JP2002239209A - Crane game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a crane game machine which allows players to maintain interests in game. SOLUTION: The crane game machine is provided with a table (3) for placing a number of prizes (4) thereon, a crane (5) having a plurality of claws (6) for catching prizes (4), a drive mechanism which makes the claws (6) of the crane (5) catch the prize (4) according to the operation by the players, torsion springs (41 and 42) and gears (34 and 38) that enable automatic change in grasping force of catching prizes (4) by the claws (6) of the crane (5), a CPU (53) which drives the springs and gears to vary the grasping force of the claws (6), a stepping motor (26) and a drive gear (28).

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a crane game machine for playing a game of grabbing a prize such as a toy or a confection using a crane-type prize capturing device positioned by an operation of a player (player). .

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As a conventional crane game machine, a crane as a prize capturing device having a prize mounting surface for mounting a number of prizes in a housing whose upper part is covered with a transparent cover, and a plurality of claws, and a crane therefor. It is known that a driving mechanism is provided, and an operation unit including a coin insertion slot, a start switch operated by a player, and the like is provided on an outer surface of the housing.
When playing a game, the player inserts coins and operates the operation unit to move the crane to an arbitrary position on the premium placing surface, so that the claw of the crane can catch the premium. When the claw successfully grips the prize, the prize is discharged out of the housing by the crane, so that the player can acquire the prize. In such a game machine, the time and the number of times the game can be played by one coin insertion are predetermined.

[0003] Among the above crane game machines, there is known a crane game machine in which a force of a spring is applied to a claw to exert a force for gripping a prize (Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open No. 5-4).
No. 4176). In this crane game machine, if the return force of the spring is strong, the payout rate of the prize often increases, and the profit margin on the game arcade side decreases. On the other hand, if the return force of the spring is weak, the game is often ended without the player being able to obtain a prize, and if this increases, there arises a problem that the player does not play with the crane game machine on the gaming side.

Accordingly, in the above crane game machine,
In order to achieve an appropriate prize payout rate, it is necessary to be able to replace the spring, and at the time of replacement, it is necessary to remove the front part of the cover that covers the drive mechanism and attach another spring. Work was needed.

Therefore, there has been proposed a crane game machine capable of externally adjusting the prize acquisition rate and expanding the range of the adjustment (JP-A-11-24450).
No. 7). In this crane game machine, the return force of the gripping means (for example, an arm member) can be adjusted only by rotating the spring strength adjusting shaft without attaching / detaching the cover of the crane or replacing the spring. . Further, by making the minimum distance of the grip portion of the grip means adjustable, the acquisition rate can be adjusted even for the size of the prize.

[0006]

However, in the above crane game machine, in order to adjust the strength of the return force of the gripping means, the transparent cover covering the upper part of the housing is opened, and the arm unit provided in the housing is opened. It is necessary to operate a spring strength adjusting shaft protruding from the rear part.

Therefore, even in the above crane game machine, the return force of the gripping means cannot be adjusted by opening the transparent cover during the game, so that the return force of the gripping means is constant during the game. For this reason, when the grasping means grasps the prize, a prize can be acquired, but when the grasping means cannot grasp the prize, the game ends without obtaining the prize, and a large number of uniform situations occur. Lack of interest. On the other hand, a situation in which the prize cannot be obtained despite the gripping means gripping the prize is a situation in which the player is interested, but in the above-described game machine,
The frequency of such situations is low, and it is difficult to maintain the interest of the player. On the other hand, it is conceivable that the return force of the gripping means is set to be large, but it is difficult to realize the prize payout rate from the viewpoint of the profit margin on the game arcade side.

In the above crane game machine, in order to adjust the payout rate of prizes, it is necessary for the game arcade to have a store clerk monitor the payout rate of the crane game machine. Therefore,
Adjusting the payout rate is costly. Also, the adjustment of the payout rate depends on the clerk's feelings, and the value of the prize placed on each crane game machine often differs, so
Adjusting the prize payout rate is difficult.

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to provide a crane game machine which can keep a player's interest in a game. Another object is to provide a crane game machine that can easily adjust the payout rate of prizes.

[0010]

According to the present invention, there is provided a crane (for example, a crane 5 to be described later) having a prize mounting surface on which a large number of prizes are mounted, and a plurality of claws (for example, claws 6 to be described later) for gripping the prizes. ) And a driving mechanism for causing the claw of the crane to grab the prize in response to the operation of the player in the crane game machine, wherein the gripping force by which the claw of the crane grabs the prize can be automatically changed. Force varying means (for example, torsion springs 41 and 42 and gears 34 and 3 described below)
8) and drive control means (for example, a CPU 53, which will be described later) which drives the grip force varying means to change the grip force of the claw.
A stepping motor 26 and a driving gear 28).

In this crane game machine, it is preferable that the drive mechanism and the drive control means are driven by a common drive source (for example, a stepping motor 26 described later).

One specific embodiment of the present invention is a crane (for example, a crane described later) having a prize mounting surface on which a number of prizes are placed, and a plurality of claws (for example, claws 6 described later) for gripping the prizes. 5) In a crane game machine having a gripping force variable means for changing a gripping force of a crane claw to grip a prize, and a driving mechanism for causing the crane claw to grip a prize in response to an operation of a player, The force varying means is configured such that one end is related to a rotating member (for example, a gear 34 or 38 described later) provided corresponding to the claw, and one end of the rotating member is supported by a rotating shaft (shaft 33 or 37). Torsion springs (for example, torsion springs 41 and 42 to be described later) that are stopped and the other ends thereof are locked to corresponding claws, and rotation member driving means (for example, a CPU 5 to be described later) that rotationally drives the rotation member.
3, a stepping motor 26 and a drive gear 28).

In another specific embodiment, a crane (for example, a claw 6 to be described later) having a prize mounting surface (for example, a table 3 to be described later) on which a large number of prizes are placed and a plurality of claws (for example, a claw 6 to be described later) for holding the prizes. A crane 5) to be described later, a gripping force varying means for changing the force of the claw of the crane to grab the prize, and a drive mechanism for causing the claw of the crane to grab the prize according to the operation of the player In, the gripping force varying means includes a pair of gears meshed with each other (for example,
With the driving gear 34 and the driven gear 38 described later) and the shafts of the respective gears (for example, shafts 33 and 37 described later) as fulcrums,
A pair of torsion springs having one end locked to the corresponding gear and the other end locked to the corresponding claw (for example, a torsion spring 4 described later)
1, 42) and gear driving means (for example, a later-described stepping motor 26) for rotationally driving the gears.

In a more specific mode, a control means (for example, a control circuit 51 to be described later) for controlling the gear driving means is provided, and the control means controls the rotation driving of the gears during the game to thereby control the claw. It is characterized in that the gripping force is changed. In this case, the control means controls the gear driving means based on a time based on a predetermined timing during the game (for example, a time “t ₁ ” or “t ₂ ” described later). The predetermined timing is, for example, a timing at which the claw has finished the operation of grabbing the prize (for example, a time “t ₀ ” described later) or a timing at which the claw has started the operation of grabbing the prize.

Further, the control means may control the gear driving means based on a predetermined condition.

