Patent Description:
In the related art, there is known a game token money having a plurality of filler portions provided in a peripheral edge and spaced with intervals along a circumferential direction. <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money of the related art. In the game token money <NUM>, the filler portion <NUM> is formed of a material having a color different from the colors of other portions. Therefore, the filler portion can be recognized on the front face and the side face of the game token money.

The game token money of the related art is manufactured through injection molding, and a material having a color different from those of other portions is injected to the filler portions. As a result, a game token money in which the color on the side face is changed between the filler portions <NUM> and other portions along the circumferential direction is obtained.

The applicant proposed a method of manufacturing a game token money having a multilayered structure by overlapping a plurality of sheet-shaped members, thermocompressively bonding the sheet-shaped members to form a multilayered lamination plate, and punching the multilayered lamination plate (for example, <CIT>). In such a multilayered lamination plate, by coloring a plurality of sheet-shaped members with different colors, it is possible to recognize a plurality of layers having different colors on the side face of the game token money obtained through punching.

<CIT> discloses value tokens with enhanced decorative effects, contrasting edge spots, increased physical weight, and flexibility of construction and design. <CIT> discloses substitute currency for gaming with a multi-layer structure in which a plurality of plastic layers having different colors are stacked, wherein a coloring layer is included at least in the middle, and white layers or thin-color layers are stacked on both sides of the coloring layer disposed in the middle.

An object of the invention is to provide a game token money having a layered structure provided with filler portions recognizable on the front face and the side face, and a method of manufacturing the game token money.

The present invention provides a solution to the above mentioned object according to the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are provided by the dependent claims. According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a game token money including: at least three plastic layers laminated through thermocompression bonding, the at least three plastic layers including a colored layer to specify a value of the game token money; and a pale color layer laminated on the colored layer so that a stripe pattern is formed in a layering direction on a side face of the game token money ; a radio-frequency identification (RFID) embedded in a layer other than the outermost layer of the plurality of plastic layers; a classification part indicating a classification of the game token money filled in the pale color layer, wherein the classification part is provided within a part of the pale color layer, wherein the classification part is recognizable from a side face of the game token money, and wherein the RFID contains information regarding a value of the game token money and the classification of the game token money indicated by the classification part. In this configuration, in the game token money having a layered structure obtained by laminating a plurality of plastic layers, it is possible to implement a filler portion visually recognizable from a front face and a side face.

In another aspect of the invention, the classification part has a color different from a color of the colored layer.

In another aspect of the invention, the classification part has a color similar to a color of the colored layer.

In another aspect of the invention, the classification part has a plurality of different colors.

In another aspect of the invention, the classification part indicates a classification of the game token money regarding whether the game token money is for a very important person (VIP) or for a common person.

In another aspect of the invention, the classification part indicates a classification of the game token money regarding whether the game token money is for a cash chip, for a rolling chip, or for a promotion chip.

In another aspect of the invention, a plurality of the classification parts are arranged at an equiangular interval in a circumferential direction of the game token money. In this configuration, it is possible to visually recognize the classification part on the side face regardless of the angle of the circumferential direction of the game token money.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a game token money, including: providing at least three plastic layers including at least a colored layer and a pale color layer; forming a classification part insertion layer by filling a classification part indicating a classification of the game token money in the pale color layer; forming a multilayered lamination plate by laminating the at least three plastic layers, with an RFID tag embedded in in a layer other than an outermost layer of the at least three plastic layers, and compressively bonding each layer through thermocompression bonding; and punching the multilayered lamination plate into individual game token moneys, wherein the multilayered lamination plate is punched in the punching such that a punching line for punching the multilayered lamination plate into game token moneys crosses the classification part, and the multilayered lamination plate is punched such that the game token money is shaped such that the classification part is recognizable from the side face of the first pale color layer. In this configuration, the classification part is exposed on a cutting section in the event of the punching. Therefore, it is possible to visually recognize the classification part from the side face side as well as from the front face side of the game token money.

In another aspect of the invention, in the forming the classification part insertion layer, a plurality of the classification parts are filled at an equiangular interval in a circumferential direction of the game token money to be punched. In this configuration, it is possible to visually recognize the classification part on the side face regardless of the angle of the circumferential direction of the game token money.

In another aspect of the invention the manufacturing method includes creating a database for associating information of the RFID with a value of the game token money and a classification of the game token money indicated by the classification part. In this configuration, it is possible to specify the value information and the classification information of the game token money associated with the information of the RFID by referencing the database.

