U.S. patent application number 11/980483 was filed with the patent office on 2009-01-29 for card shooter apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to Angel Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Yasushi Shigeta.
Application Number | 20090026700 11/980483 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34993477 |
Filed Date | 2009-01-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090026700 |
Kind Code |
A2 |
Shigeta; Yasushi |
January 29, 2009 |
Card Shooter Apparatus
Abstract
A card shooter apparatus comprises a card shooter unit including
a card housing for containing a plurality of cards and a card
reading unit. The card reading unit has a card guide unit which
guides cards pulled out one by one from the card shooter unit and
reads at least the number of the card pulled out from the card
shooter. A control unit determines the result of a card game based
on information about the numbers of the cards sequentially read by
the card reading unit. A display unit indicates the result
determined by the control unit.
Inventors: |
Shigeta; Yasushi; (Osaka,
JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
AMSTER, ROTHSTEIN & EBENSTEIN LLP
90 PARK AVENUE
NEW YORK
NY
10016
UNITED STATES
212-336-8000
212-336-8001
PTODOCKET@ARELAW.COM
|
Assignee: |
Angel Co., Ltd.
10-1, Kawarayamachi, 2-chome Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi
Osaka
JP
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Prior
Publication: |
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Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20080143048 A1 |
June 19, 2008 |
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Family ID: |
34993477 |
Appl. No.: |
11/980483 |
Filed: |
October 31, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11/884021 |
Aug 9, 2007 |
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PCT/JP05/03789 |
Mar 4, 2005 |
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11980483 |
Oct 31, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
273/149R |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63F 2009/2419 20130101;
A63F 1/14 20130101; A63F 2009/2425 20130101; A63F 1/18 20130101;
A63F 2250/58 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
273/149.00R |
International
Class: |
A63F 1/14 20060101
A63F001/14 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 19, 2004 |
JP |
2004-079519 |
Claims
1. A card shooter apparatus comprising: a card shooter unit
including a card housing for containing a plurality of cards; a
card reading unit having a card guide unit which guides cards
pulled out one by one from the card shooter unit and reads at least
the number of the card pulled out from the card shooter; a control
unit that determines the result of a card game based on information
about the numbers of the cards sequentially read by the card
reading unit; and a display unit which indicates the result
determined by the control unit.
2. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
control unit invalidates a reading of a card from the card reading
unit when the card being taken from the card shooter unit is not
properly read by the card reading unit.
3. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
control unit disregards a cut card that is taken from the card
shooter unit, the cut card not being used for a game.
4. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising: an invalid mode setting means that sets a first card
invalid mode in which the reading of the first card that is pulled
out of the card shooter unit in each game is invalidated.
5. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising: first and second card detecting sensors that are
arranged along a guiding direction of the card guide unit to detect
the existence or non-existence of a card.
6. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the
control unit determines whether or not a card has normally passed
along the card guide surface of the card guide unit on the basis of
detection signals from the first and second card detecting
sensors.
7. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the
reading of a card from the card reading unit is invalidated on the
basis of detection signals from the first and second card detecting
sensors when the card being taken from the card shooter unit slips
back toward the card shooter unit.
8. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
control unit determines whether or not a code indicating at least
the number of a card read by the card reading unit is normal.
9. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 8, further
comprising: means of emitting an alarm sound when the code of the
card is not normal.
10. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
card shooter unit, the card reading unit, the control unit and the
display unit are able to be set on the game table.
11. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
display unit includes a first display unit which is provided on an
upper part of the housing and a second display unit which is
provided on a side part of the housing.
12. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
card guide unit includes one or more black light sensors that read
an ultraviolet-ray reaction code from a card guided by the card
guide unit, the ultraviolet-ray reaction code indicating card
information of the card.
13. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 1, further
comprising a number specifying means that specifies the number of a
card.
14. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the
card shooter unit, the card reading unit and the control unit are
integrated.
15. A card shooter apparatus comprising: a card shooter unit
including a card housing for containing a plurality of cards; and a
card reading unit having a card guide unit which guides cards
pulled out one by one from the card shooter unit onto the game
table and reads the number of the card pulled out from the card
shooter.
16. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 15, further
comprising: a measurement validity determining sensor which
invalidates a reading of a card from the card reading unit when a
card being taken from the card shooter unit is not properly read by
the card reading unit.
17. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the
card shooter unit and the card reading unit are integrated.
18. A card shooter apparatus comprising: a card shooter unit
including a card housing for containing a plurality of cards; a
card reading unit having a card guide unit which guides cards
pulled out one by one from the card shooter unit and reads card
information of the card pulled out from the card shooter; a control
unit that determines the result of a card game based on the card
information from the cards sequentially read by the card reading
unit; and a display unit which indicates the result determined by
the control unit.
19. The card shooter apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the
card shooter unit, the card reading unit and the control unit are
integrated.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional of application Ser. No.
11/884,021, filed Aug. 9, 2007, the contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference. Application Ser. No. 11/884,021
is a U.S. National Stage Application under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.371 of
International Application No. PCT/JP2005/003789, filed Mar. 4,
2005, and claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No.
2004-079519, filed Mar. 19, 2004, all of which are incorporated
herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a card shooter apparatus
that is used suitably for a card game in which playing cards (trump
cards; hereinafter simply referred to as cards) are to be used.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Conventionally, a card reader that is used suitably for a
card game in a casino, etc. is suggested. For example, PCT Japanese
Translation Patent Publication No. 10-508236 (Page 12, FIG. 1)
discloses a card reader equipped with a card shooter. In the
apparatus of this literature, a CCD image sensor and related
optical system components are built in the card shooter. Further,
an outlet of the card shooter is provided with a card reading
window. Also, when a card passes through the shooter outlet, the
card is read through the reading window.
