JP2001232054A - Method for dispensing and depositing medium for game facilities and system therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To utilize deposit media in respective shops in a game system using dispensing media such as medals. SOLUTION: The respective shops (2-1) are provided with the deposit machine (8) of the dispensing media, a dispenser (9) and a game machine (10-1-10-n) internet. The respective shops are connected to a center (1). A deposit value in the shop is converted to a value in common to the respective shops and managed in the center (1). The value in the center (1) is converted to the value of the dispensing media in the shop and utilization in the shop is made possible.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a game method and a system for playing a game using a rental medium such as a rental medal in a store, and more particularly to a method of using a deposited medium in each store. A game method and a system thereof.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, amusement facilities have been actively developed. In these facilities, various game machines are installed. In particular, game machines that enjoy games using rental medals and pachinko balls are highly popular. In such a facility (hereinafter referred to as a store), a system for renting a medal to a user, operating the game machine using the medal, and acquiring a medal according to the game result is adopted. I have. As this game machine, Sugoroku game machine,
There are various types such as horse racing game machines, slot machines, and pachinko machines.

[0003] It is forbidden to convert the medals and the like thus obtained into cash. For this reason, the user deposits the acquired medals and the like at the store, and next time,
The service to withdraw and use at the store is provided.

[0004]

However, conventionally,
There is a problem that the acquired medals and the like are basically valid only in the acquired store and cannot be used in other stores. For example, if a medal or the like obtained at a certain store can be used at another store, it can be used regardless of location, which is extremely convenient for the user. Further, if a game machine in a store that has acquired medals and the like and another store in which game machines of different types are installed can be used, the service of the user can be made more attractive. As a result, it is expected that the store will be able to improve user visits and usage frequency.

[0005] In the conventional game method, since only the store can be used, there is a problem that it is difficult to give the user such convenience.

[0006] The unit price of medals and the like at each store is determined by prices in the area, set prices at other stores, and the like.
In addition, since it changes as needed, it is difficult to use a medal or the like obtained from another store in the own store.

[0007] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method and a system for lending / depositing a rental medium for using a game machine at a game facility for using the same at a different store.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a method and a system for renting / depositing a medium at a game facility for using a rented medium having a different unit price depending on a store in a different store.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a method and a system for renting / depositing media at a game facility for acquiring a game situation of a user and improving a user acquisition service. .

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a method and a system for renting / depositing a medium in a game facility, which can reduce the burden of paperwork on the lent medium.

[0011]

In order to achieve this object,
According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method of lending / depositing a medium at a game facility is to deposit a lending medium at a store, and convert the value of the deposited lending medium at the store into a credit number having a common value at each store. Depositing at a center connected to the store, reading the number of credits of the common value of the center of the user, converting the value to the value of the rental medium at the store, the value at the store Lending the rental medium to the user, and using the game machine at the store using the rental medium of the value at the store.

One aspect of the system for renting / depositing media for a game facility according to the present invention includes a center and a plurality of stores connected to the center. A gaming machine that pays out a rental medium of value according to the game result,
Depositing means for converting the value of the rented medium deposited at the store at the store into a credit value of a common value at each store and storing it at a center connected to the store; and Means for reading out the number of credits of the common value at the center, converting the number of credits at the store into the value of the rented medium, and renting out the medium lent at the store to the user.

[0013] In this aspect, the lent medium that has been deposited is
Centralized management at the stores connected to each store enables the use of rental media at each store. Since medals and the like obtained at a certain store can be used at another store, it is extremely convenient for the user. In addition, since a game machine in a store that has acquired medals and the like and another store in which different types of game machines are installed can be used, the service of the user can be made more attractive. As a result, it is expected that the store will be able to improve user visits and usage frequency. Further, since the centralized management is performed at the center, it is possible to reduce the burden of clerical processing of the rental medium at each store.

Further, in order to absorb the difference in the unit price of the rental medium at each store, the value at each store is converted into the number of credits having a common value, and is managed collectively. For this reason, even if the unit price is set individually at each store, each store can use the rental medium deposited at another store.

[0015] Also, the present invention provides a medium rental /
In the depositing method, the depositing step includes converting the value of the lent medium deposited in the store at the store into a number of credits of a common value in each store; and Storing the number of credits of the common value of the center of the user; and, at the store, the number of credits at the store. Converting the rental medium into a value of the rental medium and renting the rental medium of the value at the store to the user.