According to further another aspect of the invention, not covered by the claims, there is provided a game token money including: an indication for indicating a value of the game token money on a front face; at least a colored layer provided in the middle to form a stripe pattern in a layering direction on a side face, the value of the game token money being specified by the colored layer; and a classification part formed in a color different from a color of the colored layer and filled in a position recognizable from a side face and a front face, the classification part indicating a classification other than the value of the game token money. In this configuration, it is possible to recognize the classification part on any one of the side face and the front face and specify the classification of the game token money.

The game token money described above, not covered by the claims, may further include an RFID embedded inside, wherein the RFID contains information regarding a value of the game token money and a classification of the game token money indicated by the classification part. In this configuration, it is possible to acquire information associated with the value and the classification by reading the RFID.

In the game token money described above, not covered by the claims, the colored layer and the classification part may be externally recognized by a camera, and a value and a classification of the game token money obtained from the camera may be inspected in combination with information obtained from the RFID. In this configuration, it is possible to inspect the game token money using a combination of the value and classification and the RFID.

In the game token money described above, not covered by the claims, a plurality of the classification parts may be arranged at an equiangular interval in a circumferential direction of the game token money. In this configuration, it is possible to visually recognize the classification part on the side face regardless of the angle of the circumferential direction of the game token money.

According to still another aspect of the invention, not covered by the claims, there is provided a game token money obtained by laminating a plurality of layers including a surface layer having a visually recognizable front face and a middle layer positioned inward of the surface layer, the game token money including: a notch formed in an outer edge of the surface layer; and a classification part filled in the notch to indicate a classification of the game token money, wherein the surface layer and the classification part are visually recognizable on the front face of the game token money, and the surface layer, the classification part, and the middle layer are visually recognizable on a side face of the game token money.

According to still further another aspect of the invention, not covered by the claims, there is provided a method of manufacturing a game token money, the method including: providing a surface layer having a sheet shape having a blank portion; forming a classification part insertion layer by filling a classification part in the blank portion; forming a multilayered lamination plate by performing thermocompression bonding for a plurality of layers including the classification part insertion layer and a sheet-shaped middle layer; and obtaining a game token money by punching the multilayered lamination plate such that a punching line crosses the classification part.

According to still further another aspect of the invention, not covered by the claims, there is provided an inspection system for inspecting the game token money described above, including: a camera configured to create a front face image by photographing a front face of the game token money; a camera configured to create a side face image by photographing a side face of the game token money; and an inspection device configured to specify a color of the classification part from the front face image and specify a color of the classification part from the side face image.

The foregoing and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the exemplary embodiments will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money according to an embodiment of the invention. The game token money <NUM> according to this embodiment is manufactured by laminating a plurality of plastic sheet-shaped members, performing thermocompression bonding, and then punching in a circular shape. For this purpose, as illustrated in <FIG>, the game token money <NUM> has a layered structure obtained by laminating a plurality of layers in a thickness direction. The layered structure obtained by laminating a plurality of sheet-shaped members is exposed on a side face of the game token money <NUM> to form a stripe pattern in a layering direction.

The game token money <NUM> has a layered structure including a colored layer <NUM> as a middle layer and pale color layers <NUM> as surface layers on both sides by interposing the colored layer <NUM>. The front face of the pale color layer <NUM> can be visually recognized from the outside. The color of the colored layer <NUM> corresponds to a value of the game token money <NUM> (such as twenty dollars, one hundred dollars, and one thousand dollars). That is, the game token money <NUM> has the colored layer <NUM> having a color different depending on its value. The pale color layer <NUM> has a color not denser than any color of the colored layer <NUM>, and has a common color for a plurality of classifications of values. The pale color layer <NUM> typically has a white color. Therefore, the value of the game token money <NUM> can be specified by the color of the colored layer <NUM> by observing the side face.

Printing is performed on the front face of the pale color layer <NUM> as described below, and a transparent layer is provided thereon. Therefore, the printing on the front face of the pale color layer <NUM> can be visually recognized through the transparent layer. Notches 11a are provided on the outer edge of the pale color layer <NUM>. Classification parts <NUM> are filled in the notches 11a of the pale color layer <NUM>. A plurality of classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an equiangular interval in the circumferential direction (rotation direction) along the outer edge of the game token money <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, four classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an angular interval of <NUM>°.