[0004] However, in the conventional apparatus, reading precision is
restricted by the CCD image sensor and related optical system
components. The reading precision is desired to improve as much as
possible. This point is also important in reducing the influence on
a game progress caused by generation of a read error.
[0005] Further, in the conventional apparatus, in order to secure
reading capability, the speed of a card when a card is pulled out
of the card shooter needs to be comparatively low, for example, the
maximum speed is about 1 m/s. On the other hand, even if the card
speed is larger, a card needs to be read accurately. This point is
also important in the game progress of a casino, etc.
[0006] The invention has been made in view of the above problems.
It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a card reader
that is capable of utilizing an existing card shooter, is high in
reading precision, and is high in the threshold value of the card
speed at the time of reading.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a card shooter
apparatus comprising: shooter apparatus comprising: a card shooter
unit including a card housing which contains a plurality of cards
and an opening out of which the cards are able to be slid and
taken; a card reading unit which is provided with a card guide unit
which guides cards pulled out one by one from the opening onto the
game table and reads the number of the card pulled out from the
card shooter; a control unit having a processing function to
determine win or lose of the card game based on information about
the number of the cards sequentially read by the card reading unit;
and a display unit which indicates a result determined by the
control unit; wherein the card shooter unit, the card reading unit
and the control unit are integrated and are able to be set on the
game table.
[0008] Another aspect of the present invention is a card shooter
apparatus comprising: comprising: a card shooter unit including a
card housing which contains a plurality of cards and an opening out
of which the cards are able to be slid and taken; a card reading
unit which is provided with a card guide unit which guides cards
pulled out one by one from the opening by hand onto the game table
and reads the number of the card pulled out from the card shooter;
wherein the card shooter unit and the card reading unit are
integrated and are able to be set on the game table; and the card
shooter apparatus further comprising a measurement validity
determining sensor which makes a reading result by the card reading
unit invalid when the card slips back by hand, the card being slid
and taken from the card shooter unit.
[0009] As described hereafter, other aspects of the invention
exist. Thus, this summary of the invention is intended to provide a
few aspects of the invention and is not intended to limit the scope
of the invention described and claimed herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a view showing the overall configuration of a card
reader of the present embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a view showing a platform along with a game table
and a card shooter.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the platform and the card
shooter.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a plan view in a state where a sensor cover is
detached.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a sectional view of the platform.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a view showing a sensor arrangement.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a view showing the back surface of the
platform.
[0017] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a control configuration
including a control box.
[0018] FIG. 9 is a view showing sensor output according to
situations.
[0019] FIG. 10 is a view showing an example of the output waves of
sensors.
[0020] FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the operation of the card
reader when a normal mode is set.
[0021] FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing the operation of the card
reader when a special mode is set.
[0022] FIG. 13 is a view showing an example of a card.
[0023] FIG. 14 is a view showing a configuration in which the card
reader and the card shooter are integrated.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0024] The following detailed description refers to the
accompanying drawings. The following detailed description and the
accompanying drawings do not limit the invention. Instead, the
scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.
[0025] A card reader includes: a platform that is set on a game
table and has a card shooter mounted thereon; a card guide unit
that is provided in the platform to guide cards, which are pulled
out one by one from the card shooter, onto the game table; and
black light sensors that are provided in the card guide unit to
read an ultraviolet-ray reaction code including the number of a
card from the card.
[0026] According to this card reader, the platform is provided
between the game table and the card shooter, and the platform is
provided with a card reading function. Thus, reading of a card is
enabled while the existing card shooter is utilized. Moreover,
since the black light sensors are used, reading precision is high,
and the threshold value of the card speed at the time of reading
can also be set to a large value, for example, about 3.6 m/s. Also,
the reading result of a card is suitably helpful to prevention of
an illegal act.
[0027] Preferably, the card guide unit has a card guide surface,
card guide rails are provided at edges of the card guide surface, a
card passage gap is formed between the card guide surface and the
card guide rails, and the black light sensors are provided so as to
read a card from the card guide surface within the card passage
gap. Accordingly, the influence of outside light in a card reading
part can be reduced, and reading precision can be improved.
[0028] Preferably, the card reader further includes a win/lose
determining means that determines the win or lose of a card game on
the basis of the numbers of the cards that are sequentially read by
the black light sensors, and an output means that outputs a game
result determined by the win/lose determining means. Accordingly,
the progress of a game can be supported, and an illegal act can be
prevented.
[0029] Preferably, the card reader further includes an invalid mode
setting means that sets a first card invalid mode that invalidates
a card that is first pulled out in each game. Accordingly, even
when a rule that invalidates a first card is adopted, the card
reader can perform game result determination processing adapted to
a card game, and can smoothly process a card game.
[0030] Preferably, the card reader further includes first and
second card detecting sensors that are arranged along a guiding
direction of the card guide unit to detect the existence or
non-existence of a card, and a measurement validity/invalidity
determining means that determines whether or not a card has
normally passed along the card guide unit, on the basis of
detection signals of the first and second card detecting
sensors.
[0031] Preferably, the measurement validity/invalidity determining
means validates reading of a card when the first card detecting
sensor and the second card detecting sensor detect the card in
order, and then the first card detecting sensor and the second card
detecting sensor stop detecting the card in order.
[0032] Preferably, the measurement validity/invalidity determining
means invalidates reading of a card when the first card detecting
sensor and the second card detecting sensor detect the card in
order, and then the second card detecting sensor and the first card
detecting sensor stop detecting the card in order. Accordingly,
when a card slips back, it is possible to suitably cope with
this.
[0033] Preferably, in the card reader, the sensitivity of the
second card detecting sensor is set so as to detect a card for game
and so as not to detect a cut card. Accordingly, when a cut card is
used, the card reader can suitably cope with this.