In the media lending / depositing system for a game facility according to the present invention, the store converts the value of the deposited rental medium at the store into a credit number having a common value at each store, and A server that reads the number of credits of the common value of the center and converts the number of credits into the value of the rental medium at the store.

In each store, conversion between an individual value and a common value is performed, so that the conversion rate can be easily set and changed in each store.

Further, in the method of lending / depositing a medium at a game facility according to the present invention, the depositing step converts the number of medals at a unit price of the deposited medals into a credit number at a unit price common to each store. Storing the number of credits of the common value at the center, and the lending step reads the number of credits of the common unit price of the center of the user, and stores the number of credits in the store. And converting the unit price in the store into the number of medals and lending the unit price medals in the store to the user.

In the media lending / depositing system for a game facility according to the present invention, the depositing means converts the number of medals at a unit price of the deposited medals into a credit number at a unit price common to the stores, The center has a means for storing the number of credits of the common value, the lending means reads out the number of credits of the common unit price of the center of the user, the number of credits,
There is means for converting the unit price at the store into the number of medals and lending the unit price medals at the store to the user.

In this aspect, by applying to medals that cannot be exchanged for cash or prizes, the convenience of the user of the medal game facility can be improved.

Further, in the method of lending / depositing a medium at a game facility according to the present invention, the depositing step includes a step of reading the card of the user, and a step of reading a value of the lent medium deposited by the user at the store. Converting the number of credits with a common unit price at the store and storing the number of credits with the common value in the center accessible by the card, wherein the lending step is performed by using the card of the user Confirming, and reading the number of credits of the common value of the center of the user who has confirmed the identity, the number of credits,
Converting the value of the store into the rental medium and renting the rental medium to the user.

In the media lending / depositing system for a game facility according to the present invention, the depositing means may include means for reading the card of the user and the value of the lending medium deposited by the user at the store. Converted to the number of credits of the common unit price, the number of credits of the common value,
Means for storing at the center accessible by the card, wherein the lending means comprises means for verifying the identity by the card of the user, and means for identifying the common value of the center of the user who has verified the identity. Means for reading out the number of credits, converting the number of credits into the lending medium of the value at the store, and lending the lending medium at the store to the user.

In this embodiment, since the user holds the card and manages the deposit and lending, the number of deposits for each user can be easily and collectively managed. Also, at the time of lending, the identity can be confirmed and unauthorized use can be prevented.

[0024] In the method for lending / depositing media in a game facility according to the present invention, the lending step includes the step of confirming the identity of the user with the card of the user by the automatic lending machine, and the step of identifying the identity by the automatic lending machine. Reading the number of credits of the common value of the center of the user, converting the number of credits to the lending medium of the value at the store, and lending the lending medium at the store to the user. .

[0025] In the media lending / depositing system for a game facility according to the present invention, the lending means is an automatic lending machine for lending the lending medium of the value at the store converted to the user by operating the card of the user. It consists of.

In this aspect, the lending machine is constituted by an automatic lending machine using a card, so that the convenience of the user can be improved and the store can be saved.

[0027] In the method for lending / depositing a medium in a game facility according to the present invention, the lending step further comprises the step of lending the valuable medium having a value at the store to a user by an automatic lending machine in accordance with cash input. Have. In the medium lending / depositing system for a game facility according to the present invention, the automatic lending machine lends the valuable medium having a value at the store to a user in response to cash input.

In this embodiment, since the lending medium can be automatically rented with cash in addition to the card, it is convenient for the user and the number of automatic lending machines at the store can be reduced.

In the method of lending / depositing a medium at a game facility according to the present invention, the step of using the game machine includes the steps of causing a card to be read by the game machine and the use status of the game machine by the user. And the step of storing. In the game system according to the present invention, the game machine has means for reading the card, and means for notifying the center of the user's use of the game machine to the center.

In this embodiment, since the use status of the game machine is managed at the center using the above-mentioned user's card, the use status can be referred to at each store, and the user is attractive when visiting the store. Can provide service.

In the method for lending / depositing a medium at a game facility according to the present invention, the step of using the game machine includes the steps of causing a card to be read by the game machine and the status of use of the game machine by the user. The lending step reads the number of credits of the common value of the center of the user whose identity has been confirmed, and stores the number of credits in the lending medium of the value at the store. Converting, renting out the rental medium at the store to the user, and reading and displaying the usage status of the user at the center.

