Casino security electronic shoe

Abstract

A security electronic shoe (100) for casino that accommodates a plurality of playing cards that are to be drawn one by one for a game comprises: an accommodation section (10) in which the plurality of stacked playing cards are accommodated; an opening (20) that exposes the top playing card among the plurality of playing cards accommodated in the accommodation section (10); a draw guide section (30) that guides the draw of the top playing card from the opening (20); and a weight (40) for pushing the rearmost playing card of the plurality of playing cards toward the opening (20), wherein a bottom portion (11) of the accommodation section (10) is tilted downward toward the opening (20), the weight (40) can move the bottom portion (11) of the accommodation section (10) toward the opening (20) while pressing the rearmost playing card toward the opening (20) as the rearmost playing card moves toward the opening (20) in the course of sequential drawing of the top playing card, the accommodating section (10) has a configuration in which top surface and at least one side surface are open, and a plurality of playing cards can be loaded into the accommodating section (10) through the open portions.

Description

Cross - reference to related applications

[0001] In this application, priority is claimed for Japanese Patent Application No. 2022 - 110486 filed in Japan on July 8, 2022, Japanese Patent Application No. 2022 - 132265 filed in Japan on August 23, 2022, and Japanese Patent Application No. 2023 - 086884 filed in Japan on May 26, 2023, and the contents of said applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a security electronic shoe for a casino that houses a plurality of playing cards drawn one by one for games. Prior Art

[0003] In a casino, games using playing cards are played on a gaming table. The playing cards used in the game are housed in a shoe on the gaming table. For example, a shoe can accommodate 8 decks of playing cards. The dealer advances the game by drawing one playing card at a time from the shoe.

[0004] When the playing cards housed in the shoe are used up as the game progresses, the dealer replenishes the shoe with new playing cards. Specifically, when the dealer replenishes the shoe with playing cards, the dealer inserts a cut card at a position slightly in front of the very end of the replenished playing cards. When the cut card is drawn as the game proceeds, the dealer interrupts the subsequent game while leaving the remaining playing cards in the shoe, removes the remaining playing cards from the shoe, and replenishes it with new playing cards.

[0005] The playing cards to be replenished in the shoe are packaged in a shuffled state in advance. When replenishing the shoe with new playing cards, it is necessary to open the package, take out a plurality (for example, 8 decks) of shuffled playing cards, and accommodate them in the shoe. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0006] Since the playing cards stored in the shoe are used in casino games, the contents and order of the playing cards stored in the shoe must not be known to anyone. In other words, casino shoe requirements are high. In particular, when opening the package and taking out multiple playing cards to load into the shoe, it is necessary to ensure that the contents of the playing cards are not known to the players or dealers.

[0007] Furthermore, the game must be interrupted while new playing cards are loaded into the shoe. If this interruption is long, the players will get bored, and the casino's revenue will decrease. Therefore, it is desirable that the loading of playing cards into the shoe be done smoothly.

[0008] The present invention aims to provide a casino security electronic shoe that ensures security and allows for smooth loading of playing cards.

[0009] A security electronic shoe for casinos according to one aspect of the present invention is a security electronic shoe for casinos that houses a plurality of playing cards to be drawn one by one for a game, comprising: a storage section for storing a plurality of stacked playing cards; an opening that exposes the leading playing card of the plurality of playing cards stored in the storage section; a draw guide section that guides the drawing of the leading playing card from the opening; and a weight for pushing the last playing card of the plurality of playing cards toward the opening, wherein the bottom of the storage section is inclined downward toward the opening, and the weight is movable toward the opening while pushing the last playing card toward the opening as the last playing card moves toward the opening as the leading playing cards are drawn sequentially, and the storage section has an open top and at least one side, and the plurality of playing cards can be loaded into the storage section through the open portion.

[0010] In the above-described casino security electronic shoe, the storage section may be equipped with a stopper that restricts the lateral movement of the plurality of playing cards at a position corresponding to the lower portion of the open side of the plurality of playing cards.

[0011] In the above-described casino security electronic shoe, the plurality of playing cards may be housed in the storage section with their backs facing the opening, and the weight may be in contact with the front surface of the last playing card so that the front surface of the last playing card is not visible.

[0012] The above-described casino security electronic shoe may further include a side cover that is movable between a cover position that covers the open side of the housing and an open position that opens the open side of the housing.

[0013] In the above-described casino security electronic shoe, the side cover may be rotatable between the cover position and the open position.

[0014] In the above-described casino security electronic shoe, the side cover may be movable in parallel between the cover position and the open position.

[0015] The above-described casino security electronic shoe may further include a side cover that is movable between a cover position that covers the open side of the housing and an open position that opens the open side of the housing, and when the side cover is in the cover position, the surface of the side cover facing the side may be located outward from the surface of the stopper facing the side.

[0016] In the above-described casino security electronic shoe, the side may be the right side facing the direction of the draw.

[0017] In the above-described casino security electronic shoe, the draw guide portion may be removable.

[0018] In the above-described casino security electronic shoe, the draw guide section may include a metal part for holding down the playing card to be drawn in order to prevent two playing cards from being drawn at the same time.

[0019] In the above-described casino security electronic shoe, the storage section may be provided with a top cover that is movable between a cover position that covers the top surfaces of the plurality of playing cards and an open position that leaves the top surfaces of the plurality of playing cards open.

[0020] In the above-described casino security electronic shoe, the storage unit may be equipped with a holding means for holding the weight at a rear position of the storage unit in order to load the plurality of playing cards into the storage unit.

[0021] The above-described security electronic shoe for a casino may further include an upper cover that can be fixed at a cover position covering the upper surface of the housing portion, and the holding means may release the holding of the weight according to the upper cover reaching the cover position.

