of gaming machine manufacturer A and gaming machine manufacturer B to the communication terminal 40 of the installation company. As a result, the installation company recognizes that the user has placed orders for gaming machines of gaming machine manufacturer A and gaming machine manufacturer B, and can install the gaming machines of each gaming machine manufacturer in the user's gaming facility under the supervision of a predetermined qualified person. In this way, in this embodiment, even if the providers of multiple gaming machines related to the ordered gaming machines are different from each other, the installation request is made together. Therefore, there is no need to make an installation request for each provider of multiple gaming machines, and the burden of processing related to the installation request for gaming machines is reduced.

[0042] The simulation execution unit 128 executes a simulation of the gaming machine when the user terminal 20 accesses the website. For example, when the simulation execution unit 128 receives a request to execute a simulation of the gaming machine, the simulation execution unit 128 generates image data and sound data for simulating the operation of the gaming machine based on information (e.g., parameters related to games, etc.) stored in the simulation DB 108. The generated image data and sound data are transmitted to the user terminal 20. As a result, images are displayed and sounds are output on the user terminal 20, and the simulation of the gaming machine progresses. In addition, the simulation execution unit 128 executes a simulation of the gaming machine based on information transmitted from the user terminal 20 based on the user's operation during the simulation (information based on the user's operation). Therefore, the simulation of the gaming machine progresses in response to the user's operation.

[0043] The simulation may be executed on a website managed by the management company, or may be executed on another website (for example, a website operated by a gaming machine manufacturer). When the simulation is executed on another website, the simulation execution unit 128 may redirect the user terminal 20 to the other website in response to a request from the user terminal 20.

[0044] The change unit 130 can change parameters related to the simulation game. In this embodiment, the change unit 130 changes various information stored in the simulation DB 108 based on information transmitted from the management company's communication terminal 40 or the user terminal 20. This allows the management company or the user to change parameters related to the simulation game.

[0045] Generally, the probability of winning a jackpot in a gaming machine such as a pachinko is low, for example, about 1 / 400. Therefore, if the probability of winning a jackpot in a simulation is the same as the probability in a real machine, the user may not be able to fully understand the fun of the gaming machine through the simulation. In this embodiment, since the parameters related to the game in the simulation are appropriately changed, for example, the probability of winning a jackpot can be made higher than the probability of winning a jackpot in a real gaming machine, and the fun of the gaming machine is provided to the user. In addition, a user such as a provider who is an expert in gaming machines can also check the operation and changes in the display mode of the screen in special modes of the gaming machine (for example, probability change and jackpot, etc.) through the simulation.

[0046] Furthermore, the parameters related to the game may be changed to the same parameters related to the game in the actual gaming machine, so that the user can experience the simulation with the same settings as those in the actual gaming machine.

[0047] The buy-back request receiving unit 132 can receive a buy-back request for a gaming machine from the user terminal 20. The buy-back request receiving unit 132 stores the received buy-back request in the request DB 112. In addition, the buy-back request receiving unit 132 can transmit the received buy-back request to the buy-back execution unit 136.

[0048] The sales request receiving unit 134 can receive a sales request for a gaming machine from the user terminal 20. The sales request receiving unit 134 stores the received sales request in the request DB112.

[0049] The buying and selling execution unit 136 executes buying and selling of gaming machines based on a match between the buying request accepted by the buying request acceptance unit 132 and the selling request accepted by the selling request acceptance unit 134. Specifically, the buying and selling execution unit 136 executes processing related to the buying and selling of gaming machines in response to a match between the buying request and the selling request.

[0050] For example, when the buying and selling execution unit 136 can search for a selling request matching the buying request by referring to the request DB 112, it confirms and records the buying and selling of the gaming machine related to the accepted buying and selling request and the searched selling request. Note that, before confirming the buying and selling, the buying and selling execution unit 136 may provide information for confirming whether to confirm the buying and selling to the user terminal 20 that transmitted the buying request through the communication unit 150.

[0051] For example, a sales request indicating that a gaming machine of a specific model is to be sold for 10,000 to 20,000 yen is stored in the request DB 112. In this case, for example, when the buying and selling execution unit 136 receives a purchase request indicating that the gaming machine of that model is to be purchased for 15,000 yen, the buying and selling execution unit 136 searches the request DB 112 for a sales request that matches the buying request, and records in the request DB 112 that the buying and selling of the gaming machine has been established. Thereafter, the buying and selling execution unit 136 may provide information indicating that the buying and selling of the gaming machine has been established to the user terminal 20 that transmitted the buying request and the user terminal 20 that transmitted the selling request, etc., via the communication unit 150.