Value information, identification information, and classification information are given to the game token money <NUM>. Here, the value information is information indicating a value of the game token money <NUM> (such as ten dollars, twenty dollars, one hundred dollars, and one thousand dollars), and the identification information is unique information capable of identifying each game token money <NUM>. The classification information is information indicating a classification of each game token money <NUM> other than the value. The classification information may include, for example, any one of information for distinguishing whether the game token money <NUM> is a rolling chip or a cash chip, junket information differently set for each junket to specify a junket, and casino information differently set for each casino to specify the casino.

The value information, the identification information, and the classification information can be visually recognized on the front face of the game token money <NUM>. Specifically, the value information is written as numerals <NUM> on the front face of the game token money <NUM>. The identification information is coded and written as marks <NUM> and <NUM> on the front face of the game token money <NUM>. In addition, the classification parts <NUM> are colored depending on the classification, and the classification information is expressed by a color of the classification part <NUM>. Note that the color of the classification part <NUM> is different from any color of the colored layer <NUM>. Therefore, a classification of the game token money <NUM> can be specified by the color of the classification part <NUM>.

The value information and the classification information can be visually recognized on the side face of the game token money <NUM>. Specifically, the value information is expressed by the color of the colored layer <NUM> observed on the side face of the game token money <NUM>. In addition, the classification part <NUM> indicating the classification information using the color can also be visually recognized on the side face.

The identification information is stored in a radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip <NUM> (hereinafter, simply referred to as an "RFID") embedded in the game token money <NUM>. Therefore, by reading the game token money <NUM> using the RF reader, it is possible to read the identification information stored in the RFID <NUM>.

In this manner, the value information and the identification information are given to the game token money <NUM> in a plurality of forms. However, a plurality of pieces of value information and identification information given to true game token moneys match each other. In addition, a relationship between the identification information, the value information, and the classification information is stored in a database. As the identification information is specified by the marks <NUM> and <NUM> or the RFID <NUM>, the value information and the classification information corresponding to this identification information can be specified by referencing the database.

Next, a method of manufacturing the game token money <NUM> will be described. <FIG> is a flowchart illustrating the method of manufacturing the game token money <NUM>. First, the numerals <NUM> indicating the value information, the marks <NUM> and <NUM>, and other patterns are printed on the plastic sheet-shaped member <NUM> of the pale color layer <NUM> serving as a surface layer (step S21). As described below, the game token money <NUM> is manufactured by punching the sheet-shaped member, and a plurality of game token moneys <NUM> are obtained from a single sheet-shaped member. Accordingly, printing is performed to match the game token moneys <NUM> within a plurality of punching target ranges <NUM> of the sheet-shaped member <NUM> serving as the surface layer.

Next, in order to form blank portions <NUM> for filling the classification part members <NUM> in the sheet-shaped member <NUM> of the surface layer, punching is performed to match shapes of the classification part members <NUM> (step S22). <FIG> is a top plan view illustrating the sheet-shaped member <NUM> serving as the surface layer. As illustrated in <FIG>, a plurality of punching target ranges <NUM> are provided on the sheet-shaped member <NUM>. Although not illustrated in <FIG>, printing is performed to match the game token moneys <NUM> within the punching target ranges <NUM>. The blank portions <NUM> are formed to intersect the outer edge of the punching target range <NUM> across the inside and the outside of each punching target range <NUM>. According to this embodiment, as described above, the classification parts <NUM> are filled at an equiangular interval of <NUM>°. Accordingly, four blank portions <NUM> are formed at an equiangular interval of <NUM>° along the outer circumferential direction of the outer edge of the punching target range <NUM>.

Meanwhile, the classification part member <NUM> filled in the blank portion <NUM> is also fabricated by punching the plastic sheet-shaped member <NUM>. <FIG> is a top plan view illustrating the sheet-shaped member <NUM> for fabricating the classification part member <NUM>. The sheet-shaped member <NUM> has the same thickness as that of the sheet-shaped member <NUM> serving as the surface layer and a color different from that of the sheet-shaped member <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the classification part members <NUM> shaped to match the blank portions <NUM> are punched out from the sheet-shaped member <NUM>.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating the classification part member <NUM> obtained by punching the sheet-shaped member <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the blank portion <NUM> and the classification part member <NUM> filled in the blank portion <NUM> have a substantial rectangular shape with both longitudinal ends being rounded and are symmetric vertically and horizontally.