[0022] The above-described security electronic shoe for a casino may further include a side cover that is movable between a cover position covering the open side surface of the housing portion and an open position for opening the open side surface of the housing portion, and by the side cover being located at the cover position of the side cover, the upper cover may be fixed at the cover position of the upper cover.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a view showing a state in which a plurality of playing cards are loaded into the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a view showing the configuration of the weight according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a side view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a plan view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of FIG. 9. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 is a diagram showing details of the drug guide portion of the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the playing card of the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the operation of the regulation bar of the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the electronic shoe of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a plan view of the electronic shoe of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the electronic shoe of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the upper cover of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing the relationship between the upper cover and the weight of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the electronic shoe of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20A] FIG. 20A is a diagram for explaining the operation of the pressing projection of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20B] FIG. 20B is a diagram for explaining the operation of the pressing projection of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the electronic shoe of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing an enlarged front portion of the electronic shoe of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23A] FIG. 23A is a diagram for explaining the operation of the backflow stopper of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23B] FIG. 23B is a diagram for explaining the operation of the backflow stopper of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24A] FIG. 24A is a diagram for explaining the backflow in a conventional electronic shoe. [Figure 24B]Figure 24B is a diagram illustrating backflow in a conventional electronic shoe. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a plan view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a right side view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is a left side view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 29] Figure 29 is a front view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is a bottom view of the electronic shoe according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a rear view of the electronic shoe according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 32] Figure 32 is a perspective view of the electronic shoe of the third embodiment of the present invention with the top cover removed. [Figure 33] Figure 33 shows an example of the display of the result display display according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 34] Figure 34 is a perspective view showing details of the draw guide section of a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 35] Figure 35 is a perspective view of the regulating section of a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 36] Figure 36 is a perspective view of the top cover of a third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 37] Figure 37 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0024] The following describes an electronic shoe according to an embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment describes a casino security electronic shoe (hereinafter simply referred to as "electronic shoe") that houses multiple playing cards drawn one by one by a dealer for a game at a casino gaming table. This electronic shoe is used at a casino gaming table. The game may be, for example, baccarat, blackjack, etc., but this embodiment describes an electronic shoe used for baccarat.

[0025] (First Embodiment) Figure 1 is a perspective view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 is a side view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 3 is a plan view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 4 is a front view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The electronic shoe 100 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape as a whole. The electronic shoe 100 accommodates a plurality of playing cards such that its short side is parallel to the long side of the playing card. The playing cards are removed one by one from the tip of the electronic shoe 100 by a draw operation performed by the dealer.

[0026] The electronic shoe 100 comprises a housing section 10, an opening 20, a draw guide section 30, a weight 40, and a main body 50. The lower half and rear portion of the electronic shoe 100 constitute the main body 50. The housing section 10 is formed to extend forward continuously from the rear end portion of the main body 50. The housing section 10 accommodates multiple stacked playing cards. As described above, the stacked playing cards are stored in the housing section 10 horizontally. The long side of the playing cards is supported by the bottom surface of the housing section 10. The playing cards are also stored in the housing section 10 with their backs facing forward.

[0027] The bottom surface 11 of the storage section 10 slopes downward toward the opening 20. The storage section 10 has an open top and left side (i.e., the right side when facing the direction in which playing cards are drawn). Specifically, the right side of the storage section 10 has a side wall 12 with a height corresponding to the height of the stored playing card (the length of the shorter side of the playing card). A lower side wall 14 is also erected from the bottom surface 11 on the left side, and the side wall 14 is at a height corresponding to the height of the stored playing card in the portion close to the opening 20.

[0028] The lower portion of the side wall 14 forms a side opening on the left side, and a top opening that opens upwards to the storage section 10 is formed continuously with this side opening. Multiple playing cards can be loaded into the storage section 10 through the side opening and the top opening.

[0029] Figure 5 shows how multiple playing cards are loaded into an electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The multiple playing cards are pre-shuffled and housed in a package P. Package P is sealed and opened by the dealer when it is loaded into the electronic shoe 100. In the package P shown in Figure 5, the upper half of the multiple playing cards has been removed, and the multiple playing cards are housed only in the lower half.

[0030] As shown in Figure 5, the dealer inserts multiple playing cards, each partially housed in package P, into the storage section 10 through the side opening and the top opening. At this time, the dealer first places package P containing the playing cards in the side opening to secure it, and then, while removing package P, aligns the multiple playing cards by pressing them against the rear side wall 12 of the storage section 10 before storing them in the storage section 10.

[0031] The low-height side wall 14 is formed at a position corresponding to the lower part of the side openings of the multiple playing cards, and functions as a stopper that restricts the lateral movement of the multiple playing cards stored inside. As a result, even when the side cover 13 is open, the playing cards are properly stored in the storage section 10, and the playing cards do not move left or right or up or down, and the playing cards do not fall out of the storage section 10. Furthermore, as will be described later, by pushing the last playing card toward the opening 20 with the weight 40, the playing cards are pulled out one by one from the front, and as they move sequentially in the front-to-back direction without falling out of the storage section 10.

[0032] The storage section 10 is provided with a side cover 13 having an axis on the outside of the low-shaped side wall 14. The side cover 13 rotates around this axis, moving between a covered position and an open position. In the covered position, the side cover 13 is upright, closing the side opening and covering the stored playing cards. In the open position, the side cover 13 is rotated further than the horizontal position, opening the side opening.

[0033] The opening 20 exposes the first playing card among the multiple playing cards stored in the storage section 10 to the outside. The opening 20 is formed in an arch shape, exposing the central part of the back of the playing card. The dealer can pull out the first playing card onto the game table with its back facing upwards by pressing down on this exposed part and sliding it.

[0034] A blind 21 is formed in the opening 20 so as to cover the back of the leading playing card that is exposed there. The blind 21 consists of many flexible, thin linear members, which are divided into left and right sections in the middle. The linear members are arranged so as to be inclined in the drawing direction from the left and right towards the center, and from the base towards the tip. The dealer can apply force to the playing card from around the gaps on the left and right of these linear members to pull out the playing card.

[0035] The draw guide section 30 guides the drawing of the first playing card from the opening 20. Specifically, the draw guide section 30 includes an inclined section 32 that slopes to be continuous with the top surface of the game table from the opening 20, and a restricting section 31 that restricts the upward and lateral movement of the drawn-out playing card, thereby guiding its movement in the drawing direction. As the playing card is drawn out while being guided by the draw guide section 30, it is drawn onto the game table with the front side, where the rank and suit are printed, facing downwards. The inclined section 32 has a fine embossed finish, which makes the front side of the playing card slide easily.

[0036] Figure 6 shows the configuration of a weight according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The weight 40 is used to push the last playing card among a plurality of playing cards toward the opening 20. The weight 40 has a roller 41 having a lateral axis. The lower end of the roller 41 protrudes slightly from the bottom of the weight 40. This allows the weight 40 to move in the front-back direction by rotating the roller 41.

[0037] The width of the weight 40 corresponds to the width of the storage section 10. The weight 40 also has an inclined surface 42 at its front. As described above, the playing cards are stored in the storage section 10 with their backs facing the opening 20, so the front surface of the last playing card will be in contact with the inclined surface 42 of the weight 40.

[0038] The weight 40 is movable back and forth on the bottom surface 11 of the storage section 10. As described above, the storage section 10 is inclined toward the opening 20, so the weight 40 moves toward the opening 20 by its own weight. When multiple playing cards are loaded into the storage section 10, the inclined surface 42 of the weight 40 pushes the last playing card toward the opening 20. In this way, due to the action of the weight 40, the leading playing card is always pushed toward the opening 20 from behind and exposed from the opening 20.