In the medium lending / depositing system for a game facility according to the present invention, the game machine has means for reading the card, and means for notifying the center of the user's use of the game machine to the center. , The lending means reads out the usage status of the center of the user,
It has means for displaying.

In this aspect, the lending means displays the game machine use status of each user, so that the service corresponding to the use status to the user can be immediately executed.

Further, the method of lending / depositing a medium at a game facility and the system of lending / depositing a medium at a game facility according to the present invention provide a game provided by the center using the number of credits of the center outside the store. There is also a terminal to execute. Since the number of credits at the center can be used for a net game or the like, the convenience of the user can be further improved.

A method for lending / depositing a medium at a game facility and a system for lending / depositing a medium at a game facility according to the present invention include a center and a plurality of stores connected to the center. A game machine that plays a game in response to the insertion, and pays out a rental medium of a value according to the game result; and a depositing unit that stores the value of the rental medium deposited in the store in a center connected to the store. And means for reading out the value of the rental medium of the user at the center, and lending the rental medium of the value to the user at the store.

The medium lending / depositing system for a game facility according to the present invention provides a game machine for playing a game in response to the insertion of a lending medium and paying out a lending medium having a value according to the game result, and Depositing means for storing the value of the lent medium in a center connected to the store, and means for reading out the value of the lent medium of the user at the center and lending the lent medium of the value to the user at the store. .

In this embodiment, the lent medium that has been deposited is
Centralized management at the stores connected to each store enables the use of rental media at each store. Since medals and the like obtained at a certain store can be used at another store, it is extremely convenient for the user. In addition, since a game machine in a store that has acquired medals and the like and another store in which different types of game machines are installed can be used, the service of the user can be made more attractive. As a result, it is expected that the store will be able to improve user visits and usage frequency. Further, since the centralized management is performed at the center, it is possible to reduce the burden of clerical processing of the rental medium at each store.

The lending machine of the present invention plays a game in response to the insertion of a lending medium, and lends the lending medium for a gaming machine for paying out a lending medium having a value according to the game result. Means for reading the value of the rented medium of the user of the center that stores the value of the lent medium deposited in the store, and means for renting out the lent medium of the value to the user at the store. The lending machine reads out and lends the value of the lending medium collectively managed by the center, thereby enabling automation.

[0039]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings in the order of a game system, a game method, and other embodiments.

Game system FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of the lending machine, and FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the lending machine of FIG. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the depositing machine, and FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the game machine.

The game system shown in FIG. 1 is a medal game system. Amusement stores 2-1 and 2-
2,2-3,2-n are facilities for enjoying games using medals. Stores 2-1 that joined this system
2-n is a host server 1 via a network line.
(Hereinafter referred to as the center).

Each store 2-1-2-n is connected to the store server 3
, Counter 4, automatic medal lending and depositing machine 9
And a plurality of game machines 10-1-10-n. The counter 4 includes a store terminal 5, a card reader 6 having a password input function, a card writer 7 for issuing cards, and a medal depositing machine 8.

The counter 4 indicates that the store clerk has
This is for issuing cards 11, lending medals, depositing medals, providing information to users, and the like.
That is, the member card 11 is issued using the card writer 7 to the visitor whose name or the like is described in the member application form. As the card 11, a readable card such as a magnetic card, an IC card, and an optical card can be used.

The counter 4 has a store terminal 5 composed of a personal computer or the like. The store terminal 5 is connected to the server 3. The above-mentioned card writer 7, card reader 6, and medal depositing machine 8 are connected to the store terminal 5. The card reader 6 reads the user's membership card 11. Further, the user can input a password (personal identification number) from the card reader 6.

As shown in FIG. 4, the medal depositing machine 8 includes a card reader 80 for reading the membership card 11, a medal insertion slot 83 for inserting the medals 12, a monitor 82 for displaying the number of inserted medals, and operation keys. 81. The medals inserted into the insertion slot 83 are counted by an internal counting mechanism, and the result is displayed on the monitor 82.
Will be displayed. When the user operates the operation keys 81 to approve, the medal number counted and the I
D is transmitted to the terminal 5. In addition, a custody certificate can also be issued.

The medal lending / depositing machine 9 has cash 1
A desired number of medals 12 are released in response to the insertion of the card 3 or the card 11. As shown in FIG. 2, a coin insertion slot 90, a card reader 91, a bill insertion slot 93,
Operation keys 92, monitor 94, and medal outlet 95
, A coin return slot 96, a numeric keypad 97 for inputting a password or the like, and a medal 12 insertion slot 101.

