JP2003164662A - Prize winning game system and method of operating the same - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a prize winning game system capable of easily changing the difficulty level of winning a prize. <P>SOLUTION: The game system comprises an arm for holding a gripped object, an urging means for urging the arm in a closing direction and an arm opening/ closing means for opening/closing the arm. The urging means stands between the arm and the arm opening/closing means, while a limiting unit prohibits the urging unit from urging the arm in a direction for closing the same when the arm opening/closing means closes the arm. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a prize acquisition game machine for acquiring prizes and the like by a plurality of arms that open and close, and a method of operating the same.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In a prize acquisition game device such as a crane game machine for the purpose of acquiring a prize stored in a casing, a character or the like which is popular in the prize is used while its operation is interesting. In order to inspire players to challenge themselves, not only game arcades but also general stores and shopping malls are often installed. Conventionally, various types of such prize acquisition game devices have been proposed, but an example of the prize acquisition game device will be described below with reference to FIGS. 24 and 25.

That is, as shown in FIG. 24, the prize acquisition game apparatus 200 is provided with a box-shaped accommodation section 2 on a rectangular parallelepiped base 1. The front surface 2a and the side surfaces 2b, 2c of the housing portion 2 are made of a transparent resin or glass plate member so that the prize 3 housed in the housing portion 2 can be viewed. In addition, the back surface 2 of the housing portion 2
d is composed of a plate-shaped member that is a mirror surface or a decorated plate-shaped member. On the front surface 2a of such a storage unit 2, for example, a sliding door or a double door type door 51 for a store clerk to store a prize in the storage unit 2 is provided.
It is possible to store stuffed animals such as characters and prizes 3 such as miscellaneous goods. In addition, the prize 3
A cylindrical prize throwing unit 4 for receiving is provided in the vertical direction.

Further, a prize acquisition section 5 is hung on the upper surface of the inside of the accommodation section 2. The prize acquisition section 5 is composed of a support section 6 suspended in the vertical direction from the inner upper surface, and a grip section 7 provided at the lower end of the support section 6. Figure 2
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the premium getting game device 200 when viewed from above. As shown in the figure, a fixed horizontal rail 8 for traveling the prize acquisition section 5 and a movable vertical rail 9 for traveling the prize acquisition section 5 are provided on the inner upper surface of the storage section 2, and the support section 6 is provided.
Is a movable rail 9 for vertical movement via the base 10 for the prize acquisition unit.
It is located in. Therefore, the support portion 6 is configured to be able to travel on the movable rail 9 for vertical movement, within a range in which the movable rail 9 for vertical movement moves according to the fixed rail 8 for horizontal movement, and also in the vertical direction. It is configured to be stretchable. That is, the premium acquisition unit 5 moves in the horizontal direction (X direction) inside the accommodation unit 2 by traveling on the transverse fixed rail 8 and moves in the vertical direction (Y) on the longitudinal movable rail 9. Direction). Further, the grip 7 is provided with two crab-shaped arms 7 a that can be opened and closed in order to grip the prize 3. The two arms 7a are normally in a closed state, but are configured to open according to the player's operation when grasping a prize.

On the other hand, the base 1 is provided with an operation console 12 for the player to play. The operation console 12 is provided with an operation means (for example, a button switch) 13 for moving and stopping the prize acquisition section 5 to a position corresponding to a desired prize 3. That is, the operation means 13 in the present embodiment is the first button switch 13a for stopping the prize acquisition section 5 at a predetermined lateral position.
And a second button switch 13b for stopping the prize acquisition section 5 whose predetermined horizontal position is determined by the first button switch 13a at a predetermined vertical position. Further, the operation console 12 is provided with a coin insertion slot 14 into which a player inserts coins at the time of playing. Furthermore, below the base 1, a prize outlet 15 is provided, and this outlet 15 communicates with the prize insertion section 4 so that the prize can pass through. Further, below the base 1, an opening / closing door 28
The opening / closing door 28 is opened, and inside the opening / closing door 28, operation buttons, operation dials, and an interface (not shown) such as a liquid crystal panel for the manager of the store to perform various settings of the prize acquisition game apparatus are provided. ing. When the manager of the store makes various settings by operating the operation buttons or the like, the computer provided inside the base 1 controls the prize acquisition game device 200 based on the settings.

Next, the operation of the prize acquisition game device 200 having the above configuration will be described. First, in the initial state, the prize acquisition unit 5 is located at a position (home position) immediately above the prize insertion unit 4, and when the player inserts a coin into the coin insertion slot 14, the game is ready. When the player presses the first button switch 13a,
The drive source operates and the prize acquisition section 5 moves laterally. The player releases the first button switch 13a so that the prize acquisition section 5 stops at a position in the horizontal direction corresponding to the desired prize. When the player releases the first button switch 13a, the prize acquisition section 5 stops. Next, when the player presses the second button switch 13b, the prize acquisition section 5 moves in the vertical direction. The player acquires the prize acquisition unit 5 at a desired vertical position.
The second button switch 13b is released so that the button stops. When the player releases the second button switch 13b, the prize obtaining section 5 temporarily stops, opens the two arms 7a, and then extends the support section 6 downward. When the gripping portion 7 comes to the position of the prize 3 arranged in the lower portion of the accommodation portion 2, the prize acquiring portion 5 moves to the arm 7
Close a (grasping operation of the prize). After this, the prize acquisition unit 5
Moves the support part 6 upward with the arm 7a closed, and moves to a position (home position) directly above the prize throwing part 4. Then, when the prize acquisition unit 5 opens the arm 7a above the prize insertion unit 4 (release operation of the prize), the game ends.

Therefore, when the prize 3 can be grasped by the prize holding operation, the prize 3 is carried to the prize inserting section 4 while being grasped by the arm 7a, and then the prize releasing operation is performed. It drops into the prize throwing unit 4. Then, the player takes out the prize 3 from the prize outlet 15.

[0008]

However, the above-mentioned conventional prize acquisition game apparatus has the following problems mainly from the viewpoint of operation.

First, in order to keep the player's willingness to challenge the prize acquisition game, if the player succeeds in acquiring the prize, satisfaction is given, and if the player fails to acquire the prize, new willingness to challenge is given. It is necessary to give each. Therefore, the administrator needs to set the optimum difficulty level according to the type of prize and the situation of the player.

However, in the conventional prize acquisition game apparatus, when the store manager or the like exchanges the prize or changes the difficulty level of the prize acquisition, a spring or the like provided on the gripping portion is required each time. It was necessary to change. That is,
The prize stored in the housing is gripped by a plurality of arms, and the gripping force of the arms is one of the factors that determine the difficulty level of the game. For example, if the gripping force is strong, it is easy to grab the prize, but if the gripping force is weak, it is difficult to grab the prize.

Therefore, when it becomes necessary for the manager or the like to change the gripping force by changing the size and shape of the prize, the weight, the degree of difficulty, etc., each time, the manager or the like needs to change the gripping force among several kinds of springs having different elastic forces. Therefore, it was necessary to change to a spring or the like according to the desired gripping force. Further, when it is desired to reduce the gripping force of the arm as much as possible, it is necessary to remove the spring itself, and these operations impose an excessive burden on the store side when operating the prize acquisition game device. It was

Secondly, the prize held by the closing motion of the arm is not released by the opening motion of the arm,
The game may end in a state where it is caught in an arm. That is, in the conventional prize acquisition game device, when the player releases the second button switch, the arm is automatically closed to perform the gripping operation of the prize, and after that, the arm is opened and the prize is released after moving to the prize insertion section. It's working. Therefore, when the prize is gripped by the prize gripping operation, the prize should drop into the prize loading section by the prize releasing operation, and the player should be able to take it out at the prize outlet.