[0034] Further, in the card reader, the black light sensors are
adapted to detect code elements including a given number from a
card which the code elements are arrayed in a card pulling
direction as an ultraviolet-ray reaction code, and to output a
detection signal. Also, the card reader includes a number
specifying means, and the number specifying means specifies a card
associated with the numbers of the code elements on the basis of
the detection signals of the black light sensors. The code elements
are typically marks printed with ultraviolet-ray reaction ink.
[0035] The numbers of the code elements are associated with at
least the number of a card. The numbers of the code elements may be
associated with the type (spade, heart, etc.) of a card, in
addition to the number of the card. The numbers of the code
elements may be associated with other information.
[0036] Further, the ultraviolet-ray reaction code may have plural
rows of the code elements. A card may be specified by a combination
of the numbers of the plural rows of code elements. In this case, a
card is specified from the plural rows of code elements including
given numbers. Accordingly, even in this case, the code elements
including given numbers are read. Also, the number specifying unit
specifies the number of a card associated with the numbers of the
code elements.
[0037] Since the black light sensors are provided, the code
elements is detected by the black light sensors, and a card is
specified from the numbers of the code elements, the card can be
detected with high precision.
[0038] A card shooter apparatus has a card reading function to read
the number of a card. This card shooter apparatus includes black
light sensors that read an ultraviolet-ray reaction code including
the number of each of cards that are pulled one by one from a card
shooter, from the card. In this aspect, the card shooter and the
card reader may be provided separately or integrally. Even in this
aspect, an advantage that reading precision can be improved is
obtained, and an advantage that the threshold value of the card
speed at the time of reading is raised is obtained.
[0039] The card shooter apparatus may further include a housing, a
card shooter unit that is provided in the housing, and a card guide
unit that is provided in the housing to guide cards pulled out one
by one from the card shooter unit onto a game table. Here, the
black light sensors are provided in the housing. The black light
sensors may be provided in the housing. The housing may include a
processing unit that processes the read data of the black light
sensors, and a display unit that displays a processing result of
the processing unit.
[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the invention will be described
with reference to the drawings.
[0041] FIG. 1 shows a card reader 10 of the present embodiment. The
card reader 10 includes a platform 12, a control box 14 is
connected to the platform 12, and a monitor 16, and a win/lose
display box 18 are connected to the control box 14. The control box
14 is a computer apparatus that controls the whole apparatus.
[0042] Referring to FIG. 2, the platform 12 is set on a game table
20, and a card shooter 22 (card shoe) is mounted on the platform
12.
[0043] The card shooter 22 may be a general type of existing
shooter. The card shooter 22 includes a card housing 24, and a fore
leg 26 and a hind leg 27 under the card housing. A floor 28 and a
front wall 30 of the card housing 24 incline as shown. Within the
card housing 24, a deck of cards is forward pushed against the
front wall 30 by a card push member 32 with a roller. The front
wall 30, as shown in FIG. 3, has a U-shaped opening 34 in a lower
part. A dealer slides the cards to take them out of the opening
34.
[0044] In addition, black cloth 36 (omitted in the other drawings)
is hung on the front wall 30 so as to block the opening 34.
Further, though not shown, a cover is attached to an upper part of
the card housing 24. The card shooter 22 is black as a whole, and
is made of resin.
[0045] Next, the configuration of the platform 12 will be
described. The platform 12 is black and is made of resin, similarly
to the card shooter 22. The platform 12 has a thin box shape as a
whole. The platform 12 has a table mounting surface 40 at the
bottom thereof, and a shooter setting surface 42 at the top
thereof, and both the surfaces are flat.
[0046] The shooter setting surface 42 is provided with shooter
positioning blocks 44 and 46. The card shooter 22 is put on the
shooter setting surface 42 so that the fore leg 26 and the hind leg
27 of the card shooter 22 may contact the shooter positioning
blocks 44 and 46, and thereby, the card shooter 22 is positioned
with respect to the platform 12.
[0047] Further, shooter hold-down blocks 48 are attached to a front
end of the shooter setting surface 42. The shooter hold-down blocks
48 holds down the front end of the card shooter 22 from upside, and
thereby, the card shooter 22 is held on the platform 12.
[0048] The platform 12 has a card guide unit 50 in a front part
thereof. The card guide unit 50 guides cards, which are pulled out
one by one from the card shooter 22, onto the game table 20, as
described below.
[0049] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the card guide unit 50 has a card
guide surface 52 that is an inclined plane. One end of the card
guide surface 52 is connected with an opening 34 of a card outlet
of the platform 12. The card guide surface 52 extends forward and
downward from the front the card outlet, and the other end of the
card guide surface is connected with the game table 20. The card
guide surface 52 becomes a measurement surface for card
reading.
[0050] Card guide rails 54 are attached to edges on both sides of
the card guide surface 52. As shown in FIG. 2, a card passage gap
56 is formed between the card guide rails 54 and the card guide
surface 52. The size of the card passage gap 56 is set to be
slightly larger than the thickness of a card. After a card is
pulled out of the card shooter 22, it passes along the card guide
surface 52. At this time, both ends of the card pass through the
card passage gap 56.
[0051] Further, the inclination of the card guide surface 50 is
changed on the way as shown. The card guide rails 54 are provided
in a region before the inclination changes, and the card guide
rails 54 is slightly longer than the short sides of a card.
[0052] Further, a sensor cover 58 is attached to each of the two
card guide rails 54 with screws. As shown in FIG. 4, when the
sensor covers 58 are detached, four sensors are exposed. The four
sensors are two black light sensors 60, an object detecting sensor
62, and a measurement validity determining sensor 64, and these
sensors are provided in the card guide surface 52 of the card guide
unit 50. In the drawing, the black light sensors 60 and the
measurement validity determining sensor 64 can be seen from sensor
cleaning holes 66 and 67 that pass through the card guide rails
54.