Then, the classification part member <NUM> obtained by punching the sheet-shaped member <NUM> is filled in the blank portion <NUM> of the sheet-shaped member <NUM> serving as the surface layer (step S23). <FIG> is a top plan view illustrating the sheet-shaped member <NUM> filled with the classification part members <NUM>. Note that the classification part members <NUM> are compressively bonded to the sheet-shaped member <NUM> and the sheet-shaped member <NUM> serving as the colored layer <NUM> in a thermocompression bonding process described below. Therefore, in this filling process, the classification part member <NUM> is not necessarily bonded to the sheet-shaped member <NUM>.

Then, a plurality of sheet-shaped members including the sheet-shaped members <NUM> and <NUM> filled with the aforementioned classification part members <NUM> are laminated (step S24). <FIG> is a diagram illustrating lamination of a plurality of sheet members. According to this embodiment, the colored layer <NUM> is formed by a pair of sheet members <NUM>. The RFID <NUM> is arranged in the center of the punching target range <NUM> between a pair of sheet members <NUM> serving as the colored layers <NUM>.

The sheet member <NUM> having the blank portion <NUM> filled with the classification part member <NUM> (classification part insertion layer) is laminated on both outer sides of a pair of sheet member <NUM> interposing the RFID <NUM> such that each print layer <NUM> faces the outside. In addition, a transparent layer <NUM> serving as a protection layer is laminated on the outside of each of a pair of classification part insertion layers. Note that, although each layer is spaced in <FIG>, a plurality of layers are overlapped without a gap in the lamination process (step S24).

Thermocompression bonding is performed while a plurality of sheet members are laminated in this manner (step S25). Through this thermocompression bonding, the layers neighboring each other are compressively bonded to form a multilayered lamination plate <NUM> as a whole. The RFID <NUM> is embedded between a pair of sheet members <NUM> as the sheet member <NUM> is thermally deformed.

Then, the game token money <NUM> is punched out from the multilayered lamination plate <NUM> (step S26). <FIG> is a top plan view illustrating the multilayered lamination plate <NUM> subjected to the punching and the game token money <NUM> obtained by the punching. As described above, the classification part member <NUM> is arranged to intersect the outer edge of the punching target range <NUM> of each game token money <NUM>. Therefore, the classification part member <NUM> is cut along the outer edge (punching line) of the punching target range <NUM> which crosses the classification part member <NUM>.

As a result, the blank portion <NUM> forms a notch 11a, so that the game token money <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> is obtained as the cut classification part <NUM> is filled in the notch 11a. The cutting section of the classification part <NUM> is exposed on the side face of the pale color layer <NUM>. Therefore, the classification part <NUM> can be visually recognized from both the front face side and the side face side. In this manner, the classification part <NUM> filled in the notch 11a formed in the outer edge of the pale color layer <NUM> serving as a surface layer makes a color change in the circumferential direction as the pale color layer <NUM> of the game token money <NUM> is observed from the side face.

Note that the printing on the surface layer may be performed after punching the game token money <NUM>. In this case, a clear coating serving as a protection layer may be applied to the print layer subjected to the printing.

Next, an inspection system for inspecting the game token money <NUM> manufactured as described above will be described. <FIG> is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the inspection system according to this embodiment. The inspection system <NUM> includes a game token money <NUM>, cameras <NUM> and <NUM>, and a RF reader <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram illustrating an installation example of the camera <NUM>. <FIG> is a diagram illustrating an installation example of the camera <NUM> and the RF reader <NUM>. The camera <NUM> is installed over the table Tb as illustrated in <FIG>. The camera <NUM> has an optical system <NUM> configured and arranged to photograph the front face of the game token money <NUM> placed on the table Tb. The camera <NUM> creates an image (front face image) by photographing the front face of the game token money <NUM> using the optical system <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the camera <NUM> is installed over a chip tray Tr. The camera <NUM> has an optical system <NUM> configured and arranged to photograph the side face of the game token money <NUM>. The camera <NUM> creates an image (side face image) by photographing the side face of the game token money <NUM> using the optical system <NUM>. In addition, the RF reader <NUM> has an antenna <NUM> configured and arranged to transmit radio waves to the RFID <NUM> of the game token money <NUM> and receive the radio waves from the RFID <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the RF reader <NUM> reads information stored in the RFID <NUM> of the game token money <NUM> housed in the chip tray Tr using the antenna <NUM>.

