Game management system

Abstract

To increase a game player's convenience and perform operation of a prepaid value smoothly by limiting reception or the like of currency during a cashless settlement.SOLUTION: An inter-machine card processing machine 10 limits reception or the like of currency when receiving operation of a cashless transaction (S1). By designation of a transaction amount, a two-dimensional code including settlement request data or the like is displayed (S2). A portable terminal 110 reads a two-dimensional code (S3) and transmits a settlement request to a settling device 100 (S4). The settling device 100 executes settlement, and notifies the portable terminal 110 (S5) and a card managing device 40 (S5') of completion of settlement. The card managing device 40 imparts payment processing and impartation of a prepaid value (S6), and notifies the inter-machine processing machine 10 of it (S7). The inter-machine processing machine 10 displays a received prepaid value and cancels limitation to the reception or the like of currency (S8).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a game management system installed in a game parlor and accepting value for use in games.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in game parlors such as pachinko parlors, game devices for accepting valuable values such as currency as values for games are provided corresponding to game machines, and game media corresponding to the valuable values are lent out from the game devices, enabling games on the game machines. Such valuable values can be associated with recording media such as cards, and a game player can move tables by inserting the recording media issued from the game device into other game devices.

[0003] In recent years, a system that enables cashless settlement for lending out game media without using currency by using cards issued by financial institutions or mobile terminals installed with game applications has been studied to improve the convenience of game players. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for improving the convenience of game players by enabling both cash settlement and cashless settlement.

[0004] By performing such cashless settlement, game players can reduce the amount of cash they carry and can easily check the amount used. Also, for the game parlor, since the settlement history becomes clear, troubles with game players can be suppressed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, in the above prior art, since both cash settlement and cashless settlement are possible, if the input of currency or the value of valuable assets changes while the cashless settlement process is being carried out, it is not clear whether this change is due to the cashless settlement or a change caused by other operations, which may lead to confusion among the players.

[0007] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems of the prior art, and an object thereof is to provide a game management system that can smoothly operate valuable assets while enhancing the convenience of players.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] To solve the above problems, the present invention is a game management system having a game device installed in a gaming machine and a management device for managing valuable assets associated with a recording medium that can be received by the game device, and a settlement request means for making a settlement request for a settlement request amount designated by a player, a determination means for determining whether the settlement request amount is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, and when the determination means determines that the settlement request amount is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, while permitting settlement processing, when the determination means determines that the settlement request amount is less than the predetermined amount, it is characterized by comprising a notification means for performing a predetermined notification. Cashless Cashless Cashless Cashless

[0009] Further, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, a notification message is displayed on the display operation unit of the game device.

[0010] Further, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the notification means displays an input screen for the settlement request amount again after the notification. Cashless

[0011] Further, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the predetermined amount is a preset minimum settlement request amount.

[0012] ​​​​​ Further, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, when permitted by the determination means, a specific payment code is displayed.

[0013] Further, the present invention is characterized in that, in the above invention, the payment by the player is made using a mobile terminal.

Advantages of the Invention

[0014] According to the present invention, by restricting the acceptance of money during cashless payment, etc., it is possible to eliminate confusion such as the simultaneous occurrence of cashless payment and cash payment, improve the convenience for players, and smoothly operate prepaid value.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0016] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, preferred embodiments of the game management system according to the present invention will be described in detail.

[0017] In this specification, "held balls" refers to data indicating game media obtained by a game player in a game, which can be used again in the game only on the same day (before the closing time of the game store). Note that the "number of held balls" refers to the number of game media obtained by the game player through the game. Also, "stored balls" refers to data indicating game media deposited by the game player at the game store, which can be used again in the game even after the next day (after the closing time of the game store). Note that the "number of stored balls" refers to the number of game media deposited by the game player at the game store. Held balls can be used by both general game players and member game players, and are used when the gaming machine is moved, etc. Stored balls can generally be used only by member game players, and are used when using the obtained game media in the game of the gaming machine after the next day.

[0018] The above-mentioned number of balls in hand is stored in the inter-stage card processor 10 and is managed by the card management device 40 in association with the card ID when the card is returned. Also, the number of game balls is stored in the gaming machine 20. This number of game balls is used in the game on the gaming machine 20. If game balls are launched onto the game board, the number of game balls is decreased by that amount, and if a prize is won, a predetermined number is added to the number of game balls. Part or all of the number of game balls can be transferred to the number of balls in hand by a counting operation, and part or all of the number of balls in hand can be transferred to the number of game balls by a balls-in-hand replay operation.

[0019] <Overview of the game management system> First, an overview of the game management system according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the overview of the game management system according to the present embodiment. A plurality of gaming machines 20 are installed in the game parlor, and an inter-stage card processor 10, which is each device, is installed together with each gaming machine 20.

[0020] Based on the operation of the game player, the inter-stage card processor 10 performs various processes such as a lending process of game balls, a balls-in-hand replay process of adding part or all of the number of balls in hand to the number of game balls of the gaming machine 20, and a stored balls replay process of adding part or all of the number of stored balls to the number of game balls of the gaming machine 20. Also, when the game player finishes the game and operates the return button provided on the gaming machine, the inter-stage card processor 10 associates the number of balls in hand and the like managed by the self-device with the card and then discharges it.

[0021] The card management device 40 can communicate with a plurality of inter-stage card processors 10 in the game parlor and manages by associating the number of balls in hand, prepaid value, and the like with the card. The prepaid value is a valuable value that can be used for lending game balls (that is, adding to the number of game balls), is added by depositing money, and is subtracted by lending balls.

[0022] Specifically, if the intermediate card processor 10 accepts the insertion of banknotes, it transmits deposit notification data including the amount of the banknotes to the card management device 40, and adds a number corresponding to the amount to the prepaid value managed by the card management device 40. Then, if a predetermined loan operation is performed, a loan request is transmitted to the card management device 40, the prepaid value managed by the card management device 40 is subtracted, and a payout process for a number of game balls corresponding to the subtracted prepaid value is performed.

[0023] Furthermore, in the game management system shown in FIG. 1, prepaid value can be granted by cashless settlement. When the intermediate card processor 10 accepts an operation of a cashless transaction by a game player, it restricts the acceptance of currency, etc. (S1). If currency is accepted during the cashless settlement, the addition of the prepaid value associated with the cashless settlement and the addition of the prepaid value associated with the deposit of currency will be performed simultaneously. As a result, it is not possible to distinguish whether the increase in the prepaid value is due to cashless settlement or due to the acceptance of currency, leading to confusion among game players.

[0024] When the game player designates a transaction amount, settlement request data including a settlement ID and a settlement request amount is generated, and a two-dimensional code (for example, a QR code (registered trademark)) including the settlement request data, card ID, store data, and table data is displayed on the display operation unit (S2). The settlement ID is data that uniquely identifies the settlement, and the settlement request amount is the transaction amount designated by the game player. The store data also includes the card ID, which is the identification information of the card used in the intermediate card processor 10.

[0025] The mobile terminal 110 carried by the game player captures the two-dimensional code displayed by the intermediate card processor 10 with a camera, decodes and reads the two-dimensional code, and thereby acquires the settlement request data, card ID, store data, and table data (S3). The mobile terminal 110 makes a settlement request including the acquired settlement request data, card ID, store data, and table data to the settlement device 100 (S4).

[0026] The settlement device 100 that has received the settlement request executes the settlement by subtracting the settlement request amount from the account indicated in the settlement request data of the settlement request, and notifies the completion of the settlement. The notification of the completion of the settlement is made to the portable terminal 110 that is the requester (S5), and to the card management device 40 of the game parlor indicated in the store data of the settlement request (S5´). Note that the notification of the completion of the settlement to the card management device 40 includes the card ID.

[0027] If the card management device 40 receives a settlement completion notification from the settlement device 100, it performs a deposit process and grants a prepaid value (S6), and notifies the stage card processor 10 of the grant of the prepaid value (S7).

[0028] The stage card processor 10 displays the received prepaid value on the display operation unit, and releases restrictions on the acceptance of currency, etc. (S8).

[0029] In this way, the game management system according to the present embodiment restricts the acceptance of currency, etc. while performing cashless settlement, thereby eliminating confusion such as the simultaneous occurrence of cashless settlement and cash settlement, enhancing the convenience of game customers, and enabling smooth operation of prepaid value.

[0030] In the above series of descriptions, the case where the restriction on the acceptance of currency, etc. is started when the cashless settlement operation is performed is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this, and it is also possible to configure the restriction on the acceptance of currency, etc. to start when a settlement request is made to the settlement device 100.

[0031] Also, in the above series of descriptions, the case where the acceptance of currency, etc. is restricted while performing cashless settlement is shown, but the present invention can not only restrict the acceptance of currency, but also restrict the lending of balls using prepaid value, the addition of the number of game balls, the addition to the number of held balls, etc. Also, such restrictions can be released at the time of a big win.