[0052] When the purchase request receiving unit 132 receives a purchase request, the determination unit 138 can determine whether the gaming machine matching the purchase request is reusable based on the parts information of the gaming machine matching the purchase request. In this embodiment, the purchase request receiving unit 132 searches the request DB 110 for a sales request matching the purchase request, and determines whether the gaming machine related to the searched sales request is reusable based on the parts information DB 112.

[0053] For example, the determination unit 138 may determine whether or not a part of the target gaming machine is usable based on the usage period and useful life of the part stored in the part information DB 112. Specifically, if the usage period of the part is shorter than the useful life, the determination unit 138 may determine that the part is usable. On the other hand, if the usage period of the part is equal to or longer than the useful life, the determination unit 138 may determine that the part is unusable.

[0054] The determination unit 138 may determine whether the gaming machine is reusable or not depending on whether the gaming machine has any unusable parts. For example, if all parts of the gaming machine related to the purchase request are usable, the determination unit 138 may determine that the gaming machine is reusable. Also, if the gaming machine related to the purchase request has any unusable parts, the determination unit 138 may determine that the gaming machine is not reusable.

[0055] Furthermore, the determination unit 138 may execute a process related to the sale of the gaming machine depending on the determination result of whether the gaming machine is reusable or not. For example, the determination unit 138 may transmit information indicating whether the gaming machine is reusable or not to the user terminal 20 depending on whether the gaming machine is reusable or not. Alternatively, the determination unit 138 may set the selling price of the gaming machine depending on the determination result. For example, when the determination unit 138 determines that the gaming machine is not reusable, the determination unit 138 may set the selling price of the gaming machine to the lowest desired selling price of the seller of the gaming machine.

[0056] The parts order receiving unit 140 receives parts order information. The order information may include, for example, information identifying the orderer, the type of the part, information identifying the gaming machine in which the part is to be installed, information indicating the part manufacturer and the desired delivery time, etc. The parts order receiving unit 140 transmits the received parts order information to the parts request unit 142.

[0057] Based on the attendance information, parts requesting unit 142 determines whether attendance is necessary when replacing parts related to the order information, and executes processing according to the necessity of attendance for the parts request. In this embodiment, parts requesting unit 142 refers to attendance information DB 114 to determine whether attendance by a predetermined qualified person is necessary when replacing parts related to the order information accepted by parts order accepting unit 140.

[0058] For example, when parts request unit 142 determines that a person must be present during replacement, it provides order information to communication terminal 60 of the parts manufacturer and executes a request for presence to an installation company that has a specific qualified person who can be present during the replacement. As a result, the part is provided to the user and the part is replaced in the presence of the qualified person. On the other hand, when parts request unit 142 determines that a person must not be present during replacement, it may provide order information to the parts manufacturer and not make a request for presence. In this case, the presence of a qualified person or the like is not required during the replacement of the part.

[0059] 7 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a user terminal 20 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the user terminal 20 according to this embodiment includes an input unit 210, a control unit 220, an output unit 230, and a communication unit 240.

[0060] The input unit 210 generates various input signals in response to user operations, and transmits the generated input signals to the control unit 220 .

[0061] The control unit 220 controls the operation of the user terminal 20. For example, the control unit 220 controls the output by the output unit 230 and the transmission and reception by the communication unit 240 in response to input information or information received by the communication unit 240. For example, the control unit 220 can cause the output unit 230 to display an image or output a sound based on information received by the communication unit 240. In addition, the control unit 220 can cause the communication unit 240 to transmit various types of information based on an input signal.

[0062] The output unit 230 can output various types of information in response to control by the control unit 220. The output unit 230 includes a display unit 232 and an audio output unit 234. The display unit 232 displays various screens, for example, various web pages, etc. The audio output unit 234 outputs various types of sounds, for example, sounds when a simulation of a gaming machine progresses.

[0063] The communication unit 240 can transmit and receive various types of information. For example, the communication unit 240 can transmit various types of information, such as a request to access a website, order information, a purchase request, and a sale request, to the server device 10 via the communication network 70. In addition, the communication unit 240 can receive various types of webpage data, simulation image data, audio data, and the like from the server device 10 via the communication network 70.

[0064] An example of a screen displayed on the display unit of the user terminal 20 when the user terminal 20 accesses a website will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0065] 8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen 250 displayed on the display unit 232 of the user terminal 20 when the user terminal 20 logs in to the website. Images 252, 254, and 256 showing three gaming machine manufacturers are displayed in a selectable manner on the screen 250. When the user selects one of the three images, the web page of the gaming machine manufacturer corresponding to the selected image is displayed on the display unit 232. Note that, although the images of the three gaming machine manufacturers are displayed in a selectable manner on the screen 250 shown in FIG. 8, images of two gaming machine manufacturers may be displayed in a selectable manner, or images of four or more gaming machine manufacturers may be displayed in a selectable manner.