The inspection system <NUM> further includes a recording device <NUM>, an inspection device <NUM>, a database <NUM>, and an output device <NUM>. The recording device <NUM> records the front face image obtained from the camera <NUM>, the side face image obtained from the camera <NUM>, and the information read by the RF reader <NUM>. The inspection device <NUM> performs inspection on the basis of the image or information recorded on the recording device <NUM>.

As described above, the value information is expressed by writing numerals <NUM> in the center on the front face of the game token money <NUM>, and the identification information is expressed by the marks <NUM> and <NUM>. The classification information is expressed by the color of the classification part <NUM>. The inspection device <NUM> recognizes each of the value information, the identification information, and the classification information by performing an image recognition processing for the front face image. Note that this image recognition processing may also be performed using a neural network.

The value information is expressed by the color of the middle layer (colored layer <NUM>) on the side face of the game token money <NUM>, and the classification information is expressed by the color of the classification part <NUM>. The inspection device <NUM> recognizes each of the value information and the classification information by performing an image recognition processing for the side face image. In addition, this image recognition processing may also be performed using a neural network.

The database <NUM> stores the value information and the classification information in association with the identification information. The inspection device <NUM> specifies the value information and the classification information stored in association with the identification information by referencing the database <NUM> when the identification information is specified on the basis of the marks <NUM> and <NUM> from the front face image of the camera <NUM>. The inspection device <NUM> compares the value information and the classification information specified in this manner with the value information and the classification information, respectively, specified on the basis of the numerals and the color of the classification part <NUM> from the front face image of the camera <NUM> and determines whether or not they match each other, that is, whether or not the game token money <NUM> is true or false. If they do not match each other, that is, if the game token money <NUM> is falsified, the output device <NUM> outputs a warning. The output device <NUM> may include a buzzer or a lamp for outputting the warning.

Meanwhile, the inspection device <NUM> specifies the value information and the classification information stored in association with the identification information by referencing the database <NUM> when the RF reader <NUM> reads the identification information stored in the RFID <NUM>. The inspection device <NUM> compares the value information and the classification information specified in this manner with the value information and the classification information, respectively, specified on the basis of the color of the colored layer <NUM> and the color of the classification part <NUM> from the side face image of the camera <NUM> and determines whether or not they match each other, that is, whether or not the game token money <NUM> is true or false. If they do not match each other, that is, if the game token money <NUM> is falsified, the output device <NUM> outputs a warning.

As described above, according to this embodiment, a portion (classification part <NUM>) visually recognizable from both the front face side and the side face side in a part of the circumferential direction is formed in the game token money <NUM> having the layered structure. For example, the classification information can be expressed using the color of this portion. Since this classification information can be visually recognized from both the front face side and the side face side, it is possible to recognize the classification information using both the camera that photographs the front face such as the camera <NUM> and the camera that photographs the side face such as the camera <NUM>.

A method of manufacturing the game token money <NUM> according to a modification of the aforementioned embodiment will now be described. <FIG> is a top plan view illustrating the sheet-shaped member <NUM> filled with classification part members <NUM> according to a modification of the embodiment in conjunction with <FIG>. In this example, one classification part member <NUM> is shared by the neighboring game token moneys <NUM>. That is, one end portion of the classification part member <NUM> corresponds to the classification part <NUM> of one game token money <NUM> by punching, and the other end portion corresponds to the classification part <NUM> of the game token money <NUM> neighboring to the one game token money <NUM> by punching. According to this modification, it is possible to reduce the number of the classification part members filled in the sheet-shaped member <NUM>, which is advantageous in reduction of the manufacturing cost.

<FIG> is a top plan view illustrating the sheet-shaped member <NUM> filled with classification part members <NUM> according to a modification of the embodiment in conjunction with <FIG>. In this example, a single classification part member <NUM> is formed by connecting the classification part members <NUM> arranged in a vertical direction to each other. <FIG> is a top plan view illustrating a sheet-shaped member <NUM> for fabricating classification part members <NUM> in conjunction with <FIG>. <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating classification part members <NUM> obtained by punching the sheet-shaped member <NUM>. In this manner, by connecting a plurality of classification part members <NUM>, it is possible to reduce the number of the classification part members filled in the sheet-shaped member <NUM>, which is advantageous in reduction of the manufacturing cost.