[0032] <System Configuration> Next, the system configuration of the game management system according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the system configuration of the game management system according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, in the game parlor, a plurality of gaming machines 20 and podium card processors 10 provided corresponding to each of the gaming machines 20 are installed. The podium card processor 10 is connected to a communication line, which is an in-store network, via an island controller 30. The communication line is connected to an island controller 30, a card management device 40, a member management device 50, a prize management device 60, and a change machine 70. Further, a settlement device 100 installed outside the store is connected to the card management device 40 and the mobile terminal 110 via an external network, and is connected to a server device of a predetermined financial institution.

[0033] The gaming machine 20 is a device that plays a game by driving game balls enclosed inside the device onto the game board surface. Note that this game ball is a physical "ball" used in the game, which is different from the "game ball" that the gaming machine 20 treats as data. A plurality of winning areas (winning holes) are provided on the game board surface of the gaming machine 20, and a predetermined number of game balls are given as prize balls based on the game ball passing through the winning area. In addition, a predetermined number of start areas (start holes) are provided on the game board surface, and a predetermined lottery is conducted based on the game ball passing through the start area. If the lottery results in a big win, operations that are advantageous in the game are performed, such as improving the passing probability of the game ball to the aforementioned winning area or other start areas by the operation of a predetermined movable member or the like. Note that there may be an area that serves as both a start area and a winning area.

[0034] A winning sensor is provided in the winning area to detect the passing of the game ball into the winning area, and the winning sensor is configured to detect the passing (winning) of the game ball driven into the winning area. Further, the control unit of the gaming machine 20 has a prize ball memory that stores how many game balls are given as prize balls for each winning area, and a playable number memory that stores the number of game balls (playable number) that a game player can use for the game.

[0035] When the inter-table card processor 10 receives currency from a player, it notifies the card management device 40 to add the prepaid value corresponding to the amount of the currency to the prepaid value corresponding to the card ID of the card stored inside the device. This prepaid value can be used for adding game balls when lending balls. Also, the inter-table card processor 10 can accept the insertion of a card associated with a prepaid value, held balls, stored balls, etc. At the end of the game, it ejects the card associated with the prepaid value, held balls, etc. and returns it to the player. Further, the inter-table card processor 10 transmits the history of operations such as currency deposit, card insertion, card ejection, etc. to the member management device 50.

[0036] Each time a predetermined number of game balls are ejected from the game board surface, the gaming machine 20 transmits out data to the inter-table card processor 10. Also, each time the gaming machine 20 adds a predetermined number of prize balls to the number of game balls based on the passage of the game balls through the winning area (so-called winning), it transmits safe data to the inter-table card processor 10. Further, when a special state such as a big win occurs during the game, it transmits special prize data indicating the occurrence of such a state to the inter-table card processor 10.

[0037] The out data corresponds to the number of balls input by the player into the game board surface. The safe data corresponds to the number of prize balls obtained by winning. Also, the special prize data indicates the state of the gaming machine 20 such as a big win. Each data is transmitted to the member management device 50 via the inter-table card processor 10, and the member management device 50 can obtain the history of the operation of the gaming machine 20 by accumulating the out data, safe data, and special prize data.

[0038] The inter-game card processor 10 conducts currency deposits, addition instructions for the number of game balls, communication with the card management device 40, communication with the member management device 50, and communication with the gaming machine 20. When the inter-game card processor 10 accepts currency deposited by a player, it sends a deposit notice including the deposit amount to the card management device 40, causing the prepaid value managed by the card management device 40 to be incremented by the amount equivalent to the deposit. Then, if a predetermined ball loan operation is performed, a ball loan request is sent to the card management device 40, causing the prepaid value managed by the card management device 40 to be decremented, and the number corresponding to the decremented prepaid value is notified to the gaming machine 20 and added to the number of game balls.

[0039] Also, when the inter-game card processor 10 accepts the insertion of a card, it sends a card insertion notice to the card management device 40. Further, when the inter-game card processor 10 receives the prepaid value, the remaining amount of held balls or stored balls from the card management device 40, it stores the remaining amount. And when it receives and stores the remaining amount of held balls, it sends a held ball subtraction request to the card management device 40 to clear the remaining amount of held balls (number of held balls) managed by the card management device 40 to zero.

[0040] Also, when the inter-game card processor 10 accepts a held ball replay operation, it subtracts a predetermined number from the number of held balls it manages, notifies the gaming machine 20 of the number corresponding to the subtracted number of held balls, and adds it to the number of game balls. Further, when the inter-game card processor 10 accepts a stored ball replay operation, it sends a stored ball replay request to the card management device 40, causing the member management device 50 to subtract a predetermined number from the number of stored balls, notifies the gaming machine 20 of the number corresponding to the subtracted number of stored balls, and adds it to the number of game balls.

[0041] Also, when the inter-game card processor 10 accepts a card return operation, it sends a held ball addition request including the number of held balls to the card management device 40, causes the card management device 40 to add the number of held balls, then sends a card ejection notice to the card management device 40, and controls the ejection of the card. Note that if a counting operation is received from the gaming machine 20 before the card return operation, the number of game balls is added to the number of held balls.

[0042] In addition, the between-stage card processor 10 has a function of acquiring a game machine ID from the game machine 20 and authenticating the game machine 20 using the acquired game machine ID and the authentication key received from the card management device 40. This authentication is performed at the time of store opening processing or the like, and the game machine 20 becomes playable on the condition that the authentication is successful.

[0043] In addition, the between-stage card processor 10 performs various display controls based on the state of the game machine 20 and transmits the state of the game machine 20 to the member management device 50.

[0044] In addition, if the between-stage card processor 10 receives a transaction start operation for cashless payment, it restricts the acceptance of currency in order to eliminate confusion caused by the payment associated with the acceptance of currency. Note that it is also possible to perform restrictions on lending balls using prepaid value, restrictions on adding the number of game balls, restrictions on adding the number of held balls, and the like.

[0045] In addition, if the between-stage card processor 10 receives an operation for designating the transaction amount of cashless payment, it generates settlement request data including a settlement ID and a settlement request amount, and displays a two-dimensional code including the settlement request data, the card ID, the store data, and the stand data on the display operation unit.

[0046] In addition, if the between-stage card processor 10 receives a completion notice of prepaid value granting from the card management device 40, it displays the received prepaid value on the display operation unit and releases restrictions on the acceptance of currency and the like. In addition, if a big win occurs during the restriction on the acceptance of currency and the like, the between-stage card processor 10 releases the function restriction.

[0047] The island controller 30 is a device that groups a group of game machines 20 and between-stage card processors 10 provided on the game island and relays various information to the card management device 40.

[0048] If the card management device 40 receives a card insertion notification from the inter-stage card processor 10, it transmits the prepaid value and the remaining balance of the stored value associated with the card ID of the inserted card to the inter-stage card processor 10. Also, when the card ID indicated in the card insertion notification is the card ID of a membership card, the card insertion notification is transmitted to the membership management device 50, and the stored value replay data received from the membership management device 50 is transmitted to the inter-stage card processor 10.

[0049] Further, when the card management device 40 receives a stored value subtraction request from the inter-stage card processor 10, it clears the remaining balance of the stored value to zero, and when it receives a stored value addition request from the inter-stage card processor 10, it adds the number of stored values indicated in the stored value addition request to the remaining balance of the stored value.

[0050] Also, when the card management device 40 receives a loan request from the inter-stage card processor 10, it subtracts a predetermined value from the prepaid value associated with the card ID and transmits a loan permission to the inter-stage card processor 10. Then, when it receives a stored value replay request, it transmits the stored value replay request to the membership management device 50, and when the membership management device 50 outputs stored value replay data, it transmits the stored value replay data to the inter-stage card processor 10.

[0051] Also, if the card management device 40 receives a card ID from the prize management device 60, it notifies the prize management device 60 of the number of stored values associated with this card ID. Further, if it receives a card ID from the payment machine 70, it notifies the payment machine 70 of the prepaid value associated with this card ID.

[0052] Also, the card management device 40 acquires the game machine ID from the inter-stage card processor 10 and manages the game machines 20 installed in its own store. Then, it acquires the authentication key for authenticating the game machines 20 set in its own store from an authentication key management center (not shown) outside the game store and distributes it to the inter-stage card processor 10.

[0053] In addition, when the card management device 40 receives a payment completion notification from the payment device 100, it performs a deposit process related to the payment completion notification, grants prepaid value, and notifies the stage card processor 10 of the grant of the prepaid value.

[0054] The member management device 50 is a management device that manages member management data of members registered as members in a game parlor. Specifically, it manages the name, the number of stored balls, etc. in association with the member card ID issued to the member.

[0055] In addition, when the member management device 50 receives card insertion notification data from the stage card processor 10, it transmits stored ball replay data including the number of stored balls and the PIN associated with the card ID indicated in the card insertion notification data to the stage card processor 10. Further, when the member management device 50 receives stored ball replay request data from the stage card processor 10, it subtracts a predetermined number from the number of stored balls associated with the card ID indicated in the stored ball replay request data, and transmits stored ball replay data including the subtracted number of stored balls to the stage card processor 10. Note that the communication between the stage card processor 10 and the member management device 50 is performed via the card management device 40.