[0039] The weight 40 can be fixed at the rear position of the storage section 10 by a magnet or a locking mechanism. When loading playing cards into the storage section 10, as shown in Figure 5, the weight 40 is fixed in this fixed position, creating space in the storage section 10 for accommodating multiple new playing cards. Furthermore, a sensor may detect that multiple playing cards have been stored in the storage section 10, and based on this sensor detection, the fixing of the weight 40 by the magnet or locking mechanism may be automatically released. When the fixing is released, the weight 40 moves the bottom surface 11 of the storage section 10 toward the opening 20 by its own weight, contacts the last playing card, and pushes the loaded multiple playing cards toward the opening 20 from the last card. Note that the storage of playing cards in the storage section 10 may be detected, for example, by detecting that the side cover 13 closes the side opening, or that the top cover 15, described later, closes the top opening.

[0040] Furthermore, the roller 41 of the weight 40 may be configured to rotate only in the direction that moves the weight 40 forward (towards the side with the inclined surface 42), and not in the direction that moves the weight 40 backward. This prevents the weight 40 from moving backward even if a force is applied to the weight 40 in the backward direction when drawing out the playing cards in order from the front.

[0041] Multiple result indicator lamps 52 are provided on the top surface of the main unit 50. Additionally, a result display button 53, a result indicator lamp 54, and a result display screen 55 are provided on the left side of the main unit 50.

[0042] The side opening, side cover 13, and result display button 53 are all installed on the side facing the dealer when the electronic shoe 100 is placed on the game table. In other words, since the electronic shoe 100 is placed to the left of the dealer, the side opening and result display button 53 are provided on the left side facing the dealer. This makes it easier for the dealer to operate the result display button 53 of the electronic shoe 100 when it is placed on the game table, and also makes it easier to load a new playing card into the storage section 10 from the side opening.

[0043] Furthermore, the results display 55 is located on the left side facing the dealer. This allows the dealer to see the game results without the player seeing them.

[0044] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention, Figure 8 is a side view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 9 is a plan view of the electronic shoe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In the electronic shoes of Figures 7 to 9, the side cover 13 closes the side opening, and the top cover 15 is attached to the housing 10 to close the top opening.

[0045] In this way, the side cover 13 covers the side and the top cover 15 covers the top, so that the playing cards stored in the storage section 10 are completely hidden from view, thus ensuring security. As described above, the side cover 13 can pivot between the open position shown in Figure 1 and the covered position shown in Figure 7 by rotating around a pivot axis provided at the bottom. When the side cover 13 is rotated to the covered position, both the right side wall 12 and the side cover 13 stand upright, and their upper ends become the slide rails for the top cover 15.

[0046] Thus, when the side cover 13 is positioned in the cover position, its upper end becomes the slide rail for the top cover 15. Therefore, in order to position the top cover 15 in the cover position, it is first necessary to position the side cover 13 upright to cover the side. In other words, the top cover 15 cannot be closed unless the side cover 13 is closed.

[0047] The top cover 15 moves to the cover position shown in Figure 7 by sliding the slide rail from front to rear. As a result, when the top cover 15 is attached, the side cover 13 is also fixed in the cover position.

[0048] The electronic shoe 100 may also be provided with sensors (not shown) that detect whether the side cover 13 and the top cover 15 are in the cover position. These sensors may be magnets or optical sensors. The control device of the electronic shoe 100 outputs an error signal if the sensors do not detect that the side cover 13 and the top cover 15 are in the cover position.

[0049] If the electronic shoe 100 detects that the side cover 13 and the top cover 15 are not in the cover position, it activates the draw restriction pin 38 (described later) to prevent the drawing of the playing card.

[0050] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of AA in Figure 9. As shown in Figure 10, the bottom surface of the housing 10 supports the long side of the playing card C, and the side wall 14 functions as a stopper, contacting the short side of the playing card C and restricting its lateral movement. The side cover 13 is positioned above the low-formed side wall 14, but the inner surface of the side cover 13 in the cover position is positioned slightly outward from the inner surface of the side wall 14. That is, a gap g is formed between the inner surface of the side wall 14 and the inner surface of the side cover 13 in the cover position.

[0051] This configuration allows multiple playing cards, which are drawn sequentially starting from the first playing card, to move towards the opening 20 within the storage section 10 without their movement being restricted by the side cover 13 protruding from the side wall 14, thus enabling them to move towards the opening 20.

[0052] Figure 11 shows details of the draw guide section of the first embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 11, a part of the restricting section 31 is removed to show the internal structure of the restricting section 31. Inside the restricting section 31 are code reading sensors 33 and 34 for reading codes representing at least the number (rank) of the shuffled playing cards, and card detection sensors 35 and 36 for detecting when a playing card C has been drawn.

[0053] Furthermore, the restricting portion 31 of the draw guide portion 30 is removable, and the draw guide portion 30 may also be removable from the opening 20. This allows for various maintenance procedures.

[0054] Figure 12 shows an example of a playing card according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The playing card has marks M1 and M2 printed on it at positions corresponding to the code reading sensors 33 and 34, indicating code information. Both marks M1 and M2 are printed with UV ink that is not visible under natural light.

[0055] The code reading sensors 33 and 34 each include a lamp that emits ultraviolet light and a sensor that reads the marks. The marks M1 and M2 representing the code information are formed in two rows on the short edge of the card. The code information is printed with two rows of marks M1 and M2 across multiple columns. The code information is represented by the combination of the presence or absence of marks M1 and M2.

[0056] The code reading sensor 33 reads mark M1, and the code reading sensor 34 reads mark M2. The electronic shoe 100 reads code information based on the combination of marks M1 and M2 that it has read. The code reading sensors 33 and 34 acquire code information by sequentially reading marks M1 and M2 of the pulled-out playing card in the pulling direction. The code information represents the rank of the playing card C. Therefore, the electronic shoe 100 can determine the rank of the pulled-out playing card C.

[0057] The electronic shoe 100 determines the game result based on the rank of the card it has judged. The game result is either Player Win, Banker Win, or Tie. When the game result display button 53 is pressed, the corresponding lamp on the result display lamp 52 lights up according to the determined game result.

[0058] The six result indicator lights 52 correspond to the following game results: Player Win, Banker Win, Tie, Player Pair, Banker Pair, and Banker 6. If the game result display button 53 is pressed again while the result indicator lights 52 are lit, the result indicator lights 52 will turn off, preparing for the next game.

[0059] The card detection sensors 35 and 36 are fiber optic sensors that detect the presence or absence of playing card C. The card detection sensors 35 and 36 are located separately at the front and back in the card withdrawal direction. When a card is withdrawn, first only the card detection sensor 35 turns on, then both the card detection sensors 35 and 36 turn on, then only the card detection sensor 36 turns on, and finally both the card detection sensors 35 and 36 turn off.