As shown in the block diagram of FIG. 3, the lending / depositing machine 9 includes a card reader 91 and a cash discriminating machine 9.
8, a monitor 94, an operation key 92, a medal payout mechanism 99, a numeric keypad 93, and a medal depositing mechanism 1.
01 and a control unit 100 for controlling these. The control unit 100 includes a microprocessor, detects that a card has been inserted into the card reader 91, executes the card mode, and detects that a coin or bill has been inserted into the insertion ports 90 and 93. And execute the cash mode.

The cash mode is a well-known medal lending function, in which the number of medals 12 specified by the operation keys 92 is paid out within the inserted cash amount. On the other hand, the card mode is a mode particularly provided in the embodiment of the present invention, in which the ID of the card 11 is read, and the password is input from the ten keys 93. The ID and the password are transmitted to the center 1 via the server 3. In the center 1, the identity is confirmed by the ID and the password, and when the identity is confirmed, the credit amount of the user is transmitted to the server 3. The server 3 converts the number of credits into the number of medals according to the value of the medals at the store and transmits the medals to the lending / depositing machine 9 as described later.

In the lending / depositing machine 9, the monitor 9
4 displays the number of medals. The user operates the operation keys 92 to select the required number of medals. Then, by the medal payout mechanism 99, the selected number of medals 1
2 is released. The above-mentioned number of medals of the user is notified to the server 3 by subtracting the above-mentioned number of emitted medals. The server 3 converts the number of credits into the number of credits according to the above-mentioned medal unit price, and transmits the converted number to the center 1. Thus, the center 1 updates the credit amount of the user.

Similarly, deposit is performed by the same operation as in FIG. That is, the medals inserted into the insertion slot 101 are counted by the internal counting mechanism, and the result is displayed on the monitor 94. When the user operates the operation keys 92 to approve, the counted number of medals and the ID of the card 11 are transmitted to the terminal 5. In addition, a custody certificate can also be issued.

These controls are performed by the control unit 100. The medal lending process using the card 11 can be performed by using the card reader 6 and the terminal 5 at the window and a medal lending machine at the window (not shown).

Next, returning to FIG. 1, the game machine 10-1-1
0-n basically starts the game in accordance with the insertion of the medals 12, and releases the number of medals 12 according to the game result. Such game machines include a poker game machine (for example, Japanese Patent No. 2660586) and a horse racing game machine (for example, Japanese Patent No. 2621).
No. 663, Japanese Patent Publication No. 7-28958),
A roulette game machine (Japanese Patent Publication No. 7-112501) or the like can be used.

Further, in the embodiment of the present invention, the game machine 10-1-10-n has a card reader for reading the user's card 11, and a communication function for transmitting the use status of the user to the server 3. Is provided. That is, the user I
D and the usage information such as the type of the game machine, the game start time, the end time, and the number of game medals are transmitted to the center 1 via the server 3. The center 1 stores this as a game history.

FIG. 5 shows an example of a medal game machine provided with a card reader. This medal game machine 10-1 is a game machine for enjoying a sugoroku game, and has a medal slot 101.
Consoles 103 and 104, and medal outlets 105 and 1
06. Further, this game machine has a card reader 102.

Next, the center 1 in FIG. 1 will be described. The center 1 is composed of a known computer system. The file 110 stores the data of each user. This data is the ID of each user,
Personal information such as password, name, address, age, gender, etc.
The number of credits, the number of acquired points, and the game history are described above.

On the other hand, the store server 3 shown in FIG. 1 is composed of a well-known computer, and is connected to the center 1 via a network line. In the store, the store server 3 includes a counter terminal 5, a rental machine 9, and a game machine 10-1.
-10-n. The store server 3 is provided with a conversion process 30 for converting the number of credits of the center 1 into the number of medals corresponding to the medal unit price at the store, and converting the number of medals into the number of credits set with a common value. .

For example, at a certain store, the medal unit price is 10
If the number of medals at the store is set at 20, and the number of medals at the store is set at 50 yen, the number of medals is multiplied by 50 and converted into the number of credits. The number of credits for Center 1 is 1
/ 50 times and converted to the number of medals in the store. Similarly, at another store, the medal unit price is 1000 yen and 10
If the number of coins is set to 0, that is, 10 yen per coin, the number of medals in the store is multiplied by 10 and converted into the number of credits. Further, the number of credits of the center 1 is multiplied by 1/10 and converted into the number of medals in the store. In the server 3, a unit price or an exchange rate at the store is set.