However, depending on the type of the prize, the state of holding the prize, etc., the prize may be caught by the nail of the arm or the like and cannot be dropped from the arm. In such a case, the player calls the store clerk and requests the removal of the free gift, which is a troublesome work for the store clerk, but the player may feel dismayed by the free gift. there were.

Thirdly, the store side operates the prize acquisition game device so as to always provide the player with an optimum game environment. For that purpose, the operating condition and the play condition of the game device are constantly monitored. It is important to do For example,
If multiple prize acquisition game devices are installed, A
If the device is popular and the device B is not popular, it is considered that there is some problem with the device B (a bad prize, etc.). In such a case, it is necessary for the store side to place the B device in an optimal environment by discovering the problem and solving it.

However, constantly monitoring the play status of the game device requires a great deal of labor and time, and thus puts a great burden on the operation of the store. Further, it is difficult to find a game device having a problem and to determine a countermeasure for solving the problem, and there is a problem that the determination may be inconsistent depending on a store clerk or the like.

Fourth, in the conventional prize acquisition game device,
There is a problem that it is difficult for the store side to change the design to a desired design. That is, since the design of the conventional premium acquisition game device is predetermined as a part of the housing, the store side selects a desired premium acquisition game device from among several kinds of premium acquisition game devices already prepared. Had to choose. Also, when the interior and exterior of the store are unified based on a predetermined image, the installed prize acquisition game device may not match the image of the store.
There is a risk that the unified store image will be destroyed.

Further, in the conventional prize acquisition game apparatus, since the back surface is provided with a mirror surface or a pattern, when the player looks from the outside, the play space feels dark, and the attractiveness of the prize is halved. As a result, the player's willingness to challenge may be impaired.

In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to improve the operability of the game device, thereby reducing the work on the side of the store that operates the game device and creating an attractive game space. It is an object of the present invention to provide a game device capable of motivating the challenge and a method for operating the game device.

A first object of the present invention is to provide a prize acquisition game apparatus or an operating method thereof, which can easily change the difficulty level of acquiring a prize.

A second object of the present invention is to provide a prize acquisition game apparatus or an operating method thereof which can drop a prize which should be dropped regardless of the type of the prize and the state of holding the prize.

A third object of the present invention is to provide a prize acquisition game apparatus or an operating method thereof, which can monitor the use status of a game according to a predetermined condition and notify the monitoring result.

A fourth object of the present invention is to provide a prize acquisition game machine whose design can be freely changed on the store side, or an operating method thereof.

[0023]

The gist of the present invention with respect to the first problem is as follows. That is, the premium acquisition game device according to the present invention is a premium acquisition game device including an arm for gripping a grasped body and a biasing means for biasing the arm in a closing direction, wherein the biasing means is The present invention is characterized by having a biasing portion that generates a force that biases the arm in the closing direction, and a limiting portion that limits the biasing force of the biasing portion.

Further, there is further provided an arm opening / closing means for opening / closing the arm, the biasing means is interposed between the arm and the arm opening / closing means, and the limiting portion is provided by the arm opening / closing means. Is closed, the force of the biasing portion that biases the arm in the closing direction is limited so that the biasing force does not occur.

Further, after the arm opening / closing means closes the arm, when the arm opening / closing means further operates in the closing direction of the arm, a force for urging the urging portion in the closing direction. In addition, it is characterized by not limiting.

Further, the limiting portion is a pin having a locking portion, the biasing portion is a coil spring having a smaller diameter at the end portion into which the pin is inserted, and the locking portion and the end portion of the pin are provided. It is desirable that the portion is inserted in the coil spring.

The pin has the above-mentioned structure until the engaging portion reaches the end of the coil spring when the other end of the pin or the other end of the coil spring is moved in the direction in which the arm is closed. It is characterized in that the force of the coil spring for urging the arm in the closing direction is limited.

The gist of the present invention with respect to the second problem is as follows.
It is as follows. That is, the premium acquisition game device according to the present invention is a premium acquisition game device that acquires a prize by an arm that holds the prize, and includes a fall assisting means that encourages the prize to drop from the arm that holds the prize. Characterize.

Further, the drop assisting means includes a vibrating process for vibrating the arm on a slot into which the prize is thrown before the prize is dropped from the arm, an opening / closing process for opening / closing the arm, and the arm. It is characterized by performing at least one of the ascending / descending process of ascending or descending.

When it is determined that the prize has not been released from the arm, the fall assisting means may perform at least one of the vibration process, the opening / closing process, and the ascending / descending process. Characterize.

If the drop assisting means accepts that the prize has not been released from the arm before the prize drops from the arm, then at least one of the vibration process, the opening / closing process, and the ascending / descending process is performed. It is characterized in that any one of the processes is performed.

Further, the present invention is a method of operating a prize acquisition game apparatus for acquiring a prize by an arm that holds the prize, wherein the prize is thrown in before the prize is dropped from the arm, Applying a predetermined vibration to the arm, opening and closing the arm to open and close,
And at least one of the steps of raising or lowering the arm.

The gist of the present invention for the above-mentioned third problem is as follows.
It is as follows. That is, the premium acquisition game device according to the present invention is a premium acquisition game device provided with an arm for holding a premium, and a setting means for setting a condition for transmitting predetermined alarm information, and a play status of the game device. Detecting means for detecting, judging means for judging whether or not to send the predetermined alarm information based on the condition set by the setting means and the data detected by the detecting means, and the judging means. Transmitting means for transmitting the predetermined alarm information based on the determination result of the means.

The alarm information is at least one of operating rate information, turnover rate information, payout rate information, grip rate information, lifting rate information, and licking rate information.

The transmitting means is characterized in that the predetermined alarm information is transmitted by a lamp or a buzzer based on the judgment result of the judging means.

Further, in the present invention, in a method of operating a prize acquisition game device provided with an arm for holding a prize, a step of setting a condition for transmitting predetermined alarm information and a play situation of the game device are detected. And a step of determining whether to transmit the predetermined alarm information based on the set condition and the detected data, and the predetermined basis based on the determined result. And a step of transmitting alarm information.

Further, the method further comprises the step of changing the arrangement of the prize acquisition game apparatus or the arrangement of prizes stored in the prize acquisition game apparatus based on the result of the judgment.

A program according to the present invention is a program for causing a computer to realize a predetermined function,
Based on the function of managing the information on the game machine and the information on the installation status of the game machine in association with each other, and on the game machine based on the information on the managed game machine and the information on the installation status of the game machine. And a function of displaying information in association with the installation status of the game machine.

Further, the program according to the present invention is a program for causing a computer configured to transmit and receive predetermined information to and from the game machine to realize a predetermined function, the information regarding the game machine and the installation status of the game machine. Information relating to the managed game machine, and the information relating to the managed game machine when the information related to the game machine transmitted from the game machine according to the operating state of the game machine is received. And a function of displaying the received information about the game machine in association with the installation situation of the game machine based on the information about the installation situation of the game machine.

Further, the function to be displayed is based on the information on the managed game machine and the information on the installation status of the game machine, and the object showing the game machine on the screen showing the installation status of the game machine. And an information display function of displaying predetermined information among the information on the managed game machines in association with the object arranged on the screen.

Further, the managing function manages a condition for displaying predetermined information included in the information about the game machine in a display mode according to the content of the predetermined information. The predetermined information included in the information about the game machine is displayed in a display mode determined based on the managed condition in association with the object arranged on the screen.

Further, the information display function, when the object arranged on the screen is designated, displays predetermined information included in the information about the game machine indicated by the designated object. And

Further, the managing function has a function of receiving setting information regarding the game machine indicated by the designated object when the object arranged on the screen is designated. It is characterized by managing information about the game machine including information.

A game machine management system according to the present invention is a game machine management system including a game machine installed in a store and a management device for managing the game machine. Includes first transmitting means for transmitting information about the game machine to the management device, wherein the management device includes a receiving means for receiving information about the game machine transmitted from the game machine, and the receiving means. Based on the management unit that manages the received information about the game machine and the information about the installation status of the game machine in association with each other, based on the information about the managed game machine and the information about the installation status of the game machine, Display means for displaying information relating to the game machine in association with the installation status of the game machine.

