JP2008023354A - Card reader and game fraud detector - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a device which can detect a fraud in a card game on the spot. <P>SOLUTION: A card reader includes a rail 18 which guides cards, card sensors 46, 48 and 50 which are located at a predetermined interval along the direction in which card passes for detecting the passage of cards moving with the guidance of the rail 18, and reading sensors 52 and 54 which are located between the card sensors along the direction of card passage and reads codes on the cards. The cards are ones on which codes are printed in a UV luminescent ink. The codes consist of at least two rows of codes which are located at a predetermined distance in the direction perpendicular to the direction of card passage. The two reading sensors 52 and 54 are located on the positions corresponding to the intervals between the two rows of codes. The card sensors 46, 48 and 50 output signals for detecting the position of passing cards. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a card reader and a card game fraud detection device, and more particularly to an apparatus for detecting fraud in a card game performed continuously on a table.

  One such device is disclosed in International Publication WO 02/062225 A1. In this document, a code indicating a set to which a card belongs is provided on the card by printing or the like. 6 and 8 of the same document reads a code from each card of a used set. Then, the inspection device determines whether or not an abnormal card is mixed in the set based on the code read from the card.

International Publication WO02 / 062225A1 (pages 15-17, FIG. 6, FIG. 8).

  The above-mentioned conventional apparatus contributes to fraud prevention by checking whether or not a card belongs to a predetermined group. However, in such a device, when an illegal act is performed, it may be difficult to detect the illegal act on the spot.

  For example, in Baccarat, a card is distributed to two players (as is well known, Baccarat is played by a player and a bunker, but in this application a bunker is also called a player). In Baccarat, cards are turned over by the player during the game using a technique called “squeezing”. The right to “squeeze” is generally given to the player who spends the most money. During this “squeezing”, the fraudster switches the cards with a magician-like technique. It would be desirable to be able to detect such fraud on the spot.

In order to prevent fraud, the player may be prohibited from turning the card over. However, in Baccarat, flipping cards by the player is an important factor in the fun of the game. In particular, in Baccarat, having a right to “squeeze” is a status, so “squeeze” is important for the fun of the game.

  In the above example, baccarat has been described. However, in other games such as poker, it is similarly desirable to detect fraud on the spot.

  In addition to the above-described conventional devices, various inspection devices have been proposed, but the conventionally proposed devices include a mechanism for sequentially transferring a large number of cards in order to inspect the entire set at once. Often has a relatively large size. On the other hand, it is required to reliably detect fraudulent acts with a simple and inexpensive configuration.

  The present invention has been made under the above background, and an object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus capable of detecting fraud in a card game on the spot.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus capable of detecting fraudulent acts with a relatively simple and inexpensive configuration.

  In order to achieve the above object, a card reader according to the present invention is a card reader for reading information on a card used for a game performed on a table, and is guided by the rail for guiding the card and the rail. At least two card sensors arranged at predetermined intervals in the passing direction of the moving card, and the two cards in the passing direction of the card, And at least two reading sensors arranged between the sensors and reading a code attached to the card, wherein the card is a card on which the code is printed with ultraviolet light-emitting ink, and the code is the card Are formed by at least two rows of codes arranged at a predetermined interval in a direction intersecting the moving direction of the two readings. Capacitors are disposed at a position corresponding to the spacing of the code of the two rows, the card sensor outputs a signal for detecting the position in the passage of the card.

  The card reading device of the present invention further includes a reading instruction unit that controls the function of the reading sensor based on a signal from the card sensor.

  In the card reader of the present invention, the card is provided with a set code in which one deck or a plurality of decks are set, and the reading sensor has a function of reading the set code.

  A card game fraud detection device according to the present invention includes the above card reading device and a shooter provided with the card reading device for a dealer to take out a card.

  The card game fraud detection device detects fraudulent acts in card games performed continuously. This device includes an appearance card information acquisition means for acquiring appearance card information for specifying an appearance card, which is a card appearing in each game, and an appearance card for storing the appearance card information during the game. Information storage means, exit card information acquisition means for acquiring exit card information for identifying exit cards that are cards exiting the game, based on the entrance card information and exit card information, It includes a determination unit that determines whether or not the exit cards match, and an output unit that outputs a determination result.

  The above device determines whether the entering card and the leaving card match, and outputs the determination result. Therefore, when a card is illegally replaced during the game, this replacement action can be detected.

  The above-described apparatus only needs to be able to acquire information on the entering card and the leaving card. For example, in a baccarat game, the maximum number of entering cards and leaving cards is six. Therefore, since there is no need to provide a means for transferring a set of cards, the apparatus can be configured simply and inexpensively.

  The entering card information and the leaving card information may be the minimum necessary information according to the rules of the card game to which the above device is applied. Card marks are represented by suits (spades, hearts, diamonds, clubs) and ranks (numbers 1 to 10, J, Q, K). For Baccarat, soot has no effect on the game. J, Q, and K are treated as 10 (or 0). Therefore, the entry card information and the exit card information may be only 1 to 10 (J, Q, and K are also included in 10). Of course, more information may be acquired.

  Further, within the scope of the present invention, the above device may use a code representing a set as the entry card information and the exit card information. The set is, for example, one deck and, for example, a plurality of decks. The set code attached to the entering card is compared with the set code attached to the exit card information. Also in this case, it is possible to determine whether the entering card and the leaving card match. Of course, information other than a set code that yields a similar result may be used.

  The card game fraud detection device typically includes a reading unit that reads information from a card, and the appearance card information acquisition unit and the exit card information acquisition unit acquire information read by the reading unit. To do.

  The reading means may be attached to each card and read a code that can identify each card. Preferably, the reading unit reads a code which is unreadable by human vision under normal use conditions and can be read under a predetermined condition from the card. For example, the reading unit reads a code that can be read by being irradiated with predetermined light. According to this, fraud can be detected without giving the player a sense of incongruity.

  The reading unit may read a code set so as not to correspond to the mark on the card. Here, the mark on the card does not correspond to the code. And this apparatus does not need to grasp | ascertain the mark of a card | curd. Since this device only needs to be able to determine the match between the entering card and the leaving card, fraud can be detected without specifying the card mark. And since the mark of a card | curd is not grasped | ascertained by the apparatus, the further increase of the player's feeling that the game is played fairly can be aimed at.

  The reading means may read a mark on each card. Here, the apparatus can be further simplified by adopting the following configuration.

  Preferably, the reading unit detects marks in at least two mark rows among the three mark rows in the vertical direction of the card. The at least two mark rows are one of the center mark row and the mark rows on both sides. Since the arrangement of the card marks is determined, the card marks can be specified by the simple configuration as described above.

  As already described, here, it is only necessary to obtain the minimum necessary information according to the game rules. For example, in baccarat, mark soot may not be detected. Preferably, when the mark in the mark row cannot be specified, it is determined that the card is a picture card (J, Q, K). The picture card may be treated as 10 (or 0) in Baccarat.

  The reading means may detect marks in at least five mark rows among nine mark rows in the lateral direction of the card. The at least five mark rows are one of the mark row at the center, one of the mark rows at both ends, two mark rows at the center on both sides of 8 cards, and one of the two mark rows at the sides on the center of 10 cards. One. This also makes it possible to specify the mark.

  Preferably, the reading unit includes a sensor that is embedded in a table and reads information from a card that slides on the table. According to this, information is acquired from the cards on the table, and the player's sense that the game is being played fairly can be further increased.