As described above, the center 1 joins this system in order to manage the number of deposited medals of the user.
As long as the store is connected to the center 1, the medal can be deposited and withdrawn at any store nationwide. This is effective in promoting the use of the medal game facility.

In order to maintain the autonomy of determining the medal unit price at each store, the number of medals is collectively managed with a common value.
In each store, since the medal unit price is converted in accordance with the medal unit price in the own store, even if the medal unit price differs in each store, it can be unifiedly managed as a common value. Furthermore, to convert at the store,
It is easy to change the medal unit price at each store. Further, after the change, the medal unit price is less likely to leak to other stores. Of course, if the store permits, this conversion can also be performed at the center 1.

Further, as the information of the user, the game history is set to 1
Formerly managed. For this reason, it is necessary to be able to grasp the game usage situation at other stores as well as the own store at each store, and to provide services such as introduction of game machines according to the user's preference at the time of user visit , And can fix excellent customers.

Further, since the card is used, the deposit and lending can be automated, and the identity of the withdrawal can be easily confirmed. Even if the deposit and withdrawal are performed between stores, fraud can be prevented.

Although the rental medium has been described in terms of medals, other rental media such as pachinko balls can be used.

Next, a game method of the present invention will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart of processing when issuing a card, FIG. 7 is a flowchart of lending medals, FIG. 8 is a flowchart of depositing medals, and FIG. 9 is a flowchart of processing during a game.

The procedure at the time of registration will be described with reference to FIG.

(S1) First, a user who wants to use this system writes personal information such as an address and a name on an application form at the time of visiting the store, and applies to the counter 4.

(S2) In the counter 4, the clerk operates the terminal 5 to input personal information after checking the application items, and registers it in the center 1 via the server 3.
At this time, the user is required to specify a password, which is also registered in the center 1. From center 1, ID (identification number)
Is notified.

(S3) The card writer 7 is operated by operating the terminal 5, and the membership card 11 on which the above-described ID is recorded is stored.
And pass it to the user. Thus, the registration process ends.

Next, the medal lending process will be described with reference to FIG.

(S5) The user borrows a medal,
The medal lending / depositing machine 9 is operated. The medal lending / depositing machine 9 detects that a card has been inserted into the card reader 91, executes the card mode, detects that coins or bills have been inserted into the insertion slots 90 and 93, and outputs cash. Execute mode.

(S6) The cash mode is a well-known token lending function.
Pays out the number of medals 12 specified by. On the other hand, in the card mode, the ID of the inserted card 11 is read,
A password is entered from the ten keys 93. The ID and the password are transmitted to the center 1 via the server 3. In the center 1, the identity is confirmed by the ID and the password, and when the identity is confirmed, the credit amount of the user is transmitted to the server 3. As described above, the server 3 determines the medal value (exchange rate) at the store by using
The number of credits is converted to the number of medals and transmitted to the lending machine 9.

(S7) In the rental machine 9, the monitor 94
Displays the number of medals. The user operates the operation keys 92 to select the required number of medals. Then, by the medal payout mechanism 99, the selected number of medals 12
Is released.

(S8) The number of medals of the user is subtracted from the number of medals released and the server 3 is notified. The server 3 converts the number of credits into the number of credits according to the above-mentioned medal unit price, and transmits the converted number to the center 1. Thus, the center 1 updates the credit amount of the user. Then, the card 11 is returned.

(S9) In the cash mode, change is released. Thus, the medal lending process ends.

As described above, the lending can be similarly performed at the counter 4 using the card reader 6, the terminal 5, and the lending machine. Therefore, the user
Either can be selected. At the window, the game history of the user of the center 1 can be read. By analyzing this, it is possible to guide the user to a favorite game machine or the like.

Next, the medal deposit processing will be described with reference to FIG.

(S10) The user enters the medal depositing machine 8
The member card 11 is inserted into the card reader 80 of FIG. The card reader 80 reads the member card 11.

(S11) The user deposits the medal 1
2 is input into the input port 83. The medals inserted into the insertion slot 83 are counted by the internal counting mechanism, and the result is displayed on the monitor 82.