The management device includes input means for inputting setting information about the game machine and second transmitting means for transmitting the setting information input by the input means to the game machine. When the setting information transmitted from the management device is received, the control means controls the game machine based on the received setting information.

The gist of the present invention for the above-mentioned fourth problem is as follows.
It is as follows. That is, according to the present invention, in a prize acquisition game device including a storage portion for storing a prize, a plate disposed in the storage portion and serving as a design member, and a plate provided in the storage portion and arranged in the storage portion. And a mounting portion, wherein the mounting portion is configured to removably insert the plate.

The mounting portion further comprises a member for preventing the plate from dropping.

Further, in the present invention, in the prize acquisition game device provided with a storage portion for storing a prize, the rear surface of the storage portion is composed of a plate member made of a mirror surface and a plate member made of a color having high brightness. It is characterized by being configured.

Further, in the present invention, in the prize acquisition game device provided with a storage portion for storing a prize, a grip portion for gripping the prize, and a support member for supporting the grip portion, a color and a pattern of the support member are provided. , Or the material is the same as the color, pattern, or material of the back surface of the accommodating portion.

The present invention is also a prize acquisition game apparatus including a storage portion for storing a prize, a grip portion for gripping the prize, and a support member for supporting the grip portion, wherein the support member is transparent. It is characterized by being composed of materials.

Further, according to the present invention, in a prize acquisition game device provided with a storage portion for storing a prize, a plate which is arranged in the storage portion and serves as a design member, and the plate which is provided in the storage portion and is provided in the storage portion. And a plate accommodating member capable of accommodating the plate main body,
The mounting portion is configured to detachably mount the plate accommodating member accommodating the plate body.

Further, the material of the plate body is paper, and the material of the accommodating member is made of a transparent material so that the plate body can be visually recognized from the outside in a state of accommodating the plate body. It is characterized by

The present invention relates to a method of attaching a plate in a prize acquisition game device, which comprises an accommodating portion for accommodating a prize and an attaching portion provided in the accommodating portion for attaching the plate, which is a design member. A step of accommodating the main body in a predetermined plate accommodating member; and a step of removably attaching the plate accommodating member accommodating the plate main body to an attachment portion provided in the accommodating portion. .

[0054]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. First, a schematic configuration and operation of a prize acquisition game device common to each embodiment described later will be described.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external configuration of a prize acquisition game device according to each embodiment. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the premium getting game device according to each embodiment as viewed from above. Note that FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 described above
The members having the same functions as those of the premium getting game device 200 shown in FIG. The prize acquisition game apparatus 100 is provided with a box-shaped housing 2 on a rectangular parallelepiped base 1, and the front surface 2 a and the side surface 2 of the housing 2 are provided.
b and 2c are made of a transparent resin or glass plate member. Further, the back surface 2d of the housing portion 2 has a lower half made of a plate-shaped member having a mirror surface and an upper half made of a white plate-shaped member. In such an accommodating portion 2, a prize 3 such as a stuffed animal is accommodated. Also, the storage unit 2
At the bottom of the box, a cylindrical prize insertion part 4 for receiving the prize 3.
Are provided vertically.

Furthermore, a prize acquisition section 5 is hung on the inner upper surface of the accommodation section 2. The prize acquisition section 5 is a support section 6 made of a telescopic pipe hung vertically from the inner upper surface, and the support section 6. It is composed of a grip portion 7 provided at the lower end. As shown in FIG. 2, on the inner upper surface of the housing portion 2,
A traverse fixed rail 8 for the prize acquisition unit 5 to travel,
The movable rail 9 for vertical movement is provided, and the support part 6 is arrange | positioned at the movable rail 9 for vertical movement via the base 10 for prize acquisition parts. The support portion 6 is configured to be able to travel on the fixed rail 8 for traverse and the movable rail 9 for longitudinal movement by a drive source (not shown), and also extendable / contractible in the vertical direction.
In addition, the grip portion 7 is provided with two arms 7 a that can be opened and closed in order to grip the prize 3. The two arms 7a are normally in a closed state, but are configured to open when a prize is grabbed.

On the other hand, the base 1 is provided with an operation console 12 for the player to play. The operation console 12 is provided with a button switch 13 for stopping the prize acquisition section 5 at a position corresponding to the desired prize 3. This includes a first button switch 13a for stopping the prize acquisition unit 5 at a predetermined horizontal position and a prize acquisition unit 5 whose predetermined horizontal position is determined by the first button switch 13a. It comprises a second button switch 13b for stopping at a predetermined position in the vertical direction. Further, the operation console 12 is provided with a coin insertion slot 14 into which a player inserts coins at the time of playing. Further, below the base 1, a prize outlet 15 is provided.
Is connected to the lower end of the prize slot 4.

An opening / closing door 28 is provided below the base 1, and inside the opening / closing door 28, operation buttons and operations for the store manager to perform various settings of the prize acquisition game apparatus 100 are performed. An interface (not shown) such as a dial and a liquid crystal panel is provided. When the manager of the store makes various settings by operating the operation buttons or the like, the computer provided inside the base 1 controls the prize acquisition game apparatus 100 based on the settings.

In the prize acquisition game device 100 configured as described above, the basic operation flow of the prize acquisition game device 100 will be described below. Figure 3
[Fig. 6] is a flowchart showing a flow of operations of the premium getting game device according to each embodiment.

In the initial state, the prize acquisition section 5 is located at a position directly above the prize insertion section 4 (hereinafter referred to as "home position"), and when the player inserts a coin into the coin insertion slot 14, the prize acquisition section 5 is acquired. The game device 100 is ready for the game. And the prize acquisition game device 100
Judges whether or not the first button switch 13a is ON (S301), and when judging that the first button switch 13a is ON, the drive source (not shown) is actuated to move the prize acquisition section 5 laterally. It is moved (S302). And the prize acquisition game device 1
00 determines whether or not the X limit flag indicating the lateral movement limit distance is ON (S3), and when it is determined not to be ON, whether or not the first button switch 13a is OFF is determined. If it is determined to be OFF (S304), and if it is determined to be OFF, the operation of the drive source is stopped and the movement of the prize acquisition unit 5 in the lateral direction is ended (S305).

Next, the prize acquisition game machine 100 displays the second game.
It is determined whether the button switch 13b is ON (S
306) If it is determined to be ON, the drive source is activated to move the prize acquisition section 5 in the vertical direction (S30).
7). Then, the premium getting game device 100 determines whether or not the Y limit flag indicating the vertical movement limit distance is ON (S308). When it is determined not to be ON, the second button switch 13b is OFF. (S309), and when it is determined to be OFF, the operation of the drive source is stopped and the movement of the prize acquisition unit 5 in the vertical direction is ended (S310).

Then, the premium getting game machine 100 drives the motor of the grip 7 to open the arm 7a (S311), and extends the support 6 downward to start the descent of the grip 7 ( S312). Subsequently, the premium getting game device 100 determines whether or not a Z limit flag indicating a downward movement limit distance is ON (S3).
13) If it is determined to be ON, the lowering of the grip portion 7 is completed (S314), the motor is stopped, and the arm 7a is closed (S315). Here, the desired prize 3 is held by the arm 7a.

The prize acquisition game machine 100 starts moving up the grip 7 by contracting the support 6 upward (S).
316), it is determined whether or not the Z limit flag indicating the upward movement limit distance is ON (S317), and when it is determined that the Z limit flag is ON, the lifting of the grip portion 7 is ended (S317).
318). Then, the premium getting game device 100 moves the premium getting unit 5 to the home position (S319),
The arm 7a is opened and closed (S320). When the prize 3 is gripped by the arm 7a, the prize 3 is released by opening and closing the arm 7a and falls into the prize insertion section 4, so that the player can take out the prize 3 from the prize outlet 15. it can.