[0053] As shown in FIG. 4, the black light sensors 60 (hereinafter
referred to as UV sensors 60) are located on the relatively
upstream side in the direction of flow of a card, on the card guide
surface 52. Further, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, the UV sensors 60
are arranged in the inner space of the platform 12, are fixed to
the ceiling (the other side of the card guide surface 52) of the
platform with stays, and are exposed through the opening of the
card guide surface 52.
[0054] Each of the UV sensors 60 includes an LED (ultraviolet LED)
that emits ultraviolet rays, and a detector. A card is irradiated
with ultraviolet rays (black light), and a code of the card is
detected by the detectors. The code of the number (rank: A, 1 to
10, J, Q, and K) of a card is printed on the card with ultraviolet
ray emission ink that produces a color when ultraviolet rays strike
the card.
[0055] The above UV sensors 60 are connected to the control box 14
through cables. In the control box 14, the number of a card is
determined from output signals of the detectors of the UV sensors
60.
[0056] Here, as the code the number of a card, for example, a
plurality of quadrangular marks are arrayed on edges of the card.
The number of the card is expressed by the numbers of the marks.
The UV sensors 60 output ON signals when the marks are detected.
Accordingly, the UV sensors 60 on both edges output ON signals of
the numbers of the marks. In the control box 14, the ON signals
input from the two UV sensors 60 are counted. Thereby, the two mark
numbers detected by the two UV sensors 60 are obtained. Also, the
control box 14 specifies the number of a card from the numbers of
the marks.
[0057] In addition, although the numbers of marks and the number of
a card may be the same as each other, they may not be the same as
each other. The numbers of the marks and the number of a card only
need to match each other one-on-one. In the control box 14, a
detected mark number is compared with a mark number that is
registered in advance, and thereby, the number of a card may be
specified.
[0058] Further, in the baccarat game, "J", "Q", and "K" are treated
as equal to "10." Thus, the same code as "10" may be attached to
"J", "Q", and "K." Further, in addition to the number of a card, a
code representing a suit (spades, hearts, diamonds, and blacks) may
be attached to a card, and this may be read. In this way, the type
of codes is not limited if the numbers of cards required for a game
are expressed.
[0059] As described above, in the present embodiment, the card
reader 10 includes the UV sensors 60 that detects marks from a card
and outputs signals. The above UV sensors 60 output ON signals
during passage of marks. Marks including a given number are
provided on a card, and the marks are provided on the edges of the
card, and thereby arrayed in a card pulling direction so that they
may pass through the UV sensors 60. Then, the number of the marks
is associated with the number of the card, and the control box 14
specifies the card from detection signals of the UV sensors 60.
[0060] Further, as described above, in the card reader 10 of the
present embodiment, the two UV sensors 60 are provided as shown in
FIGS. 4 and 5. Then, as shown in the example of FIG. 13, marks are
arrayed on both edges of a card in correspondence with both the UV
sensors 60, and the marks are read by both the UV sensors 60. The
marks are suitably provided in a region where a picture is not
provided as shown. However, actual marks are not usually visible.
As described above, in the present embodiment, marks including a
given number are suitably arrayed on each edge of a card. As for
the association between a mark number and a card, the sum of mark
numbers may simply be associated with the number of a card.
Further, a combination of two rows of mark numbers may be
associated with the number of a card. In the latter form, it is
possible to identify more cards by few marks. In addition, FIG. 13
is just illustrative, and the number of mark rows is not limited to
two, but the number of rows may be one or three or more. Also, two
mark rows are suitably provided on each of both edges of a card. In
this case, the arrangement of the UV sensors is also properly
adjusted.
[0061] Further, additionally describing the configuration of the
control box 14, the control box 14 of the card reader 10 includes a
counter, a memory (storage means), and a number specifying unit.
The counter counts detection signals from the UV sensors 60, and
finds out a mark number. Also, the memory stores information that
associates the mark number with a card. The associated information
is typically a table. The number specifying unit specifies the
number of a card from the numbers of marks with reference to the
information of the memory.
[0062] In the present embodiment, the counter is able to find out
two mark numbers corresponding to the two UV sensors 60. As
described above, in the present embodiment, a combination of a
plurality of rows of mark numbers may be associated with a card. In
this case, a memory stores information that associates the
combination of the mark numbers with a card. Also, the number
specifying unit specifies a card corresponding to the combination
of the card numbers.
[0063] Next, the object detecting sensor 62 and the measurement
validity determining sensor 64 are fiber sensors that detect the
existence or non-existence of a card. The object detecting sensor
62 is located on the most upstream side along the flow direction of
a card on the card guide surface 52, and the measurement validity
determining sensor 64 is located on the downstream side of the
object detecting sensor 62. Also, as shown in FIG. 6, the object
detecting sensor 62 and the measurement validity determining sensor
64 are provided on the upstream and downstream sides of reading
points of the UV sensors 60. The object detecting sensor 62 and the
measurement validity determining sensor 64 correspond to a first
card detecting sensor and a second card detecting sensor,
respectively.
[0064] Further, similarly to the UV sensors 60, the object
detecting sensor 62 and the measurement validity determining sensor
64 are arranged in the inner surface of the platform 12, are fixed
to the ceiling o the platform, and are exposed through the opening
of the card guide surface 52.