<FIG> is a top plan view illustrating the sheet-shaped member <NUM> filled with a classification part member <NUM> according to a modification of the modification in conjunction with <FIG>. In this example, a single classification part member <NUM> is formed by connecting the classification part members <NUM> arranged in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction to each other. That is, the classification part member <NUM> is formed by connecting all of the classification part members <NUM> excluding the classification part member <NUM> filled in the peripheral portion of the sheet-shaped member <NUM>. In this example, it is possible to further reduce the number of the classification part members, which is advantageous in reduction of the manufacturing cost.

Next, a modification of the classification part will be described. <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating the game token money <NUM> filled with the classification parts <NUM>' according to a modification. The classification part <NUM>' includes a center part <NUM> and side parts <NUM> interposing the center part <NUM>. In this classification part <NUM>' according to this modification, two types of information can be expressed by differently setting the color of the center part <NUM> and the color of the side parts <NUM>. For example, one type of classification information (for example, casino information) can be expressed by the color of the center part <NUM>, and the other type of the classification information (for example, junket information) can be expressed by the color of the side parts <NUM>.

<FIG> is a top plan view illustrating the sheet-shaped member <NUM> filled with classification part members <NUM>' in conjunction with <FIG>. One center part member <NUM> and two side part members <NUM> are filled in each blank portion <NUM> of the sheet-shaped member <NUM>. The center part member <NUM> and the side part member <NUM> are fabricated by punching a sheet-shaped member having the same thickness as that of the sheet-shaped member <NUM> and a different color from that of the sheet-shaped member <NUM>.

Alternatively, although the RFID <NUM> is inserted between a pair of sheet-shaped members <NUM> of the colored layer <NUM> in the aforementioned embodiment, the RFID <NUM> may be arranged in any place as long as it is embedded in the game token money <NUM>. For example, the RFID <NUM> may be arranged between the pale color layer <NUM> and the colored layer <NUM>. In this case, the colored layer <NUM> may include a single sheet-shaped member <NUM>. In addition, the number of the layers of the game token money <NUM> may be changed more than or less than that of the aforementioned embodiment.

Although the middle layer is the colored layer <NUM>, and the surface layer is the pale color layer <NUM> in the aforementioned embodiment, inversely, the middle layer may be the pale color layer <NUM>, and the surface layer may be the colored layer <NUM>. In this case, the colored layer <NUM> has the notches where the classification parts <NUM> are filled. Alternatively, although the transparent protection layer is provided outside of the pale color layer <NUM> serving as the surface layer, and a layer serving as a front face of the game token money <NUM> in practice is the protection layer in the aforementioned embodiment, a layer having a surface visually recognizable from the front face side of the game token money <NUM> in this manner is referred to as the surface layer in this application because the (printing of the) front face of the pale color layer <NUM> can be visually recognized by observing the front face. The surface layer may also be the outermost layer.

Although the classification part member <NUM> is filled in the blank portion <NUM> of the sheet-shaped member <NUM>, and another sheet-shaped member is then overlapped thereon in the aforementioned embodiment, instead, the classification part member <NUM> may be filled in the blank portion <NUM> after the sheet-shaped member <NUM> having the blank portion <NUM> is overlapped with another sheet-shaped member.

Although the classification part <NUM> is filled in both the front and back surface layers of the game token money <NUM> in the aforementioned embodiment, the classification part <NUM> may be filled in only one of the surface layers. In addition, although four classification parts are filled in one of the surface layers at an interval of <NUM>° in the aforementioned embodiment, the number of classification parts <NUM> may be different from four. If two or more classification parts <NUM> are provided at an equiangular interval, it is possible to observe at least one of the classification parts <NUM> using the camera <NUM> regardless of an orientation of the circumferential direction of the game token money <NUM> when the game token money <NUM> is housed in the chip tray Tr by exposing more than a half as illustrated in <FIG>. Therefore, it is desirable to provide two or more classification parts <NUM> in a single surface layer.

Although the identification information is given to the game token money <NUM> using the marks <NUM> and <NUM> or the RFID <NUM> in the aforementioned embodiment, the game token money <NUM> may be absent of the identification information.