[0066] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen 260 displaying a web page of a selected gaming machine manufacturer. The screen 260 includes images 261, 262, and 263 displaying three banner advertisements, and an image 264 for accessing a web page for purchasing a product or the like (hereinafter also referred to as a "purchase page"). When the user selects the images 261, 262, and 263, a web page introducing information on the gaming machine manufacturer's product (gaming machine, etc.) is displayed on the display unit 232. When the user selects the image 264, the purchase page is displayed on the display unit 232. Note that the screen 260 may display images other than the images shown in FIG. 9, and may include, for example, an image for the user terminal 20 to access a web page for managing account information.

[0067] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen 270 displaying a purchase page for ordering a gaming machine. Images 271, 272, 273, and 274 showing four gaming machines are displayed on the screen 270. Each image includes an image of a gaming machine. A user can select an image of a gaming machine that he or she wishes to purchase by referring to the images 271, 272, 273, and 274. When any one of the images 271, 272, 273, and 274 is selected, a web page including the name of the gaming machine corresponding to the selected image and information about the gaming machine such as the gaming machine manufacturer may be displayed on the display unit 232.

[0068] Furthermore, the purchase page may include images other than the images shown in Fig. 10. For example, the purchase page may include a box for searching for gaming machines, for example, by using a free word, a box for selecting the type of gaming machine (pachinko or pachislot, etc.), and a box for inputting the introduction date, etc. A user may be able to search for a desired gaming machine by inputting information into these boxes.

[0069] 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen 280 of a web page for placing an order for a selected gaming machine. The screen 280 includes an image 282 showing detailed information about the gaming machine. The image 282 may include information that is not generally available to the public. The user can refer to the information about the gaming machine to determine whether to place an order for the gaming machine.

[0070] In addition, the user can input the number of gaming machines A to be ordered, the desired delivery date, and the delivery location. Note that the information that the user can input is not limited to this information. The user can confirm the order for gaming machine A by selecting the order button 288.

[0071] Furthermore, when the simulation button 286 is selected, a simulation of the gaming machine corresponding to the selected image is executed. As a result, images and sounds simulating the gaming machine are outputted in the output unit 230 of the user terminal 20. At this time, a simulation is executed according to the user's operation. For example, if the gaming machine is a pachinko machine, the ejection of pachinko balls and the ejection strength are controlled according to the user's operation. After experiencing the simulation of the gaming machine, the user can decide whether or not to order the gaming machine.

[0072] In addition, the simulation may be performed after changing parameters related to the simulation game based on the user's operation. This allows the user to better understand the entertainment value of the gaming machine and then decide whether or not to order the gaming machine.

[0073] (First example of processing by an information processing system) FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing from when the user terminal 20 accesses a website to when an order for a gaming machine is completed in the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0074] First, the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20 transmits an access request to the gaming machine's website to the server device 10 based on a user's operation (step S101). Next, the communication unit 150 of the server device 10 transmits login page data to the user terminal 20 in response to the access request (step S103). The transmitted login page data is received by the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20.

[0075] The output unit 230 of the user terminal 20 displays a login page (step S105). The login page includes an image for inputting a user ID and a password. When the user inputs the user ID and password based on an operation by the user, the communication unit 240 transmits a login request to the website of the gaming machine to the server device 10 (step S107). At this time, the communication unit 240 may transmit the user ID and password to the server device 10.

[0076] Next, the site providing unit 122 of the server device 10 executes login authentication of the user based on the transmitted user ID and password (step S109). Next, the communication unit 150 of the server device 10 transmits data of a selection page for selecting a gaming machine manufacturer to the user terminal 20 (step S111). The transmitted data is received by the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20.

[0077] Next, the display unit 232 of the user terminal 20 displays the selection page (step S113). Next, the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20 transmits an access request to the gaming machine manufacturer selected by the user to the server device 10 based on the user's operation (step S115). Here, it is assumed that gaming machine manufacturer A is selected.

[0078] Next, the communication unit 150 of the server device 10 transmits the web page data of the selected gaming machine manufacturer to the user terminal 20 (step S117). At this time, the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20 receives the transmitted web page data. Next, the display unit 232 of the user terminal 20 displays the web page of the gaming machine manufacturer (step S119).

[0079] Next, the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20 transmits an access request to a purchase page for ordering a gaming machine to the server device 10 based on the user's operation (step S121). Next, the communication unit 150 of the server device 10 transmits data of the purchase page to the user terminal 20 (step S123). At this time, the transmitted data of the purchase page is received by the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20. Next, the display unit 232 of the user terminal 20 displays the purchase page (step S125).

[0080] Next, the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20 transmits information identifying the gaming machine to the server device 10 based on the user's operation (step S127). Next, the communication unit 150 of the server device 10 transmits data of the order page of the identified gaming machine to the user terminal 20 (step S129). Next, the display unit 232 of the user terminal 20 displays the order page (step S131).