  Preferably, information is read from the entering card and the leaving card by a common sensor. For example, a sensor is provided at an appropriate place such as the center of the table, and the entering card and the leaving card are slid on the sensor. Since the number of sensors may be small, the configuration is simplified.

  Preferably, the device includes a rail that protrudes from the table and guides the card when the card slides. When the card slides with one side of the card in contact with the rail, the information on the card detects the sensor. The positional relationship between the sensor and the rail is set so as to pass. According to this, the information on the card is reliably read.

  The reading means may be composed of an appearance reading means and an exit reading means as follows. The appearance reading means is provided in a route through which the card appears from the shooter or the shooter, and reads information from the appearance card. The exit reading means is provided in a path through which the card exits through the card submission port or the card collection port, and reads information from the exit card. In this manner, separate sensors may be provided for the entering card and the leaving card.

  In addition, this apparatus may include a reading unit in a path along which the card is guided in relation to the shooter and the collection port. Thereby, even if it does not provide the above rails, information is reliably read from the card.

  The apparatus may include information adding means for adding a code to the card when the card appears, and reading means for reading the code added by the information adding means when the card leaves. The appearance card information acquisition means acquires information added by the information addition means as the appearance card information, and the exit card information acquisition means acquires information read by the reading means as the exit card information. . The information adding means may print a code on a card.

  Here, a code is added when a card appears. Even in such a configuration, the above-described advantages can be suitably obtained. In this configuration, the code may not correspond to the mark. For example, the code may represent a random number regardless of the mark. In this case, the detection device does not have to grasp the mark of the card. Even if the mark is not grasped, the entering card and the leaving card can be collated, so that an illegal act is detected. And since the mark of a card | curd is not grasped | ascertained by the apparatus, the further increase of the player's feeling that the game is played fairly can be aimed at.

  Preferably, the output means outputs a determination result so that it can be determined whether or not the entering card information and the leaving card information of each of the plurality of players match. This device makes it possible to identify the player who has committed fraud.

  Another aspect of the above device is a card game fraud detection device, which is provided in a table or in the vicinity thereof, and that is used for a game based on a reader for reading information on the card and information read by the reader. Determining means for determining whether or not an entering card as an entering card and an exit card as an exiting card from the game match.

  According to this, the fraud of the card game can be detected with a simple configuration including a reader provided in the table or in the vicinity thereof. A conventionally general device for continuously transferring cards may not be provided. Then, fraud can be detected on the spot by determining whether the entering card and the leaving card match.

  In this case, the information on the card is, for example, the above-described code and mark.

  In this apparatus, the reader typically reads information from both the entering card and the leaving card, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when a card appears from a shooter, a code is printed on the card and the printed code is stored. Then, the code is read from the exit card by the reader. The read code is compared with the stored code. In this case, the reader reads information only from the exit card.

  In another example, the reader reads a code representing the set from the exit card. Then, the read code is compared with a set stored in a card providing source (shooter or the like). Preferably, a new card set or a pre-inspected card set is set in the card supply source. Even in this configuration, if it is assumed that the same set of cards are set in the card supply source, it is possible to determine whether the entering card and the leaving card match. Of course, information other than a set code that yields a similar result may be used.

  Here, the table or the vicinity thereof means a part on the path through which the card passes in the game. For example, in a table including a shooter that is a card providing source and a storage unit for used cards, the table or the vicinity thereof is any part of the path from the card providing source through the table to the storage unit. . Therefore, the reader is typically provided in a part on the table, but is not limited thereto. For example, a reader may be provided in the collection port for a configuration that reads information only from the above-described exit card.

  Preferably, the reader is provided in a base portion through which a card that constitutes a part of the table and slides on the table passes. According to this, the fraud of the card game can be detected by a simple configuration provided in a part of the table.

  Here, the base portion is a separate member from the table, and may be attached to an opening provided in the table. Further, the base part may not be a separate member from the table. In this case, the reader may be attached to a partial region of the members constituting the table.

  Preferably, the apparatus includes guiding means for guiding the card and passing the card through a path through which the reader can read information. Preferably, the guide means includes a rail that protrudes from the table and guides the card when the card slides, and information on the card is received when the card slides with one side of the card in contact with the rail. Rails are provided to pass through the reader. This ensures that the card information is read.

  Preferably, it has a plurality of sensors provided along the rail to detect the presence of the card. Then, based on whether or not the plurality of sensors detect the card, it is detected whether or not the card slides with one side of the card in contact with the rail. Thereby, the information on the card can be read more reliably. It is possible to prevent erroneous determination due to the card being slid at an inappropriate angle.

  Another aspect of the above apparatus is a mark reading apparatus that reads a mark from a card. This apparatus is a detecting means for detecting marks in at least two mark rows among the three mark rows in the vertical direction of the card, wherein the at least two mark rows include a center mark row and marks on both sides. Detection means which is one of the columns, and mark number specifying means for specifying the number of marks on the card based on a detection result by the detection means. This device specifies the number of marks on the card, paying attention to the arrangement of marks on the card. This device is preferably applied to the above-described fraud detection device, but may be applied to other devices that process cards.

  Another aspect of the above apparatus is a card mark reading apparatus that reads a mark from a card, and this apparatus detects a mark in at least five mark rows among nine mark rows in the lateral direction of the card. The at least five mark rows include a center mark row, one of the mark rows at both ends, two mark rows at the center of the 8 card, and two at the center of the 10 card. A detection unit that is one of the mark rows; and a mark number specifying unit that specifies the number of marks on the card based on a detection result by the detection unit. This apparatus also specifies the number of marks on the card, paying attention to the fact that the arrangement of marks on the card is determined. This device is also preferably applied to the above-described fraud detection device, but may be applied to other devices that process cards.

  The detection means can detect a color difference between a mark on the card and a portion without the mark. Typically, red and black are distinguished from white. Since it is only necessary to be able to detect the color difference, a simple sensor can be applied, and the cost can be reduced. For example, on Baccarat rules, card suits do not affect the game. In such a case, the above apparatus is preferably used.

  Preferably, when the mark in the mark row cannot be specified, it is determined that the card is a picture card (J, Q, K). The picture card may be treated as 10 (or 0) in a game such as baccarat.

  Preferably, the card mark reading device includes guide means for guiding the card and passing the detection means through the mark row of the card. The guide means may include a rail that protrudes from a table where a card game is performed and guides the card when the card slides. At this time, the positional relationship between the detection means and the rail is set so that the mark row passes through the detection means when the card slides with one side of the card in contact with the rail. According to this, the number of marks on the card is specified reliably.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described card game fraud detection device and card mark reading device. Another aspect of the present invention is, for example, a method executed by the above-described apparatus, a program that causes a computer to implement such a method, and a recording medium that stores such a program.

  According to the present invention, an illegal act in a card game can be detected on the spot.

  Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 shows a table on which the card game fraud detection device of the present embodiment is provided. This table 1 is used in baccarat. However, it goes without saying that the present invention is applicable to games other than baccarat.

  In FIG. 1, the table 1 is shown in a simplified diagram, but a normal baccarat table may be applied when implementing the present invention. As is well known, baccarat is played by a player and a bunker. However, in this application, both players and bunker are referred to as players.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a shooter 3 and a collection port 5 are provided on both sides of the table 1, respectively. The shooter 3 is a card supply source, and a card swept from the shooter 3 is dealt to the player. Then, after the game is over, the card is discharged from the collection port 5 and stored in a used card storage unit (not shown).