[0056] In addition, when the member management device 50 receives an inquiry about the number of stored balls from the prize management device 60, it notifies the prize management device 60 of the number of stored balls corresponding to the specified card ID.

[0057] The prize management device 60 is a terminal device for prize exchange installed together with a prize exchange counter in a game parlor, and performs prize exchange processing for acquired balls, stored balls, and held balls. A card reader for reading the card ID of a card and a prize payout device for paying out prizes are connected to the prize management device 60. When the prize management device 60 reads the card ID from a general card or a member card (or when it reads the identification information corresponding to the card ID from a mobile terminal or the like), it transmits the card ID to the card management device 40 and requests the remaining balance of the held balls of the card ID. Also, when exchanging stored balls for prizes, it requests the remaining balance of the stored balls from the member management device 50.

[0058] When a card associated with prepaid value is inserted into the actuarial machine 70, it transmits the card ID of this card to the card management device 40, acquires the prepaid value associated with the card, and pays out cash corresponding to the acquired prepaid value.

[0059] The settlement device 100 is a server device that performs cashless settlement and is connected to a server device of a financial institution or the like. When the settlement device 100 receives settlement request data from the mobile terminal 110, it executes the settlement by subtracting the settlement request amount from the account indicated in the settlement request data. When the settlement is completed, the settlement device 100 notifies the mobile terminal 110 that is the requester and the card management device 40 of the game store indicated in the store data of the settlement request of a settlement completion notice including the store data, table data, and card ID.

[0060] The mobile terminal 110 is connected to the settlement device 100 via an external network and makes a settlement request to the settlement device 100. When the mobile terminal 110 receives a settlement completion notice from the settlement device 100, it displays the settlement completion on the display operation unit.

[0061] Next, the ball lending process in the game management system according to this embodiment will be described. When a game customer performs a ball lending operation on the inter-table card processor 10, the inter-table card processor 10 transmits a telegram addressed to the card management device 40. This telegram includes the card ID of the card inserted into the inter-table card processor 10, the identification information of the inter-table card processor 10 that is the transmission source, and a ball lending request.

[0062] When the card management device 40 receives a telegram including a ball lending request, it subtracts a predetermined value (for example, 5 times indicating 500 yen when the value per time is 100 yen) from the prepaid value associated with the card ID in the telegram to update the card management data 45b, and transmits a ball lending permission to the inter-table card processor 10 that is the transmission source. The inter-table card processor 10 that has received the ball lending permission transmits an addition signal requesting addition to the number of game balls corresponding to the subtracted prepaid value (for example, "125") to the gaming machine 20.

[0063] The gaming machine 20 that has received the addition signal adds the number of game balls and transmits the number of game balls after the addition to the inter-stage card processor 10. The inter-stage card processor 10 compares the sum of the number of game balls before the addition and the number of balls loaned with the number of game balls after the addition to determine whether the addition of the number of game balls has been appropriately performed.

[0064] Next, the hold ball replay process in the game management system according to this embodiment will be described. When the inter-stage card processor 10 receives the insertion of a general card or a membership card, it transmits a telegram addressed to the card management device 40. This telegram includes the card ID of the card inserted into the inter-stage card processor 10, the identification information of the inter-stage card processor 10 as the transmission source, information for specifying the rate of the inter-stage card processor 10, and a card insertion notification.

[0065] If the card management device 40 receives a card insertion notification from the inter-stage card processor 10, it notifies the inter-stage card processor 10 of the remaining balance of the hold balls of the rate specified by the telegram among the hold balls associated with the card ID in the telegram.

[0066] The inter-stage card processor 10 stores the remaining balance of the hold balls received from the card management device 40. Then, it transmits a telegram including the information specifying the card ID and the rate and a hold ball subtraction request to the card management device 40. If the card management device 40 receives the hold ball subtraction request, it clears the remaining balance of the hold balls specified by the card ID and the rate to zero. Also, if the inter-stage card processor 10 receives a hold ball replay operation, it subtracts the remaining balance of the hold balls by a certain number, notifies the corresponding number to the gaming machine 20, and adds it to the number of game balls.

[0067] If the inter-table card processor 10 receives from the gaming machine 20 a management transfer request to transfer the management of the number of game balls of the gaming machine 20 to the balls held by the inter-table card processor 10, the inter-table card processor 10 adds the number of game balls indicated in the management transfer request to the number of balls held by its own device. Then, if it receives a card return operation, it transmits a message including a ball addition request to the card management device 40. This message includes the card ID of the card to be discharged, the address or any identification information identifying the inter-table card processor 10 as the transmission source, the information for identifying the rate of the inter-table card processor 10, the remaining balance of the balls held, and the ball addition request.

[0068] If the card management device 40 receives a ball addition request, it updates the remaining balance (number of balls held) of the balls held associated with the card ID in the message to the value received for the balls held at the rate specified by the message. Then, the inter-table card processor 10 transmits a card discharge notice to the card management device 40 and controls the card discharge.

[0069] Next, the stored ball replay process in the game management system according to this embodiment will be described. When the inter-table card processor 10 receives a membership card or reads identification information corresponding to the card ID from a mobile terminal that can be used as a membership card, it transmits a message addressed to the card management device 40. This message includes the card ID of the card inserted into the inter-table card processor 10 (or the identification information corresponding to the card ID read from the mobile terminal), the address or any identification information identifying the inter-table card processor 10 as the transmission source, the information for identifying the rate of the inter-table card processor 10, and the card insertion notice.

[0070] The card management device 40 transmits the message of the card insertion notice to the member management device 50. When the member management device 50 receives the message of the card insertion notice, it transmits stored ball replay data including the password associated with the card ID in the message and the remaining balance of the stored balls at the rate specified by the message to the inter-table card processor 10.

[0071] The inter-stage card processor 10 stores the received stored ball replay data, and when the remaining amount of the stored balls indicated by the stored ball replay data is equal to or more than the number of payout units of the game balls in the stored ball replay (the number of stored ball replay units; for example, "125 balls"), it can accept the stored ball replay operation.

[0072] After storing the stored ball replay data, when the inter-stage card processor 10 first accepts a stored ball replay operation, it requests the player to input a PIN number, and checks whether the input PIN number matches the PIN number indicated by the stored ball replay data.

[0073] When the PIN numbers match, the inter-stage card processor 10 sends a telegram addressed to the card management device 40. This telegram includes the card ID of the card inserted into the inter-stage card processor 10, the identification information of the inter-stage card processor 10 as the sender, the information for specifying the rate of the inter-stage card processor 10, and a stored ball replay request.

[0074] The card management device 40 sends the telegram of the stored ball replay request to the member management device 50. When the member management device 50 receives the telegram of the stored ball replay request, among the stored balls associated with the card ID in the telegram, it subtracts a predetermined value from the remaining amount of the stored balls of the rate specified by the telegram, and sends the stored ball replay data including the remaining amount after subtraction to the inter-stage card processor 10.

[0075] The inter-stage card processor 10 receives the stored ball replay data, updates the remaining amount of the stored balls, notifies the gaming machine 20 of the number corresponding to the number of stored ball replay units, and adds it to the number of game balls. Also, it determines whether the updated remaining amount of the stored balls has become less than the number of stored ball replay units. If the remaining amount of the updated stored ball data is equal to or more than the number of stored ball replay units, it can accept the stored ball replay operation again, and if it accepts the stored ball replay operation, it sends a stored ball replay request. In the stored ball replay operations after the second time, confirmation of the PIN number is not required. If the remaining amount of the updated stored ball data becomes less than the number of stored ball replay units, it cannot accept the stored ball replay operation.

[0076] Next, the transfer from the held credits to the stored credits during the store closing process will be described. The card management device 40 checks the remaining balance of the held credits in the card management data 45b during the store closing process. If there is a held credit with a remaining balance greater than "0", the card management device 40 notifies the member management device 50 of the remaining balance of the held credit together with the card ID and the rate. The member management device 50 adds and updates the notified remaining balance of the held credit to the remaining balance of the stored credit specified by the card ID and the rate. After that, the card management device 40 clears the remaining balance of the held credit to zero.

[0077] <Appearance Configuration of the Floor Card Processor 10 and the Gaming Machine 20> Next, the appearance configuration of the floor card processor 10 and the gaming machine 20 shown in FIG. 2 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the appearance configuration of the floor card processor 10 and the gaming machine 20 shown in FIG. 2. In the figure, the floor card processor 10 that accepts only paper money is illustrated, but a unit that can accept electronic money can also be provided.

[0078] As shown in FIG. 3, the floor card processor 10 is provided with a status display unit 11 that displays the status of the floor card processor 10 device by lighting or blinking a lamp of a predetermined color, a paper money insertion slot 12a for accepting various paper moneys, a display operation unit 13 such as a touch panel display, and a card insertion slot 14a for accepting a card associated with a card ID.

[0079] The gaming machine 20 is provided with a game board surface, a handle 21 used when throwing the enclosed game balls onto the game board surface, and a counting button 22.