[0081] Next, the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20 transmits the order information to the server device 10 based on the user's operation (step S133). The order information may include, for example, information on the orderer, the type of gaming machine, the gaming machine manufacturer, the number of gaming machines, and the desired delivery date. Next, the gaming machine order receiving unit 124 of the server device 10 receives the order information transmitted in step S133 (step S135).

[0082] Next, the communication unit 150 of the server device 10 transmits data of the reception completion page to the user terminal 20 (step S137). Next, the display unit 232 of the user terminal 20 displays the reception completion page (step S139). This allows the user to recognize that the order for the gaming machine has been completed. In addition, the reception completion page displays selectable images for accessing a gaming machine manufacturer other than the manufacturer of the ordered gaming machine.

[0083] Next, the control unit 220 of the user terminal 20 judges whether or not there is an operation to request access to a web page of another gaming machine manufacturer (step S141). For example, the control unit 220 may judge YES when the user performs an input operation to select an image for accessing another gaming machine manufacturer. On the other hand, the control unit 220 may judge NO when the user does not perform an input operation to select an image for accessing another gaming machine manufacturer, but performs an operation to request logout from the website, for example.

[0084] If the determination in step S141 is YES, the process returns to step S115, and the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20 transmits an access request to the selected gaming machine manufacturer to the server device 10. On the other hand, if the determination in step S141 is NO, the process shown in FIG. 12 ends.

[0085] Next, with reference to the flowchart of Fig. 13, a flow from the end of the process shown in Fig. 12 to the transmission of a gaming machine installation request to the installation company's communication terminal 40 will be described. Here, it is assumed that at the time when the process shown in Fig. 13 is started, gaming machines of gaming machine manufacturer A and gaming machine manufacturer B have been ordered by users in the process shown in Fig. 12. In other words, it is assumed that the server device 10 has received order information for gaming machines of gaming machine manufacturer A and gaming machine manufacturer B.

[0086] First, the communication unit 150 of the server device 10 transmits the order information for the gaming machines to the communication terminal 50a of the gaming machine manufacturer A (step S201). The communication unit 150 also transmits the order information for the gaming machines to the communication terminal 50b of the gaming machine manufacturer B (step S203). Furthermore, the communication unit 150 transmits an installation request for the gaming machines of the gaming machine manufacturer A and the gaming machine manufacturer B to the communication terminal 40 of the installation company (step S205). When the communication unit 150 transmits the installation request, the process shown in FIG. 13 ends.

[0087] 13 is completed, the ordered gaming machines of gaming machine manufacturer A and gaming machine manufacturer B are delivered to the user's gaming facility on the specified delivery date. Furthermore, the delivered gaming machines are installed in the gaming facility under the supervision of a qualified person from the installation company.

[0088] In this embodiment, a website that allows a user to select a provider of multiple gaming machines is provided to the user terminal 20. Furthermore, order information for gaming machines of the provider selected on the website, transmitted from the user terminal 20 via the website, is accepted. Furthermore, when order information for gaming machines related to multiple providers is accepted, processing related to an installation request for gaming machines related to multiple providers is also executed. According to this embodiment, when gaming machines of multiple providers are ordered, the burden of making an installation request for gaming machines is reduced compared to a case where an installation request is made for each provider.

[0089] In this embodiment, the installation requests for the gaming machines of the two gaming machine manufacturers are described as being made together, but the installation requests do not necessarily have to be made together. For example, only when the delivery dates of the gaming machines of the two gaming machine manufacturers are the same, the installation requests may be made together. In this case, when the delivery dates of the gaming machines of the two gaming machine manufacturers are different, separate installation requests may be made for each order.

[0090] (Second example of processing by an information processing system) With reference to Fig. 14, an example of a simulation of a gaming machine executed via a website will be described. Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing a process flow from the execution of a simulation of a gaming machine selected based on a user's operation until the simulation is completed. At the time when the process shown in Fig. 14 is started, an order page for a gaming machine as shown in Fig. 11 is displayed on the user terminal 20, and the user can select a button displayed on the order page to execute the simulation. The process flow will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 14.

[0091] First, the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20 transmits a request to execute a simulation of the gaming machine to the server device 10 based on a user's operation (step S301). For example, the communication unit 240 transmits the request to execute a simulation of the gaming machine based on an operation of selecting a button for executing a simulation included in an order page.

[0092] Next, the simulation execution unit 128 of the server device 10 executes the simulation (step S303). At this time, the simulation execution unit 128 generates image data and audio data of the simulation, and the generated data is transmitted to the user terminal 20 via the communication unit 150. In addition, the simulation execution unit 128 may execute the simulation in response to an instruction from the user terminal 20.