In another specific embodiment of the present invention, a payout rate setting means (for example, a setting dip switch 79 described later) for setting a prize payout rate, and a game number counting means (counting game number) for counting the number of games. For example, a CPU 53 described later)
A payout prize counting means (for example, CPU 53 described later) for counting the number of prizes paid out to the player; a count result of the game number counting means; Payout rate calculating means (for example, a CPU 53 described later) for calculating the payout rate of the prize,
The predetermined condition includes a setting result of the payout rate setting means and a calculation result of the payout rate calculation means.

Alternatively, a plurality of patterns (for example, a pattern shown in FIG. 8 described later) corresponding to a time based on a predetermined timing and an operation mode of the gear driving means are provided. One of the patterns may be determined accordingly, and the gear driving means may be controlled based on the determined pattern.

Further, in the above specific embodiment, the base end of the claw is supported by an axis different from the axis of each gear, and the torsion spring is locked on the side of the corresponding claw, or The base end of the claw uses the axis of each gear as a fulcrum, and the torsion spring
It may be configured to be locked at any position of the corresponding claw (including the position of the side of the claw).

[0019]

In the crane game machine according to the present invention, the grip force of the claw is automatically changed by driving the grip force changing means. There is no need to manually adjust the gripping force by opening a transparent cover or the like that covers the game, so that the labor on the game store side can be reduced. In addition, since the gripping force of the claw can be automatically changed during the game, for example, the gripping force of the claw that has easily grasped the prize is reduced in the middle of the game, and the prize is dropped. Is possible,
It is possible to provide a more interesting game by stimulating the player.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, if the driving of the crane and the driving of the gripping force varying means are controlled by a common driving source, the increase in the number of driving sources and the cost required for the crane game machine is suppressed. In addition to what can be done, a function of changing the gripping force during the game can be realized immediately.

According to a specific aspect of the present invention, the gripping force varying means locks one end of the rotating member provided corresponding to the claw and the corresponding rotating member with the rotating shaft of the rotating member serving as a fulcrum. , A torsion spring having the other end locked to a corresponding claw, and rotating member driving means for driving the rotating member to rotate. By rotating the rotating member, the gripping force of each claw can be changed, and an interesting game can be provided.

According to a specific aspect of the present invention, the gripping force varying means has a pair of gears meshing with each other, and has one end locked to the corresponding gear with the shaft of each gear as a fulcrum, and the other end corresponding to the other end. The device includes a pair of torsion springs locked on the claw, and gear driving means for driving the gears to rotate. When the gear rotates, the pair of gears rotate in opposite directions, and one end of the torsion spring locked to the gear rotates. The other end of the torsion spring is locked by a claw. Therefore, when the gear rotates, the angle of the torsion spring changes, and the gripping force of the claw can be changed. Further, for example, between a game and the next game, a clerk of a game arcade can operate the gear driving means to easily adjust the gripping force.

Further, the control means controls the gear driving means to rotate the gear during the game. Therefore, the gripping force of the claw changes during the game, and an interesting game can be provided. For example, the gripping force may be increased when the claw starts the operation of gripping the prize, and may be reduced after the operation of gripping the prize is completed. As a result, it is possible to increase the frequency of occurrence of a situation in which the prize cannot be acquired despite the claws grasping the prize, and the interest of the player can be maintained without increasing the payout rate of the prize.

The control means controls the gear driving means based on a time based on a predetermined timing during the game. For example, the control unit can control the gear driving unit only after the claw starts the operation of grasping the premium.

Further, as the predetermined timing, the timing at which the claw grasping the prize has been completed or the timing at which the claw grasping the prize has started can be adopted.

The control means controls the gear driving means based on predetermined conditions. For example, by adopting the result of the random number lottery as the predetermined condition, the mode of the gripping force in each game is not always the same, so that an interesting game can be provided.

The predetermined condition includes a result of setting by the payout rate setting means and a result of calculation by the payout rate calculating means. Therefore, it is possible to match the prize payout rate to a desired value without relying on the clerk's feeling. For example, when the calculation result of the payout rate calculating means indicating the actual prize payout rate is higher than the payout rate indicated by the setting result of the payout rate setting means,
Reduce the gripping force. If the actual payout rate is lower, the gripping force can be increased. This makes it possible to easily set the prize payout rate.

The control means determines one of the patterns according to a predetermined condition, and controls the gear driving means based on the determined pattern. Therefore, by preparing a plurality of interesting patterns, the player can be attracted to the game. Further, for example, a plurality of patterns having different easiness of paying out prizes can be provided, and any one of the patterns can be determined based on the setting result of the payout rate setting means and the calculation result of the payout rate calculating means.

Further, a shaft different from the shaft of each gear is adopted as a fulcrum of the base end of the claw, and a torsion spring can be locked to the side of the corresponding claw.

The shaft of each gear is adopted as a fulcrum of the base end of the claw, and the torsion spring can be locked at any position (including the side) of the corresponding claw.

[0031]

[First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a first embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated crane game machine has a rectangular parallelepiped housing 1, and transparent glass 2 is fitted on the front and left and right side surfaces of the housing 1 so that the inside can be seen. Inside the housing 1,
A table 3 is installed at substantially the same height as the lower end of the glass 2, and a prize 4 is placed thereon. A crane 5 is suspended above the table 3, and two claws 6 extend downward from the crane 5. The crane 5 is driven in a vertical direction (hereinafter, referred to as a “Z-axis direction”) by a driving mechanism housed in an upper portion of the housing 1, and opens and closes the claw 6 in synchronization with the vertical movement. Note that this crane game machine is provided with the same functions on the left and right so that two players can play a game at the same time.

The pedestal portion 7 has an illuminated X-axis push button switch 8, an illuminated Y-axis push button switch 9, and 7
A segment display unit 10 is provided. By operating the illuminated X-axis push button switch 8, the crane 5 can be moved in the left-right direction in FIG. 1 (hereinafter referred to as the "X-axis direction"). By operating the illuminated Y-axis push button switch 9, the crane 5 can be moved in the front-rear direction in FIG. 1 (hereinafter referred to as "Y-axis direction"). The seven-segment display unit 10 displays the number of times a game can be played.

A door 11 that opens and closes when setting the payout rate of the prize 4 is provided in a portion located below the glass 2 on the front of the housing 1. In the upper part of the door 11, two coin insertion slots 12 and 13 are provided. In this embodiment, the number of games that can be played by one coin insertion is set to two types, one and a plurality (for example, three), and the player can select any one of the two types. Are provided with two coin insertion slots 12 and 13. When playing a game, a predetermined number of coins are inserted into one of the insertion slots 12 and 13.
The coin switch 77 (FIG. 5 described later) provided inside is operated, and the game can be performed once or plural times.

An opening 1 for discharging the prize 4 gripped by the claw 6 of the crane 5 is provided on the board surface of the table 3.
4 are provided. Below the opening 14, a passage for guiding the prize 4 to the prize payout opening 15 is formed.

Next, the crane 5 as a prize capturing device and its driving mechanism will be described.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the crane 5 has a dome-shaped casing 21 in which two claws 6a and 6b face each other so as to be openable and closable. A substrate 22 is provided on the casing 21. This substrate 2
Each claw 6 is attached to the shaft pins 23a and 23b provided on the
The base ends of a and 6b are connected, and the front ends thereof are rotatable. Each claw 6a, 6b has a claw stop 24a, 24
b so as not to rotate in the direction approaching each other beyond the positions of the claw stoppers 24a and 24b.