(S12) When the user operates the operation keys 81 to approve, the counted number of medals and the ID of the card 11 are transmitted to the server 3 via the terminal 5.

(S13) The server 3 converts the number of medals into a common number of credits and transmits it to the center 1 together with the ID by the above-mentioned conversion process s. Center 1
Then, the number of credits of the ID is updated.

(S14) The card 11 is returned, and the process ends.

This deposit is based on the aforementioned medal lending /
It can also be performed using the depositing machine 9.

Next, the processing in the game machine will be described with reference to FIG.
explain.

(S15) The member card 11 is inserted into the card reader 102 before or after a medal is inserted into the game machine 10-1.

(S16) The game machine 10-1 starts the game, and the user enjoys the game and ends the game. The game machine 10-1 transmits the usage status of the user to the server 3. That is, the user ID and the use information such as the type of the game machine, the game start time, the end time, and the number of game medals are transmitted to the center 1 via the server 3. The center 1 stores this as a game history.

(S17) The card 11 is returned to the user, and the process ends.

[0086] In addition to the above-mentioned user service at the window, the history is analyzed by analyzing the history at each store and notifying the user of the holding of a game event or notifying the user of the introduction of a new model. be able to. As a result, good customers can be fixed at the national level.

FIG. 10 is a system configuration diagram of another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 10, the same components as those described in FIG.
The same symbols are used. This system is an extension of the system shown in FIG. 1 in which the home terminal 20-1-20-n can use the own credit amount of the center 1 described above.

That is, the home game machine 20-1-20-n accesses the center 1 via the Internet and enjoys a match game, a mahjong game, and the like provided by the center 1 at home. In that case, from the home game machine, I
Enter D and password and confirm your identity at center 1. This allows the user to enjoy the net game using the number of credits. For example, the number of credits can be used for payment to an opponent or a game usage fee.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a game process according to still another embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 11, the game machine 10
The game machine is provided with a mode in which the player plays the game by directly using the credit number of the center 1 without using medals.

(S20) The user inserts a card into the card reader 102 in order to use the game machine 10-1 for credit. The game machine 10-1 detects that a card has been inserted, and executes the card mode.

(S21) In the card mode, the ID of the inserted card 11 is read, and a password is input from a ten-key (not shown) of the game machine. The ID and the password are transmitted to the center 1 via the server 3. In the center 1, the identity is confirmed by the ID and the password,
When the user is confirmed, the credit amount of the user is transmitted to the server 3. As described above, the server 3 converts the number of credits into the number of medals based on the medal value (exchange rate) at the store and transmits the converted number to the game machine 10-1. The game machine 10-1 displays the number of medals on a monitor.

(S22) The user presses the start key of the game machine to start playing. When the game is over, the number of medals used is subtracted from the number of medals, and the number of acquired medals is added.

(S23) The server 3 is notified of the updated medal count of the user. The server 3 converts the number of credits into the number of credits according to the above-mentioned medal unit price, and transmits the converted number to the center 1. Thus, the center 1 updates the credit amount of the user. Then, the card 11 is returned.

In the description of FIG. 1, a card and a password are used for personal identification. However, other personal identification means using an ID and a password without using a fingerprint, a voiceprint, or a card can be used.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments, various modifications are possible within the scope of the present invention, and these are not excluded from the technical scope of the present invention.

[0096]

As described above, according to the present invention,
The following effects are obtained. (1) The lending media received are managed collectively at the center connected to each store, and the lending media can be used at each store, so that medals etc. acquired at one store can be used at other stores Very convenient for the user. (2) In addition, since a game machine in a store that has acquired medals and the like and another store in which different types of game machines are installed can be used, the service of the user can be made more attractive. As a result, it is expected that the store will be able to improve user visits and usage frequency. (3) Further, since the centralized management is performed at the center, the burden of processing the rental media at each store can be reduced. (4) Also, in order to absorb the difference in the unit price of the rented medium at each store, the value at each store is converted to the number of credits of a common value and managed collectively. So even if you set a unit price for each store,
Each store can use the rental media deposited at other stores.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a game system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of the medal lending / depositing machine of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the medal lending / depositing machine of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of the medal depositing machine of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram of the game machine of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the registration process of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a medal lending process of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a medal deposit process of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a processing flowchart of the game machine in FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a system configuration diagram of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a processing flowchart of a game machine according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Host server (center) 2-1-2-n store 3 Store server 4 Window 5 Store terminal 6 Card reader 7 Card writer 8 Medal depositor 9 Medal lending / depositing machine 10-1-10-n Game machine

Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat II (reference) G06K 17/00 G06K 17/00 T G07F 17/32 G07F 17/32

Claims (24)

[Claims] 1. A method for renting / depositing media at a game facility in which a game machine is used at a store to play a game in accordance with the input of a rented medium and pays out a lent medium having a value corresponding to the game result. Depositing the rented medium at the store, converting the value of the lent medium at the store to the number of credits having a common value at each store, and storing the same in a center connected to the store; Reading the number of credits of the common value of the center of the person, converting the number of credits of the rented medium at the store, and lending the lent medium of the value at the store to a user. How to lend / deposit media at a gaming facility. 2. Lending of media to the game facility according to claim 1.
In the depositing method, the depositing step comprises: converting, in the store, the value of the lent medium deposited in the store to the number of credits of a common value in each store; and And the step of storing at the center, wherein the lending step reads the number of credits of the common value of the center of the user; and at the store, the number of credits at the store. Converting the value of the rental medium into a value of the rental medium and renting the rental medium of the value at the store to the user. 3. Lending of media to the game facility according to claim 1.
In the depositing method, the depositing step converts the number of medals at a unit price of the deposited medals into a number of credits of a unit price common to each store, and the number of credits of a common value at the center. Storing, the lending step reads out the number of credits of the common unit price of the center of the user, converts the number of credits into the number of medals of the unit price at the store, A medium lending / depositing method for a game facility, comprising a step of lending a medal of a unit price at a store to a user. 4. Lending of a medium to the game facility according to claim 1.
In the deposit method, the depositing step is a step of inputting the unique information of the user, and converting the value of the lent medium deposited by the user at the store into a credit number of a unit price common to each store. Storing the number of credits of the common value at the center accessible by the card; the lending step includes: identifying the user by using the unique information of the user; and the using the identified user. Reading the number of credits of the common value of the center of the person, converting the number of credits into the lending medium of the value at the store,
A step of renting out a rental medium at the store to a user;
How to deposit. 5. The media rental of the game facility according to claim 4.
In the deposit method, the lending step is performed by an automatic lending machine, by using the user's unique information,
Confirming the identity, the automatic lending machine reads out the number of credits of the common value of the center of the user whose identity is confirmed, and converts the number of credits into the rental medium of the value at the store. Renting out the rental medium at the store to a user. 6. Lending of media to the game facility according to claim 5.
In the deposit method, the lending step further comprises a step of lending the lending medium having a value at the store to a user by an automatic lending machine in response to cash input. How to deposit. 7. Lending of media to the game facility according to claim 4.
In the depositing method, a method of causing a card to be read by the game machine, and a step of storing a use situation of the game machine by the user at the center is provided. 8. The media rental of the game facility according to claim 4.
In the depositing method, the method further comprises a step of causing a card to be read by the game machine, and a step of storing a use situation of the game machine by the user at the center, and the lending step includes: Read the number of credits of the common value of the center, convert the number of credits into the lending medium of the value at the store,
A method of renting / depositing media at a game facility, comprising: renting out a rental medium at the store to a user; and reading and displaying the user's use status of the center. 9. Lending of media in the game facility of claim 1 /
In the depositing method, the method further comprises a step of executing a game provided by the center using the number of credits of the center outside the store, the method of lending / depositing media at a game facility. 10. A medium rental / deposit method for a game facility in which a game machine is used in a store for playing a game in accordance with the input of a rental medium and for paying out a rental medium having a value corresponding to the game result. Depositing the rented medium at the store, storing the value of the lent medium at the center connected to the store, reading the value of the lent medium at the center of the user, and reading the value of the value at the store. Lending the lending to the user. 11. A store having a center and a plurality of stores connected to the center, wherein each of the stores plays a game in accordance with a lending medium deposited in the store and has a value corresponding to a game result. Depositing means for converting the value of the rental medium at the store of the game machine for paying out the rental medium into a number of credits having a common value at each store, and storing the same in a center connected to the store; And means for reading out the number of credits of the common value of the center of the user, converting the value into the value of the lent medium at the store, and renting the medium of the value at the store to the user. A media lending / depositing system for a game facility, characterized by the following. 12. The game facility media lending / depositing system according to claim 11, wherein the store converts the value of the deposited rental medium at the store into a credit number having a common value at each store. A medium lending / depositing system for a game facility, comprising a server for reading the number of credits of the common value of the center of the user and converting the number of credits into the value of the lending medium at the store. 