[0065] The object detecting sensor 62 and the measurement validity
determining sensor 64, as shown in FIG. 2, are connected to the
control box 14 by cables via a sensor amplifier 68. The sensor
amplifier 68 is of a two channel type, and is able to independently
control the object detecting sensor 62 and the measurement validity
determining sensor 64. On the basis of detection signals of the
object detecting sensor 62 and the measurement validity determining
sensor 64, the control box 14, as will be described below, controls
the start and end of reading of the UV sensors 60, and determines
whether or not a card has normally passed along the card guide
surface 52. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, a side surface of the
platform 12 is further provided with a buzzer 70, a push button 72
with a lamp, a reset switch 74, an error lamp 76 (red), a monitor
changeover switch 78, and a normal lamp 80 (green). In the push
button 72 with a lamp, the lamp is turned on or turned off whenever
the button is pushed. The reset switch 74 is a switch of a type in
which a key inserted into a keyhole is turned, and the monitor
changeover switch 78 is a lever switch. Further, the upper surface
of the platform 12 is provided with a standard/special mode
changeover switch 82. This switch 82 is also a switch of a type in
which a key inserted into a keyhole is turned. Further, as shown in
FIG. 7, the back surface of the platform 12 is provided with a
power switch 84 and a cable connector 86. The above various
switches, lamps, buzzer, etc. are connected to the control box 14
through cables, and are used for various kinds of processing of the
control box 14.
[0066] The configuration of the platform 12 has been described
hitherto. As shown in FIG. 1, the card reader 10 is further
provided with the monitor 16 and the win/lose display box 18.
[0067] The monitor 16 is controlled by the control box 14 to
display the information on reading of a card, and a game. The
win/lose display box 18 is provided with three lamps, i.e., a
player-win lamp 90 (red), a draw lamp 92 (yellow), and a banker-win
lamp 94 (green). These lamps are controlled by the control box 14,
and they are turned on or off in order to display the win or lose
of a game. As shown in this description, the card reader 10 of the
present embodiment is applied to a baccarat game.
[0068] Further, the monitor 16 and the win/lose display box 18 are
set in a proper location on the game table 20. On the other hand,
the control box 14 is arranged in a proper location, such as the
underside f the game table 20.
[0069] FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram of various components
relevant to the control box 14. The control box 14 is a computer
apparatus as earlier mentioned. The control box 14 is connected to
the UV sensors 60, object detecting sensor 62, and measurement
validity determining sensor 64 of the platform 12. Moreover, the
control box 14 is connected to the various switches and lamps of
the platform 12 to control them. Further, the control box 14 is
connected to the monitor 16 and three lamps of the win/lose display
box 18 to controls the display of them.
[0070] A computer serving as the control box 14 has a processing
function to automatically determine win or lose of a game. This
function is realized by incorporating a program for win/lose
determination into the computer, and this program is executed by a
processor of the computer.
[0071] As determination processing, the computer acquires the
numbers of cards, which are sequentially taken out of the card
shooter 22 to the game table 20, using the UV sensors 60. The
acquired numbers of the cards are sequentially stored in the
memory. At this time, the information on to which player each card
has been distributed is also stored. That is, the numbers of cards
are stored in association with distribution destinations.
[0072] From this point, the card reader 10 of the present
embodiment is used in a baccarat game as earlier mentioned. In the
baccarat game, two persons including a player and a banker exist
(here, both are called players). Also, to which player the next
card is to be distributed is uniquely determined from the number of
cards distributed by then, and the number of each of the cards. The
computer determines to which player a card read by the UV sensors
60 is to be distributed with reference to the numbers of the cards
stored in the memory. Also, the number of the distributed card is
stored in the memory in association with each player.
[0073] Moreover, the computer reads the numbers of the cards, which
have been distributed to both players, from the memory, compares
the numbers of the both players, and determines a win or lose. The
numbers of the cards are summed, both sums are compared, and which
player has won is determined. A draw is also determined.
[0074] As such, concerning the baccarat game, win or lose can be
automatically determined only from the numbers of the cards
sequentially taken out of the card reader 10. To which player a
card has been distributed may not be detected using other sensors,
for example, sensors separately embedded in the table.
[0075] The control box 14 causes a game result to be output to the
monitor 16 and the win/lose display box 18. Read numbers, a game
result, etc. are displayed on the monitor 16. Further, in the
win/lose display box 18, a banker-win lamp 90, a draw lamp 92, or a
player-win lamp 94 are turned on according to the game result.
[0076] Next, the functions of the object detecting sensor 62 and
measurement validity determining sensor 64 will be described. As
already described, the object detecting sensor 62 and the
measurement validity determining sensor 64 detect the existence or
non-existence of a card, and output detection signals to the
control box 14. In the present embodiment, if a card exists, a
signal is turned on, and if a card disappears, a signal is turned
off.
[0077] First, the detection signal of the object detecting sensor
62 is used to control the start and end of reading of the UV
sensors 60. That is, when the object detecting sensor 62 detects a
card (from OFF to ON), the control box 14 instructs the UV sensors
60 to start reading. In the UV sensors 60, an LED is turned on, and
a detector reads code. When the object detecting sensor 62 stops
detecting a card (from ON to OFF, the control box 14 instructs the
UV sensors 60 to end reading. In the UV sensors 60, an LED is
turned off.
[0078] The object detecting sensor 62 and the measurement validity
determining sensor 64 are further used to determine whether or not
a card has normally passed along the card guide surface 52.
[0079] The first step of FIG. 9 shows a sensor output when (when a
card has normally passed along the card guide surface) measurement
is normal. In this case, a signal is turned on in order of the
object detecting sensor 62 and the measurement validity determining
sensor 64, and then, the signal is turned off in order of the
object detecting sensor 62 and the measurement validity determining
sensor 64. The reading result (measurement result) of the UV
sensors 60 is valid (reading is approved).
[0080] However, if passage of a card is normal, but a mark number
read by the UV sensors 60 read is abnormal, the control box 14
determines that the card itself is abnormal. For example, a card is
abnormal when there is no mark at both edges of the card. The
numbers of marks may be registered, and be compared with a detected
mark number.