Another modification of the classification part will now be described. <FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money <NUM> filled with a classification part according to a modification. The classification part <NUM> has the same color as that of the colored layer <NUM>. For this reason, the classification part <NUM> is formed of the same material as that of the colored layer <NUM>. A plurality of classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an equiangular interval in the circumferential direction along the outer edge of the game token money <NUM>. According to this modification, each classification part <NUM> has a relatively wide width, and four classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an angular interval of <NUM>° in the circumferential direction.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money <NUM> filled with a classification part according to another modification. The classification part <NUM> has the same color as that of the colored layer <NUM>. For this reason, the classification part <NUM> is formed of the same material as that of the colored layer <NUM>. A plurality of classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an equiangular interval in the circumferential direction along the outer edge of the game token money <NUM>. According to this modification, the classification part <NUM> has a relatively narrow width, and four classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an angular interval of <NUM>° in the circumferential direction.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money <NUM> filled with a classification part according to another modification. The classification part <NUM> has the same color as that of the colored layer <NUM>. For this reason, the classification part <NUM> is formed of the same material as that of the colored layer <NUM>. According to this modification, the classification part <NUM> has a relatively narrow width shape. In addition, according to this modification, a pair of classification parts <NUM> arranged at a relatively narrow interval in the circumferential direction constitute a single set, and a plurality of sets are arranged at an equiangular interval in the circumferential direction along the outer edge of the game token money <NUM>. According to this modification, four sets of classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an angular interval of <NUM>° in the circumferential direction.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money <NUM> filled with a classification part according to another modification. The classification part <NUM> has the same color as that of the colored layer <NUM>. For this reason, the classification part <NUM> is formed of the same material as that of the colored layer <NUM>. According to this modification, the classification part <NUM> has a relatively narrow width shape. In addition, according to this modification, a pair of classification parts <NUM> arranged at a relatively wide interval in the circumferential direction constitute a single set, and a plurality of sets are arranged at an equiangular interval in the circumferential direction along the outer edge of the game token money <NUM>. According to this modification, four sets of classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an angular interval of <NUM>° in the circumferential direction.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money <NUM> filled with a classification part according to another modification. The classification part <NUM> has the same color as that of the colored layer <NUM>. For this reason, the classification part <NUM> is formed of the same material as that of the colored layer <NUM>. According to this modification, the classification part <NUM> has a relatively narrow width shape. In addition, according to this modification, three classification parts <NUM> arranged at a relatively narrow interval in the circumferential direction constitute a single set, and a plurality of sets are arranged at an equiangular interval in the circumferential direction along the outer edge of the game token money <NUM>. According to this modification, four sets of classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an angular interval of <NUM>° in the circumferential direction.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money <NUM> filled with a classification part according to another modification. The classification part <NUM> has a color different from that of the colored layer <NUM>. For this reason, the classification part <NUM> is formed of a material different from that of the colored layer <NUM>. A plurality of classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an equiangular interval in the circumferential direction along the outer edge of the game token money <NUM>. According to this modification, the classification parts <NUM> have a relatively narrow width shape. In addition, according to this modification, four classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an angular interval of <NUM>° in the circumferential direction.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money <NUM> filled with a classification part according to another modification. The classification part <NUM> has a color different from that of the colored layer <NUM>. For this reason, the classification part <NUM> is formed of a material different from that of the colored layer <NUM>. According to this modification, a pair of classification parts <NUM> arranged at a relatively narrow interval constitute a single set, and a plurality of sets are arranged at an equiangular interval in the circumferential direction along the outer edge of the game token money <NUM>. According to this modification, four sets of classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an angular interval of <NUM>° in the circumferential direction.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money <NUM> filled with a classification part according to another modification. The classification part <NUM> has a color different from that of the colored layer <NUM>. For this reason, the classification part <NUM> is formed of a material different from that of the colored layer <NUM>. According to this modification, the classification part <NUM> has a relatively narrow width shape. In addition, according to this modification, a pair of classification parts <NUM> arranged at a relatively wide interval in the circumferential direction constitute a single set, and a plurality of sets are arranged at an equiangular interval in the circumferential direction along the outer edge of the game token money <NUM>. According to this modification, four sets of classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an angular interval of <NUM>° in the circumferential direction.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money <NUM> filled with a classification part according to another modification. The classification part <NUM> has a color different from that of the colored layer <NUM>. For this reason, the classification part <NUM> is formed of a material different from that of the colored layer <NUM>. According to this modification, the classification part <NUM> has a relatively narrow width shape. In addition, according to this modification, three classification parts <NUM> arranged at a relatively narrow interval in the circumferential direction constitute a single set, and a plurality of sets are arranged at an equiangular interval in the circumferential direction along the outer edge of the game token money <NUM>. According to this modification, four sets of classification parts <NUM> are arranged at an angular interval of <NUM>° in the circumferential direction.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money <NUM> filled with a classification part according to another modification. According to this modification, two types of classification parts <NUM> and <NUM> having different colors constitute a single set, and a plurality of sets are arranged at an equiangular interval in the circumferential direction along the outer edge of the game token money <NUM>. According to this modification, four sets of classification parts <NUM> and <NUM> are arranged at an angular interval of <NUM>° in the circumferential direction. The classification parts <NUM> and <NUM> have different colors, and each color of the classification parts <NUM> and <NUM> is different from the color of the colored layer <NUM>. Each classification part has a relatively narrow width shape.