[First Embodiment] In the first embodiment (hereinafter referred to as "the present embodiment"), the biasing member which is one of the factors for determining the gripping force of the arm 7a is attached to the biasing member. It is characterized in that a pin for limiting the biasing force of the biasing member is provided. Here, the biasing member typically corresponds to a spring. That is, by providing the spring with a pin that is movable inside the spring and engageable with one end of the spring, it is possible to restrict the spring from expanding during a predetermined opening / closing operation of the arm 7a. As a result, even when the spring is still attached, it is possible to realize a state in which the spring does not expand, that is, a state in which the biasing force of the spring is not exerted, so there is no need to attach or remove the spring to adjust the gripping force. become.

The grip portion 7 of the prize acquisition game device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 4 to 8. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the grip portion 7. As shown in the figure, the grip portion 7 has a motor 20 for controlling the opening / closing operation of the arm 7 a, an arm opening / closing member 21, and a spring portion 22, and a part including the motor 20 covers the cover 2.
It is covered with 7. The motor 20 is driven according to a desired strength of gripping force preset by an administrator or the like. The base end portion 7b of the arm 7a is tiltably provided on the bracket 50, and the open end 7c of the arm 7a includes:
It has a claw 7d for facilitating gripping the prize 3.

FIG. 5 is a view for explaining the internal structure of the grip portion 7 shown in FIG. The gripping portion 7 is composed of a pair of arms 7a, and the configurations and operations thereof are symmetrical. Therefore, in FIGS. 4 to 8, only one arm 7a will be described. According to FIG. 5 (A), the grip portion 7
Is a pinion 25 driven to rotate by a motor 20,
The rack 26 is arranged in parallel in the longitudinal direction of the spring portion 22 so as to mesh with the pinion 25. The rack 26 is integrally attached to the inner surface of the arm opening / closing member 21. That is, the grip portion 7 is configured such that when the motor 24 is driven to rotate, the pinion 25 rotates clockwise, and the rack 26 and the arm opening / closing member 21 can move toward the base end portion 7b of the arm 7a. .

Further, as shown in FIG.
Is composed of a coil spring 23 and a rod-shaped pin 24. One end 24 a of the pin 24 is attached to a spring receiving member 21 a provided on the arm opening / closing member 21.
Further, the other end 24b of the pin 24 is inserted into a coil spring 23, which will be described in detail later, and a locking portion 24c for preventing the pin 24 from falling off from the other end 23b of the coil spring 23 is formed at a substantially central portion of the pin 24. Has been done. A spiral curl portion is formed at the other end 24b of the pin 24 to prevent the pin 24 from being caught inside the coil spring 23.

One end 23a of the coil spring 23 is connected to the arm 7
a is attached to the base end portion 7b of the a and the other end 23b has the pin 2
4 has been inserted. The coil spring 23 has a small diameter at the end on the side where the pin 24 is inserted, and prevents the pin 24 from falling off.

With the above structure, when the arm 7a is opened to hold the prize, and the base end portion 7b of the arm 7a is also moved in the opening direction to extend the coil spring 23, the pin 24 is released. Until the locking portion 24c reaches the other end 24b of the coil spring 23, the coil spring 23 is moved in the opening direction without being extended, so that the coil spring 23 is prevented from extending, that is, exerting an urging force. The arm opening / closing member 21 is moved by moving the rack 26.
When the spring receiving member 21a provided in the coil spring 23 moves to try to extend the coil spring 23, first, only the pin 24 is moved to the arm opening / closing member 21a, and the locking portion 24c moves to the other end 24b of the coil spring 23. The coil spring 23 is prevented from extending until reaching. Therefore, the coil spring 2
It is possible to create the same state as the state in which the coil spring 23 is removed (the state in which the urging force is zero), with 3 attached.

When the locking portion 24c reaches the other end 24b of the coil spring 23, the locking portion 24c of the pin 24 is
Since the portion from to the other end 24b is inserted into the coil spring 23, the coil spring 24 is prevented from sagging.

FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a gripping operation of the prize by the gripping portion 7. First, as shown in FIG. 6A, the arm 7a is closed in the state at the start of the game. Further, most of the pins 24 are located inside the coil spring 23.

Next, when the movement of the prize acquisition section 5 in the horizontal direction and the vertical direction is completed based on the operation of the player, the lowering operation of the gripping section 7 and the opening operation of the arm 7a are started. . Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6 (B), the pinion 25 is rotated by the motor 20.
Rotates clockwise, whereby the rack 26 and the arm opening / closing member 21 move toward the base end portion 7b of the arm 7a. This movement is transmitted from one end of the arm opening / closing member 21 to the base end 7b of the arm 7a, and the arm 7a is opened.

Next, when the lowering operation of the grip portion 7 is completed,
The closing operation of the arm 7a is started. Specifically, FIG.
As shown in (C), the pinion 25 rotates counterclockwise due to the reverse rotation of the motor 20, whereby the rack 26 and the arm opening / closing member 21 move toward the center of the grip 7. By this movement, the arm 7a
Is closed, the arm 7a can hold a predetermined prize in the closing operation of the arm 7a. In addition,
The motor 20 continues to rotate until the rack 26 and the arm opening / closing member 21 reach the initial position shown in FIG. FIG. 3C shows the state of the grip portion 7 when a predetermined prize is gripped. Here, as compared with the state of FIG. 11A, in the state of FIG. 9C, it can be seen that the pin 24 partially extends further from the inside of the coil spring 23, but the coil spring 23 does not extend. . As described above, even when the arm 7a holds the prize, it is possible to realize the state where the biasing force by the coil spring 23 is zero by making the pin 24 function.

Next, the case where the biasing force of the coil spring 7 is exerted from such a state will be described. FIG. 6 (D)
As shown in, the motor 20 continues to rotate in the reverse direction after the rack 26 returns to the initial position. As a result, the arm opening / closing member 21 further moves in a direction away from the base end portion 7b of the arm 7a. As a result, the pin 24 further moves in the same direction, so that the locking portion 24c of the pin 24 engages with the end of the coil spring 23. When the pin 24 further moves in this engaged state, the coil spring 23 extends. As a result, the coil spring 23 extends and the arm 7
A can be biased in the closing direction to increase the gripping force of the gripping portion 7, and the biasing force can be changed in an analog manner according to the moving distance of the rack 24.

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the operation of holding the prize by the holding portion 7. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a gripping operation in the case of gripping a prize that is larger than the prize gripped by the gripper 7 in FIG. 6. Therefore, the flow up to FIGS. 7A and 7B is the same as that in FIGS. 6A and 6B, and the description thereof is omitted. After the opening operation of the arm 7a, the rotation of the motor 20 is reversed to cause the arm 7a to rotate.
The closing operation of is started. Here, the arm 7a holds the prize, but the opening angle of the arm 7a becomes large because the prize is large. As a result, when the end portion 23b of the coil spring 23 is pulled toward the center and the locking portion 24c engages with the end portion 23b of the coil spring 23, a biasing force is exerted.

Here, as the motor 20 continues to rotate in the reverse direction, the arm opening / closing member 21 further moves in the direction away from the base end portion 7b of the arm 7a. Along with this, the pin 24 also moves in a direction away from the base end portion 7b of the arm 7a. As a result, as shown in FIG. 7D, the coil spring 23 further extends, so that the gripping force of the grip portion 7 can be increased. .