  Here, in this embodiment, a card that appears in each game is referred to as an appearance card, and a card that exits from each game is referred to as an exit card. The entering card appears at the table through the shooter 3 in the game, and the exit card exits from the table through the collection port 5.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the card game fraud detection device (hereinafter, fraud detection device) 10 according to the present embodiment is arranged at the approximate center of the table 1. This position is set so that it is easy for the dealer to pass the card through the fraud detection device 10.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the fraud detection device 10. The base plate 12 is a flat plate and is attached to the opening of the table 1. Two attachment members 14, which are rod-like members, are attached along both ends of the base plate 12, and these attachment members 14 are placed on a step provided in the opening of the table 1. For example, the base plate 12 has a rectangular shape of 210 mm × 130 mm.

  In a state in which the base plate 12 is attached to the table 1, the slide surface 16 that is the upper surface of the base plate 12 has substantially the same height as the upper surface of the table 1. Therefore, the slide surface 16 forms the same plane as the table 1. To do. The card is slid on the table 1 so as to pass through the slide surface 16.

  A rail 18 for guiding the card is provided on the base plate 12. The rail 18 has an L shape. The rail 18 forms a gap (groove) 20 between the table 1 and the table 1 as illustrated. The card is inserted into the gap 20. Then, the card is slid in a state where one side of the card is in contact with the rail 18 at the bottom of the gap 20. As a result, the card is guided along the rail 18.

  The base plate 12 is provided with a plurality of windows 22-30 along the rail 18. These windows 22-30 are partially or completely hidden under the rail 18 when the base plate 12 is viewed from above.

  In addition, these windows 22-30 are provided at positions corresponding to the plurality of sensors provided on the lower side of the base plate 12. The plurality of sensors are attached to the sensor attachment plate 32. The sensor attachment plate 32 is attached to the lower side of the guide plate 12. The rail 18 is also provided with three windows 34, 36 and 38 at positions corresponding to the windows 22, 28 and 30.

  Furthermore, another window 40 is provided on the base plate 12. The window 40 is provided on the opposite side to the windows 22 to 30 with respect to the rail 18. The window 40 is used for displaying the determination result. Although not shown, the LED device is attached to the base plate 12. The window 40 is provided at a position corresponding to the lamp of the LED device.

  FIG. 3 shows a card to be inspected. As shown, codes 42 and 44 are attached along the longer side of the card. The codes 42 and 44 are arranged at a place where the marks of all cards including the picture cards (J, Q, K) are not printed.

  The codes 42 and 44 are bar codes corresponding to the marks on the card. One of the codes 42 and 44 represents a suit (spade, heart, diamond, club), and the other represents a rank (value, 1, 2, 10, 10, J, Q, K). For example, the code 42 represents a suit and the code 44 represents a rank.

  The codes 42 and 44 are printed with ultraviolet light emitting ink. Ultraviolet light-emitting ink cannot be read by human vision under normal use conditions. However, the ultraviolet light-emitting ink is colored when exposed to ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet light used to view the ultraviolet light-emitting ink is called black light.

  FIG. 4 is a plan view of the fraud detection device 10. The entrance portion of the gap of the rail 18 is cut obliquely. As a result, the dealer can smoothly insert the card into the gap of the rail 18.

  As indicated by dotted lines, five sensors are provided on the lower side of the base plate 12. The 1st card sensor 46, the 2nd card sensor 48, and the 3rd card sensor 50 are photoelectric sensors, and detect the existence of a card. The sensors 46, 48, and 50 are disposed in the gap 20 between the rail 18 and the base plate 12. Thereby, the sensors 46, 48 and 50 are located in the vicinity of the guide surface of the rail 18.

  The first reading sensor 52 and the second reading sensor 54 read the codes 42 and 44 attached to the card when the card is guided by the rail 18 and slides. Both sensors 52 and 54 are arranged so that the first reading sensor 52 reads the code 42 and the second reading sensor reads the code 44. Light sources for visualizing the codes 42 and 44 are provided in the sensors 52 and 54. In the present embodiment, the light source is an LED that emits ultraviolet light (ultraviolet LED). By applying a sensor including such an LED, the apparatus is downsized.

  FIG. 5 shows the positional relationship between the card and the sensor. Assume that the card is slid and reaches position A. When the card is at position A, the first card sensor 46 and the second card sensor 48 simultaneously detect the card. Further, the first reading sensor 52 and the second reading sensor 54 are approaching the codes 42 and 44. At this position, the first reading sensor 52 and the second reading sensor 54 are controlled to start reading, and a code is detected. When the card slides and reaches position B, the card is simultaneously detected by the second card sensor 48 and the third card sensor 50.

  In the above, detection of the card by the second card sensor 48 is a trigger for starting reading.

  Further, the posture of the card is determined based on the detection results of the first card sensor 46, the second card sensor 48, and the third card sensor 50. This determination is performed to determine whether or not the card slides with one side of the card in contact with the rail. (1) The first card sensor 46, the second card sensor 48, and the third card sensor 50 detect the cards in order, and (2) these sensors sequentially indicate that the card has passed (the card no longer exists). And (3) the first card sensor 46 and the second card sensor 48 simultaneously detect the card, and (4) the second card sensor 48 and the third card sensor 50 simultaneously detect the card. It is determined that the card has passed in an appropriate posture. In other cases, it is determined that the card has not passed in an appropriate posture. This determination process is performed by a determination computer device described later.

  Returning to FIG. 4, the LED device 56 attached to the lower side of the base plate 12 can be seen from the window 40 near the center of the rail 18. The LED device 56 has seven LED elements.

  The LED element 58 displays the determination result of the card posture described above. For example, lighting of the LED element 58 indicates that the posture is appropriate.

  LED element 60-70 displays the detection result of the presence or absence of cheating. More specifically, the LED elements 60-70 indicate the determination result as to whether or not the entering card and the leaving card match. When one entering card is dealt, the code is read from the entering card and one LED element is lit. And when a code | cord | chord is read from a leaving card, if a leaving card and an appearance card correspond, a corresponding LED element will disappear. The determination process will be described in detail later.

  FIG. 6 shows a front view of the fraud detection device 10. The sensor mounting plate 32 is formed by bending a single plate-like member. The sensor mounting plate 32 includes a flat portion 72, a wall portion 74 extending upward from both ends of the flat portion 72, and a flange portion 76 provided at the upper end of the wall portion 74. The flange portion 76 is attached to the lower surface of the base plate 12 by a bolt (not shown).

  In the mounted state, a space of an appropriate size is formed between the flat portion 72 and the base plate 12. Sensors 46-54 are provided in this space. The sensors 46-54 are attached to the flat portion 72 using L-shaped brackets 78, 80 as shown. The height of each sensor is set according to the detection distance of the sensor.

  FIG. 7 shows a bracket 78 for mounting the sensor 46-50. The bracket 78 is attached to the sensor mounting plate 32 with a bolt (not shown) at the hole 82 and attached to the sensor 46-50 with a bolt (not shown) at the hole 84. Although not shown, the brackets of the sensors 52 and 54 have the same configuration. However, of course, the dimensions of the bracket differ depending on the sensor size and the detection distance.

  FIG. 8 is a side view of the fraud detection device 10. Attachment members 14 are attached to both ends of the base plate 12 using bolts (not shown). As already described, the attachment member 14 is used to attach the apparatus to the table 1. For example, the attachment member 14 is bonded to the opening of the table 1. The attachment member 14 may be fixed by a screw or the like.