[0081] The second step of FIG. 9 shows a sensor output when a card
slightly comes out onto a card guide, and slips back. The object
detecting sensor 62 is turned on, and then, the object detecting
sensor 62 is turned off. Since a card has not reached the
measurement validity determining sensor 64, the measurement
validity determining sensor 64 is not turned on. In this case, the
reading result of the UV sensors 60 is invalidated.
[0082] The third step of FIG. 9 shows a sensor output when a card
slips back after the card has reached the measurement validity
determining sensor 64. A signal is turned on in order of the object
detecting sensor 62 and the measurement validity determining sensor
64, and then, the signal is turned off in order of the measurement
validity determining sensor 64 and the object detecting sensor 62.
Even in this case, the reading result of the UV sensors 60 is
invalidated.
[0083] The fourth step of FIG. 9 shows a sensor output when a cut
card is taken out. Here, the cut card is a card used in a casino,
etc., and is inserted into a deck of cards. Cards following the cut
card are not used for a game. If this cut card is not disregarded,
a read error is generated. Then, in order to disregard the cut
card, the present embodiment is configured as follows.
[0084] Blue is given to the cut card. The sensitivity of the object
detecting sensor 62 is adjusted so as to detect white and a mark
color (a color when ultraviolet-ray reaction ink produces a color)
as well as a blue object. On the other hand, the sensitivity of the
object detecting sensor 64 is adjusted so as not to detect a blue
object but to detect a white object and an object with a mark
color. This is realized by lowering the sensitivity of the
measurement validity determining sensor 64.
[0085] Since such sensitivity setting has been performed, when a
cut card passes by as shown in the fourth step of FIG. 9, the
object detecting sensor 62 is turned on, and then turned off. The
measurement validity determining sensor 64 does not react.
Accordingly, the same sensor output as the second step of FIG. 9 is
obtained, and accordingly, reading of the UV sensors 60 is
invalidated. In this way, passage of a cut card can be suitably
disregarded.
[0086] In addition, although a cut card is blue in the above
example, the invention is not limited thereto. A separate color may
be given as long as it can adjust sensor sensitivity so that only a
cut card may not be detected.
[0087] FIG. 10 shows examples of the above-mentioned sensor output
waves. When measurement is valid, the object detecting sensor 62
and the measurement validity determining sensor 64 are normally
turned on and off as described above. Also, the UV sensors 60 are
turned on and off during the measurement (during "ON" of the object
detecting sensor 62), and the number of a card is found out from
ON/OFF signals of the UV sensors 60.
[0088] Since the card slips back in the following pattern, the
object detecting sensor 62 is turned off before the measurement
validity determining sensor 64 is turned on. Therefore, the reading
result of the UV sensors 60 during the measurement is
invalidated.
[0089] Since the cut card has passed along the card guide surface
in the following pattern, only the object detecting sensor 62 is
turned on and off, similarly to the above pattern. The UV sensors
60 do not output any ON signal. Even in this case, the reading
result is invalidated.
[0090] Since a card on which a code is not printed has passed along
the card guide surface in the following pattern, the object
detecting sensor 62 and the measurement validity determining sensor
64 are normally turned on and off, but the UV sensors 60 are kept
turned off during the measurement. In this case, the control box 14
determines that an abnormal card has passed along the card guide
surface.
[0091] The functions of sensors have been described hitherto in
detail. Next, the operation of the card reader 10 of the present
embodiment will be described.
[0092] FIG. 11 shows the operation of the card reader 10 when one
game is performed. The power switch 84 is turned on as a
precondition of the operation of FIG. 11. Further, the lever of the
monitor changeover switch 78 is tilted to a position "before a
game," and the "before a game" is displayed on the monitor 16.
Moreover, the key of the reset switch 74 is turned to the left that
is a normal position. Further, the standard/special mode setting
switch 82 is turned to the standard side.
[0093] A first card is read in this state (S10). It is determined
whether or not reading (measurement) has been valid (S12) on the
basis of the output of the object detecting sensor 62 and the
measurement validity determining sensor 64. If the answer is NO
(invalid) in S12, the process returns to S10. For example, when a
card has slipped back or a cut card has passed along the card guide
surface, the process returns to S10 from S12.
[0094] If the answer is YES (valid) in S12, it is determined
whether or not the code of the card is normal (S14). For example,
if there is no code, the answer is set to NO in S14. In this case,
the error lamp 76 is turned on, and an alarm sound is emitted from
the buzzer 70 (S16). An alarm sound is, for example, a large volume
of continuous sound. If a reset switch 74 is operated, the alarm
sound will stop. The reset switch 74 is turned to the right from
the left, and slips back to the left.
[0095] If the is YES (normal) in S14, the normal lamp 80 is turned
on, and a sound indicating normality from the buzzer 70 is emitted
(S18). For example, a short small sound is output.
[0096] Next, game processing is performed (S20). Here, as earlier
mentioned, the read number of the card is stored for a player or a
banker. Then, the number of the card that is stored in advance is
compared, it is determined whether or not the game is ended, and
the win or lose of the game is determined. If the game is not ended
(S22, NO), the process returns to S10 where the next card is read.
If the game is ended (S22, YES), the process will wait for the
operation of the monitor changeover switch 78 (S24).
[0097] Also, if the lever of the monitor changeover switch 78 is
tilted to a position "after a game" (S24, YES), the display of the
monitor 16 is switched to "after a game," and a win or lose is
displayed (S26). Further, even in the win/lose display box 18, a
lamp corresponding to a game result is turned on (S28).
[0098] If the lever of the monitor changeover switch 78 is tilted
to a position "before a game" (S30, YES), the display of the
monitor 16 is changed to "before a game," and the processing is
completed. Then, the process proceeds to the next game, and the
processing of FIG. 11 is performed again.