[0093] The output unit 230 of the user terminal 20 outputs images and sounds of the simulation based on the data transmitted from the server device 10 (step S305). At this time, the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20 transmits simulation instructions to the server device 10 based on the user's operation. Note that while the simulation is being executed, parameters related to the game of the simulation may be appropriately changed based on the user's operation.

[0094] When the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20 transmits a request to end the simulation to the server device 10 based on the user's operation (step S307), the simulation execution unit 128 of the server device 10 ends the simulation. When the simulation ends, the process shown in FIG. 14 ends.

[0095] Conventionally, when a new gaming machine is sold by a gaming machine manufacturer, the new gaming machine is exhibited at an exhibition or the like, and operators of amusement facilities gather to play and select a gaming machine to order. According to this example, a user can experience a simulation of a gaming machine online. Therefore, a user can appropriately select a gaming machine to order without visiting an exhibition or the like.

[0096] (Third example of processing by an information processing system) A third example of processing by the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing executed by the information processing system 1 when a used gaming machine is purchased and sold between two users. The following description will be given along with the flowchart shown in Fig. 15. In this example, it is assumed that the user terminal 20a and the user terminal 20b are owned by the gaming facility A and the gaming facility B, respectively.

[0097] First, the user terminal 20a transmits a sales request to the server device 10 based on the user's operation (step S401). The sales request includes information about the used gaming machine that the operator of the gaming facility A or the like wishes to sell (such as the model name of the gaming machine, the desired selling price, the gaming machine manufacturer, and the usage period).

[0098] Next, the sales request receiving unit 134 of the server device 10 receives the sales request transmitted in step S401 (step S403). Next, the sales request receiving unit 134 stores the received sales request in the request DB 110 of the storage unit 100 (step S405). Note that the request DB 110 also stores sales requests other than the sales request stored here.

[0099] Next, the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20b transmits a buy-back request to the server device 10 based on the user's operation (step S407). The buy-back request includes information about the gaming machine that the operator of the gaming facility B wants to buy (such as the model name of the gaming machine, the desired buy-back price, the gaming machine manufacturer, and the usage period).

[0100] Next, the buy-back request receiving unit 132 of the server device 10 receives the buy-back request transmitted in step S407 (step S409). The buy-back request receiving unit 132 transmits the received buy-back request to the buying and selling execution unit 136. At this time, the buy-back request receiving unit 132 may store the received buy-back request in the request DB 110.

[0101] Next, the buying and selling execution unit 136 executes a request determination process to determine whether or not a selling request that matches the buying request received by the buying request receiving unit 132 is stored in the request DB 110 (step S411). Here, it is assumed that the selling request stored in the request DB 110 transmitted in step S401 matches the buying request transmitted in step S407.

[0102] Next, the buying and selling execution unit 136 records that the buying request and the selling request match (step S413). Specifically, the buying and selling execution unit 136 records in the request DB 110 that the selling request transmitted in step S401 and the buying request transmitted in step S407 match.

[0103] Next, the communication unit 150 of the server device 10 notifies the user terminal 20a that there is a buy-back request that matches the selling request (step S415). Next, the communication unit 150 notifies the user terminal 20b that there is a sell-back request that matches the buy-back request (step S417), and the process shown in FIG. 15 ends.

[0104] 15 is completed, the purchase price is paid from gaming facility B to gaming facility A, thereby finalizing the sale and purchase. Information indicating that the sale and purchase has been finalized may be transmitted, for example, to the user terminals 20a and 20b, or to the communication terminal 40 of the installation company, or stored in the request DB 110. Thereafter, the used gaming machine from gaming facility A is delivered to gaming facility B, and the delivered gaming machine is installed in gaming facility B, for example, under the supervision of a qualified person from the installation company.

[0105] In this example, when the purchase request and the sales request match, the purchase and sale are executed, and the gaming machine is delivered from the seller to the buyer. This reduces the need for the installation company or the like to store the gaming machine that is the subject of the sales request as inventory when there is no buyer. As a result, the risk of the gaming machine remaining in inventory is reduced.

[0106] (Fourth example of processing by an information processing system) A fourth example of processing by the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 16. In this example, the user terminal 20 will be described as a communication terminal owned by a gaming machine manufacturer. In this example, it is assumed that the gaming machine manufacturer is considering using the information processing system 1 to purchase used gaming machines and reusing and selling the purchased used gaming machines.

[0107] 16 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing from when the user terminal 20 transmits a buy-back request to the server device 10 until processing is executed according to whether or not the gaming machine related to the buy-back request is reusable. The following will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0108] First, the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20 transmits a buy-back request to the server device 10 based on the user's operation (step S501). Here, the buy-back request includes information about a specific gaming machine (type of gaming machine, gaming machine manufacturer, desired buy-back price, and desired delivery date). Next, the buy-back request receiving unit 132 receives the buy-back request transmitted in step S501 (step S503). The buy-back request receiving unit 132 transmits the received buy-back request to the determination unit 138.