Above the substrate 22, a stepping motor 26 is mounted. This stepping motor 26
Is rotated by a gear head 27 composed of a gear train (not shown).
, And is transmitted to the drive gear 28. Since the drive gear 28 is engaged with a driving gear 34 described below, the rotation of the driving gear 28 is transmitted to the driving gear 34.
A full-open detection microswitch 2 for detecting the fully open position and the fully closed position of the claws 6a and 6b is provided below the substrate 22.
9 and a micro-switch 30 for full-close detection.

A driving gear 34 and a left elliptical cam 35 are rotatably supported on the left shaft 33. The driving gear 34 and the left elliptical cam 35 are connected to each other, and the left elliptical cam 35 rotates at the same rotation speed in the same direction as the driving gear 34 to which the rotation of the driving gear 28 is transmitted. The right shaft 37 has a driven gear 38 and a right elliptical cam 39.
Are rotatably supported. The driven gear 38 and the driven gear 34 are meshed with each other, and rotate in opposite directions at the same rotation speed. The driven gear 38 and the right elliptical cam 39 are connected, and the right elliptical cam 39
Rotates at the same rotational speed in the same direction as the driven gear 38 to which the rotation of the driving gear 34 is transmitted. Elliptical cam 3
One end of each of the hooks 5 and 39 is in contact with the inner side of the end of each of the claws 6a and 6b.

A left torsion spring 41 is fitted into the left shaft 33 at a position between the driving gear 34 and the left elliptical cam 35, and one end is locked to the side of the left claw 6a. The end is locked by the driving gear 34. A right torsion spring 42 is fitted into the right shaft 37 at a position between the driven gear 38 and the right elliptical cam 39, one end of which is locked to the side of the right claw 6b, and the other end of which is driven. Gear 38
It is locked to.

When the claws 6a and 6b reach the fully closed position from the fully open position, the driving gear 34 is provided with a cam 44a that operates the fully closed detection microswitch 30 and stops the stepping motor 26. ing.
When the claw 6a, 6b reaches the fully open position from the fully closed position, the driven gear 38 includes a fully open detection micro switch 29.
And a cam 44b serving to detect the fully open position is mounted.

Next, the opening and closing operation (drive mechanism) of the claws 6a and 6b will be described.

FIGS. 2 and 3 show a state in which the claws 6a and 6b are fully closed. In this fully closed state, when the drive gear 28 rotates counterclockwise due to the rotation of the stepping motor 26, the driving gear 34 meshing with the driving gear 28 rotates clockwise, and the left elliptical cam 3 connected to the driving gear 34.
5 and the cam 44a rotate clockwise. Drive gear 34
The driven gear 38 engaged with the driven gear 38 rotates counterclockwise, and the right elliptical cam 39 and the cam 44b connected to the driven gear 38 rotate counterclockwise. As the elliptical cams 35, 39 rotate clockwise and counterclockwise, the claws 6a, 6b, the ends of which contact the cams 35, 39, are urged in the opening direction. Thereafter, when the full-open detection micro switch 29 operates, the stepping motor 26 stops rotating.

When the driving gear 28 is rotated clockwise by the rotation of the stepping motor 26 with the claws 6a and 6b fully opened, the driving gear 34 and the left elliptical cam 35 are rotated.
Rotates counterclockwise, the driven gear 38 and the right elliptical cam 39 rotate clockwise, and the claws 6a and 6b move in the closing direction. After that, the fully closed detection micro switch 3
When 0 operates, the stepping motor 26 stops rotating. Each claw 6a, 6b has a claw clasp 24a,
24b.

Next, a mechanism for adjusting the gripping force of the claws 6a and 6b will be described with reference to FIG. In the example,
The CPU 53 described later controls the operation of the stepping motor 26 to change the gripping force of the claws 6a and 6b in three stages.

FIG. 4A shows a state similar to FIG. 1 and FIG. In other words, a state is shown in which the claw 6a, 6b transitions from the fully open state to the fully closed state, and the stepping motor 26 stops rotating by activating the fully closed detection microswitch 30. Claws 6a and 6b shown in FIG.
The gripping force is determined by the spring coefficients of the torsion springs 41 and 42 and the position where one end of the torsion springs 41 and 42 is locked to the driving gear 34 and the driven gear 38, respectively (the angle between the wings of the torsion springs 41 and 42). Defined by Claw 6 in this state
The gripping forces of a and 6b are hereinafter referred to as "a". The gripping force “a” is relatively smaller than the gripping forces of the claws 6a and 6b shown in FIGS. 4 (2) and (3) described below.

FIG. 4B shows that the main driving gear 34 is turned “15 °” in the counterclockwise direction from the state shown in FIG.
Indicates a state of being rotated clockwise by “15 °”. With the rotation of the driving gear 34 and the driven gear 38, the tips of the wings of the torsion springs 41 and 42 locked to these rotate. Before and after the rotation of the driving gear 34 and the driven gear 38, the positions of the sides of the claws 6a and 6b at which the tips of the other wings are locked do not change. Therefore, the angle between the wings of the torsion springs 41 and 42 shown in FIG. 4B is smaller by “15 °” than that shown in FIG. That is, the gripping force of the claws 6a and 6b shown in FIG.
It is larger than that shown in (1). Here, the gripping force of the claws 6a and 6b shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 (3) shows that the main driving gear 34 is turned “15 °” in the counterclockwise direction from the state shown in FIG.
Indicates a state of being rotated clockwise by “15 °”. With the rotation of the driving gear 34 and the driven gear 38, the tips of the wings of the torsion springs 41 and 42 locked to these rotate. Before and after the rotation of the driving gear 34 and the driven gear 38, the positions of the sides of the claws 6a and 6b at which the tips of the other wings are locked do not change. Therefore, the angle between the wings of the torsion springs 41 and 42 shown in FIG. 4 (3) is smaller by “15 °” than that shown in FIG. 4 (2). That is, the gripping force of the claws 6a and 6b shown in FIG.
It is larger than that shown in (2). Here, the gripping force of the claws 6a and 6b shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 shows a control circuit 51 for controlling the game processing operation in the crane game machine of the embodiment, and a control circuit 5
A peripheral device (actuator) electrically connected to 1;
3 shows a circuit configuration including an excitation circuit 64 that controls the stepping motor 26 based on a control command transmitted from the control circuit 51. Here, as described above, the crane game machine of the embodiment is provided with two identical functions on the left and right so that two players can play a game at the same time. "1P" in the figure
And "2P" are for identifying the above two functions.

The control circuit 51 has a microcomputer 52 disposed on a circuit board as a main component. The microcomputer 52 performs a control operation according to a preset program,
It includes a ROM 54 and a RAM 55 as storage means. CP
U53 is configured to execute random number sampling on the operation program. The ROM 54 stores “t” described later.
₀ ”to“ t ₁ ”,“ t ₁ ”to“ t ₂ ”, time“ t ₀ ”corresponding to each pattern number described later,
Information necessary for controlling the stepping motor 26 at “t ₁ ” and “t ₂ ” is provided. That is,
Information necessary for realizing each pattern shown in FIG. 8 described later is provided.