[0060] If the card detection sensors 35 and 36 do not turn on or off in this order, it is possible that playing card C is moving in reverse. In this case, the electronic shoe 100 determines that there is a card withdrawal error and lights up the corresponding error indicator lamp 51.

[0061] The draw guide section 30 is further provided with a restricting bar 37 to prevent two playing cards from being drawn at the same time. The restricting bar 37 is made of metal. The restricting bar 37 is provided on both sides of the draw guide section 30.

[0062] Figure 13 shows the operation of the regulating bar according to the first embodiment of the present invention. A gap is provided between the regulating bar 37 and the inclined portion 32, through which only one playing card can pass. The regulating bar 37 acts to press down on the playing card C as it is drawn while sliding along the inclined portion 32.

[0063] In Figure 13, even if the second playing card C2 is pulled forward as the first playing card C1 is drawn out, the first playing card C1 passes between the regulating bar 37 and the inclined section 32, pressing the first playing card C1 against the inclined section 32. This prevents the second playing card C2 from moving any further, thus preventing the drawing of two cards at once.

[0064] The draw guide section 30 is further provided with a draw restriction pin 38. The draw restriction pin 38 is embedded below the inclined section 32 when it is permitted to draw playing card C, and protrudes from the inclined section 32 when it is not permitted to draw playing card C, thereby restricting the drawing of playing card C.

[0065] In baccarat, the outcome of the game is determined by the rank of the playing cards drawn in sequence. The rank of the first four cards determines whether or not to draw a fifth and sixth card. Therefore, the electronic shoe 100 can determine the end of the game based on the rank of the playing card C drawn in sequence.

[0066] When a game ends, the dealer presses the result display button 53 to turn on the result display lamp 52, and presses the result display button 53 again to turn off the result display lamp 52 and start the next game. After a game ends (the game result is finalized), players are prohibited from drawing playing cards until the next game starts by pressing the result display button 53 twice.

[0067] The draw restriction pin 38 protrudes in situations where drawing is prohibited, preventing the removal of the prohibited playing card. The draw restriction pin 38 may remain embedded within the inclined section 32 even when drawing is prohibited, and may protrude in response to the upstream card detection sensor 35 detecting a card in situations where drawing is prohibited, thereby preventing the removal of the playing card. The draw restriction pin 38 also operates when a playing card is overdrawn, when a playing card is sent in reverse, or when a playing card is stopped in the opening 20.

[0068] This eliminates the need for the draw restriction pin 38 to extend after each game and retract after each game, preventing the mechanical noise generated by the up-and-down movement of the draw restriction pin 38 from bothering dealers and players, and reducing the possibility of malfunctions caused by repeated operation.

[0069] In the above embodiment, the side cover 13 is configured to be rotatable between the cover position and the open position. However, the side cover 13 may instead be configured to be movable between the cover position and the open position by parallel movement. Furthermore, the side cover 13 may be both attachable to the cover position and detachable from the cover position.

[0070] (Second Embodiment) The following describes the electronic shoe of a second embodiment of the present invention. In the electronic shoe of the second embodiment, components that are the same as those of the electronic shoe of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate. Figure 14 is a perspective view of the electronic shoe of the second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 shows the electronic shoe with the top cover attached. The basic configuration of the electronic shoe 101 of this embodiment is the same as that of the electronic shoe 100 of the first embodiment. The electronic shoe 101 comprises a housing portion 10, an opening 20, a draw guide portion 30, a weight 40, and a main body 50.

[0071] Figure 15 is a plan view of the electronic shoe according to the second embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 16 is a perspective view of the electronic shoe according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Figures 15 and 16 show the electronic shoe with the top cover removed. A weight stopper 111 is provided on the bottom surface 11 of the electronic shoe 101 at a position approximately 1 / 4 of the total length of the housing 10 from the rear end of the housing 10. There is one weight stopper 111 on each side. The left and right weight stoppers 111 are formed continuously from the side walls 12 and 14, respectively. The height of the weight stopper 111 is approximately 1 mm.

[0072] When the weight 40 is placed at the rear end of the storage section 10 with the top cover 15 removed, the tip of the inclined surface 42 comes into contact with the weight stopper 111, preventing it from falling down the slope of the bottom surface 11, and allowing it to remain at the rear end (upper holding position) of the storage section 10. In this state, that is, with the weight 40 not pressing the playing cards forward, the dealer can retrieve the remaining playing cards and load new playing cards.

[0073] Furthermore, locking projections 16 are provided on the outer side of the upper end of the side cover 13 and the outer side of the upper end of the side wall 12 of the housing section 10, respectively, so as to protrude outward. These locking projections 16 are provided above the slide rail 17, and the locking projections 154 of the top cover 15, which will be described later, fit between the slide rail 17 and the locking projections 16, thereby attaching and fixing the top cover 15 to the housing section 10.

[0074] The distance from the weight stopper 111 to the rear end of the housing 10 is designed so that, with the tip of the inclined surface 42 of the weight 40 restricted from descending the slope of the bottom surface 11 by the weight stopper 111, a gap g2 is secured between the rear end of the upper surface of the weight 40 and the rear end of the housing 10 that is large enough to insert a finger. By securing this gap g2, the dealer can grasp the weight 40 with their fingers and position it in the upper holding position.

[0075] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the top cover of a second embodiment of the present invention. Multiple ribs 152 are formed in the longitudinal direction on the inner surface 151 of the top cover 15. In addition to increasing the rigidity of the top cover 15, the ribs 152 also serve to prevent the playing card housed in the electronic shoe 101 from rising too high due to the action of the weight 40. That is, when the top cover 15 is attached to the electronic shoe 101, the ribs 152 abut against the top surface (upper long side) of the playing card housed in the housing 10 and pressed forward by the weight 40.

[0076] Furthermore, a pressing projection 153 is provided on the rear end side of the inner surface 151. In this embodiment, the pressing projection 153 is provided at a position offset to one side in the width direction, but the pressing projection 153 may be provided in the center in the width direction, multiple pressing projections 153 may be provided in the width direction, or they may be provided over the entire width direction.

[0077] Furthermore, vertical walls are formed on the long sides of the top cover 15, and a plurality of locking protrusions 154 are provided at the lower ends of the vertical walls, facing inward in the width direction. These locking protrusions 154 are positioned to engage with locking protrusions 16 provided on the housing 10 when the top cover 15 is in a position that completely covers the housing 10 (i.e., the position of the top cover 15 in Figure 14, hereinafter referred to as the "cover position").

[0078] Figure 18 is a perspective view showing the relationship between the top cover and the weight in a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 shows the positional relationship between the two when the weight 40 is in the upper holding position and the top cover 15 is about to be attached to the cover position. At this time, the pressing projection 153 is in contact with the rear end portion of the top surface 43 of the weight 40.