[0109] Next, the determination unit 138 determines whether the gaming machine that matches the buy-back request transmitted in step S501 is reusable based on the parts information of the gaming machine (step S505). Specifically, the determination unit 138 determines whether the gaming machine is reusable based on the parts information of the gaming machine that matches the buy-back request by referring to the parts information DB 112 described with reference to Fig. 5. Note that the parts information stored in the parts information DB 112 is the parts information of the gaming machine related to the sales request.

[0110] When the determination unit 138 determines in step S505 that the gaming machine is reusable, the communication unit 150 of the server device 10 transmits to the user terminal 20 the fact that the gaming machine is reusable and the selling price (step S507). On the other hand, when the determination unit 138 determines in step S505 that the gaming machine is not reusable, the communication unit 150 of the server device 10 transmits to the user terminal 20 the fact that the gaming machine is not reusable (step S509).

[0111] When the process according to whether or not the gaming machine is reusable is executed in step S507 or step S509, the process shown in FIG. 16 ends.

[0112] In this example, a gaming machine manufacturer can purchase gaming machines (for example, used gaming machines) using the information processing system 1. The gaming machine manufacturer can reuse the purchased used gaming machines as new gaming machines by modifying the software of the used gaming machines.

[0113] Conventionally, whether a gaming machine can be reused or not has been judged by a person. In this embodiment, the server device 10 automatically judges whether a gaming machine can be reused or not, so that the burden of judging whether a gaming machine can be reused or not is reduced.

[0114] In this example, it has been described that if a gaming machine is determined to be not reusable, the user cannot purchase the gaming machine. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and even if a gaming machine is determined to be not reusable, the gaming machine may be purchased. In this case, the selling price of the gaming machine may be adjusted, for example, to be lower than the normal price, as necessary. At this time, the user can reuse the purchased gaming machine by replacing parts of the gaming machine, and sell it to another user (for example, an amusement arcade) using the information processing system 1.

[0115] In addition, after the buyback request is accepted in step S503, the determination unit 138 of the server device 10 may determine whether the gaming machine is reusable or not in step S505, and may execute a process similar to step S411 shown in FIG. 15 (a process of determining whether a sales request matching the buyback request is stored in the request DB 110). In this way, the determination unit 138 can determine whether at least one of the objectives of reuse or the objective of buying the gaming machine (for example, a used gaming machine) is achieved. Note that when executing a process similar to step S411 shown in FIG. 15, when a sales request matching the buyback request exists, the determination unit 138 may store in the request DB 110 that the buyback request and the sales request match.

[0116] (Fifth example of processing by an information processing system) A fifth example of processing by the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 17. Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing from when the user terminal 20 transmits parts order information to the server device 10 to when processing is executed according to whether or not a person is required to be present when replacing a gaming machine related to the order information. The following description will be given with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 17.

[0117] First, the communication unit 240 of the user terminal 20 transmits ordering information for parts of the gaming machine to the server device 10 (step S601). The ordering information for parts includes information such as the type of gaming machine, the type of parts, and the parts manufacturer. The transmitted ordering information for parts is received by the communication unit 150 of the server device 10. Next, the parts order receiving unit 140 of the server device 10 receives the ordering information for parts transmitted in step S605 (step S603).

[0118] Next, the parts requesting unit 142 determines the necessity of attendance at the time of replacement of the parts based on the attendance information (step S605). Specifically, the parts requesting unit 142 refers to the attendance information DB 114 and determines the necessity of attendance at the time of replacement of the parts related to the order information received in step S603 based on the attendance information.

[0119] If the parts request unit 142 determines in step S605 that the user does not need to be present when replacing the parts, the communication unit 150 of the server device 10 transmits part ordering information to the communication terminal 60 of the parts manufacturer (step S607). This causes the parts manufacturer to deliver the parts to the user's gaming facility.

[0120] Even if parts request unit 142 determines in step S605 that attendance is required when the parts are replaced, communication unit 150 of server device 10 transmits parts order information to communication terminal 60 of the parts manufacturer (step S609). In this case, communication unit 150 of server device 10 transmits attendance request information when the parts are replaced to communication terminal 40 of the installation company (step S611). As a result, a qualified person from the installation company will be present when the parts related to the order information are replaced.

[0121] In steps S607 to S611, when the process for requesting parts according to the necessity for attendance is executed, the process shown in FIG. 17 ends.