In the circuit shown in FIG. 5, the main actuators whose operations are controlled by a control signal from the microcomputer 52 include a reversible motor 61 for moving the crane 5 in the X-axis direction and a reversible motor 61 for the Y-axis direction. There are a Y-axis reversible motor 62 to be moved, a Z-axis reversible motor 63 to be moved in the Z-axis direction, a stepping motor 26, and a 7-segment display unit 10.

Further, an excitation circuit 64 for controlling the driving of the stepping motor 26 is connected to the CPU 5 via an I / O port 65.
3 is connected to the output section. The excitation circuit 64 includes a distribution circuit. The excitation circuit 64 controls the stepping motor 26 based on the number of pulses input by the CPU 53.
Control the current output to

The main input signal generating means for generating an input signal necessary for the microcomputer 52 to generate a control command includes an X-axis initial position detecting sensor 7.
1. X-axis limit position detection sensor 72, Y-axis initial position detection sensor 73, Y-axis limit position detection sensor 74, Z-axis upper end detection micro switch 75, Z-axis lower end detection micro switch 76, full open detection There are a micro switch 29, a fully closed detection micro switch 30, an illuminated X-axis push button switch 8, an illuminated Y-axis push button switch 9, a coin switch 77, a premium sensor 78, and a setting DIP switch 79.

The X-axis initial position detecting sensor 71 has an opening 1
The position of the crane 5 in the X-axis direction above (hereinafter, referred to as “X-axis initial position”) is detected. The X-axis limit position detecting sensor 72 detects a position in the X-axis direction at which the crane 5 can move from the X-axis initial position. The Y-axis initial position detecting sensor 73 detects a position in the Y-axis direction of the crane 5 above the opening 14 (hereinafter, referred to as “Y-axis initial position”). The Y-axis limit position detecting sensor 74 detects the limit position in the Y-axis direction at which the crane 5 can move from the Y-axis initial position. The Z-axis upper end detection micro switch 75 is
The position of the upper end where the crane 5 can move within the housing 1 is detected. Z-axis lower end detection micro switch 76
Detects the position of the lower end to which the crane 5 can move. Here, the position of the lower end where the crane 5 can move differs between the case where the prizes 4 are arranged on the table 3 without a gap and the case where the prizes 4 are arranged in a small amount on the table 3, The timing at which the detection microswitch 76 operates is also different. Illuminated push button switch for X axis 8
Is configured to be operable by a player to move the crane 5 in the X-axis direction. The illuminated Y-axis push button switch 9 is configured to be operable by a player to move the crane 5 in the Y-axis direction. The coin switch 77 detects a coin inserted into the coin insertion slots 12 and 13. The prize sensor 78 detects the prize 4 paid out through the opening 14 provided on the board of the table 3. The setting dip switch 79 is provided inside the door 11, and is used by the game arcade side to set the payout rate of the premium 4. Specifically, by operating the setting dip switch 79, any of the payout rates provided in "six levels" can be selected.

FIG. 6 shows the relationship between the set value that can be set by the game arcade using the setting DIP switch 79 and the payout rate of the premium 4. As described below, the payout rate is CP
U53 is automatically adjusted by controlling the stepping motor 26 to change the gripping force of the claws 6a and 6b.

When the set value is “6”, the payout rate is “3”.
The payout rate is set to “20%” when the set value is “5.” The payout rate is set to “15%” when the set value is “4.” Set value is “3”
, The payout rate is set to “10%”. When the set value is “2”, the payout rate is set to “5%”.
When the set value is “1”, the payout rate is set to “3%”.

Next, with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, a description will be given of a change in the gripping force of the claws 6a and 6b corresponding to the movement of the crane 5 in the housing 1 after the start of the game.

FIG. 7 shows a cross section of the housing 1. An opening 14 is shown on the left side inside the housing 1. "T" shown in the figure indicates the elapsed time from when the crane 5 started moving (starting the game).

When the game starts, the crane 5 moves the X-axis based on the input from the illuminated X-axis push button switch 8.
Move in the X-axis direction from the axis initial position. Then, illumination Y
It moves in the Y-axis direction from the Y-axis initial position based on an input from the axis push button switch 9. After the movement in the Y-axis direction is completed, the claws 6a and 6b are fully opened, and are downward (in the Z-axis direction).
Start moving to. Micro switch 7 for Z axis lower end detection
By the operation of 6, the crane 5 ends the downward movement, and then the claws 6a, 6b operate to be fully closed.

The time “t ₀ ” indicates the time when the full-close detection micro switch 30 is operated. At this time “t ₀ ”, the prize 4 is contained in the claws 6a and 6b. After the full-close detection micro switch 30 is operated, the crane 5 starts moving upward (in the Z-axis direction).
Here, the time "t _0" in claws 6a, but the tip of 6b are in contact with each other, is considered also state prize 4 is caught between the tip, microswitch 30 is also a full-closing knowledge in this case Is activated, the crane 5 starts moving upward.

The time “t ₁ ” basically corresponds to the crane 5
Moves upward, and the Z-axis upper end detection microswitch 75
Indicates the time at which the was activated. Here, the time “t ₁ ”
Is a time when a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) has elapsed from the time “t ₀ ”. Therefore, at the time “t ₁ ”, the Z-axis upper end detection microswitch 75 does not always operate. For example, when the prizes 4 are arranged on the table 3 without gaps, the position of the lower end where the crane 5 can move is higher than when the prizes 4 are not arranged. Therefore, in this case, before the time “t ₁ ”, the Z-axis upper end detection micro switch 75 is activated.

The time “t ₂ ” is a time (for example, 4 seconds) between the time when the crane 5 arrives at the X-axis initial position and the Y-axis initial position after the fully closed detection micro switch 30 is operated.
Seconds).

The time “t _X ” indicates the time when the crane 5 reaches the X-axis initial position and the Y-axis initial position. After the elapse of the time “t _X ”, the claw 6 a and 6 b are fully opened, and the prize 4 being held is dropped into the opening 14. Thereafter, the claws 6a and 6b are completely closed, and one game is ended.

FIG. 8 shows the mode (pattern) of the gripping force of the claws 6a and 6b during the time “0” to “t _X ”.
The gripping forces “a”, “b”, and “c” in the figure respectively correspond to those shown in FIG. Also, time “t ₀ ”, “t ₁ ”,
“T ₂ ” and “t _X ” respectively correspond to those shown in FIG.

In the pattern 1 shown in FIG. 8A, the gripping force is maintained at “a” from time “t ₀ ” to “t _X ”. That is, during this time, the state shown in FIG. 4A is maintained without operating the stepping motor 26.

In the pattern 2 shown in FIG. 8 (2), the stepping motor 26 at times “t ₀ ” and “t ₁ ”
Works. From time “t ₀ ” to “t ₁ ”, the gripping force is maintained at “b”. That is, the state shown in FIG. 4B is maintained. The gripping force is maintained at “a” from time “t ₁ ” to “t _X ”. That is, the state shown in FIG. 4A is maintained.