[0099] FIG. 12 shows the operation of the card reader 10 when a
special mode is set. The special mode is set by the control box 14
when the standard/special mode changeover switch 82 is turned to
"Special." The special mode is a first card invalid mode in which a
card that is first pulled out in each game is invalidated.
[0100] FIG. 12 is different from FIG. 11 in that it is first
determined whether or not any card is first just before S10 (S40).
Here, for example, the object detecting sensor 62 and the
measurement validity determining sensor 64 are turned on in this
order, and turned off in this order. As a result, when a card has
passed along the card guide surface, it is determined whether or
not this card is first. If a card is first, the process does not
proceed to S10 but returns to S40. If a card is not first, the
process proceeds to S10. Accordingly, the second and succeeding
cards are read.
[0101] Whether or not a card is first is determined, for example,
using a flag. That is, when the flag is not raised in the
processing of S40, it is determined that the card is first, and the
flag is raised. Also, if the flag is raised, it will be determined
that the card is not first. The flag is reset after the game is
ended.
[0102] In addition, in the push button 72 with a lamp in the
platform 12, a lamp is turned on or turned off whenever the button
is pushed. When the button 72 is turned off, the card reader 10
reads a card as described above. On the other hand, when the button
72 is turned on, the card reader 10 does not read a card. The
button 72 is used, for example, when reading of the card reader 10
is temporarily suppressed.
[0103] The preferred embodiment has been described hitherto.
According to the present embodiment, the platform 12 is provided
between the game table 20 and the card shooter 22, and the platform
12 is provided with a card reading function. Thus, reading of a
card is enabled while the existing card shooter 22 is utilized.
Moreover, since the black light sensors 60 are used, reading
precision is high, and the threshold value of the card speed at the
time of reading can also be set to a large value, for example,
about 3.6 m/s. In this way, a card reader that is capable of
utilizing an existing card shooter, is high in reading precision,
and is high in the threshold value of the card speed at the time of
reading can be provided. Also, the reading result of a card is
suitably helpful to prevention of an illegal act.
[0104] Further, in the present embodiment, the card guide 50 has
the card guide surface 52, the edge of the card guide surface 52 is
provided with the card guide rails 54, and the card passage gap 56
is formed between the card guide surface 52 and the card guide
rails 54. Also, the black light sensors 60 are provided so as to
read a card from the card guide surface 52 within the card passage
gap 56. Accordingly, the influence of outside light in a card
reading part can be reduced, and reading precision can be
improved.
[0105] Further, in the present embodiment, the computer of the
control box 14 functions as a win/lose determining means, the win
or lose of a card game is automatically determined on the basis of
the numbers of cards that are sequentially read by the black light
sensors, and the determined game result is output from the monitor
16 and the win/lose display box 18. Thus, an illegal act can be
prevented while the progress of a game can be supported.
[0106] Further, in the present embodiment, the computer of the
control box 14 functions as an invalid mode setting means, and a
first card invalid mode can be set as described above. Accordingly,
even when a rule that invalidates the first card is adopted, the
card reader 10 can perform game result determination processing
adapted to a card game, and can progress a card game smoothly.
[0107] Further, in the present embodiment, first and second card
detecting sensors (the object detecting sensor 62 and the
measurement validity determining sensor 64) are arranged along the
guiding direction of the card guide unit 50, and the computer of
the control box 14 functions as a measurement validity/invalidity
determining means. Accordingly, the computer of the control box 14
can determine whether or not a card has normally passed along the
card guide unit 50.
[0108] Further, in the present embodiment, the computer of the
control box 14 suitably determines that a card normally passed
along the card guide unit, when the first card detecting sensor and
the second card detecting sensor detect the card in order, and
then, the first card detecting sensor and the second card detecting
sensor stop detecting a card in order.
[0109] Further, in the present embodiment, the computer of the
control box 14 invalidates reading of a card, when the card is
detected in order of the first card detecting sensor and the second
card detecting sensor, and then, detecting a card is stopped in
order of the first card detecting sensor and the second card
detecting sensor. Accordingly, when a card slips back, it is
possible to suitably cope with this.
[0110] Further, in the present embodiment, the sensitivity of a
second card detecting sensor is set low so as to detect a card for
a game and so as not to detect a cut card. Accordingly, when a cut
card is used, it is possible to suitably cope with this.
[0111] Further, in the card reader 10 of the above-described
present embodiment, the black light sensors (UV sensors) detect
code elements including a given number from a card which the code
elements are arrayed in a card pulling direction as an
ultraviolet-ray reaction code, and outputs a detection signal.
Also, the card reader 10 includes a number specifying means, and
the number specifying means specifies a card associated with the
numbers of the code elements on the basis of the detection signals
of the black light sensors. In the above embodiment, the code
elements are marks printed with ultraviolet-ray reaction ink.
Further, the number specifying means is the computer of the control
box.
[0112] Further, an ultraviolet-ray reaction code may have plural
rows of the code elements like the above example. A card may be
specified by a combination of the numbers of the plural rows of
code elements. In this case, a card is specified from the plural
rows of code elements including given numbers. Accordingly, even in
this case, the code elements including given numbers are read.
Also, the number specifying unit specifies the number of a card
associated with the numbers of the code elements.
[0113] In the present embodiment, as described above, the numbers
of the code elements are associated with at least the number of a
card. The numbers of the code elements may be associated with the
type (spade, heart, etc.) of a card, in addition to the number of
the card. Moreover, the numbers of the code elements may be
associated with other information.
[0114] According to the present embodiment, since the black light
sensors are provided, the code elements are detected by the black
light sensors, and a card is specified from the numbers of the code
elements, the card can be detected with high precision.
[0115] Here, the advantages of the present embodiment will be
described in more detail by contrast with a conventional
technique.