[0080] The counting button 22 is an operation button for performing a management transfer that subtracts the number of game balls of the gaming machine 20 and adds the corresponding number to the held credits of the floor card processor 10, thereby transferring the management of the number of balls that can be thrown from the gaming machine 20 to the floor card processor 10. This management transfer corresponds to a counting process in which the floor card processor 10 counts the paid-out game balls and adds them to the held credits in an open-type gaming machine 20 where actual game balls are paid out upon winning.

[0081] <Internal Structure of the Inter-Stand Card Processor 10> Next, the internal structure of the inter-stand card processor 10 shown in FIG. 2 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the internal structure of the inter-stand card processor 10 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 4, the inter-stand card processor 10 includes a bill transport unit 12, a display operation unit 13, a reader / writer 14, a communication unit 15, a storage unit 16, a control unit 17, and a game management unit 18.

[0082] The bill transport unit 12 is a transport unit that discriminates the denomination and authenticity of bills inserted from the bill insertion slot 12a and transports them to a bill storage unit (not shown). The display operation unit 13 is an input / output device such as a touch panel display that displays various information such as valuable values and accepts various operations such as a ball loan operation.

[0083] The reader / writer 14 is a reading unit that reads the card ID from the card inserted into the card insertion slot 14a. The card inserted into the card insertion slot 14a is stored in a card storage unit (not shown) via this reader / writer 14. The communication unit 15 is an interface unit for performing data communication with the card management device 40 via the island controller 30.

[0084] The storage unit 16 is a storage device composed of a hard disk device, a non-volatile memory, etc. The storage unit 16 stores the self-device state data 16a, card data 16b, settlement request data 16c, and function restriction state data 16d.

[0085] The self-device status data 16a is data indicating the status of the under-stage card processor 10. This self-device status data 16a includes an under-stage card processor ID, a gaming machine ID, a game type, etc. The under-stage card processor ID is identification information for uniquely identifying the under-stage card processor 10 within the game parlor. The game type is data indicating the rate set for the under-stage card processor 10. When handling game balls of multiple rates within the game parlor, for example, for 4-yen rate game balls, the game type name is set as "Ball 1", for 2-yen rate game balls as "Ball 2", and for 1-yen rate game balls as "Ball 3", and they are managed by setting the game type name for each rate. The under-stage card processor 10 selects the rate to be used in the game from these game types and stores it as the game type. The game type may be fixed for each section where the under-stage card processor 10 is installed, or it may be made changeable by the operation of the game customer.

[0086] The card data 16b is data related to the card being used by the game customer. The card data 16b includes a card ID, a password, a prepaid value, held balls, stored balls, etc. The card ID is the card ID read by the reader / writer 14. When a card is conveyed from a card storage section (not shown) to the card insertion slot 14a and then discharged, the card data 16b is updated by the card ID read by the reader / writer 14 during this conveyance. Also, when a card is conveyed from the card insertion slot 14a to a card storage section (not shown), the card data 16b is updated by the card ID read by the reader / writer 14 during this conveyance. The prepaid value indicates the remaining balance of the prepaid value available for ball lending, and the held balls and stored balls indicate their respective remaining balances.

[0087] The settlement request data 16c is data related to the settlement request, such as a settlement ID and a settlement request amount. The function restriction status data 16d is data indicating whether the functions such as the acceptance of currency are restricted.

[0088] The game management unit 18 is a processing unit that performs processes related to authentication and communication with the gaming machine 20. It is desirable to form this game management unit 18 on a substrate different from the control unit 17. The game management unit 18 includes an authentication processing unit 18a, an authentication key management unit 18b, and a gaming machine state management unit 18c. Actually, by loading these programs into a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and executing them, processes corresponding to the authentication processing unit 18a, the authentication key management unit 18b, and the gaming machine state management unit 18c are respectively executed.

[0089] The authentication processing unit 18a performs authentication of the gaming machine 20 using the authentication key received from the card management device 40. If the authentication is successful, the authentication processing unit 18a transmits an operation permission to the gaming machine 20. If the authentication fails, the authentication processing unit 18a prohibits the use of the gaming machine 20. Note that even if the authentication fails, if it is within a predetermined period from the last successful authentication, an operation permission is transmitted to the gaming machine 20, and after the predetermined period has elapsed since the last successful authentication, no operation permission is transmitted to the gaming machine 20, and the use of the gaming machine 20 may be prohibited.

[0090] The authentication key management unit 18b is a processing unit that manages the authentication key. A usage time is set for the authentication key, and when the cumulative operation time of the gaming machine 20 reaches the usage time of the authentication key, the authentication key becomes unusable. Specifically, the authentication key management unit 18b uses the power-on time of the substrate on which the game management unit 18 is formed as the operation time of the gaming machine 20 and manages the usage time of the authentication key. When the authentication key becomes unusable, the authentication key management unit 18b acquires a new authentication key from an authentication key management center outside the store via the card management device 40 and updates the authentication key.

[0091] The gaming machine state management unit 18c is a processing unit that communicates with the gaming machine 20 and manages the state of the gaming machine 20. Specifically, the gaming machine state management unit 18c acquires the gaming machine ID from the gaming machine 20, transmits a request to add to the number of gaming balls by lending balls, transmits a request for management transfer from held balls to the number of gaming balls by held ball replay, transmits a request to add to the number of gaming balls by stored ball replay, receives gaming results such as the number of balls driven into the gaming machine 20 and the number of prize balls, and receives a request for management transfer from the number of gaming balls to held balls by counting. The communication between the pedestal card processor 10 and the gaming machine 20 uses encrypted communication using a predetermined encryption method.

[0092] In addition, the gaming machine state management unit 18c further acquires the current number of gaming balls of the gaming machine 20 and the states set for the game such as start, jackpot, jackpot type, and number of lottery times. It is desirable that the time interval at which the gaming machine state management unit 18c acquires the state of the gaming machine 20 is set shorter than the interval at which gaming balls are launched (used) in the gaming machine 20.

[0093] Note that the timing at which the gaming machine state management unit 18c newly acquires the gaming machine ID from the gaming machine 20 is not limited to before opening. When the power of the pedestal card processor 10 is turned on or off, during regular communication, when processing related to the number of gaming balls (such as ball lending, replay, counting, etc.) is performed, or when returning from the offline state, it is possible to acquire the gaming machine ID and determine the replacement of the gaming machine 20. Also, these timings may be used in combination.

[0094] The control unit 17 is a control unit that controls the entire pedestal card processor 10, and has a data management unit 17a, a settlement request data generation unit 17b, an encoding processing unit 17c, a settlement request data output processing unit 17d, a refund processing unit 17e, a function restriction unit 17f, and a function restriction determination unit 17g. Actually, by loading and executing these programs in the CPU, processes corresponding to the data management unit 17a, the settlement request data generation unit 17b, the encoding processing unit 17c, the settlement request data output processing unit 17d, the refund processing unit 17e, the function restriction unit 17f, and the function restriction determination unit 17g are executed respectively.

[0095] When a card is inserted, the data management unit 17a transmits a card insertion notification including the card ID and the inter-stage card processor ID to the card management device 40. Further, when the data management unit 17a receives data including a valuable value (at least any one of prepaid value, held value, and stored value) from the card management device 40, it updates the card data 16b with the received valuable value.

[0096] Also, when a bill is inserted into the bill insertion slot 12a, the data management unit 17a transmits a deposit notification including the amount of the inserted bill, the card ID, and the inter-stage card processor ID to the card management device 40.

[0097] Also, when a ball loan operation is performed by a player, the data management unit 17a transmits a ball loan request including the card ID and the inter-stage card processor ID to the card management device 40. If it receives a ball loan permission as a response to this ball loan request, the data management unit 17a subtracts the prepaid value of the card data 16b and instructs the game management unit 18 to add a predetermined number of balls to the number of game balls of the gaming machine 20.

[0098] Also, if the data management unit 17a accepts a held value replay operation, it subtracts and updates the held value of the card data 16b and instructs the game management unit 18 to add the corresponding number of balls to the number of game balls of the gaming machine 20.

[0099] In addition, when the remaining value of the stored balls shown in the card data 16b is equal to or greater than the number of stored ball replay units, the data management unit 17a displays a stored ball replay button on the display operation unit 13 and enables the acceptance of a stored ball replay operation. When a stored ball replay operation is performed by a player, the data management unit 17a transmits a stored ball replay request including the card ID and the inter-stage card processing unit ID to the card management device 40. If stored ball replay data is received as a response to this stored ball replay request, the data management unit 17a updates the remaining value of the stored balls in the card data 16b and instructs the game management unit 18 to add the number of balls corresponding to the number of stored ball replay units to the number of game balls of the gaming machine 20. At the time of the first stored ball replay operation, the input of a password is required, and it is a condition for transmitting the stored ball replay request that it matches the password shown in the card data 16b.

[0100] In addition, when the game management unit 18 accepts a transfer request of game balls from the gaming machine 20, the data management unit 17a adds and updates the number of balls instructed by the game management unit 18 to the balls held in the card data 16b.