13. The system according to claim 11, wherein the depositing means converts the number of medals at a unit price of the deposited medals into the number of credits at a unit price common to the stores. And a means for storing the number of credits of the common value in the center, wherein the lending means reads out the number of credits of the common unit price of the center of the user, and stores the number of credits in the center. A medium lending / depositing system for a game facility, comprising means for converting a unit price at a store into the number of medals and lending the unit price medals at the store to a user. 14. The medium lending / depositing system for a game facility according to claim 11, wherein the depositing means includes means for inputting information unique to the user, and a value of the lent medium deposited by the user at the store. Is converted to the number of credits of a common unit price in each store, and the number of credits of the common value is stored in the center accessible by the card. With the unique information, means for verifying the identity, and reading the number of credits of the common value of the center of the user who has verified the identity, converting the number of credits into the rental medium of the value at the store,
Means for renting out the rented medium at the store to a user. 15. The medium lending / depositing system for a game facility according to claim 14, wherein the lending means provides the user with the converted lending medium having a value at the store converted by inputting the user's unique information. A media lending / depositing system for a game facility, comprising an automatic lending machine for lending. 16. The media lending / depositing system of a game facility according to claim 15, wherein the automatic lending machine lends the lending medium having a value at the store to a user in response to cash input. Lending / depositing system for game facilities. 17. The system for renting / depositing a medium at a game facility according to claim 14, wherein the game machine includes: means for reading a card; and means for notifying the center of the use status of the game machine by the user. A media rental / deposit system for a gaming facility, comprising: 18. The medium lending / depositing system of a game facility according to claim 14, wherein the game machine includes: a means for reading a card; and a means for notifying the center of the use status of the game machine by the user. The rental and depositing system for a game facility, wherein the lending unit has a unit for reading and displaying a use situation of the user by the center. 19. The system for renting / depositing media at a game facility according to claim 11, further comprising a terminal that executes a game provided by the center by using the number of credits of the center outside the store. A featured media rental / deposit system for gaming facilities. 20. A game machine having a center and a plurality of stores connected to the center, wherein each of the stores plays a game in accordance with a lending medium deposited in the store, and a value corresponding to a game result. Depositing means for storing the value of the rented medium in the center connected to the store, and reading out the value of the lent medium in the center of the user of the game machine for paying out the lent medium of the game machine; Means for renting out the rented medium to a user. 21. A game machine that plays a game in accordance with the input of a rental medium deposited in a store and pays out a rental medium of a value corresponding to a game result, the value of the rental medium being connected to the store. Media lending for a game facility, comprising: a depositing means for storing the lending medium of the user in the center, and a means for reading out the lending medium of the value to the user at the store. / Deposit system. 22. A lending machine which lends the lending medium for a game machine which plays a game in response to the lending medium and pays out a lending medium having a value according to the game result, wherein the lending deposited in a store. A lending machine comprising: means for reading a value of a medium lent to a user of a center that stores the value of a medium; and means for renting a medium for rent to the store at the store. 23. A game in which a game is played according to the input of a game medium, and a game medium for a game machine for paying out a game medium having a value according to the game result is deposited and paid out at each store connected via a network. A medium depositing and paying method, comprising: receiving a game medium from a player, converting the value of the game medium into a credit which is a value common to each store based on an exchange rate at the store in which the game is deposited, and storing the credit. A payout step of converting the stored credit into a value of the game medium at the payout store based on the exchange rate at the payout store, and paying out the game medium. Method. 24. A game machine for playing a game in accordance with the input of a game medium and paying out a game medium having a value corresponding to the game result, is deposited at each store connected to the center by a network, A method of depositing and paying out a game medium to be paid out, comprising a step of receiving a game medium from a player, and converting the value of the game medium into a credit which is a value common to each store based on an exchange rate at the store where the game medium is deposited. A transmitting step of transmitting the converted credit information to the center via the network; a storing step of storing the credit information in the center; a payout receiving step of receiving a payout instruction of the game medium from the player; Receive more credit information and pay out the credit to exchange at the store Based on the rate, and converts the value of the game medium payout store, based on the received payout instruction, game media deposit payout method is characterized in that a payout step for paying out the game medium.