[0079] The rear end portion of the upper surface 43 of the weight 40 has a visor portion 431 that extends from the upper surface 43. The dealer can grasp the weight 40 by hooking their fingertips onto the visor portion 431, or lift the rear end.

[0080] Figure 19 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 19 shows a state in which a new playing card is loaded with the weight 40 held in the upper holding position. The dealer loads the playing cards in a lying position so that multiple playing cards are loaded into the entire space in front of the weight 40 held in the upper holding position in the storage section 10. As a result, the top surfaces of the multiple playing cards are positioned at a relatively low position and do not interfere with the attachment of the top cover 15 to the storage section 10.

[0081] Figures 20A and 20B illustrate the operation of the pressing projection in a second embodiment of the present invention. Figures 20A and 20B show the position and movement of the pressing projection 153 when the top cover 15 slides along the slide rail 17 from front to rear. When the top cover 15 is in front of the cover position, the pressing projection 153 is in a position spaced apart from the upper surface 43 of the weight 40, as shown in Figure 20A. When the top cover 15 slides from the front and reaches the cover position, the pressing projection 153 pushes down the rear end of the upper surface 43 of the weight 40.

[0082] The action of the pressing projection 153 causes the weight 40 to lift its front end by lever principle, with the rear end of the bottom surface acting as a fulcrum (marked with an "x" in Figure 20B). As a result, the tip of the weight 40 rides up onto the weight stopper 111. In this state, the weight 40 is not restricted in its movement by the weight stopper 111 and slides downward on the inclined bottom surface 11 by its own weight. At this time, the weight portion 44 of the weight 40 (see Figure 18) is in front of the weight 40 (below the inclined surface 42), so the weight 40 can easily slide over the weight stopper 111 and slide down smoothly.

[0083] Furthermore, the diameters of both ends of the roller 41 that correspond to the weight stopper 111 may be designed to be smaller in proportion to the thickness of the weight stopper 111. This eliminates the need for the roller 41 to overcome the weight stopper 111, preventing the roller 41 from being stopped by the weight stopper 111 and allowing the weight stopper 111 to move smoothly.

[0084] In this way, the act of sliding the top cover 15 to the cover position releases the weight 40 from being held in the upper holding position by the weight stopper 111, causing it to slide downward and push the last playing card forward. In other words, the weight 40 is released from its hold when the top cover 15 reaches the cover position. As a result, the multiple playing cards stand up at the angle of the inclined surface 42 of the weight 40, but this upward movement of the playing cards is restrained by the ribs 152 of the attached top cover 15.

[0085] Traditionally, the top cover was opened, and the weight slid forward under its own weight, causing multiple playing cards to stand up along the inclined surface of the weight. The top cover was then attached in this position. In this case, the top cover was attached to the storage compartment by resisting the forward force caused by the weight's own weight and pressing down on the tops of the standing playing cards. However, in this case, the top cover had to be attached to the storage compartment from above and downward, and secured with magnets or the like. As a result, when multiple playing cards stood up due to the weight's own weight, the top cover could sometimes lift up.

[0086] In contrast, this embodiment employs a structure in which the top cover 15 is attached to the storage section 10 by sliding it. The top cover 15 is fixed to the storage section 10 by the engagement of a locking projection 16 (see Figure 16) provided on the slide rail 17 of the storage section 10 with a locking projection 154 on the top cover 15, thereby preventing the top cover 15 from floating up. Furthermore, by sliding the top cover 15 in this manner, the movement restriction of the weight 40 by the weight stopper 111 is released, allowing it to slide forward. This enables the weight 40 to press the rearmost ends of multiple playing cards forward at the same time as or immediately after attaching the top cover 15 to the cover position, and ensures that the ribs 152 of the top cover 15 reliably hold down the standing up of multiple playing cards due to the weight of the weight 40.

[0087] Figure 21 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 21 shows a state in which the weight 40 has overcome the weight stopper 111 and is pressing multiple playing cards from the rear toward the front. As described above, this state is achieved by attaching the top cover 15, but Figure 21 shows a state in which the top cover 15 has been removed and the weight 40 is pushing multiple playing cards toward the front.

[0088] Figure 22 is an enlarged perspective view showing the front portion of an electronic shoe according to a second embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 22, some parts on the left side have been removed to expose the backflow stopper 112. Two backflow stoppers 112 are provided on the left and right sides of the front end of the housing section 10, covering the open top section. The backflow stoppers 112 restrict the front playing card housed in the housing section 10 from flowing back due to the dealer's operation.

[0089] The backflow stopper 112 consists of a base end 1121 extending rearward and upward in a direction substantially parallel to the planar direction of the playing card to be stored, a backflow restricting portion 1122 that is bent downward at substantially a right angle from the tip of the base end 1121, and a retaining portion 1123 that is extended rearward from the tip of the backflow restricting portion 1122 so as to follow the upper surface of the playing card to be stored.

[0090] Figures 23A and 23B illustrate the operation of a backflow stopper according to a second embodiment of the present invention. Figure 23A shows the normal state. In the state shown in Figure 23A, the lower end of each playing card is in contact with the bottom surface 11. As shown in Figure 23B, when the leading (foremost) playing card is pushed up with a finger, the upper end of the leading playing card rises along the base end 1121 of the backflow stopper 112 and abuts against the backflow restricting portion 1122. This prevents the leading playing card from flowing back.

[0091] As shown in Figure 23B, a slight upward movement (backflow) is permitted until the upper edge of the leading playing card hits the backflow restriction section 1122, but the leading playing card cannot be moved until the second playing card can be drawn out.

[0092] Figures 24A and 24B illustrate backflow in a conventional electronic shoe. In the example shown in Figures 24A and 24B, the top surfaces of multiple playing cards housed in the housing are covered by a flat ceiling 150. In such a case, as shown in Figure 24A, when the leading playing card is pushed up with a finger, the tip of the leading playing card rises along the ceiling 150, entering the space between the ceiling 150 and the top edges of the second and subsequent playing cards, exposing the bottom edge of the second playing card. This allows the finger to contact the second playing card, and as shown in Figure 24B, the leading playing card can be skipped and the second playing card can be pulled out.

[0093] In contrast, in this embodiment, the reverse flow stopper 112 restricts the reverse flow of the first playing card, so it is not possible to make contact with and pull out the second playing card, thus preventing fraud that would result in playing cards being drawn in an order different from the original arrangement.