[0101] In addition, when the data management unit 17a accepts a card return operation, it transmits a ball addition request including the card ID, the inter-stage card processing unit ID, and the remaining value of the held balls to the card management device 40. After clearing the card data 16b, it transmits a card ejection notice to the card management device 40 and ejects the card.

[0102] The settlement request data generation unit 17b is a processing unit that generates settlement request data indicating information related to settlement. The settlement request data includes a settlement ID and a settlement request amount. The settlement ID is data that uniquely identifies the settlement. The settlement request amount indicates the transaction amount by cashless settlement.

[0103] When the settlement request data generation unit 17b accepts an operation to request a deposit by cashless settlement, it determines a settlement ID, generates settlement request data 16c with the amount of the deposit specified by the player as the settlement request amount, and stores it in the storage unit 16.

[0104] The symbolization processing unit 17c is a processing unit that encodes the settlement request data 16c, the store data, the table data, and the card ID into a two-dimensional code. The store data is data for identifying the gaming store, and the table data is data for identifying the table card processor 10. As the table data, for example, the device ID of the own device state data 16a may be used.

[0105] The settlement request data output processing unit 17d displays and outputs the two-dimensional code generated by the symbolization processing unit 17c to the display operation unit 13. That is, the settlement request data output processing unit 17d outputs the store data and the table data together with the settlement request data 16c.

[0106] The refund processing unit 17e is a processing unit that refunds the prepaid value by cashless settlement. If the refund processing unit 17e receives a refund operation requesting a refund by cashless settlement, the amount corresponding to the prepaid value indicated in the card data 16b is set as the refund request amount. Then, a settlement ID is determined, and the refund request data including the settlement ID and the refund request amount is encoded into a two-dimensional code and displayed on the display operation unit 13, and the prepaid value is cleared to zero. The player can receive a refund for the cleared prepaid value by reading the two-dimensional code with the mobile terminal 110 to obtain the refund request data and executing the refund process.

[0107] The function restriction unit 17f is a processing unit that manages the function restriction state data 16d indicating whether or not functions such as acceptance of currency are restricted when cashless settlement is being performed. If the function restriction unit 17f receives a transaction start operation by cashless settlement, it restricts functions such as acceptance of currency and sets "yes" in the function restriction state data 16d.

[0108] Further, if the function restriction unit 17f receives jackpot prize data from the gaming machine 20, it notifies the function restriction determination unit 17g of a function restriction determination instruction. If the function restriction unit 17f receives "function restriction exists" from the function restriction determination unit 17g, it releases the function restriction and sets "none" in the function restriction state data 16d. If the function restriction unit 17f receives "no function restriction" from the function restriction determination unit 17g, it does not perform any processing.

[0109] If the function restriction determination unit 17g receives a function restriction determination instruction from the function restriction unit 17f, it checks the content of the function restriction state data 16d and notifies the function restriction unit 17f of "function restriction exists" if "exists" is set, or "no function restriction" if "none" is set.

[0110] Next, an example of the self-device state data 16a, card data 16b, settlement request data 16c, and function restriction state data 16d shown in FIG. 4 will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the self-device state data 16a, card data 16b, settlement request data 16c, and function restriction state data 16d shown in FIG. 4.

[0111] The self-device state data 16a shown in FIG. 5(a) indicates that the ID of the inter-stage card processor 10 is "A101", the gaming machine ID of the connected gaming machine 20 is "B201", and "Ball 1" is set as the game type of the inter-stage card processor 10.

[0112] The card data 16b shown in FIG. 5(b) indicates that the ID of the card inserted into the inter-stage card processor 10 is "2002". Here, the upper digit of the card ID indicates the card type. A card with the upper digit "1" is a general card, and a card with the upper digit "2" is a membership card. Also, the card data 16b indicates that the PIN for storing balls and replaying is "7777" and the prepaid value is "2000" yen.

[0113] In addition, the card data 16b shows a state where, as the held balls, the remaining balance of the held balls of ball 1 is "500" balls, the remaining balance of the held balls of ball 2 is "0" balls, and the remaining balance of the held balls of ball 3 is "130" balls, and as the stored balls, the remaining balance of the stored balls of ball 1 is "1000" balls, the remaining balance of the stored balls of ball 2 is "0" balls, and the remaining balance of the stored balls of ball 3 is "0" balls.

[0114] The settlement request data 16c shown in FIG. 5(c) indicates a state where the settlement ID, which is identification information for uniquely identifying the settlement, is "A0001" and the settlement request amount is "10,000" yen.

[0115] The function restriction state data 16d shown in FIG. 5(d) indicates that the function restriction state is "enabled". That is, it shows that a transaction using cashless settlement has been started and functions such as the acceptance of currency are restricted.

[0116] <Internal Configuration of the Gaming Machine 20> Next, the internal configuration of the gaming machine 20 shown in FIG. 2 will be described. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the gaming machine 20 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 6, the gaming machine 20 includes a communication control unit 23, a presentation control unit 24, a game control unit 25, and a game ball control unit 26. The communication control unit 23 is a control unit for controlling data communication with the inter-stage card processor 10. Communication with the inter-stage card processor 10 uses encrypted communication using a predetermined encryption method.

[0117] At the startup of the gaming machine 20, the communication control unit 23 reads identification information from the control CPU provided in the game control unit 25 and / or the game ball control unit 26, checks whether the identification information is appropriate, and if it is appropriate, establishes communication with the inter-stage card processor 10 and enters a standby state. In the standby state, if an operation permission is received from the inter-stage card processor 10, the presentation control unit 24, the game control unit 25, and the game ball control unit 26 are activated to enable the game.

[0118] The game control unit 25 is a control unit for controlling the game by the gaming machine 20. Actually, a process is executed by loading a program corresponding to the game control unit 25 into the CPU and executing it.

[0119] Specifically, the game control unit 25 performs control of launching game balls onto the game board surface by detecting handle operations, detection of game balls that have entered the winning holes on the game board surface, acquisition and lottery (special symbols and normal symbols) of random numbers (among random number values from 0 to 65535, where large wins, small wins, and losing values are assigned for each predetermined range) by the game balls that have entered the start hole, control of movable members (such as tulips) provided on the game board surface, display control of the special symbol display device provided on the game board surface, detection of abnormalities that may be fraudulent (such as the front frame being open, vibration detected, etc.) and notification to the upper device, and the like.

[0120] A large number of obstacle pins are implanted on the game board surface. The game balls launched onto the game board surface by handle operations fall between the obstacle pins and either win and enter the winning holes or start holes, or are discharged outside the game board through the out holes on the game board surface without winning. When a game ball wins and enters the start hole, a lottery is conducted. When a large win occurs, a large win game is performed in which a plurality of predetermined winning holes on the game board surface are controlled to be in an open state multiple times. By making it easier for game balls to win in these winning holes, prize balls are awarded to the game players.

[0121] In addition, among large wins, there is a large win game with a privilege in which a predetermined privilege game is awarded to the game player after the large win game ends. The large win game with a privilege includes a probability variable large win and a time-saving large win. The probability variable large win and the time-saving large win each award a probability variable game and a time-saving game as privilege games after a large win. The time-saving game is a privilege game that increases the number of lottery times per unit time and increases the probability of winning a large win per unit time by shortening the variable time (the time from starting the lottery process to displaying the result) of the normal symbol lottery (the opening and closing lottery of the above-mentioned movable member) and / or the special symbol lottery (the large win lottery by the winning of the above-mentioned game balls). This privilege game may include a normal symbol probability variation that increases the winning probability of the normal symbol. The time-saving game by the time-saving large win ends when the number of lottery times of the special symbol lottery reaches a predetermined number after a large win. The probability variable game will be described later.

[0122] The game control unit 25 has a probability variation function. The probability variation function is a function that performs control to change the random number range for jackpot used in the next lottery when the lottery result falls within a particularly defined random number range among jackpots (generally, it is made about 10 times). The probability variation game performs a special symbol lottery using the probability after this change. The probability variation game continues until the next jackpot win. Also, a probability variation game and a time shortening game may be provided simultaneously. However, in order to prevent unexpected damage to the game store, when a player obtains a certain number of game media after the start of the probability variation game or the time shortening game, a stop processing (once a card is discharged and a prize exchange or a table movement is requested) may be performed. In this case, it can be realized by counting the number of game media after the probability variation game state is reached by the gaming machine 20 and performing game stop control such as stopping the launch of game balls when this count value reaches a predetermined value.

[0123] The effect control unit 24 is a control unit that controls the effects during the game, and has an effect symbol lottery unit 24a and an effect lottery unit 24b. Actually, by loading these programs into the CPU and executing them, processes corresponding to the effect symbol lottery unit 24a and the effect lottery unit 24b are executed respectively.

[0124] The effect symbol lottery unit 24a performs a lottery of effect symbols (symbols displayed on an effect symbol display device such as a display device on the game board) based on the special symbol lottery in the game control unit 25 (specifically, whether to finally stop the display at 7, 7, 7, etc.).