In the pattern 3 shown in FIG. 8 (3), the stepping motor 26 at times "t ₀ " and "t ₁ " is used.
Works. Time until _{"t 0" ~ "t 1} ", the gripping force is maintained on the "c". That is, the state shown in FIG. 4C is maintained. The gripping force is maintained at “a” from time “t ₁ ” to “t _X ”. That is, the state shown in FIG. 4A is maintained.

In pattern 4 shown in FIG. 8D, the stepping motor 26 operates at times “t ₀ ”, “t ₁ ”, and “t ₂ ”. Time until _{"t 0" ~ "t 1} ", the gripping force is maintained on the "c". Time “t ₁ ” to “t
₂ ”, the gripping force is maintained at“ b ”.
"Until the gripping force is" ₂ "~" _{t X} is maintained at a ".

In pattern 5 shown in FIG. 8 (5), the stepping motor 26 operates at times “t ₀ ”, “t ₂ ” and “t _X ”. From time “t ₀ ” to “t ₂ ”, the gripping force is maintained at “c”. Time “t ₂ ” to “t”
Until _X ", the gripping force is maintained at" b ".

In the pattern 6 shown in FIG. 8 (6), the stepping motor 26 at times "t ₀ " and "t _X " is used.
Works. The gripping force is maintained at “c” from time “t ₀ ” to “t _X ”.

Here, in FIG. 8 showing the above-mentioned patterns 1 to 6, the area surrounded by the line indicating the gripping force at each time, the axis indicating the time, and the axis indicating the gripping force is the payout of the premium 4. Shows the degree of ease with which it is performed. Specifically, the greater the area, the greater the degree to which the premium 4 can be paid out. Therefore, the larger the number shown after each pattern (hereinafter referred to as “pattern number”), the higher the prize 4
Is more easily paid out. As described below,
The CPU 53 determines, based on the degree of ease of payout,
The payout rate of the prize 4 is adjusted. Note that after the time t _X, claws 6a, but 6b is biased in the direction of opening, illustrated gripping force at this time is omitted. Further, the axis indicating the gripping force may be the operation mode of the gears 34 and 38, for example, the rotation angle thereof.

Next, the game number counter updating process of the CPU 53 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, the CPU 53 sets a game number counter (ST1). Next, the coin slot 12,
13 is determined whether a coin is inserted (S
T2). If the determination is “NO”, the process proceeds to ST1. If “YES”, the process proceeds to ST3. ST3
In this process, it is determined whether or not there is an input from the illuminated Y-axis push button switch 9, that is, whether or not one game has started (ST3). This determination is "YE
If “S”, the process proceeds to ST4, and if “NO”, the process proceeds to ST1 In the process of ST4, “1” is added to the value of the number-of-games counter. By the processing of ST1 to ST4, the number of games played so far is counted after the power is turned on to the crane game machine.

Next, the payout number counter updating process of the CPU 53 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, the CPU 53 sets a payout number counter (ST11). Subsequently, it is determined whether or not there is an input from the prize sensor 78 indicating that the prize 4 has been paid out (ST12). If the determination is “YES”, the process proceeds to ST13, and if “NO”, the process proceeds to ST1.
Move to the processing of 1. In the process of ST13, "1" is added to the value of the number-of-payouts counter. Subsequently, the process proceeds to ST11. Through the processing of ST11 to ST13, the number of prizes 4 paid out until now is counted after the power is turned on to the crane game machine.

Next, the pattern number update processing of the CPU 53 will be described with reference to FIG. As described above, the pattern number corresponds to the numeral shown after the pattern in FIG.

First, the CPU 53 determines a set value based on the state of the setting DIP switch 79 (ST2).
1). Subsequently, the pattern number is set to “3” (ST
22) It is determined whether or not a coin has been inserted into the coin insertion slots 12 and 13 (ST23). This determination is "Y
If “ES”, the process proceeds to ST24, and if “NO”, the process proceeds to ST23.
The PU 53 determines whether there is an input from the illuminated X-axis push button switch 8. That is, it is determined whether or not the game has started. If the determination is “YES”, the process proceeds to ST25, and if “NO”, the process proceeds to ST25.
Move on to the process of 23. In the process of ST25, it is determined whether or not the value of the game frequency counter is “multiple of ten”. If the determination is "YES", the process proceeds to ST26, and if "NO", the process proceeds to ST23. ST
In the process of 26, the payout rate of the premium 4 is calculated. Specifically, the payout rate is calculated by dividing the value of the payout number counter by the value of the game number counter. Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the calculated payout rate is greater than the payout rate (FIG. 6) corresponding to the set value determined in the process of ST21 (ST2).
7). If the determination is “YES”, the process proceeds to ST28, and if “NO”, the process proceeds to ST29. S
In the process of T28, “1” is subtracted from the set pattern number, and this value is set as the pattern number. In the process of ST29, "1" is added to the set pattern number, and this value is set as the pattern number. In the process of ST28, if “1” has already been set as the pattern number, the CPU
53 does not perform the subtraction process. Further, in the process of ST29, if “6” has already been set as the pattern number, the CPU 53 does not perform the adding process.

Here, as described above, the CPU 53 monitors the payout rate of the prize 4 every 10 games (ST25) (ST26). Then, the payout rate is compared with the payout rate corresponding to the set value, and processing for changing the pattern number is performed. If the pattern number is changed, the claw 6a of until _{"t X"} from the time "0", 6b
, The degree of ease of paying out the prize 4 changes. As a result, the actual payout rate of the prize 4 can be made closer to that corresponding to the set value. For example, when the set value is “3 (payout rate 10%)” and “99th game” has been completed since the power was turned on, the payout rate becomes “8”.
% "And the pattern number" 2 ", the next" 100 "
In the case of "game number", the pattern number is changed to "3." As shown in Fig. 8, the degree of the prize 4 is more easily paid out in the case of the pattern 3 than in the case of the pattern 2. Is high, it is considered that the actual payout rate approaches “10%” in the “100th game” to “109th game.” When the “109th game” ends, the actual payout rate becomes “10%”. If it is lower than "", the pattern number is changed to "4".

Next, the gripping force control processing of the CPU 53 will be described with reference to FIG.

First, the CPU 53 determines whether or not there is an input from the micro switch 76 for detecting the lower end of the Z-axis, that is, whether or not the time "t ₀ " has been reached. If the determination is "YES", the process proceeds to ST32. ST32
In the processing (1), a gripping force control timer is set. The gripping force control timer is used to recognize the times “t ₁ ” and “t ₂ ”. Subsequently, the CPU 53 controls the stepping motor 26 according to the value of the gripping force control timer and the set pattern number. For example, in a situation where “5” is set as the pattern number, when the value of the gripping force control timer is “0”, that is, when the time is “t ₀ ”, the gripping force is set to “c”. The stepping motor 26 is controlled. When the value of the gripping force control timer indicates the time “t ₂ ”, the stepping motor 26 is controlled so that the gripping force becomes “b”.

Next, the CPU 53 determines that the crane 5
4 and whether there is an input from the X-axis and Y-axis initial position detection sensors 71 and 73, ie, the time “t”.
_X ”is determined (ST34). If this determination is“ YES ”, the process proceeds to ST35.
In the process (1), the stepping motor 26 is controlled so that the gripping force becomes “a”, and the process proceeds to ST31.