[0116] The conventional technique uses a visible light camera. When
the visible light camera is used, an existing conventional picture
must be used for a card. The code elements like the present
embodiment cannot be used for the following reason. That is, since
only a photographic subject of visible light can be read when a
camera is used, the code elements should also be printed with
visible light ink. However, adding code elements onto a card
separately from the conventional existing picture is not allowed in
appearance. Accordingly, when the visible light camera is used, the
code elements like the present embodiment cannot be used. On the
other hand, the black light sensors are used in the present
embodiment. Accordingly, the code elements just need to react to
ultraviolet rays. That is, the code elements may not ordinarily be
a photographic subject of visible light. As such, in the present
embodiment, the black light sensors are provided so that the code
elements can be utilized as objects to be read other than a
conventional picture of a card.
[0117] Further, since the visible light camera is conventionally
used, the conventional card picture must be used as described
above. Therefore, the precision of reading is low, and the
threshold value of the card speed at the time of reading is also
low. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the black light
sensors detect code elements. Also, a card is specified from the
numbers of the code elements. The code elements are, for example,
marks. The numbers of the marks just needs to be counted, not the
image processing of a picture. Such counting can be performed with
high precision. Also, even if the card speed is increased, the
counting of the mark numbers can be performed with high
precision.
[0118] Further, the present embodiment is also different from a bar
code reader. In the bar code reader, the thickness of a line is an
object to be read. On the other hand, in the present embodiment,
the thickness of a line is not detected, but marks are simply
detected, and a card is specified from the numbers of the marks.
Accordingly, even if the present embodiment is compared with the
bar code reader, reading is precise, and the threshold value of the
card speed at the time of reading increases.
[0119] As such, in the present embodiment, (1) black light sensors
are provided, whereby objects to be read become code elements other
than the conventional picture, and (2) unlike the conventional
image processing of a picture, code elements are detected, and a
card is specified from the numbers of the code elements. By virtue
of these factors, precision of reading can be improved compared
with the conventional technique, and the threshold value of the
card speed at the time of reading can also be made high.
[0120] As an additional advantage, according to the present
embodiment, code elements are suitably given to all the cards.
Accordingly, it can be understood that, when any code elements are
not detected, a card is abnormal. This is suitably helpful to
prevention of an illegal act.
[0121] Further, as an additional advantage, according to the
present embodiment, the black light sensors can be used to
miniaturize an apparatus compared with a configuration provided
with the conventional visible light camera.
[0122] Further, in the card reader 10 of the present embodiment,
the platform 12, the control box 14, the monitor 16, and the
win/lose display box 18 are separately provided. As a modified
example, some or all of them may be integrated. For example, the
control box 14 may be built in the platform 12.
[0123] Further, since the card reader 10 of the present embodiment
can be used for checking of a card for illegal act prevention,
etc., it can be called a card checking apparatus. Also, since the
card reader is used along with a shoe (shooter), it can also be
called a shoe-type checking apparatus. Also, reading of a code in
the above embodiment can also be called measurement for checking.
Accordingly, the UV sensors 60 may be called code reading sensors,
and may be called measuring sensors.
[0124] In another modified example, the card reader 10 of the
present embodiment is integrated with a card shooter. In this case,
an advantage that an existing card shooter can be utilized is no
longer obtained. However, an advantage that reading precision can
be improved is obtained, and an advantage that the threshold value
of the card speed at the time of reading is raised is obtained.
[0125] FIG. 14 shows an integrated configuration. A card shooter
apparatus 200 includes a housing 202. The housing 202 corresponds
to the configuration in which the housing of the shooter and the
housing of the platform in the above-described embodiment are
integrated together. The housing 202 is provided with a card
shooter unit 204. The card shooter unit 204 includes various
components of the above-described card shooter.
[0126] The housing 202 is further provided with a card reading unit
206, a control unit 208, a first display unit 210, and a second
display unit 212. The card reading unit 206 is composed of a card
guide unit 214 and a sensor unit 216.
[0127] The card guide unit 214 has the same function as the card
guide unit in the above-described embodiment. In the
above-described embodiment, the card guide unit is provided in the
platform. In this configuration, the card guide unit 214 is
provided in the housing 202. The card guide unit 214 may be
connected with a card outlet of the card shooter unit 204, and may
be integrated with the outlet.
[0128] The sensor unit 216 is composed of the sensors of the
above-described embodiment. That is, the sensor unit 216 has a
black light sensor 2161, an object detecting sensor 2161, a
measurement validity determining sensor 2163, and related
components. In the above-described embodiment, the sensors are
built in the platform. In this configuration, the sensor unit 216
is built in the housing 202. Also, the sensor unit 216 is located
in the place where the card guide unit 206 exists.
[0129] The control unit 208 is a control device corresponding to
the control box of the above-described embodiment. In the
above-described embodiment, the control box is arranged separately
from the platform. In this configuration, the control unit 208 is
built in the housing 202.
[0130] The first display unit 210 is the monitor of the
above-described embodiment. The second display unit 212 corresponds
to the three lamps of the win/lose display box in the
above-described embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, the
monitor and the lamps are disposed on the table apart from the
platform. In this configuration, the monitor of the first display
unit 210 is provided on a side surface of the housing 202. Further,
the second display unit 212 is provided at a rear end of an upper
surface of the housing 202.
[0131] Similarly to the above-described embodiment, in the card
shooter apparatus 200, a card is read, read data is processed, and
a processing result is displayed.
[0132] The preferred embodiment of the invention has been described
hitherto. However, it is natural that the invention is not limited
to the above-described embodiment, but persons skilled in the art
can alter the above-described embodiment within the scope of the
invention.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0133] The invention can improve the reading precision of the code
of a card, and is useful in prevention of an illegal act.
* * * * *