[0125] The effect lottery unit 24b performs a lottery of the type of effect to be performed until the lottery result based on the effect symbol is displayed (such as a character appearing and performing a reach effect). Such effects are set so that the effects selected for the main lottery result are different.

[0126] The effect control unit 24 stores the effect data of each effect. Further, the effect control unit 24 controls the display of the effect symbol display device, and at the time of effect execution, performs an effect display by superimposing the effect data on the background symbol data. Also, at the time of probability variation, background color data different from the normal state is set.

[0127] The game ball control unit 26 is a control unit that controls the number of game balls. Actually, by loading and executing a program corresponding to the game ball control unit 26 into the CPU, the process will be executed.

[0128] Specifically, the game ball control unit 26 stores the number of game balls in the playable number memory, subtracts "1" from the number of game balls each time a game ball is launched, and adds the number of prize balls obtained by winning to the number of game balls. Also, when the number of balls is notified by the between-stage card processor 10, the notified number of balls is added to the number of game balls, and a confirmation signal indicating that the number of game balls has been added is transmitted to the between-stage card processor 10. In addition, the game ball control unit 26 can also perform cleaning control of the game balls (circulating balls) enclosed in the gaming machine 20.

[0129] Also, the game ball control unit 26 periodically transmits the number of game balls stored in the playable number memory to the between-stage card processor 10. In this case, the game ball control unit 26 transmits the number of game balls at the time of data acquisition to the between-stage card processor 10 while continuing to update the number of game balls according to the game state without clearing the content of the playable number memory to zero.

[0130] In addition, the gaming machine 20 is provided with a counting button 22, and a signal indicating that the counting button 22 has been pressed is input to the game ball control unit 26. When the game ball control unit 26 detects a pressing operation of the counting button 22 and the time from the rising edge to the falling edge of the detection signal is less than a certain time, it transmits a management transfer request to the between-platform card processor 10 together with data on the number of game balls in a certain number (for example, 100 balls per operation). Then, the number of balls transferred to the management of the between-platform card processor 10 is subtracted (invalidated) from the number of game balls. Further, when the game ball control unit 26 detects a pressing operation of the counting button 22 and the falling edge is not detected for a predetermined time or more after the rising edge of the detection signal, every time the state where the detection signal is in the rising state continues for a certain time, it transmits a management transfer request to the between-platform card processor 10 together with data on the number of game balls in a certain number (for example, 200 balls per 5 seconds). Then, the number of balls transferred to the management of the between-platform card processor 10 is subtracted (invalidated) from the number of game balls. When subtracting from the number of game balls, methods such as decrementing the value to be subtracted from the value of 1 stored in the memory, updating the value stored in the memory with the value after subtraction, and deleting or logically deleting the value before subtraction to invalidate it can be considered, but there is no particular limitation as long as the value after subtraction can be specified.

[0131] The game control unit 25 and the game ball control unit 26 are respectively configured on individual circuit boards. The game control circuit board on which the game control unit 25 is configured and the game ball control circuit board on which the game ball control unit 26 is configured each have a unique ID. The gaming machine 20 combines the ID of the game control circuit board and the ID of the game ball control circuit board and uses them as the gaming machine ID.

[0132] <Internal Configuration of Card Management Device 40> Next, the internal configuration of the card management device 40 shown in FIG. 2 will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the card management device 40 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 7, the card management device 40 is connected to a display unit 41 and an input unit 42, and has an external network communication unit 43, a store network communication unit 44, a storage unit 45, and a control unit 46.

[0133] The display unit 41 is a liquid crystal panel, a display device, or the like. The input unit 42 is a keyboard, a mouse, or the like. The external network communication unit 43 is an interface unit for communicating with the settlement device 100 outside the store. The store network communication unit 44 is an interface unit for data communication with the island controller 30, the member management device 50, the prize management device 60, and the cash register 70 via a communication line within the game parlor.

[0134] The storage unit 45 is a storage device such as a hard disk drive or a non-volatile memory, and stores game type setting data 45a, card management data 45b, device management data 45c, and settlement process data 45d.

[0135] The game type setting data 45a is data associating the rental rate and the display name with the game type. The card management data 45b is data associating the prepaid value balance, the remaining number of held balls, etc. with the card ID. The device management data 45c is data regarding the devices installed in the game parlor. This device management data 45c includes the pedestal card processor ID, the address of the pedestal card processor 10, the installation location, the game machine ID, the model data of the game machine 20, and the like.

[0136] The settlement process data 45d is data for managing the cashless settlement incoming money and the prepaid value granting in the game parlor. Specifically, the settlement process data 45d is data associating the settlement ID, the settlement required amount, the stand data, the settlement completion notification date and time, and the value granting date and time.

[0137] The control unit 46 is a control unit that performs overall control of the card management device 40, and has a game type setting management unit 46a, a card management unit 46b, a device management unit 46c, and a value granting unit 46d. Actually, by loading and executing these programs in the CPU, processes corresponding to the game type setting management unit 46a, the card management unit 46b, the device management unit 46c, and the value granting unit 46d are respectively executed.

[0138] The game type setting management unit 46a is a processing unit that manages game type setting data 45a by associating the game types, rates, and display names used in the game parlor.

[0139] The card management unit 46b is a processing unit that manages card management data 45b. The card management unit 46b communicates with the between-stage card processor 10, the prize management device 60, and the payment calculator 70 to update the prepaid value and the remaining balance of the held balls associated with the card ID. Also, when the card management unit 46b receives a card insertion notification from the between-stage card processor 10, it notifies the valuable value and the remaining balance of the held balls associated with the card.

[0140] The device management unit 46c is a processing unit that manages device management data 45c. The device management unit 46c generates and updates the device management data 45c based on the between-stage card processor ID, the address of the between-stage card processor 10, the installation location, and the game machine ID acquired from the between-stage card processor 10.

[0141] The value adding unit 46d is a processing unit that adds (grants) the prepaid value corresponding to the amount of the payment request based on the cashless payment to the prepaid value of the card ID included in the payment request. If the value adding unit 46d receives a payment completion notification from the payment device 100, it registers the payment ID, the payment request amount, and the table data of the payment completion notification in the payment processing data 45d. After that, the value adding unit 46d notifies the between-stage card processor 10 of the prepaid value grant.

[0142] Next, an example of the game type setting data 45a, the card management data 45b, the device management data 45c, and the payment processing data 45d shown in FIG. 7 will be described. FIGS. 8 and 9 are diagrams showing an example of the game type setting data 45a, the card management data 45b, the device management data 45c, and the payment processing data 45d shown in FIG. 7.

[0143] In the game type setting data 45a shown in FIG. 8(a), for the game type name "Ball 1", a rate of "4 yen" and a display name of "4 Pachi" are associated. Also, for the game type name "Ball 2", a rate of "2 yen" and a display name of "2 Pachi" are associated, and for the game type name "Ball 3", a rate of "1 yen" and a display name of "1 Pachi" are respectively associated.

[0144] In the card management data 45b shown in FIG. 8(b), for the card ID "1001", a prepaid value of "0" in number of times, the remaining balance of held balls for each rate of "0" balls, and a use destination ID of "A101" are associated. That is, the card with the card ID "1001" is inserted into the between-stage card processor 10 of the device ID "A101", and the management of the held balls has been transferred to the between-stage card processor 10. Therefore, the remaining balance of the held balls for each rate is zero.

[0145] Also, in the card management data 45b shown in FIG. 8(b), for the card ID "2001", a prepaid value of "3000" in number of times, and as held balls, the remaining balance of held balls of Ball 1 is "1500" balls, the remaining balance of held balls of Ball 2 is "2500" balls, and the remaining balance of held balls of Ball 3 is "0" balls are associated, but no use destination ID is associated. That is, the card with the card ID "2001" is not inserted into the between-stage card processor 10, and the management of the held balls is being performed by the card management device 40.

[0146] The device management data 45c shown in FIG. 8(c) indicates that the installation location of the between-stage card processor 10 with the ID "A101" is "Island 1-1", the ID of the connected gaming machine 20 is "B201", the game type is "Ball 1", the model of the connected gaming machine 20 is "EV01", and the manufacturing number is "a". It also indicates that this gaming machine 20 is in a state of being in use.

[0147] Also, the device management data 45c indicates that the installation location of the between-stage card processor 10 with the ID "A201" is "Island 2-1", the ID of the connected gaming machine 20 is "B506", the game type is "Ball 3", the model of the connected gaming machine 20 is "DK03", and the manufacturing number is "g". It also indicates that this gaming machine 20 is in a state of being in use.

[0148] The settlement processing data 45d shown in FIG. 9 is data that associates a settlement ID, a settlement request amount, a card ID, base data, a settlement completion notification date and time, and a value addition date and time. Specifically, for the settlement ID "A0001", the settlement processing data 45d associates a settlement request amount of "10,000" yen, a card ID of "2001", base data of "device ID: A101", a settlement completion notification date and time of "2020 / 03 / 01 13:33", and a value addition date and time of "2020 / 03 / 01 13:34".