Here, as described above, the time “t _X ” is
The time when there is an input from the X-axis and Y-axis initial position detection sensors 71 and 73 is shown. The time “t ₂ ” is a time when a certain time (for example, 3 seconds) has elapsed from the time “t ₀ ”. Is shown. Therefore, when the moving distance of the crane 5 is short, the time “t _X ” may be reached before the time “t ₂ ”. In this case, the CPU 53 does not perform the control process at the time “t ₂ ”. The claw 6 by the CPU 53
The processing for opening and closing a and 6b is omitted.

[Second Embodiment] Next, a crane game machine according to a second embodiment will be described. The structure, electric circuit and the like of this crane game machine are basically the same as those of the first embodiment. However, the structure inside the casing of the second embodiment is as follows.
This is different from that of the first embodiment. The operation of the CPU is basically the same as that of the first embodiment.

As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the crane 5 of the second embodiment includes a dome-shaped casing 92 in which two hooks 91a and 91b are faced to each other and can be freely opened and closed. The casing 92 is provided with a substrate 93. The shaft pins 94a provided on the substrate 93,
The base end of each claw 91a, 91b and the gear 9
5, 96 are provided rotatably. Further, the shaft pin 9
4a, 94b and base 9 of each claw 91a, 91b and gear 9
5 and 96, torsion springs 97a and 97b are fitted, one end is locked to the side of the claw 91a and 91b, and the other end is locked to the gears 95 and 96.

A claw opening motor 101 is fixed downward at the center of the substrate 93, and a plane elliptical cam plate 102 is horizontally supported on a rotating shaft 106 thereof. The outer peripheral edge of the cam plate 102 is in contact with the cam rollers 103a and 103b attached to the claws 91a and 91b. When the cam plate 102 rotates, the claws 91a and 91b open and close.

A stepping motor 104 is mounted on the upper right side of the board 93. The rotation of the stepping motor 104 is reduced by a gear head composed of a gear train (not shown) and transmitted to the drive gear 105. Since the driving gear 105 is engaged with the driving gear 95,
The rotation of the driving gear 105 is transmitted to the driving gear 95. Further, since the driving gear 95 meshes with the driven gear 96, the rotation of the driving gear 95 is transmitted to the driven gear 96.

The claws 91a, 91 shown in FIG. 13 and FIG.
When the drive gear 105 rotates counterclockwise due to the rotation of the stepping motor 104 in a state where b is fully closed,
The driving gear 95 meshing with this rotates clockwise.
The driven gear 96 meshed with the driving gear 95 rotates counterclockwise. With the rotation of the driving gear 95 and the driven gear 96, the tips of the wings of the torsion springs 97a and 97b locked thereto rotate, and the angle between the wings of the torsion springs 97a and 97b decreases. Therefore, the stepping motor 1
The gripping force of the claws 91a and 91b can be changed by controlling the rotation of the drive gears 04 and changing the rotation angles of the driving gear 95 and the driven gear 96.

[Third Embodiment] Next, a crane game machine according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The structure, electric circuit and the like of this crane game machine are basically the same as those of the first embodiment. However, the structure inside the casing of the third embodiment is different from that of the first embodiment. Note that C
The operation of the PU is basically the same as that of the first embodiment.

FIG. 15A shows the claw 111a, 111b.
Shows a state inside the casing 112 in a fully closed state. FIG. 15B shows a state inside the casing 112 when the gripping force of the claws 111a and 111b is increased from the state shown in FIG.

The crane 5 of the third embodiment has two claws 1
There is provided a dome-shaped casing 112 in which the housings 11a and 111b face each other so as to be openable and closable. The casing 112 is provided with a substrate 113. The shaft pins 114a and 114b provided on the substrate 113 include:
Each claw 111a, 111b is provided rotatably. A cylindrical cam 115 is in contact with the inner sides of the ends of the claws 111a and 111b. FIG. 15 shows the claw 111a,
111b shows a fully closed state.
15 is rotated by 90 °, so that the claw 111a, 11
1b is fully opened. The cylindrical cam 115 is configured to rotate by a driving force of a stepping motor 116 provided below the cylindrical cam 115. The cylindrical cam 115 and the stepping motor 116 constitute, for example, a drive mechanism of the third embodiment.

Above the cylindrical cam 115, spring shaft pins 117a and 117b are provided. The spring shaft pins 117a and 117b have torsion springs 118a and 11b, respectively.
8b is fitted. Torsion spring 118a, 118
One end of b is locked to the base ends of the claws 111a and 111b. The other end passes through the boxes 119a and 119b and is engaged with the side surface of the gripping force adjusting elliptical cam 120. The gripping force adjusting elliptical cam 120 is configured to rotate by the driving force of the gripping force adjusting stepping motor 121.
The box bodies 119a and 119b are provided with the gripping force adjusting elliptical cams 12.
This is to prevent the torsion springs 118a and 118b from moving when one end of the torsion springs 118a and 118b moves based on zero rotation. In this embodiment, the torsion springs 118a and 118b and the gripping force adjusting elliptical cam 120 constitute, for example, gripping force varying means. In addition, the CPU 53 and the gripping force adjustment stepping motor 1
Reference numeral 21 constitutes, for example, drive control means.

The gripping force adjusting elliptical cam 12 shown in FIG.
0 is rotated 90 ° from the state of FIG.
As the gripping force adjusting elliptical cam 120 rotates, one ends of the torsion springs 118a and 118b move in directions away from each other. This gripping force adjusting elliptical cam 120
, The angle between the wings of each torsion spring 118a, 118b is reduced. Therefore, by controlling the gripping force adjusting stepping motor 121 and rotating the gripping force adjusting elliptical cam 120, the gripping force of the claw 111a, 111b can be automatically changed under the control of the CPU 53 even during the game. .

[Fourth Embodiment] Next, a crane game machine according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The structure, electric circuit and the like of this crane game machine are basically the same as those of the first embodiment. However, the structure inside the casing of the fourth embodiment is different from that of the first embodiment. Note that C
The operation of the PU is basically the same as that of the first embodiment.

FIG. 16A shows the claws 131a and 131b.
Shows a state inside the casing 132 in a fully closed state. FIG. 16B shows a state inside the casing 132 when the gripping force of the claws 131a and 131b is increased from the state shown in FIG. 16A.

The crane 5 of the fourth embodiment has two claws 1
A dome-shaped casing 132 is provided in which the casings 31a and 131b face each other so as to be openable and closable. The casing 132 is provided with a substrate 133. The shaft pins 134a and 134b provided on the substrate 133 include:
Each claw 131a, 131b is provided rotatably. A cylindrical cam 135 is in contact with the inner sides of the ends of the claws 131a and 131b. FIG. 16 shows the claw 131a,
131b shows a fully closed state.
The claw 131a, 13 is rotated by 90 degrees.
1b is fully opened. The cylindrical cam 135 is configured to rotate by the driving force of a stepping motor 136 provided above the cylindrical cam 135. In this embodiment, for example, the cylindrical cam 135 and the stepping motor 136 constitute a driving mechanism.