<FIG> is a perspective view illustrating a game token money <NUM> filled with a classification part according to another modification. According to this modification, two types of classification parts <NUM> and <NUM> having different colors constitute a single set, and a plurality of sets are arranged at an equiangular interval in the circumferential direction along the outer edge of the game token money <NUM>. According to this modification, a pair of classification parts <NUM> and a single classification part <NUM> constitute a single set. According to this modification, four sets of classification parts <NUM> and <NUM> are arranged at an angular interval of <NUM>° in the circumferential direction. The classification parts <NUM> and <NUM> have different colors, and each color of the classification parts <NUM> and <NUM> is different from the color of the colored layer <NUM>. Each classification part has a relatively narrow width shape.

In the examples of <FIG>, the numerals <NUM> in the center for indicating the value information, and the marks <NUM> and <NUM> for indicating the identification information are not illustrated for simplicity purposes. However, any information equal to or different from the information of the aforementioned embodiment may also be inserted into the game token moneys of each modification.

Next, a use of the game token money <NUM> filled with the classification part will be described. As described above, the classification part indicates the classification information. The classification information may include, for example, any one of information for distinguishing whether the game token money <NUM> is a rolling chip or a cash chip, junket information differently set for each junket to specify a junket, and casino information differently set for each casino to specify the casino.

The game token money <NUM> is roughly classified into VIP chips and typical common chips. Note that the VIP chips are game token money available for VIP players. For example, a player who deposits money equal to or more than a predetermined amount in a casino becomes the VIP player.

Each of the VIP chips and the common chips can be classified into cash chips, rolling chips, promotion chips, and the like. The cash chips are game token money that can be exchanged with cash. The rolling chips are game token money that can be used to obtain cap chips by participating and winning in a game. In addition, the promotion chips are game token money distributed for promotion.

Here, the rolling chip will be further described. The "rolling" refers to an action for exchanging the cash chip with the rolling chip. The rolling chip can be bought by only a player who deposits a predetermined amount of money in a casino and opens a rolling program. When a player participates and wins in a game using the rolling chips, withdrawal is made on the basis of cash chips. A player can exchange cash chips (or cash) with rolling chips, and a predetermined percentage of a total rolling money amount is paid to a player as a commission whenever the rolling. Therefore, if the rolling money amount increases, the player can get the more commission depending on the rolling money. In this manner, an action of continuously exchanging (rolling) the rolling chips and the cash chips is referred to as "rolling". The commission generated in the rolling is input to a system and is managed by the system.

Claim 1:
A game token money (<NUM>) comprising:
at least three plastic layers laminated through thermocompression bonding, the at least three plastic layers including at least: a colored layer (<NUM>) to specify a value of the game token money (<NUM>); and a pale color layer (<NUM>) laminated on the colored layer (<NUM>), so that a stripe pattern is formed in a layering direction on a side face of the game token money (<NUM>);
a radio-frequency identification (RFID) (<NUM>) embedded in a layer other than the outermost layer of the plurality of plastic layers; and
a classification part (<NUM>) indicating a classification of the game token money (<NUM>) filled in the pale color layer (<NUM>),
wherein the classification part is provided within a part of the pale color layer (<NUM>),
wherein the classification part is recognizable from a side face of the game token money, and
wherein the RFID (<NUM>) contains information regarding the value of the game token money (<NUM>) and the classification of the game token money (<NUM>) indicated by the classification part (<NUM>).