[0149] <Internal configuration of the member management device 50> Next, the internal configuration of the member management device 50 shown in FIG. 2 will be described. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the member management device 50 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 10, the member management device 50 is connected to a display unit 51 and an input unit 52, and has a store network communication unit 53, a storage unit 54, and a control unit 55.

[0150] The display unit 51 is a liquid crystal panel, a display device, or the like. The input unit 52 is a keyboard, a mouse, or the like. The store network communication unit 53 is an interface unit for data communication with the island controller 30, the card management device 40, the prize management device 60, and the payment machine 70 via a communication line in the game store.

[0151] The storage unit 54 is a storage device such as a hard disk device or a non-volatile memory, and stores member management data 54a. The member management data 54a is data that associates a member name, stored points, etc. with a card ID.

[0152] The control unit 55 is a control unit that performs overall control of the member management device 50, and has a member management unit 55a. Actually, a process is executed by loading a program corresponding to the control unit 55 into the CPU and executing it.

[0153] The membership management department 55a is a processing department that manages membership management data 54a. The membership management department 55a communicates with the card management device 40 and the prize management device 60 to update the remaining balance of the stored balls associated with the card ID. Also, when the membership management department 55a receives a membership registration request, it performs an update to add a member to the membership management data 54a.

[0154] Here, the stored ball replay process by the membership management department 55a will be explained. If the membership management department 55a receives stored ball replay request data from the apron card processor 10, among the stored balls associated with the card ID in the stored ball replay request data, it subtracts the remaining balance of the stored balls at the payout destination rate by the number of payout units, and recalculates the number of possible stored ball replays. Then, it transmits the stored ball replay data including the remaining balance after subtraction and the number of possible stored ball replays to the apron card processor 10.

[0155] Next, the data stored in the storage unit 54 of the membership management device 50 shown in FIG. 10 will be explained. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the membership management data 54a shown in FIG. 10.

[0156] The membership management data 54a shown in FIG. 11 shows a state in which the name "Game Taro", the remaining balance of the stored balls for each game type, the mobile IDm "IDmX1", etc. are associated with the card ID "2001". Although not shown here, the membership management data 54a can also store the member's points, number of store visits, game history, password, etc. in association with the card ID. The above mobile IDm is identification data that can identify a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone, and is used when using the mobile terminal as a membership card.

[0157] Also, the membership management data 54a shows a case where it stores the stored balls of three game types, "Ball 1", "Ball 2", and "Ball 3". Here, it shows a case where the remaining balance of the stored balls of "Ball 1" for the card ID "2001" is "250" balls, the remaining balance of the stored balls of "Ball 2" is "1000" balls, and the remaining balance of the stored balls of "Ball 3" is "4000" balls.

[0158] <Internal Configuration of Mobile Terminal 110> Next, the internal configuration of the mobile terminal 110 shown in FIG. 2 will be described. FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the mobile terminal 110 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 12, the mobile terminal 110 includes a display operation unit 111, a speaker 112, a camera 113, a communication unit 114, a storage unit 115, and a control unit 116.

[0159] The display operation unit 111 is an input / output interface that performs display output and operation input, such as a touch panel display. The speaker 112 is an output interface that performs voice output. The camera 113 is an imaging device used for imaging the two-dimensional code displayed on the display operation unit 13 of the counter card processor 10. The communication unit 114 is a communication interface for data communication with the settlement device 100 via a predetermined network such as the Internet.

[0160] The storage unit 115 is a storage device such as a non-volatile memory, and stores user data 115a, settlement management data 115b, and the like. The user data 115a is various data related to the user of the mobile terminal 110, and can include name, address, email address, bank account, and the like. The settlement management data 115b is data for managing cashless settlement, and associates the processing status with various information acquired from the counter card processor 10.

[0161] The control unit 116 is a control unit that performs overall control of the mobile terminal 110, and includes a decoding processing unit 116a, a settlement processing unit 116b, and the like. Actually, by loading these programs into the CPU and executing them, processes corresponding to the decoding processing unit 116a, the settlement processing unit 116b, and the like are executed respectively.

[0162] When the camera 113 captures a two-dimensional code, the decoding processing unit 116a is a processing unit that decodes the two-dimensional code to obtain settlement request data, a card ID, store data, and table data. The decoding processing unit 116a associates processing data with the settlement request data, card ID, store data, and table data obtained by decoding and registers them in the settlement management data 115b. The processing data includes a reading date and time indicating the date and time when the two-dimensional code was read, a settlement request date and time indicating the date and time when a settlement request was sent to the settlement device 100, a settlement completion date and time indicating the date and time when a settlement completion notification was received from the settlement device 100, and the like. At the time of registration by the decoding processing unit 116a, only the reading date and time are registered, and the settlement request date and time and the settlement completion date and time are appropriately registered by the settlement processing unit 116b.

[0163] The settlement processing unit 116b is a processing unit that executes settlement processing based on the settlement request data. When the settlement management data 115b is registered, the settlement processing unit 116b adds information necessary for settlement, such as an account to be used for settlement, to the settlement request data, and sends a settlement request including the settlement request data, card ID, store data, and table data to the settlement device 100 to perform settlement processing.

[0164] When the settlement processing unit 116b sends a settlement request, it registers the settlement request date and time of the settlement management data 115b. After that, if a settlement completion notification is received from the settlement device 100, the settlement processing unit 116b identifies the corresponding settlement management data 115b based on the settlement ID included in the settlement completion notification and registers the settlement completion date and time of the identified settlement management data 115b.

[0165] In addition, when the settlement processing unit 116b makes a settlement request for a settlement related to a refund, after registering the settlement completion date and time, it notifies the completion of the refund by display output to the display operation unit 111 and ends the processing.

[0166] Here, an explanation will be given regarding the determination of the account to be used for settlement. For the account to be used for settlement, for example, the account stored in the user data 115a may be used. When there are multiple available accounts, it may be determined by the selection operation of the player, or the account to be used may be set in advance. It is also possible to select the account to be used by setting conditions.

[0167] Next, an explanation will be given regarding the data stored in the storage unit 115 of the mobile terminal 110 shown in FIG. 12. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the settlement management data 115b shown in FIG. 12.

[0168] The settlement management data 115b shown in FIG. 13 associates settlement request data, card ID, store data, table data, and processing data. The settlement request data includes a settlement ID, a settlement request amount, an account, etc. The processing data includes a reading date and time, a settlement request date and time, and a settlement completion date and time.

[0169] Specifically, the settlement management data 115b associates, with the settlement ID "A0001" of the settlement request data, a settlement request amount of "10,000" yen, an account of "Ordinary Account 1234567, C Branch, B Bank", a card ID of "2001", store data of "Store ID: Y012", and table data of "Device ID: A101". As the processing data, a reading date and time of "2020 / 03 / 01 13:31", a settlement request date and time of "2020 / 03 / 01 13:32", and a settlement completion date and time of "2020 / 03 / 01 13:33" are associated.

[0170] <Processing Procedure of the Inter-table Card Processor 10> Next, an explanation will be given regarding the processing procedure of the inter-table card processor 10. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the inter-table card processor 10. First, if the player accepts a cashless transaction start operation by a touch operation on the display operation unit 13 (step S101), the acceptance of money, etc. is restricted (step S102).

[0171] If the jackpot special prize data is received (step S103; Yes), the function restriction is released (step S104). If the jackpot special prize data is not received (step S103; No), the process proceeds to step S105.

[0172] If the player designates the amount of the cashless transaction (step S105), the settlement request data and the like are encoded into a two-dimensional code and displayed on the display operation unit 13 (step S106).

[0173] If the jackpot special prize data is received (step S107; Yes) and the function was restricted (step S108; Yes), the function restriction is released (step S109). If the jackpot special prize data is not received (step S107; No), or even if the jackpot special prize data is received (step S107; Yes) but the function is not restricted (step S108; No), the process proceeds to step S110.

[0174] If prepaid value is received from the card management device 40 (step S110), the prepaid value is displayed on the display operation unit 13 (step S111). If the function was restricted (step S112; Yes), the function restriction is released (step S113) and the process ends. If the function is not restricted (step S112; No), the process ends as it is.

[0175] As described above, the game management system according to the present embodiment restricts the acceptance of currency during the operation of cashless settlement, thereby preventing situations caused by the simultaneous occurrence of cashless settlement and cash settlement, and while enhancing the convenience of the player, the operation of prepaid value can be smoothly performed.

[0176] In the above embodiment, the configuration for generating a two-dimensional code by the inter-stage card processor 10 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a two-dimensional code server may be installed outside the game store, and the two-dimensional code server may be configured to generate two-dimensional codes collectively.

[0177] Specifically, if a cashless transaction amount is input to the inter-stage card processor 10, the amount and the like are notified as settlement request data to the two-dimensional code server via the card management device 40. The two-dimensional code server generates a two-dimensional code from the settlement request data and notifies the card management device 40 and the settlement device 100.