Below the cylindrical cam 135, a solenoid container 137 is attached. This solenoid container 1
37, two solenoid coils 138a, 1
38b is movably mounted. Each solenoid coil 138a, 138b has a spring 139a, 13
9b is attached. These springs 139a, 13
The other end of 9b is locked to the base ends of the claws 131a and 131b. A current flows in a predetermined direction through each of the solenoid coils 138a and 138b under the control of the CPU 53. The magnetic poles at both ends change according to the direction of the current, so that the two approach or move away. In this embodiment, for example, the solenoid container 137, the solenoid coils 138a and 138b, and the spring 139
a and 139b constitute gripping force variable means. The drive control means includes, for example, a circuit (not shown) for supplying a current to the CPU 53 and the solenoid coils 138a and 138b.

The solenoid coil 138 shown in FIG.
a and 138b move closer to each other as compared to the state of FIG. 16A, and the springs 139a and 139b
Is growing. Thus, the solenoid coil 138
a, 138b, the gripping force of the claws 131a, 131b can be automatically changed even during the game. Further, by changing the current flowing through each solenoid, the claw 131
a, 131b can be changed in a plurality of stages.

[Fifth Embodiment] Next, a crane game machine according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The structure, electric circuit and the like of this crane game machine are basically the same as those of the first embodiment. However, the structure inside the casing of the fifth embodiment is different from that of the first embodiment. Note that C
The operation of the PU is basically the same as that of the first embodiment.

FIG. 17 shows the inside of the casing 152 when the claws 151a and 151b are fully closed.

The crane 5 of the fifth embodiment has two claws 1
There is provided a dome-shaped casing 152 in which the casings 51a and 151b are faced to each other so as to be freely opened and closed. A board 153 is provided on the casing 152. The shaft pins 154a and 154b provided on the substrate 153 include:
Each claw 151a, 151b is provided rotatably. Each claw 151a, 151b has a claw stopper 155a,
155b, and these claw stoppers 155a, 155b
Are prevented from rotating in the directions approaching each other beyond the position.

A T-shaped cylinder 156 is mounted between the claws 151a and 151b. In the cylinder 156, three pistons 157 to 159 are provided. Air is sealed in the cylinder 156, and the volume is always constant even if the pistons 157 to 158 move. Wires 161 and 162 are connected to the two pistons 158 and 159 attached to the left and right. The other ends of the wires 161 and 162 are connected to the claw 15
1a, 151b. In addition, a piston 157 attached to the upper part of the cylinder 156 includes:
A drawstring 163 is tied. The other end of the drawstring 163 is connected to a drive pulley 164. Drive pulley 16
4 rotates clockwise by the drive of the motor 165 to wind up the drawstring 163. In this embodiment, for example, a cylinder 156, pistons 157 to 159,
The wires 161 and 162, the drawstring 163, and the driving pulley 164 constitute a gripping force varying unit. Also, the CPU 53
The motor 165 constitutes, for example, drive control means.

In the state shown in FIG. 17, the claw 151a, 1
51b is locked by claw stoppers 155a and 155b. Accordingly, the upper piston 157 receives an upward force by the drive of the motor 165, and thereby the left and right pistons 1
The claws 151a, 151b do not move even if the 58, 159 receives a force in the direction approaching each other. However, when the upper piston 157 receives a force upward by the driving of the motor 165, the left and right pistons 158,
Since the force which the 159 receives in the direction approaching each other increases, the gripping force of the claws 151a and 151b increases. That is, by driving the motor 165 to change the force of pulling the upper piston 157,
Even during the game, the gripping force of the claws 151a and 151b can be automatically changed. When the claws 151a and 151b open, the drive pulley 164 rotates counterclockwise, and the upper piston 157
Moves downward. The left and right pistons 158, 15
9 move in directions away from each other. In addition, the claw 151
A drive mechanism that opens and closes a and 151b is omitted.

Although the embodiment has been described, the present invention is not limited to this.

In the embodiment, the time “t”₀"To" t_X"Ma
The adjustment of the gripping force during ₀When ""
It is controlled by the interval control, but is not limited to this.
Not. For example, Z-axis upper end detection micro switch
Adjust the gripping force based on the input from switches such as
You can also do it. Also, for example, in the housing
The position of the crane in the X and Y directions, or
Can also adjust the gripping force based on the distance from the opening
Wear.

In the embodiment, the payout rate can be set via the set value. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, by using an illuminated X-axis push button switch, an illuminated Y-axis push button switch, a 7-segment display unit, or the like, the payout rate can be directly set. In addition, a computer and a control circuit are connected, and the payout rate can be set by operating the computer. Further, a portable setting device that can wirelessly communicate with the control circuit can be provided. Further, the grip force in a predetermined number of games or the pattern shown in FIG. 8 may be set by operating a computer or a portable terminal device without changing the set value. As a result, it is possible to rescue a player who cannot acquire a prize despite playing a large number of games continuously.

In a crane game machine (eg, a crane game machine for two players) in which a plurality of players can play a game at the same time, the gripping force of each crane is adjusted based on the payout rate of the entire crane game machine. You can also. Furthermore, by connecting a plurality of crane game machines to the computer, the total payout rate is grasped based on the total number of games and the total payout number of prizes, and the computer is provided for each crane game machine based on the total payout rate. The gripping force of the provided crane may be adjusted.

In the embodiment, one stepping motor is provided, and this rotation is transmitted to the main driving gear and the driven gear. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, two stepping motors are provided, each of which meshes with a driving gear and a driven gear. The driving gear and the driven gear do not mesh with each other. This makes it possible to make the gripping forces of the two claws different from each other, thereby increasing the fun of the game.

Further, a plurality of positions for locking one end of the wing portion of the torsion spring may be provided on the surfaces of the driving gear and the driven gear. Accordingly, if the position where the wing of the torsion spring is locked is changed, various types of gripping force can be realized without replacing the torsion spring. In the embodiment, the magnitude of the gripping force “a” serving as the reference of the gripping force can be arbitrarily changed without replacing the torsion spring.

In the first embodiment, the CPU changes the gripping force based on the time “t ₀ ”, that is, when the claw ends the operation for gripping the prize. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Not something. For example, in the second embodiment, a motor for opening and closing the claw and a motor for changing the gripping force are separately provided. Therefore, the gripping force can be changed based on the time when the claw starts the operation for gripping the premium.

In the embodiment, the pattern number is selected based on the set value. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the result of the random number lottery may be adopted as a predetermined condition, and the gripping force may be changed based on this. Specifically, a pattern number can be selected based on the result of the random number lottery. This makes it possible to provide an interesting game by increasing the frequency of occurrence of a situation in which the player is most interested in a game in which the claw grabs the prize but cannot acquire the prize, even if the claw grabs the prize.

Further, in the embodiment, the gear is used as the rotating member, but the invention is not limited to this. For example,
Anything that can be rotated, such as a cam or a rod, may be used.

In the second embodiment, since the axis of the torsion spring and the axis of the claw are the same, one end of the torsion spring can be locked at any position of the claw, not at the side of the claw. it can. That is, one end of the torsion spring only needs to be engaged with the claw, and the position can be arbitrarily determined. For example, a hole may be provided in the claw, and one end of the torsion spring may be locked here. Further, a crane having a function of adjusting the gripping force of each claw may have some or all of the functions of the crane of the first embodiment or the second embodiment.