[0094] In a second embodiment of the present invention, the following technologies are disclosed. (1) A casino security electronic shoe for housing multiple playing cards, one at a time, for a game, A storage compartment for storing multiple stacked playing cards, An opening that exposes the leading playing card among the plurality of playing cards stored in the storage section, A draw guide section that guides the drawing of the leading playing card from the opening, A weight for pushing the last of the multiple playing cards toward the opening, A top cover that is slidable between a cover position that covers the top surfaces of the plurality of playing cards and an open position that leaves the top surfaces of the plurality of playing cards open, Equipped with, The bottom of the aforementioned storage section is sloped downward toward the opening, The weight is such that, as the leading playing card is drawn in sequence and the last playing card moves toward the opening, it pushes the last playing card toward the opening, and the bottom of the storage section is movable toward the opening. The bottom of the housing section is provided with a weight stopper that contacts the tip of the weight to hold the weight in the upper holding position, The aforementioned weight, when the top cover is positioned in the cover position, is released from its holding position, and the weight moves toward the opening by its own weight, pushing the last playing card toward the opening, in a casino security electronic shoe.

[0095] (2)(1) A casino security electronic shoe as described above, The aforementioned upper cover has a pressing projection on its inner surface. A casino security electronic shoe, wherein when the top cover is in the cover position, the pressing projection pushes down the rear end portion of the top surface of the weight, which is held in the holding position by the weight stopper, thereby causing the tip of the weight to overcome the weight stopper by the principle of leverage, and the weight moves toward the opening by its own weight, pushing the last playing card toward the opening.

[0096] (3) A casino security electronic shoe as described in (1) or (2), The aforementioned weight is a casino security electronic shoe having a visor portion formed extending rearward from the upper surface.

[0097] (4) A casino security electronic shoe as described in any of (1) to (3), The weight stopper is a casino security electronic shoe provided on both sides of the bottom of the housing.

[0098] (5) A casino security electronic shoe as described in any of (1) to (4), The weight stopper is provided in a position where a gap is secured between the rear end of the weight and the rear end of the housing when the weight is held in the holding position, in a casino security electronic shoe.

[0099] (6) A casino security electronic shoe for housing multiple playing cards, one at a time, for a game, A storage compartment for storing multiple stacked playing cards, An opening that exposes the leading playing card among the plurality of playing cards stored in the storage section, A draw guide section that guides the drawing of the leading playing card from the opening, A weight for pushing the last of the multiple playing cards toward the opening, Equipped with, A casino security electronic shoe is provided with a backflow stopper at the upper front end of the storage compartment for restricting the backflow of the leading playing card stored in the storage compartment.

[0100] (7)(6) A casino security electronic shoe, The aforementioned backflow stopper is provided so as to cover the open portion on the upper surface of the housing, in a casino security electronic shoe.

[0101] (8)(6) or (7) a casino security electronic shoe, The aforementioned backflow stopper comprises a base end extending rearward and upward in a direction substantially parallel to the planar direction of the playing card housed in the housing, and a backflow restricting portion that is continuously bent downward at substantially a right angle from the tip of the base end, in a casino security electronic shoe.

[0102] (Third embodiment) The following describes the electronic shoe according to the third embodiment of the present invention. Figures 25 to 31 are perspective views, top views, right side views, left side views, front views, bottom views, and rear views of the electronic shoe according to the third embodiment of the present invention, respectively. Figure 32 is a perspective view of the electronic shoe according to the third embodiment of the present invention with the top cover removed.

[0103] In the electronic shoe of the third embodiment, components that are the same as those in the electronic shoe of the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate. The basic configuration of the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment is the same as that of the electronic shoe 101 of the second embodiment. The electronic shoe 102 comprises a housing portion 10, an opening 20, a draw guide portion 30, a weight 40, and a main body 50.

[0104] In this embodiment, the electronic shoe 102 has rounded corners at the tip of the draw guide portion 30, compared to the electronic shoe 101 of the second embodiment. This makes it easier for the dealer to draw a playing card C from the electronic shoe 102 and simultaneously perform an open-hand action to turn the playing card C over so that the front side is facing upwards. In other words, the dealer can place the pad of their right thumb on the corner on their side and pull out the playing card C with their right index finger, allowing them to contact the front side of the playing card C with their thumb and the back side of the pulled-out playing card C with their index finger, enabling them to grasp the playing card C and easily perform the subsequent action of turning the playing card C over.

[0105] In this embodiment, the electronic shoe 102 has magnets built into the rear end of the top cover 15 and the rear end of the housing portion 10 that contacts the rear end of the top cover 15 when the top cover 15 is attached. As a result, the top cover 15 is held in place by the magnetic force of the magnets when it is attached to the electronic shoe 102. Furthermore, the top cover 15 can be easily removed by sliding it against the magnetic force of the magnets.

[0106] In this embodiment of the electronic shoe 102, metal reinforcing plates are built into both the side cover 13 and the side wall portion that integrally forms the side with the side cover 13. This reduces deformation of the side cover 13 even when inward pressure is applied to the side cover 13 when the electronic shoe 102 is lifted by grasping the side cover 13 and the opposing side wall 12.

[0107] In this embodiment, the electronic shoe 102 has a projection 157 extending in the front-to-back direction on the outer side of the top cover 15. This makes it easy to lift the electronic shoe 102 by placing your fingers on this projection 157 while the top cover 15 is attached.

[0108] As shown in Figure 31, the back of the electronic shoe 102 is equipped with a connector 62 for connecting to an external device and a power switch 61 for the electronic shoe 102.

[0109] As shown in Figure 32, the outer portions 132 of the upper ends of the front and rear ends of the side cover 13, and the portion 141 of the side wall 14 facing the outer portion 132 of the side cover 13 are chamfered. This prevents the inner side of the top cover 15 from catching on the step at the boundary between the upper end of the side cover 13 and the side wall 14, which would hinder smooth sliding as the top cover 15 slides to the closed position.

[0110] Figure 33 shows an example of the display of a result display display according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The result display display 55 of this embodiment displays information in two lines. Specifically, the result display display 55 displays the game result on the left side, with the rank and suit of the two playing cards C that make up the banker hand displayed in the upper line, and the units digit of the sum of the ranks of the two playing cards C that make up the banker hand displayed in the lower line. On the right side, the rank and suit of the two playing cards C that make up the player hand are displayed in the upper line, and the units digit of the sum of the ranks of the two playing cards C that make up the player hand is displayed in the lower line.

[0111] In the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment, in addition to the lamps for displaying the results of Player Win, Banker Win, and Tie, the result display lamp 54 is also provided with a lamp for displaying Banker 6. Banker 6 means that the Banker wins with a hand of 6, and in this case, even if you bet on Banker Win, the amount of chips paid out will be half of the bet amount. Furthermore, if there is a betting area for the Banker to win with a 6 (called "Super 6," "Lucky 6," etc.), the chips bet there will be paid out at a multiplier greater than 1x (for example, 24x).