[0178] The inter-stage card processor 10 receives the two-dimensional code from the card management device 40 and displays it on the display operation unit 13. The mobile terminal 110 captures the displayed two-dimensional code and notifies the settlement device 100 of the two-dimensional code. If the two-dimensional codes received from the two-dimensional code server and the mobile terminal 110 match, the settlement device 100 performs settlement based on the information of the two-dimensional code.

[0179] In this way, by installing a two-dimensional code server outside the game store and generating two-dimensional codes collectively by the two-dimensional code server, it is possible to improve the convenience of game customers and smoothly perform the operation of valuable values.

[0180] <Minimum Settlement Request Amount Limitation Guidelines during Cashless Transaction Operation> Also, in the above embodiment, the cashless transaction amount has been described as a configuration that can be freely specified by the game customer. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it can also be configured to perform transactions at an amount equal to or higher than the set minimum settlement request amount.

[0181] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 15, when a game customer designates a cashless transaction on the display operation unit 13 of the inter-stage card processor 10, an input screen for the purchase amount is displayed (S21). When the game customer inputs 500 yen as the purchase amount (S22), it is notified that the amount should be specified at 1000 yen or more, which is the previously set minimum purchase amount (S23).

[0182] When the game customer re-enters 1000 yen or more, which is the minimum purchase amount (S24), a two-dimensional code for settlement is displayed (S25).

[0183] By configuring to conduct transactions at or above the set minimum settlement required amount in this way, it is possible to prevent unnecessary settlement transactions by game players.

[0184] Here, in the above embodiment, the case of configuring to conduct transactions at or above the minimum settlement required amount has been described. However, when the sum of the current prepaid balance and the settlement required amount is at or above the minimum settlement required amount, it is also possible to configure to enable cashless settlement.

[0185] In addition, in the above embodiment, the configuration of freely setting the minimum purchase amount has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is also possible to configure to automatically set the amount that becomes the minimum input unit (for example, when the minimum input unit of 25 balls is 100 yen, the minimum settlement required amount is 100 yen) as the minimum purchase amount.

[0186] Also, in the above embodiment, the configuration of inputting the purchase amount in the display operation unit 13 of the between-platform card processor 10 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. In the case of a method where the purchase amount is input with the mobile terminal 110 to generate a two-dimensional code and the between-platform card processor 10 reads the two-dimensional code, when the purchase amount specified in the two-dimensional code is less than the minimum purchase amount, it is also possible to configure to display a message prompting re-input of the purchase amount on the display operation unit 13.

[0187] Also, in the above embodiment, the configuration where the game player can freely specify the purchase amount has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is also possible to configure to set a fixed amount (for example, 400 yen) for settlement by reading a two-dimensional code once and conduct ball lending for the set amount.

[0188] In the above-described embodiment, the configuration of lending balls with a fixed lending unit price regardless of the settlement method has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is also possible to configure the ball lending for an amount set in advance according to the difference in the settlement method (for example, in the case of cash settlement, lending balls worth 200 yen when the one-ball lending button is pressed. In the case of cashless settlement, lending balls worth 400 yen when the settlement is completed).

[0189] <General Guidelines for Generalizing the Functions of the Settlement Device during Cashless Transaction Operations> In the above-described embodiment, the configuration of notifying the settlement device 100 of the settlement request data including the stand data and performing the settlement process has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is also possible to eliminate the need for the card ID and the stand data in the settlement device 100.

[0190] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, the inter-stand card processing unit 10 displays a two-dimensional code including the settlement ID, the deposited amount, the card ID, the store data, and the stand data (S31). The mobile terminal 110 reads the two-dimensional code (S32), notifies the settlement device 100 of a settlement request including the settlement ID, the deposited amount, and the store data (S33), and notifies the card management device 40 of the settlement ID, the card ID, and the stand data (S34). The mobile terminal 110 and the card management device 40 are communicably connected by providing a wireless communication network in the game store or the like.

[0191] The settlement device 100 performs a settlement process based on the received settlement request, notifies the mobile terminal 110 of the settlement completion notification (S35), and also notifies the card management device 40 accordingly (S35´).

[0192] The card management device 40 performs a deposit process and grants a prepaid value based on the settlement completion notification received from the settlement device 100 and the settlement ID, the card ID, and the stand data received from the mobile terminal 110 (S36). The card management device 40 notifies the inter-stand card processing unit 10 of the prepaid value grant (S37).

[0193] In this way, by notifying the card management device 40 of the card ID and the stand data from the mobile terminal 110, it is also possible to configure the payment device 100 to eliminate the need for the card ID and the stand data.

[0194] <Unified management method for payment processing during cashless transaction operation> In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the configuration in which the unified management of the payment process is performed by the payment device 100 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and by numbering and managing the transaction serial number in the card management device 40, it is also possible to configure the card management device 40 to perform unified management of the payment process.

[0195] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, the player designates the amount of the cashless transaction at the inter-table card processor 10 (S41). The inter-table card processor 10 requests the transaction serial number from the card management device 40 (S42), and the card management device 40 issues the transaction serial number (S43) and notifies the inter-table card processor 10 of the transaction serial number (S44).

[0196] The inter-table card processor 10 generates and displays a two-dimensional code including the received transaction serial number (S45). The mobile terminal 110 reads the two-dimensional code (S46) and notifies the payment device 100 of a payment request including the transaction serial number (S47).

[0197] The payment device 100 performs payment processing based on the received payment request, notifies the mobile terminal 110 of a payment completion notification including the transaction serial number (S48), and also notifies the card management device 40 accordingly (S48´).

[0198] The card management device 40 performs deposit processing and prepaid value granting based on the payment completion notification including the transaction serial number received from the payment device 100 (S49). The card management device 40 notifies the inter-table card processor 10 of the prepaid value granting (S50).

[0199] In this way, by numbering and managing the transaction serial numbers in the card management device 40, it is also possible to configure the card management device 40 to centrally manage the settlement process.

[0200] Moreover, each configuration illustrated in the above embodiments is functionally schematic, and it is not necessarily physically configured as shown in the figures. That is, the form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figures, and all or part of it can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage situations, etc.

Industrial Applicability

[0201] The game management system according to the present invention is suitable for smoothly operating the operation of valuable values while enhancing the convenience of game players by restricting some functions such as depositing money during cashless settlement operation.

Explanation of Signs

[0202] Inter - machine card processor for 10 machines 11 Status display unit 12 Banknote transport unit 12a Banknote insertion slot 13 Display operation unit 14 Reader - writer 14a Card insertion slot 15 Communication unit 16 Storage unit 16a Self - device status data 16b Card data 16c Settlement request data 16d Function restriction status data 17 Control unit 17a Data management unit 17b Settlement request data generation unit 17c Encoding processing unit 17d Settlement request data output processing unit 17e Refund processing unit 17f Function restriction unit 17g Function restriction determination unit 18 Game management unit 18a Authentication Processing Unit 18b Authentication Key Management Unit 18c Gaming Machine Status Management Unit 20 Gaming Machine 21 Steering Wheel 22 Counting Button 23 Communication Control Unit 24 Presentation Control Unit 24a Presentation Symbol Lottery Unit 24b Presentation Lottery Unit 25 Game Control Unit 26 Pachinko Ball Control Unit 26a Playable Number Management Unit 30 Island Controller 40 Card Management Device 41 Display Unit 42 Input Unit 43 External Network Communication Unit 44 Store Network Communication Unit 45 Memory Unit 45a Game Type Setting Data 45b Card Management Data 45c Device Management Data 45d Settlement Processing Data 46 Control Unit 46a Game Type Setting Management Unit 46b Card Management Unit 46c Device Management Unit 46d Value Assignment Unit 50 Member Management Device 51 Display Unit 52 Input Unit 53 Store Network Communication Unit 54 Memory Unit 54a Member Management Data 55 Control Unit 55a Member Management Unit 60 Prize Management Device 70 Cashier Machine 100 Settlement Device 110 Mobile Terminal 111 Display and Operation Unit 112 Speaker 113 Camera 114 Communication Unit 115 Memory Unit 115a User data 115b Settlement management data 116 Control unit 116a Decryption processing unit 116b Settlement processing unit

Claims

1. A gaming management system having a gaming device attached to a gaming machine and a management device that manages a valuable item associated with a recording medium that can be accepted by the gaming device, a payment request means for making a payment request for a cashless payment request amount designated by a player; A determination means for determining whether the cashless payment requested amount is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount; a notification means for permitting payment processing when the determination means determines that the cashless payment request amount is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, and for issuing a predetermined notification when the determination means determines that the cashless payment request amount is less than the predetermined amount; A gaming management system comprising:

2. The notification means includes:

2. The gaming management system according to claim 1, wherein a notification message is displayed on a display operation section of the gaming device.

3. The notification means includes:

3. The gaming management system according to claim 1, further comprising: a screen for inputting the requested cashless payment amount being displayed again after the notification.

4. 2. The gaming management system according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined amount is a preset minimum payment amount.

5. 2. The gaming management system according to claim 1, wherein a specific settlement code is displayed when the determination means permits the execution of the game.

6. 2. The gaming management system according to claim 1, wherein payment by a player is made using a mobile terminal.

Images