  Further, as already described, a card (phantom line) is inserted into the gap 20 between the rail 18 and the base plate 12, and the card is guided by the bottom surface of the gap 20. The rail 18 is also attached to the base plate 12 by bolts (not shown).

  In the present embodiment, the rail 18 is fixed to the base plate 12 at three locations, the center and both ends. Regarding the fixing of both ends, the rail 18 and the sensor mounting plate 32 are fixed to the base plate 12 with one bolt. A screw hole is provided in the rail 18, and a bolt is fastened to the screw hole from the lower side of the sensor mounting plate 32.

  FIG. 9 is a bottom view of the fraud detection device 10. FIG. 9 shows an LED box 86 for mounting the LED device 56. The LED device 56 is housed in the LED box 86, and the LED box 86 is attached to the lower surface of the base plate 12. The attachment position is set so that the position of the LED element of the LED device 56 corresponds to the window 40 of the base plate 12.

  FIG. 10 is a view of FIG. 9 viewed from the direction of the arrow X. The LED box 86 has a flange portion 88 at the upper end. The flange portion 88 is attached to the base plate 12 using a bolt (not shown).

  FIG. 11 shows the fraud detection device 10 together with the table 1. As illustrated, the fraud detection device 10 includes a determination computer device 90 in addition to the configuration provided on the base plate 12 described above. The determination computer device 90 is attached to the lower surface of the base plate 12 by a bracket (not shown).

  The determination computer device 90 is connected to the sensors 46 to 54 and the LED device 56 attached to the base plate 12.

  The determination computer device 90 is configured by a microcomputer and has a normal computer configuration such as a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. The determination computer device 90 executes a program stored in the ROM, thereby controlling the sensors and LEDs of the base plate 12 and performing processing related to fraud detection.

  FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration of the determination computer device 90. The determination computer device 90 receives detection signals from the first card sensor 46, the second card sensor 48, and the third card sensor 50. Further, the determination computer device 90 controls the first reading sensor 52 and the second reading sensor 54 to read the code of the card and receives detection signals from both the sensors 52 and 54. Further, the determination computer device 90 controls the LED device 56 to turn on and off the LED elements 58-70.

  In FIG. 12, the reading instruction unit 92 instructs the first reading sensor 52 and the second reading sensor 54 to start and end the reading operation. When receiving a detection signal indicating the presence of a card from the second card sensor 48, the reading instruction unit 92 causes the sensors 52 and 54 to start reading, thereby reading the barcode. When receiving a detection signal indicating the presence of the card from the third card sensor 50, the reading instruction unit 92 causes the sensors 52 and 54 to finish reading.

  The posture determination unit 94 determines whether or not the posture of the card at the time of sliding is appropriate based on detection signals from the first card sensor 46, the second card sensor 48, and the third card sensor 50. As already described, (1) the first card sensor 46, the second card sensor 48 and the third card sensor 50 detect the cards in order, and (2) these sensors in turn indicate that the cards have passed ( (3) the first card sensor 46 and the second card sensor 48 simultaneously detect the card, and (4) the second card sensor 48 and the third card sensor. When 50 detects a card at the same time, posture determination unit 94 determines that the card has passed in an appropriate posture. When the posture is appropriate, the posture determination output processing unit 96 turns on the LED element 58 of the LED device 56.

  The attitude determination algorithm is not limited to the one described above. For example, even if all of the above four conditions are not satisfied, it may be determined that the posture is appropriate. However, the posture is determined more accurately by using the above four conditions.

  The appearance card information acquisition unit 98 acquires information on the read code when the first reading sensor 52 and the second reading sensor 54 read the code from the appearance card. This information is stored in the appearance card information storage unit 100 as appearance card information for identifying the appearance card. In Baccarat, a maximum of 6 cards are dealt. Information on all the dealt cards is acquired by the appearance card information acquisition unit 98 and stored in the appearance card information storage unit 100. The appearance card information storage unit 100 holds the appearance card information while the game is being played.

  The exit card information acquisition unit 102 acquires information of the read code when the first reading sensor 52 and the second reading sensor 54 read the code from the exit card. This information corresponds to exit card information for specifying the exit card.

  The determination unit 104 refers to the entry card information stored in the entry card information storage unit 100 and the exit card information acquired by the exit card information acquisition unit 102. The determination unit 104 determines whether or not the entering card and the leaving card match by collating these pieces of information.

  The appearance card information storage unit 100 stores information on a plurality of appearance cards. If one of the information matches the exit card, it is determined that the entry card and the exit card match.

  The output processing unit 106 outputs information on the determination result by controlling the LED device 56. The output processing unit 106 first turns on one of the LED elements 60-70 each time one piece of entry card information is obtained. Then, when the exit card information matches the entry card information, one of the LED elements 60-70 is turned off. When all LED elements 60-70 are extinguished, it is indicated that there was no fraud.

  Preferably, when the entering card and the leaving card coincide with each other, the LED element that is turned on when the entering card is read is turned off. For example, it is assumed that the LED element 64 is lit when a certain entering card is read. When the entry card matches a certain exit card, the LED element 64 is turned off. Thereby, it can be detected by which player (player or banker) fraud was performed.

  Moreover, the LED element corresponding to each player may be determined in advance. For example, the LED elements 60 and 62 correspond to two cards of one player, and the LED elements 66 and 68 correspond to two cards of the other player. If the LED element for each player is determined, it is possible to more easily determine the player who performed the fraud.

  In Baccarat, the order in which up to the second card is usually distributed is determined. By appropriately setting the lighting order of the LED elements according to this order, the LED elements corresponding to each player are fixedly determined as described above.

  On the other hand, in Baccarat, the third card is often dealt to only one player. Therefore, even if the lighting order of the LED elements is set according to the distribution order of the cards as described above, the correspondence relationship between the player and the LED elements changes according to the game situation for the third card.

  However, regarding the third card, it is relatively easy for the dealer and the player to grasp which LED element is lit for which player's card.

  Alternatively, by providing an appropriate configuration for detecting where the third card is dealt, the player and the LED element can be made to correspond to the third card. For example, a switch indicating which player's card code is read may be provided. This switch may be operated by a dealer.

  Although not shown, in the present embodiment, an appearance start switch and an exit start switch are provided at appropriate locations in order to distinguish between an entry card and an exit card.

  The appearance start switch is operated by the dealer before reading the first appearance card of each game. The appearance start switch may be operated before the game starts.

  The exit start switch is operated by the dealer before reading the first exit card. The exit start switch may be operated at the end of the game.

  These switch operations are detected by the determination computer device 90. After the appearance start switch is operated, information from the reading sensors 52 and 54 is treated as appearance card information. Further, after the exit start switch is operated, information from the reading sensors 52 and 54 is handled as exit card information.

  The entering card and the leaving card may be distinguished by a configuration other than the above. For example, one switch may be operated before the start of entering and before the start of leaving.

  The configuration of the fraud detection device 10 according to the present embodiment has been described above. Next, the operation of the fraud detection device 10 will be described.

  The baccarat is continuously performed on the table 1 as is well known. When a game starts, the dealer operates an appearance start switch. This operation is detected by the determination computer device 90.

  The dealer removes the cards one by one from the shooter 3 and distributes them to the player. At this time, the dealer slides the card along the rail 18 in the middle of distributing the card to the player.