[0122] According to this example, when a part that requires a person to be present when replacing is ordered, a request for attendance is sent to the installation company. This allows the replacement of the gaming machine part to be carried out smoothly with the attendance of a person with the appropriate qualifications.

[0123] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the server device 10, the user terminal 20, the management device 30, and various communication terminals 40, 50, 60 (hereinafter, these devices are collectively referred to as "server devices, etc.") according to this embodiment. The server device, etc. 90 has a processor 90a having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) corresponding to a calculation unit, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 90b corresponding to a storage unit, a ROM (Read only Memory) 90c corresponding to a storage unit, a communication unit 90d, an input unit 90e, and an output unit 90f. Each of these components is connected to each other via a bus so that data can be transmitted and received. In this example, the server device, etc. 90 is configured by one computer, but the server device, etc. 90 may be realized by combining multiple computers. In addition, the configuration shown in FIG. 18 is an example, and the server device, etc. 90 may have other configurations than these, or may not have some of these configurations. Here, the calculation unit may be the processing unit 120 shown in FIG. 6 (site providing unit 122, gaming machine order receiving unit 124, request execution unit 126, simulation execution unit 128, change unit 130, purchase request receiving unit 132, sales request receiving unit 134, buying and selling execution unit 136, judgment unit 138, parts order receiving unit 140 and parts request unit 142) or the control unit 220 shown in FIG. 7, etc.

[0124] The CPU 90a is a control unit that controls the execution of programs stored in the RAM 90b or the ROM 90c and performs data calculations and processing. The CPU 90a is a calculation unit that executes a program (request execution program) that provides a website that allows a user terminal to select from multiple game machine providers, receives order information for game machines from the providers, and simultaneously executes processing related to requests to install game machines related to the multiple providers. The CPU 90a receives various data from the input unit 90e and the communication unit 90d, and displays the results of data calculations on the output unit 90f or stores them in the RAM 90b.

[0125] The RAM 90b is a rewritable storage unit, and may be configured, for example, with a semiconductor memory element. The RAM 90b may store data such as programs executed by the CPU 90a. Note that these are merely examples, and the RAM 90b may store data other than these, or may not store some of these data.

[0126] The ROM 90c is a storage unit from which data can be read, and may be configured, for example, with a semiconductor memory device. The ROM 90c may store, for example, a request execution program and data that is not rewritten.

[0127] The communication unit 90d is an interface that connects the server device 90 to other devices, and may be connected to a communication network such as the Internet.

[0128] The input unit 90e receives data input operations from a user, and may include, for example, various buttons, a mouse, a keyboard, and a touch panel. The input unit 90e receives various operations, such as a touch operation, a click operation, or a keyboard input operation. For example, the input unit of the user terminal 20 can receive input operations from a user to select an image included in a web page or generate various text information.

[0129] The output unit 90f functions as a display unit or an audio output unit. The output unit 90f may include various display devices such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and display various information. The output unit 90f of the user terminal 20 may display, for example, various web pages and images of simulations of gaming machines. The output unit 90f may also include various audio output devices such as speakers and output various information as audio. The output unit 90f of the user terminal 20 may output, for example, audio of simulations of gaming machines.

[0130] The request execution program may be provided by being stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as RAM 90b or ROM 90c, or may be provided via a communication network connected by a communication unit 90d. In the server device 90, the CPU 90a executes the request program to realize various operations described with reference to FIG. 6. Note that these physical configurations are merely examples and do not necessarily have to be independent configurations. For example, the server device 90 may include an LSI (Large-Scale Integration) in which the CPU 90a is integrated with the RAM 90b and ROM 90c.

[0131] The above-described embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the present invention. The elements of the embodiments, as well as their arrangements, materials, conditions, shapes, sizes, etc., are not limited to those shown as examples and can be changed as appropriate. In addition, configurations shown in different embodiments can be partially substituted or combined with each other.

[0132] In the above embodiment, it has been described that when a specific user places orders for gaming machines related to multiple gaming machine manufacturers, the installation requests for the gaming machines related to those orders are generally executed together. The installation requests for the gaming machines related to multiple orders do not always need to be executed together, and for example, the installation requests for the gaming machines related to multiple orders may be executed only when a specific condition is satisfied. For example, when the delivery times of the multiple orders are the same, the installation requests for the gaming machines related to the multiple orders may always be executed together.

[0133] In the above embodiment, it has been described that the website has a login page common to various gaming machine manufacturers, and the user terminal 20 logs in from that login page and then selects a gaming machine manufacturer. This is not limiting, and the website may have a login page for each gaming machine manufacturer. In this case, the user terminal 20 can access the login page for each gaming machine manufacturer and transmit the user ID and password for each gaming machine manufacturer to the server device 10, thereby accessing the web page of the gaming machine manufacturer (e.g., a purchase page, etc.).