[0112] Thus, when Banker 6 is issued, the dealer must perform a different payment operation than usual. Therefore, in the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment, one of the result display lamps 54 is provided to indicate that Banker 6 has been issued.

[0113] Figure 34 is a perspective view showing details of the draw guide section of a third embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 34, the restricting section 31 is removed to show the internal structure of the restricting section 31. The tip portions of the side walls 12 and 14 are each provided with a retaining portion 18 to prevent the playing cards C housed within from lifting up. The lower surface of this retaining portion 18 has a downwardly convex curved shape. With this configuration, the tip of the leading playing card C stops in front of the restricting bar 37, and the leading playing card C housed in the housing section 10 is not pressed against the restricting bar 37 by its own weight and the pressure of the weight 40.

[0114] With this configuration, as shown in Figure 34, when removing the restricting section 31 to perform maintenance on the restricting bar 37, the playing card C does not get in the way. In other words, the height of the restricting bar 37 requires precise adjustment to prevent drawing two cards at once. Therefore, adjustment may be necessary during the use of the electronic shoe 102, and even in that case, since the leading playing card C is not in contact with the restricting bar 37, the restricting bar 37 can be adjusted without removing the playing card C from the storage section 10.

[0115] As shown in Figure 34, the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment is provided with a sensor cover 39 that covers the code reading sensors 33, 34 and the card detection sensors 35, 36. The sensor cover 39 is provided with a dustproof gasket on its outer periphery to prevent paper dust from the playing card C from entering the interior. The sensor cover 39 is made of a transparent material.

[0116] Furthermore, to prevent paper dust from the playing card C from entering the code reading sensors 33, 34 and the card detection sensors 35, 36, a sponge-like dustproof material or sealing material surrounds the sensor chips on the sensor substrate.

[0117] Figure 35 is a perspective view of a restricting portion of a third embodiment of the present invention. The restricting portion 31 has a generally fork-like shape, and a locking claw 22 is provided on the lower surface of its tip. This locking claw 22 engages with a claw receiving hole 19 formed at the tip of the side walls 12 and 14. The engagement of the locking claw 22 of the restricting portion 31 with the claw receiving hole 19 of the side walls 12 and 14 prevents the tip portions of the side walls 12 and 14 from spreading outwards to the left and right, and also prevents the tip portion of the restricting portion 31 from lifting up.

[0118] Figure 36 is a perspective view of the top cover of a third embodiment of the present invention. Multiple ribs 152 are formed on the inner surface 151 of the top cover 15. In addition, guides 155 extending in the longitudinal direction are formed on the inner surface 151 at positions close to the left and right side walls 156. When the top cover 15 is attached to the electronic shoe 102, the upper ends of the side walls 12, 14 and the side cover 13 are inserted into the gap between the guides 155 and the left and right side walls 156.

[0119] In other words, with the top cover 15 attached, the upper ends of the side walls 12, 14 and the side cover 13 are fitted into and fixed in the gap between the guide 155 formed on the inner surface 151 of the top cover 15 and the side wall 156. Therefore, with the top cover 15 attached, the side walls 12, 14 and the side cover 13 are firmly fixed to the top cover 15, and in combination with the action of the metal reinforcing plate described above, deformation when lifting the electronic shoe 102 can be reduced.

[0120] In baccarat games using an electronic shoe 102, there are two types of game operations: one called squeeze baccarat, which allows the dealer to open the playing card C drawn from the electronic shoe 102 to the players, and another called open hand baccarat, where the dealer opens the playing card C drawn from the electronic shoe 102 themselves. In the open hand case, the dealer draws one playing card C from the electronic shoe 102 and simultaneously opens that playing card C and places it on the game table.

[0121] Figure 37 is a perspective view of an electronic shoe according to a third embodiment of the present invention. In the case of an open hand as described above, raising parts 71 and 72 are attached to the bottom surface of the electronic shoe 102 to raise the electronic shoe 102. This raises the height of the top surface of the draw guide section 30, on which the playing card C to be drawn slides, from the table surface of the game table, making it easier for the dealer to pick up the drawn card.

[0122] The base riser 71 is attached to the front end of the base. The two base risers 72 are attached to the left and right sides of the rear end of the base, respectively. The base riser 71 may be attached to the base with screws, and the base risers 72 may be attached to the base by screws themselves.

[0123] In the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment, similar to the electronic shoe 101 of the second embodiment, when the top cover 15 is closed, the weight 40 is released from being held at the top of the housing 10, and the weight 40 slides down the housing 10, pressing the rearmost end of the stored playing card C forward. In this configuration, the weight 40 slides down when the top cover 15 is attached, so the user cannot visually confirm whether the weight 40 has indeed slid and is pushing the playing card C forward.

[0124] Therefore, an observation window may be provided in the top cover 15. This observation window may be located at the top of the top cover 15 and allow observation of the weight 40 held at the upper end of the housing 10. As a result, when the top cover 15 is attached to the electronic shoe 102 and the weight 40 slides downward, the weight 40 cannot be observed through the observation window, and the user can confirm that the weight 40 has slid down.

[0125] Instead of an observation window, a sensor that detects when the weight 40 slides from its holding position may be used. For example, a sensor consisting of an LED light and a photodiode sensor may be provided at a position corresponding to the weight 40 to detect the presence or absence of the weight 40 in the holding position.

[0126] A computer is built into the main body 50 of the electronic shoe 102 in this embodiment. This computer comprises an arithmetic processing unit, memory, and storage device, and operates as the processing unit of the electronic shoe 102 according to the program of this embodiment, and performs the following information processing. First, the processing unit stores the rank of the drawn card and the game result information as log information, along with the date and time information, in the storage device. In addition, if the processing unit detects that the top cover 15 has been opened or closed, or if any error occurs, it also stores these events as log information, along with the date and time information, in the storage device.

[0127] Furthermore, the processing unit may run analysis software to analyze this log information. This analysis software may, for example, perform statistical processing on the game results or on the rank of the drawn playing card C.

[0128] The processing unit is connected to an external computer via connector 62. This allows the external computer to read various log information stored in the storage device by connecting to the processing unit via connector 62. Therefore, the processing unit has a security function to ensure that log information can only be exported to trusted external computers. Specifically, the processing unit is assigned an ID and password, and communicates with the connected external computer only when this ID and password are entered from that computer.

[0129] The processing unit obtains rank information of the drawn playing card C from code reading sensors 33 and 34. As described above, two lines of marks M1 and M2 are printed on playing card C using UV ink, and the code reading sensors 33 and 34 obtain rank information by reading these marks M1 and M2. At this time, a threshold is set for the sensors to determine whether or not there are marks M1 and M2.