The rack 24 and the arm opening / closing member 21
The rotation of the motor 20 after returning to the position of the initial state is controlled by the computer based on the setting of the value of the gripping force by the administrator. That is, when the value of the gripping force is set to “maximum”, the motor 20 is rotated so that the arm opening / closing member 21 moves the maximum distance in the direction away from the base end portion 7b of the arm 7a. When the value of the gripping force is set to "minimum", the rotation of the motor 20 is stopped when the arm opening / closing member 21 returns to the initial position.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the administrator can arbitrarily set the value of the gripping force including the state where the biasing force of the coil spring 23 is not generated. Therefore, it is possible to set a desired gripping force value without changing or removing the spring each time according to the type of prize, the state of play, etc., and thereby set the optimum game difficulty level. It will be possible.

Further, according to the present embodiment, it is not necessary to replace or remove the spring in order to change the value of the gripping force. Therefore, the work for operating the game device can be reduced and the game device The operational efficiency, and thus the operational efficiency of the entire store can be improved.

In the above embodiment, the spring has been described as an example of the elastic member (biasing member), but the present invention is not limited to this, and a member such as rubber may be used. Further, the spring is not limited to the coil spring, and for example, a leaf spring or a spiral spring (spring) may be used.
Further, the spring receiving member 21a is not limited to the above-described configuration, and may be configured to include, for example, a plurality of engaging means capable of selectively engaging the pin 24.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another structure of the grip portion 7. According to FIG. 2B, it can be seen that the arm opening / closing member 21 is provided with the spring receiving member 21a ′ having a plurality of engaging holes 21a′1. Also, the end 24a 'of the pin 24'
Are configured to be engageable with the engagement holes 21a'1. As shown in FIG. 7C, the end portion 24a 'has a loop-shaped engaging portion 24 when the end portion 24a'1 is pushed inward.
Since the a'2 is formed so as to expand, a store clerk or the like can easily attach it to the desired engagement hole 21a'1.

According to this, the end portion 24a 'of the pin 24' is
By selectively engaging with the plurality of engaging holes 21a′1, the biasing force of the coil spring 23 can be changed. As a result, since the gripping force of the arm 7a can be changed, the range of the gripping force can be adjusted more finely. Furthermore, a combination of one coil spring 23 and pin 24 'is covered by arbitrarily combining the setting of the moving distance of the rack 21 by the motor 20 and the setting of the engaging position of the pin 24' with respect to the spring receiving member 21a '. The range of gripping force that can be achieved can be expanded.

[Second Embodiment] In the second embodiment (hereinafter referred to as "the present embodiment"), in order to prevent the prize which should be dropped due to the opening operation of the arm 7a from falling. It is characterized in that a drop assisting means is provided for releasing the prize from the arm 7a and for prompting the drop of the prize. As a result, vibrations or the like are given to the prize held by the arm 7a, and the prize easily falls, so that the player is uncomfortable because the prize does not fall, or the clerk is called to take out the prize. You will be able to avoid that.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the structure of the premium getting game device according to the present embodiment. The figure shows the arm 7a.
FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a state in which the game ends with the prize getting caught in FIG. That is, the arm 7a
As a result of the prize being caught on the claw 7d of the item, the game ends without dropping the prize, and therefore the prize obtaining unit 5 is located at the home position.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the flow of processing of the prize acquisition game device according to the present embodiment. In addition, after the prize acquisition unit 5 is located at the home position (S
319) and the flow of processing up to opening and closing of the arm (S320) is the same as in the first embodiment (see FIG. 3), and therefore description thereof is omitted here.

When the arm is opened and closed in S320, the fall assisting means determines whether or not the prize is in a state of being sandwiched by the arms 7a (S321). In this embodiment,
The weight sensor 36 provided on the support 6 is used for the determination. That is, when the value measured by the weight sensor 36 is larger than the sum of the weight of the grip portion 7 and the weight of the support portion 6, the drop assisting means is in a state where the prize 3 is sandwiched without being released. To judge.

Next, the drop assisting means, when judging that the prize 3 is sandwiched, executes a drop assisting process for dropping the prize 3 (S322). This drop assist process is repeated until it is detected that the prize 3 has been released from the arm 7a. It should be noted that the drop assisting means uses the prize 3 when the value measured by the weight sensor 36 is equal to the sum of the weight of the grip portion 7 and the weight of the support portion 6.
It is determined that it has been released from a.

Next, the drop assist processing by the drop assist means will be specifically described. The fall assist process is performed by the arm 7a.
It is a process for releasing and dropping the prize sandwiched between. Specifically, for example, a vibration process for giving a predetermined vibration to the arm 7a, an arm opening / closing process for opening / closing the arm 7a a predetermined number of times, and a vertically extending / contracting support part 6 causes the grip part 7 to descend or rise. Ascending / descending processing, etc. are applicable. The fall assisting means performs each of these processes in sequence or in parallel. For the vibration applied to the arm 7a, a dedicated device for applying the vibration may be physically provided in the prize acquisition section 5, or the motor is controlled so that the opening / closing of the arm 7a is repeated more finely than the normal opening / closing operation. It is also possible to give vibration by doing so, or by subtly repeating the ascending / descending process.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, after the conventional arm opening / closing operation is performed, vibration is applied to the arm 7a or the arm opening / closing operation is performed again without immediately ending the game. Even if the prize is caught on the claw 7d of the arm 7a or the like, it is possible to encourage the prize to drop. As a result, shop assistants are often called to take out the prizes,
It is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable because the prize does not fall.

Further, in the above embodiment, as the fall assisting process, the vibration process, the arm opening / closing process, the ascending / descending process and the like are mentioned, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the supporting portion 6 is laterally (X direction). Alternatively, when the motor is controlled so that the reciprocating movement in the vertical direction (Y direction) is finely repeated, or when the grip portion 7 has a rotatable structure, the rotation of the grip portion 7 is finely repeated in the normal rotation and the reverse rotation. It is also possible to control the motor.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the drop assisting device is described as performing the drop assisting process after the opening / closing operation of the arm 7a. However, the timing of performing the drop assisting process is not limited to this. For example, it may be performed simultaneously with the opening / closing operation of the arm 7a.

Further, in the above-mentioned embodiment, it is described that the fall assisting means performs the fall assisting process when it judges that the prize 3 is sandwiched, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, Alternatively, a vibration button may be provided, and the operation may be performed based on the player's operation. In the case of a prize that easily catches on the arm 7a, the administrator adds a fall assist process to the series of game processes. By doing so, it is possible to set in advance that the fall assisting process is automatically performed.

[Third Embodiment] In the third embodiment (hereinafter, referred to as "this embodiment"), a means for setting conditions for transmitting predetermined alarm information and a game device Various detecting means for detecting the play situation are provided, and it is determined whether or not predetermined alarm information is transmitted based on the set condition and the detected data, and the determination result is notified. It is characterized by that. As a result, the store side presets the desired condition, and when the play situation of the game device matches the condition, the alarm information is automatically notified, so that the play situation of the game device is constantly monitored. There is no need to do it.

Here, in this embodiment, the following seven types of information are set as alarm information. 1) Occupancy rate: Ratio of play time per unit time 2) Turnover ratio: Ratio of number of plays per unit time 3) Payout ratio (profit ratio) based on the number of prizes: Ratio of paid prize numbers to the number of plays 4) Amount-based payout ratio: Ratio of total paid prize cost to sales 5) Grasping ratio: Ratio of grabbing times to playing times 6) Lifting ratio: Ratio of lifting times to playing times 7) Licking ratio: Grasping ratio to grabbing times Percentage of times the item was not lifted from the state Here, “grabbing” means a state in which a prize is sandwiched between a plurality of arms. "Lifting" refers to a state in which the prize is separated from the lower surface (playfield surface) of the housing portion. "Licking" refers to a state where a person is holding a gift but cannot lift it. In the present embodiment, the above-mentioned seven types of information are set as alarm targets, but the present invention is not limited to this, and information other than the above-mentioned information can be arbitrarily set. Further, in the above 1) to 7), "rate" is used, but "number of times" and "number of pieces" can be set. For example, the "number of times of operation" may be used instead of the "operation rate".

FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the structure of the prize acquisition game device according to the present embodiment. The prize acquisition game apparatus 100 is provided with an alarm lamp 30 as an example of a notification unit for notifying a store clerk of the usage status of the game with respect to the set value. In addition, it has a prize payout duct 32 for allowing the prize 3 dropped into the prize input section 4 to be taken out from the prize outlet 15. Also, several prize sensors 31 for detecting whether or not the prize 3 has fallen to the receiving portion 3 are provided inside the prize payout duct 32. Further, a coin switch 33 for counting the coins inserted into the coin insertion slot 14 is provided below the coin insertion slot 14. Further, an operation panel 34 for the shop manager to set various conditions for notifying an alarm is provided on the front surface of the base 1. Although not shown, the arm 7a includes an arm angle sensor 3 for detecting the open / closed state of the arm 7a.
5 is provided, and the support portion 6 is provided with a weight sensor 36 for detecting the lifted state of the prize 3.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the prize acquisition game device according to the present embodiment. According to the figure, the claim game device 100 includes an alarm setting means 121, a timer 122, a play situation detecting means 123, an alarm judging means 124, an alarm information transmitting means 125, and a play situation detection result storing means 126.
have. The alarm setting means 121 sets conditions for transmitting various alarm information. Admin
The condition can be input by operating the operation buttons, the liquid crystal panel 34, or the like provided in the prize acquisition game device 100. The timer 122 measures the operating time and the play time, and notifies the alarm determining means 124 of the time. The play situation detection means 123 detects the play situation of the premium acquisition game device 100. Specifically, various sensors such as the prize sensor 31 and the weight sensor 36, and the coin switch 3 for detecting the number of coins inserted.
3 and the like, the data regarding the play situation is detected and stored in the play situation detection result storage means 126. The alarm determination means 124 determines whether or not to send the alarm information based on the condition set by the alarm setting means 121 and the data detected by the play situation detection means 123. Then, the alarm determination means 124
When it is determined that the alarm information should be transmitted, the alarm information to be transmitted is sent to the alarm information transmitting means 125.
The alarm information transmitting means 125 is the alarm determining means 12
The alarm information received by 4 is transmitted. Specifically, the alarm lamp 30 and the alarm buzzer notify the manager of the store of the alarm information.

In the present embodiment, various means will be described as included in the prize acquisition game device 100.
The present invention is not limited to this. For example, a means other than the play situation detecting means may be provided in a general-purpose personal computer installed in the manager's room of the store so that the manager can set conditions at the back of the store and can send alarm information.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing the flow of operation of the prize acquisition game machine in the store. First, when the power is turned on by the administrator, the premium getting game device initializes various settings (S1301), and performs cumulative running time start processing (S1302). Then, the premium getting game device permits the insertion of coins (S1303),
It shifts to the customer waiting state (S1304). Then, it is determined whether or not it is the number of coins available for game (S1305), and when it is determined that the number of coins is available for game, the value of the coin buffer is subtracted (S1306), and the number of plays is accumulated (S1307). . The coin detection process is set to be periodically executed by the timer 122. Specifically, when the coin switch 33 detects that a coin has been inserted, the coin buffer value is added, and the process is repeated until the coin buffer value reaches the upper limit value.

Next, when the prize acquisition game device starts measuring the game time (S1308), the game operation is processed according to the operation of the player (S1309), and when the game ends, the grasp rate, the lifting rate, and The licking rate is calculated (S1310). Then, the measurement of the game time is ended, and the game time is accumulated (S1311).

FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing the flow of operations from the start to the end of the game of the prize acquisition game device according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, the play situation detecting means 123 detects “grabbing”, “lifting”, and “licking” from the start to the end of the game. Note that the flow of processing from the prize acquisition game apparatus 100 ending the lowering of the grip portion 7 (S1414), stopping the motor and closing the arm (S1415) is the same as in the first embodiment described above. The description is omitted here.

When the prize acquisition game machine 100 starts to move up the grip 7 by contracting the support 6 upward (S1416), the play situation detecting means 123 performs grasp detection processing and lift detection processing ( S1416
(1)). Then, it is determined whether or not the Z limit flag indicating the upward movement limit distance is ON (S1417),
If it is determined to be ON, the play situation detecting means 123 performs lick detection processing here (S1417).
(1)), and the lifting of the grip portion 7 is completed (S1418). Then, the prize acquisition game device 100 moves the prize acquisition unit 5 to the home position (S1419), and the arm 7a.
Is opened and closed (S1420).

FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing the flow of each process of the play situation detecting means 123 according to this embodiment. FIG. 15A is a flowchart showing the flow of the process in which the play situation detecting means 123 detects "grabbing". That is, the play situation detecting means 123 determines whether or not the grip portion 7 is in a landed state (S150).
1) If it is determined that the landing is not performed, it is determined whether the arm 7a is open (S1502). If it is determined that the arm 7a is open, the grip flag is set to "1" (S1503) and the number of grips is accumulated (S1504).

The grip flag is a flag indicating whether or not the prize is sandwiched between the arms 7a,
A value of "1" is set when it is in the sandwiched state, and a value of "0" is set when it is not in the sandwiched state. Also, the arm 7a
Whether or not is opened is determined by the arm angle sensor 35 provided on the arm 7a.

FIG. 15B shows the play status detecting means 12
3 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing for detecting "lifting". That is, the play status detection means 123
Is the value measured by the weight sensor 36,
It is determined whether or not the weight is larger than the weight value (S150
1) If it is determined to be large, the lifting flag is set to "1" (S1502), and the number of times of lifting is accumulated (S1503). The lift flag is a flag indicating whether or not the prize is in a state of being separated from the field surface, and is "1" when the prize is in a separated state and "0" when it is not in a separated state. The value is set.

FIG. 15C shows the play status detecting means 12
3 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing for detecting "licking". That is, the play situation detecting means 123 determines whether or not "1" is set in the lift flag (S1501), and when it is determined that "1" is not set, next, the play flag is set to " It is determined whether "1" is set (S1502). If it is determined that the grip flag is set to "1", the number of licks is accumulated (S1503). That is, when the lift flag is set to “0” and the grip flag is set to “1”, the prize 3 is not separated from the field surface,
This means that the prize 3 is sandwiched between the arms 7a.
That is, the arm 7a is in a “lick” state in which it is holding the prize 3 but cannot lift it.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing the processing flow of the alarm judgment means 124 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13, when the game ends, the alarm determination means 124 calculates a grip rate, a lift rate, and a lick rate.

FIG. 16A shows the alarm judging means 124.
6 is a flowchart showing the flow of a grasping rate calculation process by the. The alarm determination means 124 calculates the grip rate X by dividing the number of grips by the number of plays (S16).
01), the lamp lighting process is executed (S1602). As the number of times of grasping, the value of the number of times of grasping detected by the play situation detecting means 123 in S1504 of FIG. 15A is used. As the number of plays, the value of the number of plays accumulated in S1307 of FIG. 13 is used. FIG. 16B is a flowchart showing the flow of the lifting rate calculation processing by the alarm determination means 124. When the alarm determination unit 124 calculates the lifting rate X by dividing the number of times of lifting by the number of times of playing (S1601), it executes a lamp lighting process (S1602). Note that the number of times of lifting is as shown in FIG.
The value of the number of lifts detected by the play situation detecting means 123 in S1503 is used. The number of plays is S in FIG.
The value of the number of plays accumulated in 1307 is used. Figure 1
6C is a flow chart showing the flow of the licking rate calculation processing by the alarm judging means 124. The alarm determination unit 124 calculates the licking rate X by dividing the number of times of licking by the number of times of playing (S1601), and then executes the lamp lighting process (S1602). The number of licks is shown in FIG.
The value of the number of licks detected by the play situation detecting means 123 in S1503 of (C) is used. As the number of plays, the value of the number of plays accumulated in S1307 of FIG. 13 is used.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing another processing flow of the alarm judging means 124 according to the present embodiment. Specifically, it is a flow chart showing the flow of operation rate calculation processing by the alarm determination means 124. The operation rate is periodically calculated based on the timer 122 when the accumulation processing of the operation time shown in FIG. 13 is started. That is, when the alarm determination means 124 calculates the operating rate X by dividing the cumulative value of the game time by the cumulative value of the operating time (S1701), the lamp lighting process is executed (S1701).
1702). The cumulative game time is S in FIG.
The value of the game time accumulated in 1311 is used. Further, as the cumulative value of the operating time, the value of the operating time accumulated in S1303 of FIG. 13 is used.