[0134] In the above embodiment, the request for attendance at the time of installation of the gaming machine and replacement of parts has been described as being sent directly from the server device 10 to the communication terminal 40 of the installation company. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the request for attendance at the time of installation of the gaming machine and replacement of parts may be sent from the server device 10 to a communication terminal of an entity (such as a company) different from the installation company, and the entity may make the necessary request to the installation company.

[0135] Furthermore, the functions of the server device 10 are not limited to those described in the above embodiment, and may include various functions for promoting sales of gaming machines. For example, the server device 10 may include a function for downloading catalog data introducing gaming machines for sale in response to a request from the user terminal 20. This reduces the work and costs involved in printing, delivering, and handing over paper catalogs by visiting the user.

[0136] Furthermore, when a new gaming machine is registered, the server device 10 may transmit information about the new gaming machine to the registered user terminal 20. For example, the server device 10 may transmit an email to the user terminal 20 or the like indicating that the new gaming machine will be released for sale.

[0137] Furthermore, the functions of the server device 10 may be realized by a plurality of information processing devices working together, and some of the functions of the server device 10 may be provided in other information processing devices.

[0138] In addition, limited gaming machines may be sold to users with a specific rating based on their purchase history (e.g., a regular customer). In addition, preferential treatment may be given according to the number of gaming machines ordered. For example, when gaming machines are ordered by island, the gaming machines may be delivered preferentially compared to when only one gaming machine is ordered.

[0139] The processing of each step in the above-mentioned flow chart may be performed in chronological order according to the order described in this specification, or may be performed in an order different from the order described above, provided that no inconsistency occurs. The processing of each step may be performed in series as described in this specification, or multiple steps may be performed in parallel. [Explanation of symbols]

[0140] 1...information processing system, 10...server device, 122...site providing unit, 124...game machine order receiving unit, 126...request execution unit, 128...simulation execution unit, 130...change unit, 132...purchase request receiving unit, 134...sale request receiving unit, 136...sales execution unit, 138...determination unit, 140...parts order receiving unit, 142...parts request unit, 20...user terminal, 30...management device

Claims

1. a site providing unit that provides a website to a user terminal from which a provider of a gaming machine can be selected; a gaming machine order receiving unit that receives order information for a gaming machine selected on the website, the order information being transmitted from a user terminal via the website; a first storage unit that stores attendance information indicating whether or not attendance is required when replacing a part of the gaming machine; An information processing device comprising: a parts order receiving unit that receives parts order information; and a parts requesting unit that determines the necessity of attendance when replacing a part related to the order information based on the attendance information, and executes processing according to the necessity of attendance for the parts request.

2. the site providing unit is capable of providing the website on a user terminal, from which a plurality of game machine providers can be selected; the gaming machine order receiving unit is capable of receiving order information for a gaming machine of a provider selected on the website, the order information being transmitted from a user terminal via the website; The information processing device according to claim 1 , further comprising: a request execution unit that, when the gaming machine order receiving unit receives order information for gaming machines related to a plurality of providers, simultaneously executes processing related to installation requests for the gaming machines related to the plurality of providers.

3. A buy-back request receiving unit that receives a buy-back request for the gaming machine from a user terminal; a sales request receiving unit that receives a sales request for the gaming machine from a user terminal; a buying and selling execution unit that buys and sells the gaming machine based on a match between the buying request received by the buying request receiving unit and the selling request received by the selling request receiving unit; The information processing device according to claim 1 , further comprising:

4. A second storage unit that stores part information of the gaming machine; A buy-back request receiving unit that receives a buy-back request for the gaming machine from a user terminal; a determination unit that, when the purchase request reception unit receives the purchase request, determines whether or not the gaming machine that matches the purchase request is reusable based on parts information of the gaming machine that matches the purchase request; The information processing device according to claim 1 , further comprising:

5. An information processing method by an information processing device having a processor and a storage unit, The processor, Providing a website on a user terminal that allows a user to select a provider of a gaming machine; receiving order information for a gaming machine selected on the website, the order information being transmitted from a user terminal via the website; Accepting part ordering information; Based on attendance information indicating whether or not attendance is required when replacing a part of the gaming machine, which is stored in the storage unit, determining whether or not attendance is required when replacing the part related to the order information, and executing a process according to the necessity of attendance for the request for the part; An information processing method comprising:

6. A computer having a memory unit, Providing a website on a user terminal that allows a user to select a provider of a gaming machine; receiving order information for a gaming machine selected on the website, the order information being transmitted from a user terminal via the website; Accepting part ordering information; Based on attendance information indicating whether or not attendance is required when replacing a part of the gaming machine, which is stored in the storage unit, determining whether or not attendance is required when replacing the part related to the order information, and executing a process according to the necessity of attendance for the request for the part; A program to achieve this.

Images