[0130] The processing unit executes a program to teach the code reading sensors 33 and 34 a threshold value for determining the presence or absence of this mark. Conventionally, the threshold value was set by operating each of the multiple sensors individually. In the electronic shoe 102 of this embodiment, teaching of these multiple code reading sensors 33 and 34 can be performed collectively by the processing unit or an external computer connected to the processing unit.

[0131] In this teaching process, playing card C is placed at the position where mark M1 is read by code reading sensor 33, the reading value of code reading sensor 33 is obtained, and the threshold value of code reading sensor 33 is set based on this value. Similarly, playing card C is placed at the position where mark M2 is read by code reading sensor 34, the reading value of code reading sensor 34 is obtained, and the threshold value of code reading sensor 34 is set based on this value.

[0132] Alternatively, during teaching, the processing unit may draw a playing card C and acquire the changes in the readings of the code reading sensors 33 and 34 (the values ​​of the parts with and without marks M1 and M2), and set a threshold based on these readings.

[0133] Furthermore, the processing unit or an external computer connected to the processing unit also performs teaching regarding the color of the playing cards C. In this teaching process, for example, about 20 playing cards C are drawn, and during this time, the code reading sensors 33 and 34 read the cards, allowing the processing unit to determine the color of the playing cards C and adjust the white balance. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 100, 101, 102 Electronic shoe 10 Storage Unit 11 Bottom 12 Side wall 13 Side cover 14 Side wall 15 Top cover 16 Locking protrusion 17 Slide rails 20 openings 21 Blinds 30 Draw guide section 31 Regulatory Department 32 Slope 33, 34 Code reading sensors 35, 36 Card detection sensors 37 Regulatory Bar 38 Draw Restriction Pin 40 weight 41 Laura 42 Slope 43 Top 50 Main Unit 51 Error indicator light 52 Result display lamp 53. Display Results Button 54 Result display lamp 61 Power switch 62 connectors 71, 72 Base-raising parts 111 Weight Stopper 112 Backflow Stopper 152 Ribs 153 Pressing protrusion 154 Locking protrusion 155 Guide 156 Side wall C Playing Cards M1, M2 Mark

Claims

1. A casino security electronic shoe for holding multiple playing cards that are drawn one by one for a game, A storage compartment for storing multiple stacked playing cards, An opening that exposes the leading playing card among the plurality of playing cards stored in the storage section, A draw guide section that guides the drawing of the leading playing card from the opening, A weight for pushing the last of the multiple playing cards toward the opening, Equipped with, The bottom of the aforementioned storage section is sloped downward toward the opening, The weight is such that, as the leading playing card is drawn in sequence and the last playing card moves toward the opening, it pushes the last playing card toward the opening, and the bottom of the storage section is movable toward the opening. The storage compartment has a configuration in which the top surface and at least one side facing the direction of drawing playing cards are open, and the plurality of playing cards can be loaded into the storage compartment through the open portion from the open side, in a casino security electronic shoe.

2. The casino security electronic shoe according to claim 1, wherein the storage section is provided with a stopper at a position corresponding to the lower portion of the open side of the plurality of playing cards, which restricts the lateral movement of the plurality of playing cards.

3. The aforementioned plurality of playing cards are housed in the storage section with their backs facing the opening. The weight is in contact with the front surface of the last playing card so that the front surface of the last playing card is not visible, according to claim 2, for a casino security electronic shoe.

4. The casino security electronic shoe according to claim 1, further comprising a side cover that is movable between a cover position that covers the open side of the housing and an open position that opens the open side of the housing.

5. The side cover is rotatably movable between the cover position and the open position, according to claim 4, for a casino security electronic shoe.

6. The side cover is movable parallel to the cover position and the open position, according to claim 4, for a casino security electronic shoe.

7. The system further includes a side cover that is movable between a cover position that covers the open side of the housing and an open position that opens the open side of the housing, The casino security electronic shoe according to claim 2, wherein when the side cover is in the cover position, the surface of the side cover facing the side is located outward from the surface of the stopper facing the side.

8. The casino security electronic shoe according to claim 1, wherein the side surface is the right side surface facing the direction of the draw.

9. The draw guide portion is removable, according to claim 1, for a casino security electronic shoe.

10. A casino security electronic shoe for housing multiple playing cards that are drawn one by one for a game, A storage compartment for storing multiple stacked playing cards, An opening that exposes the leading playing card among the plurality of playing cards stored in the storage section, A draw guide section that guides the drawing of the leading playing card from the opening, A weight for pushing the last of the multiple playing cards toward the opening, Equipped with, The bottom of the aforementioned storage section is sloped downward toward the opening, The weight is such that, as the leading playing card is drawn in sequence and the last playing card moves toward the opening, it pushes the last playing card toward the opening, and the bottom of the storage section is movable toward the opening. The storage section has a configuration in which the top surface and at least one side surface are open, and the plurality of playing cards can be loaded into the storage section through the open portion. The aforementioned draw guide section is a casino security electronic shoe equipped with a metal part to hold down the playing card to be drawn in order to prevent two playing cards from being drawn at the same time.

11. The casino security electronic shoe according to claim 1, wherein the storage section is equipped with a top cover that is movable between a cover position that covers the top surfaces of the plurality of playing cards and an open position that leaves the top surfaces of the plurality of playing cards open.

12. The casino security electronic shoe according to claim 1, wherein the storage section is equipped with a holding means for holding the weight at a rear position of the storage section in order to load the plurality of playing cards into the storage section.

13. A casino security electronic shoe for housing multiple playing cards that are drawn one by one for a game, A storage compartment for storing multiple stacked playing cards, An opening that exposes the leading playing card among the plurality of playing cards stored in the storage section, A draw guide section that guides the drawing of the leading playing card from the opening, A weight for pushing the last of the multiple playing cards toward the opening, Equipped with, The bottom of the aforementioned storage section is sloped downward toward the opening, The weight is such that, as the leading playing card is drawn in sequence and the last playing card moves toward the opening, it pushes the last playing card toward the opening, and the bottom of the storage section is movable toward the opening. The storage section has a configuration in which the top surface and at least one side surface are open, and the plurality of playing cards can be loaded into the storage section through the open portion. The storage unit is equipped with a holding means for holding the weight at a rear position of the storage unit in order to load the plurality of playing cards into the storage unit. The above-mentioned housing section is further provided with an upper cover that can be fixed in a cover position to cover the upper surface, The holding means releases the weight when the top cover reaches the cover position, and is a casino security electronic shoe.

14. The system further includes a side cover that is movable between a cover position that covers the open side of the housing and an open position that opens the open side of the housing, The casino security electronic shoe according to claim 13, wherein the side cover is positioned at the cover position of the side cover, thereby enabling the top cover to be fixed at the cover position of the top cover.

Images