The above-mentioned "revolution rate" is calculated based on the timer 122 similarly to the "operating rate", and the "prize number-based payout rate" and the "money-based payout rate" are calculated at the end of the game. Is desirable. Each calculation process is basically the same as the operation rate calculation process described with reference to FIG. 17, and thus the description thereof is omitted here.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the flow of the alarm lamp lighting process according to this embodiment. In the present embodiment, specifically, the predetermined alarm information is notified in three stages, and three types (blue, yellow, and
Red) alarm lamp is used. The blue lamp notifies the administrator that the playing status of the prize acquisition game device is good, the yellow lamp notifies the administrator that the playing status is normal, and the red lamp does not play well. Therefore, it is operated to notify the administrator that it is necessary to take some measures. Further, the lamp lighting judgment standard is preset by the alarm setting means 121.

When the alarm information transmitting means 125 determines whether or not the value (X) of the predetermined alarm information is larger than the preset first value (A) (S1801), the alarm information transmitting means 125 determines that the value is larger than the preset first value (A). In step S1802, only the blue lamp is turned on. On the other hand, the alarm information transmitting means 125
When it is determined that the value (X) of the predetermined alarm information is not larger than the preset first value (A),
The value (X) of the predetermined alarm information is the preset second
Is larger than the value (B) of (S180
3) If it is determined to be large, only the yellow lamp is turned on (S1804). Then, when the alarm information transmitting means 125 determines that the value (X) of the predetermined alarm information is not larger than the preset second value (B), only the red lamp is turned on (S1805). ).

The notification method using the alarm lamp is as follows:
The method is not limited to the method described above, and can be arbitrarily changed based on the condition set by the alarm setting means 121 and the value of the predetermined alarm information detected by the play situation detecting means 123. For example, the alarm notification stage is not limited to three stages, and can be set more finely.

The alarm information transmitting means 125 is not limited to the alarm lamp and may be any means capable of notifying the administrator of the alarm information. For example, an alarm buzzer can be used to output different sounds or play different songs according to the alarm notification stage.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the shop side can set desired conditions in advance,
When the play status of the game device meets the condition, the alarm information is automatically notified, and it is not necessary to constantly monitor the play status of the game device. Also, if the conditions for sending an alarm are set in advance based on the judgment of the store manager, etc., the store clerk etc. can know the status of the game device by the notification of the alarm, so even a store clerk with little experience etc. You will be able to respond.

The present embodiment can also be used as follows. First, a store clerk sets an alarm condition corresponding to desired alarm information. And
The play situation detection means 123 by the customer playing the game
Collects the predetermined information detected by. This aggregated information is compared with the value set in advance, and according to the comparison result,
Notify the clerk of the game operation status. The store clerk changes the layout of the store or the arrangement of the prize 3, for example, based on the notified information. This allows
You can operate the store more effectively,
It becomes possible to improve the operability of the store.

The above embodiments are examples for explaining the present invention, and are not intended to limit the present invention only to these embodiments. The present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from the gist thereof. Further, in the above-described embodiment, the operation of the function realizing means is described sequentially, but the present invention is not particularly limited to this.
Therefore, as long as there is no contradiction in the operation, the order of processing may be changed or the operations may be performed in parallel.

[Fourth Embodiment] The fourth embodiment (hereinafter referred to as the “present embodiment”) is an application to the third embodiment and a game machine for managing a game machine. It provides a management system.

In the third embodiment described above, the situation of the game machine is transmitted to the manager by automatically notifying the predetermined alarm information, but in the third embodiment, it is obtained by networking the game machine. Based on various information
It is characterized by smoothly transmitting the status of the game machine to the manager of the game machine and providing the manager with an analysis means for the installation status of the game machine so that the various kinds of information can be effectively utilized.

That is, since the alarm information in the third embodiment is directly transmitted from the game machine, the manager must constantly monitor the inside of the store, that is, the game machine. Therefore, for example, when the store scale is large and a large number of game consoles are set, or when the store is always crowded with many players, a large number of personnel are required to monitor the game consoles. In addition, depending on the situation, even if the alarm information is transmitted, it may be overlooked.

On the other hand, since the sales situation is greatly affected by the installation status of game machines, the manager of the store does not have enough information about the installation status of the game machines because there is little judgment material when determining the installation location of the game machines. Was difficult to consider.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, a means for networking each game machine to centrally manage the operation information of each game machine, analyzing this centrally managed information, and transmitting it smoothly to the manager, A management system for a game machine is provided, which comprises a means for an administrator to easily analyze the installation status of the game machine based on the managed information.

According to this, the administrator can quickly transmit the information about the game machine and can effectively utilize the information about the game machine to analyze the installation situation, so that it is more efficient. You will be able to operate the store.

[Block Diagram] FIG. 26 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the game machine management system according to the present embodiment. The game machine management system 300 controls a game machine management system 300 as a whole and realizes various functions in combination with other hardware components, and various settings related to the game machine (including alarm settings). An input device 3002 for the user to input, a display device 3003 for displaying various information about the game machine, an output device 300 for outputting various information about the game machine, and a database for storing various information about the game machine. Thirty
06, a timer 3007 for calculating current time, alarm information, etc., and a communication device 3005 for transmitting / receiving information on various game machines to / from one or more game machines 400 via a network. The input device 3002 typically corresponds to a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, a barcode, an image recognition means, or the like. The display device 3003 corresponds to an electronic display plate such as a monitor or a liquid crystal panel, and the output device 3004 is typically
The printer is applicable. The game machine management system 300 according to the present invention may be composed of a single computer or may be composed of a plurality of computers distributed on a network. Further, the game machine management system 300 according to the present invention typically corresponds to a general-purpose personal computer installed in a store, but a dedicated terminal or a portable PDA (Person).
al Digital Assistant) etc. can also be used.

Further, the game machine 400 is connected to the game machine management system 300 via a network and transmits various kinds of information (play situation data) about the game machine 400 to the game machine management system 300 at a predetermined timing. Further, the game machine 400 receives the setting information of the game machine 400 from the game machine management system 400 and controls the operation of the game machine 400 based on the received setting information.

FIG. 34 is a functional block diagram showing the functions of the game machine management system 300 according to this embodiment.
The game machine management system 300 receives a play information reception function 3010 for receiving play information of a game machine from a game machine (not shown) via a network and recording it in the database 3006, and a database 3006 of setting information for controlling the operation of the game machine. And a setting information transmission function 3011 for reading out from the device and transmitting it to the game machine at a predetermined timing. Further, the game machine management system 300 manages the actual installation state of the game machine and the information about the game machine in association with each other, and displays the information about the managed game machine in association with the installation situation of the game machine. And a game machine information managing means 3013 for managing the information related to the game machine for each game machine and displaying the information about the managed game machine in association with the game machine. Managing the setting information for controlling the operation of the game machine, managing the game setting management means 3014 for displaying the managed setting information in association with the game machine, and managing the alarm information of the game machine. Alarm management means 3015 for displaying the alarm information to be displayed in association with the game machine .