  When the card is slid in an appropriate posture, the card is first detected by the first card sensor 46 and then detected by the second card sensor 48. When the second card sensor 48 detects the card, the reading instruction unit 92 instructs the first reading sensor 52 and the second reading sensor 54 to read the code, and the bar codes 42 and 44 of the card are read. Two columns of codes 42 and 44 represent the marks (suit and rank) of the card.

  Based on the signal obtained from the sensor, the determination computer device 90 identifies the mark on the card. Thus, the appearance card information is acquired by the appearance card information storage unit 98 and stored in the appearance card information storage unit 100.

  The card moves and reaches the third card sensor 50. When the third card sensor 50 detects a card, the reading instruction unit 92 instructs the first reading sensor 52 and the second reading sensor 54 to end reading, and receives the first reading sensor 52 and the second reading. The sensor 54 ends the reading operation. Note that the black light may continue to be lit regardless of the detection result of the card sensor.

  Further, the posture determination unit 94 of the determination computer device 90 determines whether or not the posture is appropriate when the card slides. The determination criteria are as described above. This determination result indicates whether or not the code has been read in a state where one side of the card is in contact with the rail 18 as described above. If the posture is appropriate, the posture determination output processing unit 96 lights the LED element 58. When the posture is not appropriate, the LED element 58 is not lit. In this case, the dealer slides the card along the rail 18 again.

  The output processing unit 106 lights one of the LED elements 60 to 70 every time a code is read from one card.

  The above operation is repeated for all incoming cards. Each time an incoming card appears, the code of the incoming card is read and stored in the determination computer device 90, and one LED element lights up.

  Next, the dealer operates the exit start switch when the game is over. The dealer then inserts the cards used in the game into the collection port 5 one by one. At this time, the dealer slides each card along the rail 18 while moving the card to the collection port.

  When the card slides, the code of each leaving card is read by the first reading sensor 52 and the second reading sensor 54. The reading operation is the same as the reading of the entering card. The posture determination is performed in the same manner. When the posture is not appropriate, the card is slid again by the dealer and the reading operation is performed.

  The information of the code read from the exit card is acquired by the exit card information acquisition unit 102. In this way, the exit card information acquisition unit 102 acquires exit card information.

  The determination unit 104 collates the exit card information with the entry card information. When the entering card information storage unit 100 stores entering card information that matches the exit card information, the determination unit 104 determines that the entering card and the exit card match. Therefore, the output processing unit 106 turns off one of the LED elements that are lit. Preferably, as described above, when a certain entering card matches the leaving card, the LED element corresponding to the entering card is turned off.

  The above determination process and LED control are repeated each time a code is read from each exit card. And when all the leaving cards coincide with the entering card, all the LED elements are turned off. As a result, it can be seen that the card was not replaced during the game, and that there was no fraud.

  Conversely, it is assumed that one or more LED elements are not extinguished. In this case, it can be seen that the card has been replaced during the game, and that cheating has occurred.

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. A modification of the present embodiment will be described below.

  In the present embodiment, ultraviolet light emitting ink and a sensor for detecting it are used. The code of the ultraviolet light emitting ink is an example of a code that cannot be read by human vision and can be read under a predetermined condition. On the other hand, another configuration is also conceivable. For example, ink visualized by infrared rays may be applied. For example, a code may be provided on a card using magnetism. In this case, a magnetic sensor is provided in the detection device.

  Also, certain inks can be read at a specific temperature. The code may be printed on the card using such ink. In this case, the detection device has a configuration for changing the temperature of the card surface.

  Of course, the sensor is changed according to the form of the code. Depending on the code, an appropriate bar code, CCD camera or the like can be used as a sensor.

  In the above-described embodiment, the base plate 12 corresponds to the base portion, and the base portion is a separate member from the table, but is not limited thereto. The base portion may not be a separate member from the table. In this case, a rail, a sensor, and an LED device may be attached to a partial region of a member constituting the table.

  Moreover, although the above-mentioned embodiment was provided with the some LED element corresponding to each of a some card | curd, it is not limited to this. For example, only one LED element may be provided. In this case, the LED element may be lit when a fraud is detected, that is, when a leaving card that does not match the entering card is found.

  Moreover, in the above-mentioned embodiment, although the LED element was used, of course, displays other than an LED element may be used. Furthermore, although the determination result was output using the display on a table, it is not limited to this. The indicator may not be provided on the table. The indicator may be provided in a remote place such as a management room such as a casino. The determination result may be sent to a computer such as a management room.

  The determination result may be output by an alarm sound. In this case, a speaker is provided. A sound other than the alarm sound, for example, a voice message or a melody may be output.

  In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the codes 42 and 44 are printed on the card. The codes 42 and 44 represent soot and rank, respectively, and these codes are used as entry card information and exit card information.

  However, the entry card information and the exit card information may be the minimum necessary information according to the rules of the card game to which the above device is applied. In Baccarat, soot does not affect the game. J, Q, and K are treated as 10. Therefore, the entry card information and the exit card information may be only 1 to 10 (J, Q, and K are also included in 10). Only such a code may be attached to the card.

  The code may be set so as not to correspond to the mark on the card. For example, a random number is attached to the card as a code. The above apparatus does not have to grasp the mark on the card. Since it is only necessary to determine the match between the entering card and the leaving card, fraud can be detected without specifying the mark of the card. And since the mark of a card | curd is not grasped | ascertained by the apparatus, the further increase of the player's feeling that the game is played fairly can be aimed at.

  Furthermore, the above-described device may use a code representing a set as entry card information and exit card information. The set may be one deck or multiple decks. The set code attached to the entering card and the set code attached to the exit card information are collated. Also in this case, it is possible to determine whether the entering card and the leaving card match. Of course, information other than a set code that yields a similar result may be used.

  In another example, the reader reads a code representing the set from the exit card. A set code is input to the determination computer device 90 in advance. The set code is a set of codes stored in a card supply source (shooter or the like). Preferably, a new card set or a pre-inspected card set is set in the card supply source. The input set code is acquired and stored as appearance card information. The read code is checked against the stored code.

  Even in this configuration, if it is assumed that the same set of cards are set in the card supply source, it is possible to determine whether the entering card and the leaving card match. Of course, information other than a set code that yields a similar result may be used. In this configuration, information may not be read from each appearance card.

  In this configuration, since the appearance card is not read first, it is preferable that the control of the LED device is appropriately changed from the above-described embodiment.

  In yet another example, the set code may not be input in advance. When the group codes of a plurality of exit cards are compared and there is an exit card having a different pair code, it is determined that the exit card does not match the entry card. Assuming that the set code of the first exit card is the proper set code of the entering card, the set code may be compared with the set codes of the remaining exit cards.

  To further explain the above configuration, a plurality of cards are rarely replaced in an illegal act actually performed. Usually one or a few cards are replaced. Assuming this, it is possible to determine whether or not the entering card and the leaving card match by comparing the codes of the leaving card as described above. Also in this embodiment, as described above, fraudulent acts can be detected on the spot by determining whether the cards match in the game.

  Here, in the configuration using the group code, when a certain card is replaced with a card of the same group, the fraudulent act cannot be detected, and the fraud detection effect is limited in this respect. However, there are a relatively large number of frauds in which different sets of codes are used. In such a case, a mismatch between the entering card and the leaving card is detected, and the fraudulent act can be detected.