In the embodiment, the opening / closing operation of the claw is controlled by using the full-open detection microswitch and the full-close detection microswitch. However, the gripping force can be adjusted by using the microswitch. .

Further, the casing may be formed of a transparent or translucent member so that the player can grasp the internal structure of the crane. Thereby, the player will pay attention to the inside of the crane, expecting that the gear rotates and the gripping force increases.

In the embodiment, the number of claws provided on one crane is two, but the number of claws is, for example, three.
Any number, such as four or four, can be adopted.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of a crane unit according to the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a claw of the crane according to the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the crane unit showing the operation of the claws of the crane according to the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the crane game machine of the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a set value and a payout rate of a premium according to the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a view showing the operation of the crane in the housing.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a relationship between time and grip force.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a game number counter updating process.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a payout number counter updating process.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a pattern number update process.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating grip force control processing.

FIG. 13 is a longitudinal sectional view of a crane according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a claw according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a longitudinal sectional view of a crane unit according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a longitudinal sectional view of a crane unit according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a longitudinal sectional view of a crane unit according to a fifth embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Housing, 2 ... Glass, 3 ... Table, 4 ... Premium, 5 ... Crane, 6 ... Claw, 7 ... Pedestal, 8 ... Illuminated push button switch for X axis, 9 ... Illuminated push button switch for Y axis , 10 ... 7 segment display, 11 ... door, 1
2, 13 ... coin insertion slot, 14 ... opening, 15 ... premium payout exit, 21 ... casing, 22 ... board, 23a, 23b ...
Shaft pins, 24a, 24b: Claw stopper, 26: Stepping motor, 27: Gear head, 28: Drive gear, 29:
Fully open detection micro switch, 30: Fully closed detection micro switch, 33: left shaft, 34: driving gear, 3
5 left elliptical cam, 37 right shaft, 38 driven gear, 39 right elliptical cam, 41, 42 torsion spring, 4
4a, 44b cam, 51 control circuit, 52 microcomputer, 53 CPU, 54 ROM, 55 R
AM, 61 ... X-axis reversible motor, 62 ... Y-axis reversible motor, 63 ... Z-axis reversible motor, 64 ... excitation circuit, 65 ... I / O port, 71 ... X-axis initial position detection sensor, 72 ... X-axis limit position detection sensor, 73: Y-axis initial position detection sensor, 74: Y-axis limit position detection sensor, 75: Z-axis upper end detection microswitch, 76: Z-axis lower end detection microswitch, 77 ...
Coin switch, 78: Premium sensor, 79: Dip switch for setting, 91a, 91b: Claw, 92: Casing, 93: Substrate, 94a, 94b: Shaft pin, 95: Drive gear, 96: Drive gear, 97a, 97b ... Torsion spring,
101: claw opening motor, 102: cam plate, 103
a, 103b: cam roller, 104: stepping motor, 105: drive gear, 111a, 111b: claw, 1
12 ... casing, 113 ... substrate, 114a, 114b
... shaft pin, 115 ... cylindrical cam, 116 ... stepping motor, 117a, 117b ... spring shaft pin, 118a,
118b: torsion spring, 119a, 119b: box, 1
20: Elliptic cam for adjusting gripping force, 121: Stepping motor for adjusting gripping force, 131a, 131b: Claw, 132
... Casing, 133 ... Substrate, 134a, 134b ... Axial pin, 135 ... Cylindrical cam, 136 ... Stepping motor, 137 ... Solenoid container, 138a, 138b ... Solenoid coil, 139a, 139b ... Spring, 1
51a, 151b: claw, 152: casing, 153
... Substrates, 154a, 154b ... Axis pins, 155a, 15
5b: claw stopper, 156: cylinder, 157 to 159 ...
Piston, 161, 162 ... wire, 163 ... drawstring,
164: drive pulley, 165: motor.

Claims (12)

[Claims] 1. A crane having a prize mounting surface on which a number of prizes are placed, a plurality of claws for gripping the prizes, and a driving mechanism for causing the claws of the crane to grip the prizes in response to a player's operation. In the crane game machine having: a gripping force variable means capable of automatically changing the gripping force of the claw of the crane to grip the prize; and driving the gripping force variable means to change the gripping force of the claw. A crane game machine comprising a drive control means. 2. The crane game machine according to claim 1, wherein said drive mechanism and said drive control means are driven by a common drive source. 3. A prize mounting surface on which a number of prizes are placed; a crane having a plurality of claws for gripping the prizes; gripping force variable means for changing a gripping force of the claw of the crane for gripping the prizes; A driving mechanism for causing the claw of the crane to grab a prize in accordance with the operation of the crane game machine, wherein the gripping force varying means includes: a rotating member provided corresponding to the claw; A torsion spring having one end locked to a corresponding rotation member and the other end locked to a corresponding claw, with a rotation shaft serving as a fulcrum, and rotation member driving means for rotating the rotation member. Crane game machine. 4. A prize placement surface on which a number of prizes are placed, a crane having a plurality of claws for gripping the prizes, a gripping force variable means for changing the gripping force of the claws of the crane for gripping the prizes, A driving mechanism for causing the claw of the crane to grip a prize in response to the operation of the crane game machine, wherein the gripping force variable means includes: a pair of gears meshing with each other; A crane game machine comprising: a pair of torsion springs each of which locks a corresponding gear, and the other end of which locks a corresponding claw; and gear driving means for rotating the gear. 5. The crane game machine according to claim 4, further comprising control means for controlling said gear driving means, wherein said control means controls rotation driving of said gear during a game, thereby gripping said claw. A crane game machine characterized by changing power. 6. The crane game machine according to claim 5, wherein said control means controls said gear drive means based on a time based on a predetermined timing during the game. 7. The crane game machine according to claim 6, wherein the predetermined timing is a timing at which the claw ends the operation of gripping the prize, or a timing at which the claw starts the operation of gripping the prize. And crane game machine. 8. The crane game machine according to claim 5, wherein said control means controls said gear drive means based on a predetermined condition. 9. A crane game machine according to claim 8, wherein: a payout rate setting means for setting a payout rate of a prize; a game frequency counting means for counting the number of games; Payout prize counting means for counting the number of games, and a payout rate calculating means for calculating a payout rate of prizes per unit game based on the counting result of the game number counting means and the counting result of the payout prize counting means. The crane game machine, wherein the predetermined condition includes a setting result of a payout rate setting unit and a calculation result of a payout ratio calculation unit. 10. The crane game machine according to claim 8, further comprising a plurality of patterns in which a time based on said predetermined timing and an operation mode of said gear driving means correspond to each other. A crane game machine, wherein one of the patterns is determined according to a predetermined condition, and the gear driving means is controlled based on the determined pattern. 11. A crane game machine according to claim 4, wherein a base end of said claw has a fulcrum about a shaft different from a shaft of each gear, and said torsion spring is provided with a corresponding claw of said claw. A crane game machine characterized by being locked to a side. 12. The crane game machine according to claim 4, wherein a base end of the claw is supported by a shaft of each gear as a fulcrum, and the torsion spring is engaged with any position of the corresponding claw. A crane game machine characterized by being stopped.