  On the other hand, it can be said that the above-described embodiment is further advantageous in that it can detect fraud using the same set of cards.

  Further, both the set code and card mark information may be used for fraud detection.

  FIG. 13 shows another embodiment of the apparatus described above. In the following description, description of matters similar to those of the above-described embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

  As shown in FIG. 13, in this embodiment, the appearance sensor 110 is provided in the shooter 3. The shooter 3 is provided with a configuration for guiding cards. The appearance sensor 110 reads the code from the appearance card guided when leaving the shooter 3.

  In addition, an exit sensor 112 is provided at the collection port 5. The collection port 5 is also provided with a configuration for guiding the card. The exit sensor 112 reads the code from the exit card that is guided when passing through the collection port 5.

  Further, an LED device 114 is provided near the center of the table 1, and a determination computer device 116 is attached to the lower side of the table 1. The determination computer device 116 performs the same determination process as that of the above-described embodiment based on the read signals of the appearance sensor 110 and the exit sensor 112. Then, the determination computer device 116 controls the LED device 114 to display the determination result. The configuration of the determination computer device relating to the determination processing and the like may be the same as that of the above-described embodiment.

  As seen in the present embodiment, the entry card information and the exit card information may be read by separate readers.

  In the present embodiment, the shooter 3 and the collection port 5 are provided with guide means. This guiding means is used for reading the code of the card. A dedicated guide means may not be provided for the fraud detection device. Therefore, the configuration of the apparatus is simplified.

  FIG. 14 shows another embodiment of the apparatus described above. In the present embodiment, a code is added to the card when the card appears. Therefore, the code may not be read from the entering card. The code is read from the exit card as in the above-described embodiment.

  In FIG. 14, the base plate 12 and the sensors and LEDs attached thereto may be the same as those in the above-described embodiment. In addition, the determination computer device 90 has the configuration of the above-described embodiment, and further includes a code generation unit 120 that generates a code to be printed on the appearance card. A code printing device 122 is provided in the shooter 3.

  In the present embodiment, the code generation unit 120 generates a code. The code is a random number. This code is transmitted from the determination computer device 90 to the code printing device 122. The code printing device 122 prints the code received from the determination computer device 90 on the card when the card is ejected from the shooter 3. Thus, a code is added to the card.

  The code printing device 122 notifies the determination computer device 90 that the code has been printed on the card. In response to this, the code generation unit 120 generates the next code. Again, a random number is generated.

  Such an operation is repeated, and a random number code is printed on the cards that appear sequentially.

  In the determination computer device 90, when the code generation unit 120 generates a code, this code is acquired by the appearance card information acquisition unit 98. The acquired code is stored in the appearance card information storage unit 100 as appearance card information.

  In the present embodiment, the appearance card information is acquired as described above. Therefore, when the card is dealt, the card need not be read by the sensor of the base plate 12. At the end of the game, the sensor on the base plate 12 reads the code from the exit card. A read signal is sent to the determination computer device 90. The determination computer device 90 determines whether the entering card and the leaving card are the same as in the above-described embodiment.

  The fraud detection device according to the present embodiment can detect fraud by determining whether or not the entering card and the leaving card match, as in the above-described embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, the code generation unit 120 generates a random number. In this case, the code does not correspond to the mark on the card, and the mark on the card is not grasped by the detection device. However, since the entering card and the leaving card can be collated even if the mark is not grasped, the illegal act is surely detected. And since the mark of a card | curd is not grasped | ascertained by the apparatus, the player's sense that the game is played fairly can be increased.

  In the above embodiment, the code printing apparatus is one form of the information adding means, but is not limited to this. The information adding means is configured to conform to the specification of the code. For example, when a magnetic code is applied, a device for adding a magnetic code corresponds to the information adding means.

  Next, another embodiment of the above apparatus will be described. In the following embodiment, the mark of the card is read instead of the code attached to the card. In particular, in the present embodiment, the configuration for reading the mark on the card is simple.

  Referring to FIG. 15, marks are arranged in three rows in the vertical direction of the card. As shown in FIG. 15, two sensors are provided to detect one of the center mark row and the mark rows on both sides.

  More specifically, in the present embodiment, one of the mark rows on both sides is called a first row, and the center mark row is called a second row. The first reading sensor 130 is arranged to read the first row of marks, and the second reading sensor 132 is arranged to read the second row of marks.

  These sensors 130 and 132 are constituted by cameras. The sensors 130 and 132 only need to be able to detect the presence or absence of a mark. Therefore, as the sensors 130 and 132, sensors capable of distinguishing the colored portion (red or black) and the white portion of the card are applied. In short, the sensors 130 and 132 detect a color difference between a mark on the card and a portion without the mark.

  The sensors 130 and 132 are provided in place of the sensor that reads the ultraviolet light emitting ink of the above-described embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, the sensor reads the code at the end of the card, whereas in this embodiment, the sensors 130 and 132 read the marks in the first and second rows. In accordance with this difference, the position of the sensor is changed, and the position of the window of the base plate is also changed. If necessary, a light for illuminating the card is provided.

  Next, a mark reading process in the present embodiment will be described. In all common cards, the mark arrangement is common, and 1 to 10 marks are arranged in three mark rows. Using this characteristic, the number of marks on the card is determined.

  FIG. 16 shows an algorithm for determining the number of marks. This algorithm is executed by the determination computer device. The determination computer device receives detection signals from the first reading sensor 130 and the second reading sensor 132. Based on this detection signal, the number of marks in the first column and the second column is specified. Then, the process of FIG. 16 is performed using the number of marks in the first row and the second row.

  In the process of FIG. 16, the determination computer device first determines whether or not the number of marks has been specified (S10). As is well known, a complicated pattern is printed on the picture cards (J, Q, K). Therefore, the number of marks is not specified. In this case, it is determined that the number of marks is 10 (S12). In Baccarat, J, Q, and K are treated as 10 (or 0), so this determination is appropriate.

  Next, when S10 is NO, the determination computer device determines whether or not the number of marks in the first row is 0 (S14). When S14 is YES, it is determined whether or not the number of marks in the second row is 1 (S16). If S16 is YES, it is determined that the number of marks is 1 (A) (S18).

  In the card used in the present embodiment, it is desirable that the A pattern of spades has a size within a certain range. The size of the A pattern of spades only needs to be within a range that can be distinguished from a picture card. The spade A may be detected in the same manner as other As.

  For spade A, the determination computer device 90 determines whether or not a mark larger than the other marks is detected, but when such a mark is detected. It may be determined that the card is A of spades. This step is inserted after S10, for example (not shown). Here, it is considered that the A of the spade is larger or more complicated than other marks such as A.

  As another variation, the A of the spade may be a mark having the same size and size as the other spades.

  When S16 is NO, it is determined whether or not the number of marks in the second row is 2 (S20). If S20 is YES, it is determined that the number of marks is 2 (S22). If S20 is NO, it is determined that the number of marks is 3 (S24).

  When S14 is NO, the determination computer device determines whether or not the number of marks in the second row is 2 (S26). If S26 is YES, it is determined whether or not the number of marks in the second row is 0 (S28). If S28 is YES, it is determined that the number of marks on the card is 4 (S30), and if S28 is NO, it is determined that the number of marks is 5 (S32).

  When S26 is NO, the determination computer device determines whether or not the number of marks in the first row is 3 (S34). If S34 is YES, it is determined whether or not the number of marks in the second row is 0 (S36). If S36 is YES, it is determined that the number of marks on the card is 6 (S38). When S36 is NO, it is determined whether or not the number of marks in the second row is 1 (S40). If S40 is YES, it is determined that the number of marks is 7 (S42), and if S40 is NO, it is determined that the number of marks is 8 (S44).

  When S34 is NO, the determination computer device determines whether or not the number of marks in the second row is 1 (S46). If S46 is YES, it is determined that the number of marks is 9 (S48), and if S46 is NO, it is determined that the number of marks is 10 (S50).

  As described above, the processing of FIG. 16 can determine the number of marks (the number of cards) on the card using the mark arrangement characteristics on the card. This number of marks is processed by the determination computer device as entry card information and exit card information. Then, the entering card information and the leaving card information are collated, and it is determined whether or not both match.

  As described above, the card mark may be read in order to obtain entry card information and exit card information.

  In this embodiment, the mark can be read with a simple configuration by using the arrangement of the mark.

  In the present embodiment, the number of marks is specified by the processing of FIG. 16, but the present invention is not limited to this. The algorithm of FIG. 16 may be modified. For example, the number of marks in the second row may be determined first. For example, a table corresponding to the algorithm of FIG. 16 may be stored in the determination computer device. In this table, the combination of the number of marks in the first column and the second column is associated with the number of marks on the card. This table is referenced to determine the number of cards.

  Further, as a modification of the present embodiment, the number of marks on the card may be obtained by calculation. In this case, twice the number of marks in the first row and the number of marks in the second row are added.

  As a modification of the present embodiment, three sensors may be provided corresponding to the three mark rows. The total number of marks detected by the three sensors is calculated. This sum represents the number of marks.

  Different configurations may also be applied to read the mark. For example, ranks (A, 1, 2, 10, J, Q, K) are printed at four corners of the card. This rank may be taken by a camera, and the rank may be specified by image processing. However, as compared with such a configuration, the configuration using the above-described mark arrangement is simpler.

  Next, another embodiment of the above apparatus will be described. The principle of this embodiment is the same as that of the above-described embodiment. However, in the present embodiment, attention is paid to the horizontal mark row.

  Referring to FIG. 17, there are nine mark rows in the horizontal direction of the card. The upper side of FIG. 17 is 8 cards, and shows five mark rows P1-P5. Further, the lower part of FIG. 17 shows ten cards, and shows the remaining four mark rows Q1-Q4. Among the nine mark rows, there are rows (P2, P4, Q1, Q4) in which only one mark can exist. Such a case is also referred to as a mark row in the present embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, five sensors are provided so as to detect marks in five mark rows among the nine mark rows. The five mark rows are the center mark row, one of the mark rows at both ends, the two mark rows on both sides of the center of the 8 cards, and the two sides of the center of the 10 cards (the same applies to the 9 cards). One of the mark rows.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, reading sensors 140-148 are provided so as to correspond to the mark rows P1, P2, P3, P4, and Q2. These sensors are actually arranged at appropriate intervals in the shape of a base plate. Further, P2 and Q2 may be read by one sensor. In this case, reading of five lines may be realized by providing four sensors.

  The reading sensors 140 to 148 may be the same as those in the above-described embodiment. That is, the reading sensors 140 to 148 are configured by a camera and output a signal for discriminating between a mark portion on the card and a background portion. A detection signal is sent to the determination computer device, and the determination computer device identifies the number of marks in each column.

  In the present embodiment, the card is slid in the horizontal direction. The sliding direction is perpendicular to the sliding direction of the previous embodiments. Configurations such as guide rails and card sensors are changed to accommodate this difference.

  FIG. 18 shows processing executed by the determination computer device. This process specifies the number of marks on the card.

  In the process of FIG. 18, first, the determination computer device determines whether or not the number of marks has been specified (S100). When the picture tag (J, Q, K) is read, the number of marks is not specified. In this case, it is determined that the number of marks is 10 (S102). This is the same as in the above-described embodiment.

  Next, when S100 is NO, the determination computer device determines whether or not the number of marks of P1 is 0 (S104). When S104 is YES, it is determined that the number of marks is 1 (S106). The process of spade A may be the same as that in the above-described embodiment.

  When S104 is NO, the determination computer device determines whether P1 is 1 (S108). If S108 is YES, it is determined whether P3 is 0 (S110). If S110 is YES, it is determined that the number of marks is 2 (S112). If S110 is NO, it is determined that the number of marks is 3 (S114).

  When S108 is NO, the determination computer device determines whether P3 is 0 (S116). If S116 is YES, it is determined whether Q2 is 0 (S118). If S118 is YES, it is determined that the number of marks is 4 (S120), and if S118 is NO, it is determined that the number of marks is 10 (S122).

  When S116 is NO, the determination computer device determines whether P3 is 1 (S124). If S124 is YES, it is determined whether Q2 is 0 (S126). If S126 is YES, it is determined that the number of marks is 5 (S128), and if S126 is NO, it is determined that the number of marks is 9 (S130).

When S124 is NO, the determination computer device determines whether P2 is 0 (S132). If S132 is YES, it is determined whether P4 is 0 (S134).
). If S134 is YES, it is determined that the number of marks is 6 (S136), and if S134 is NO, it is determined that the number of marks is 7 (S138).

  When S132 is NO, the determination computer device determines whether P4 is 0 (S140). If S140 is YES, it is determined that the number of marks is 7 (S142), and if S140 is NO, it is determined that the number of marks is 8 (S144).

  Also in this embodiment, the algorithm may be modified, and a table may be prepared in advance and referred to by the determination computer. Further, the number of marks may be calculated from the detection result of the sensor. In this case, in addition to the above five columns, at least marks in the Q1 column or the Q4 column are detected. Of course, more rows of marks may be detected.

  Also according to this embodiment, the number of marks is detected with a relatively simple configuration. However, the embodiment of FIG. 15 described above may have a smaller number of sensors and a simple configuration.

  Next, another embodiment of the above apparatus will be described. In this embodiment, a black light is used to read a code from the card. The configuration relating to code reading is different from that of the embodiment of FIG. The configuration and operation relating to processing of the read code, such as fraud determination and output, may be the same as in the embodiment of FIG. In the following description, description of matters similar to those of the embodiment in FIG.

  FIG. 19 shows a configuration for code reading in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, a guide 150 is provided on the table to guide the card. The guide 150 is provided on a base plate 152 embedded in a table. The guide 150 may be directly attached to the table.

  The guide 150 has an L shape as a whole as illustrated. The guide 150 includes a long side guide 154 and a short side guide 156, both of which guide the long side and the short side of the card, respectively. The long side guide 154 and the short side guide 156 are rod-shaped and connected at right angles.

  Referring to the perspective view of FIG. 20, the long side guides 154 and 156 of the guide 150 include a guide wall portion 158 and a cover portion 160. The cover part 160 extends in parallel to the base plate 152 from the guide wall part 158. As a result, a gap 162 is formed between the cover portion 160 and the base plate 152.

  When reading the code, the card is inserted into the gap 162 by the dealer. Then, the dealer appropriately slides the card so that the long side and the short side of the card abut against the guide wall portion 158 of the long side guide 154 and the short side guide 156. Thereby, the card is guided to a predetermined reading position. That is, the predetermined reading position is a position where both the long side and the short side of the card hit the guide wall 158.

  Returning to FIG. 19, card confirmation sensors 164 and 168 are provided below the cover portion 160 of the long side guide 154 and the short side guide 156. These sensors 164 and 168 are attached to the back side of the base plate 152 using an appropriate plate (not shown) as shown in the above-described embodiment. The card confirmation sensors 164 and 168 are photoelectric sensors and have a function of detecting the presence or absence of a card. In order to ensure this function, the base plate 152 and the guide 150 have windows 170, 172, 174, and 176 at positions corresponding to the card confirmation sensors 164 and 168.

  In addition, six code reading sensors 178 to 188 are provided below the cover portion 160 of the long side guide 154. These sensors 178 to 188 are also attached to the back side of the base plate 152 using an appropriate plate. The code reading sensors 178 to 188 are one of the black light type sensors used in the above-described embodiment. That is, the sensor is provided with a black light LED, and ink that reacts to the black light is detected.

  The code reading sensors 178 to 188 are arranged at equal intervals in FIG. 19 with an appropriate interval along the long side guide 154. Corresponding to the code reading sensors 178 to 188, sensor windows 182 to 192 are provided on the base plate 152.

  FIG. 21 shows a card applied to the present embodiment. The card code is represented by six circles. These six circles represent a card with a code on the principle of binary system. In the binary system, 64 integers can be expressed by a 6-digit code. Using an integer of 64, different numbers are assigned to all the cards in one deck (spade, heart, diamond, club 1, 2, 3,..., J, K, Q). A circle mark is provided at a position corresponding to the assigned number. Therefore, in FIG. 21, six circles are shown, but an actual card has a circle mark only at a position corresponding to a number assigned to the card.

  The code in FIG. 21 is printed on the card using ink that cannot be seen with the naked eye under normal use conditions. The positions of the six circle marks correspond to the positions of the code reading sensors 178 to 188.

  Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described. This operation is to read a card code and is typically performed at the start and end of a game. However, as described above, various modifications can be considered in this regard.

  When reading the code from the card, the dealer slides the card toward the guide 150 on the table (for example, in the direction of the arrow in FIG. 20). The card is inserted into the clearance 162 below the cover portion 160 of the guide 150. Then, the long side and the short side of the card abut against the guide wall portions 158 of the long side guide 154 and the short side guide 156, respectively, and the card stops. Thus, the card is guided to the reading position and positioned.

  FIG. 22 shows the positional relationship between the card and the sensor. As shown in FIG. 22, when the card is located at the reading position and the two sides are in contact with the guide wall 158, the card confirmation sensors 164 and 168 simultaneously detect the presence of the card. When both sensors detect a card, the posture determination unit of the determination computer device (not shown) determines that the posture of the card is appropriate. The determination result is output using an output device such as an appropriate LED device.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 22, when the posture is appropriate, the positions of the six circle marks on the card correspond to the code reading sensors 178 to 188, respectively. Therefore, the determination computer device instructs the code reading sensors 178 to 188 to read the code. In response to this, each of the code reading sensors 178 to 188 detects the presence or absence of an opposing circle mark. When there is a circle mark, the circle mark is visualized by black light and detected by a sensor. Each sensor 178-188 outputs a detection signal indicating the presence or absence of a circle mark.

  These detection signals are input to the determination computer device. The determination computer device stores the correspondence between the card and the code. With reference to this correspondence, the card is identified from the detection signal. This specified information is used as appearance card information or the like, and a fraudulent act is determined. The determination and the output of the result may be performed in the same manner as in the above embodiment. The LED device described above may be provided for outputting the determination result.

  In the foregoing, another preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described. Also in this embodiment, the code on the card is read with an appropriate configuration, and an illegal act is detected.

  In the present embodiment, the code corresponds to the mark (rank and suit) of the card, but the present invention is not limited to this. The code may not correspond to the mark on the card. This point has already been described.

  In the foregoing, various embodiments of the present invention have been described. Of course, the above-described embodiment can be modified by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present invention. For example, the present invention may detect fraud in games other than baccarat. At this time, the apparatus according to the present embodiment may be appropriately modified as necessary in the game to be applied.

  As described above, the fraud detection device determines whether the entering card and the leaving card match, and outputs the determination result. Therefore, when a card is illegally replaced during the game, this replacement action can be detected.

  The above-described apparatus only needs to be able to acquire information on the entering card and the leaving card. For example, in a baccarat game, the maximum number of entering cards and leaving cards is six. Therefore, since there is no need to provide a means for transferring a set of cards, the apparatus can be configured simply and inexpensively.

  The fraud detection device described above can detect fraud in a card game with a simple configuration including a reader provided in the table or in the vicinity thereof. A conventionally general device for continuously transferring cards may not be provided. And cheating can be detected on the spot.

  In addition, the above-described mark reading device can specify the number of marks with a simple configuration by paying attention to the fact that the pattern of mark arrangement on the card is determined.

It is a figure which shows the table in which the card game fraud detection apparatus of this Embodiment is provided. It is a perspective view of a fraud detection apparatus. It is a figure which shows the card | curd which is a test object. It is a top view of a fraud detection apparatus. It is a figure which shows the positional relationship of a card | curd and a sensor. It is a front view of a fraud detection apparatus. It is a figure which shows the bracket which attaches a sensor. It is a side view of a fraud detection apparatus. It is a bottom view of a fraud detection apparatus. FIG. 10 is a diagram when FIG. 9 is viewed from the direction of an arrow X. It is a figure which shows a fraud detection apparatus with a table. It is a functional block diagram which shows the structure of a determination computer apparatus. It is a figure which shows another embodiment. It is a figure which shows another embodiment. It is a figure which shows another embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process which specifies the number of marks of a card | curd in embodiment of FIG. It is a figure which shows another embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process which specifies the number of marks of a card | curd in embodiment of FIG. It is a figure which shows another embodiment. FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the configuration of FIG. 19. It is a figure which shows the card | curd applied to embodiment of FIG. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a code reading operation according to the embodiment of FIG. 19.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Card game fraud detection apparatus 12 Base plate 18 Rail 46 1st card sensor 48 2nd card sensor 50 3rd card sensor 52 1st reading sensor 54 2nd reading sensor 56 LED device 58-70 LED element 90 Determination computer apparatus 92 Reading instruction | indication Unit 94 Posture determination unit 96 Posture determination output processing unit 98 Appearance card information acquisition unit 100 Appearance card information storage unit 102 Exit card information acquisition unit 104 Determination unit 106 Output processing unit

Claims (4)

A card reader for reading information of a card used for a game performed on a table,
A rail for guiding the card;
At least two card sensors arranged at predetermined intervals in the passing direction of the moving card to detect the passing of the card guided by the rail and manually slid;
At least two reading sensors arranged between the two card sensors in the passing direction of the card and reading a code attached to the card;
With
The card is a card on which the code is printed with ultraviolet light-emitting ink,
The code is composed of at least two rows of codes arranged at a predetermined interval in a direction intersecting the moving direction of the card,
The two reading sensors are arranged at positions corresponding to an interval between the two rows of codes,
The card sensor is characterized in that the card sensor outputs a signal for detecting a position during the passage of the card.   The card reading device according to claim 1, further comprising a reading instruction unit that controls a function of the reading sensor based on a signal from the card sensor. The card is given a set code consisting of one or more decks,
The card reader according to claim 1, wherein the reading sensor has a function of reading the set code. A card reader according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
A shooter provided with the card reader for a dealer to take out the card;
A card game fraud detection device comprising:

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