In the game machine management system 300 configured as described above, in the present embodiment, the layout screen for managing the actual installation state of the game machine and various kinds of information about the game machine in association with each other allows the user to The situation of the game machine can be grasped smoothly from the installation situation, and the relation between various kinds of information about the game machine and the installation situation of the game machine can be easily recognized.

The game machine management system 300 according to the present invention, specifically, executes a predetermined program on the arithmetic unit 3.
It is assumed that 001 executes to realize each of the above functions.

[Screen Configuration] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the main screen 500 according to the present embodiment. First,
The user can display a main screen 500 as shown in FIG. 27 on the display by performing a predetermined operation. The main screen 500 is the layout screen 5
No. 03 is created and the game screen is monitored by the layout screen 503. On the layout screen 503, a game machine and various kinds of information regarding the game machine are displayed, and the layout screen 503 allows the user to easily understand the state of the game machine installed in the store. The layout screen 503 will be described later.

Furthermore, on the main screen 500, a floor selection menu 501, a display content selection menu 502, a floor design tool button 504, and a layout change button 50 are displayed.
5 and a game machine addition button 506 are provided.
The floor selection menu 501 has a function of selecting a layout screen 503 divided for each floor. For example, when the store has a plurality of floors, or when one floor is arbitrarily divided into a plurality of floors, the user can create the layout screen 503 by dividing the layout screen 503 into each floor. it can. Layout screen 503
Can be added by newly creating such a new floor. When the user creates a new floor, the floor selection menu 501 includes, for example, the floor names entered by the user, such as “Prize Corner”, “Video Game Corner”, “Medal Corner”, and “New Creation” (not shown). Item) is displayed. When a predetermined floor is selected by the floor selection menu 501, the layout screen 503 of the selected floor is displayed, and the number of seats on the floor, the number of installed units, and the total number of installed units on all floors are displayed. To be done.

The display content selection menu 502 has a function of selecting the content to be displayed on the layout screen 503, and specifically, "status", "error &alarm","sales distribution chart", etc. (not shown). ) Item. The "status" indicates the status of the game console. For example, "status of initialization", "advertising", "in game", "test mode", "call attendant" can be displayed on the display status of the game console. The statuses such as "medium", "in error", and "unknown" are applicable. When the user selects "status", the game machine is displayed in a color corresponding to each state. The correspondence between the status status and the display color is displayed in the lower right column 508 of the main screen 500. next,
The "error &alarm" displays the current error state and the alarm state processed according to the preset condition. The alarm status can be displayed by displaying three colors of “green (appropriate)”, “yellow (caution)”, and “red (problem, blinking at the time of error)” on the game machine to indicate various states. It is set. The correspondence between the alarm status and the display color is displayed in the lower right column 507 of the main screen 500. Finally, the “sales distribution map” is for displaying sales information of the game machine, and specifically, is displayed as a distribution map on the layout screen 503. The creation of the distribution map will be described later. In addition, in the present embodiment, the status and the alarm state as the predetermined information regarding the game machine are displayed in the colors corresponding to the respective states, but the present invention is not particularly limited to the colors.
That is, the display mode of various kinds of predetermined information can be arbitrarily set, and can be displayed using, for example, a pattern or a shape.

The layout screen 503 is for understanding the installation status of the game machines actually installed on the floor, and the layout screen 50 corresponding to the actual installation location.
A game machine (object) arranged at a position above 3,
Information according to the content selected in the display content menu 502 is displayed. Therefore, the user can easily understand the relationship between the game machine and the installation status by monitoring the layout screen 503.

The floor design tool button 504 has various functions for designing a floor, and more specifically has a function of creating, changing, and deleting a floor frame. Since there are stairs, doors, counters, offices, and pillars in actual stores, the user selects the floor design tool button 504 to display the stairs, doors, etc. on the layout screen 503. You can The user can enter characters and marks in addition to setting the floor frame.

The layout change button 505 has a function of changing the layout of the game machine, and the user selects the layout change button 505 to arrange the game machine at an arbitrary position on the layout screen 503. You can

The game console addition button 506 has a function of adding a game console to the layout screen 503, and the user selects the game console addition button 506 to add a new game console on the layout screen 503. can do. When adding a new game machine, the user sets the ID, name, shape, seat, etc. of the new game machine.

On the layout screen 503, the display colors (red, yellow, green) when the display content menu 502 is "error &alarm" are shown. The present invention is
A plurality of types of alarms can be set, and different types of alarms can be simultaneously displayed on the layout screen 503. And when displaying alarms at the same time (simultaneous display type)
In the above, as an example of the correspondence when the displays of different alarms are duplicated, the priority of the display color is set in advance. That is, on the layout screen 503, the display color with high priority is prioritized, and the priority in “error & alarm” is set to blink in the order of “red, yellow, green” when an error occurs. There is. Further, when the display content is “error & alarm”, the number of game machines corresponding to the alarm condition can be displayed. When a plurality of types of alarms are set, a desired alarm may be selected in advance and only the display color corresponding to the selected alarm may be displayed on the layout screen 503 (switch display). type).

Here, the user selects the layout screen 503.
When the game machine itself 503a displayed in is selected, the screen changes to the information screen 600 of the selected game machine 503a.

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of the information screen 600 of the game machine according to the present embodiment. The game machine information screen 600 has a function of reading various kinds of information regarding the game machine 503a selected by the user from the database 3006 and displaying the same, and a function of recording various kinds of information input by the user in the database 3006. At the top of the information screen 600, the name of the game console, the seat number, and the ID
Is displayed. “Status” displays the current status (state) 601 of the game machine. "status"
As described above, includes items such as “initializing”, “advertising”, “during game”, “during test mode”, “call attendant”, “during error” and “unknown”. Only "Call Attendant" can be displayed redundantly with items other than "Unknown" indicating other states. The "credit count" indicates the current credit count. The "error type" is to display the content of the error when the game machine has an error. For example,
There are items such as "X limit sensor error", "Y limit sensor error", "Z limit sensor error", "Coin selector error", "Open sensor error", and "Prize sensor error". If no error has occurred, "normal operation in progress" is displayed.

"Coin setting" displays the coin setting. The user can change to any coin setting on the information screen 600. “Arm / claw type” displays the type of arm and claw. Note that this item is an item for inputting a game setting that cannot be automatically set as a memo, and the input contents are not limited to “arm / claw type”. Also, even if the setting work is manual,
When the recognition is automatically performed, the content is automatically updated and displayed. “Gripping power” indicates the current gripping power. In addition, the user
It can be changed to any gripping force.

The "type of prize (prize)" indicates the type of prize in the game machine. “Prize name” displays the name of the prize in the game machine. "Price unit price" indicates the purchase unit price of the prize. “Prize inventory / purchase quantity” displays the prize inventory and purchase quantity. The stock is calculated by subtracting the payout number from the purchase number.

"Previous data clear" displays the date and time when the accumulated data was cleared last time. "Cumulative operating hours"
Displays the cumulative business hours since the data was cleared. “Operating time (operating rate)” displays the cumulative operating time (play time) since the data was cleared and the operating rate. “Error occurrence count” displays the cumulative number of times an error has occurred since the data was cleared.

The "alarm operation item" displays the number of alarm items currently in operation. The alarm can be set on the alarm setting details screen 800 described later. The “number of alarm occurrences” indicates the cumulative number of alarm occurrences since the data was cleared. The "alarm status" displays the current alarm status.

"Income" indicates the income (sales) accumulated from the current day and the data clear. The “game count” displays the number of games accumulated from today and the data clear. The "payout rate" displays the number of payouts accumulated from today and the data clear. “Payout rate (number)” displays the number-based payout rate accumulated from today's data and data clear. “Payout rate (amount)” displays the amount-based payout rate accumulated from today's data clear. The “payout total amount” displays the total payout amount accumulated from today's data clear.

The information displayed on the information screen 600 is
The information is not limited to the above-mentioned information, and any information related to the game machine can be arbitrarily displayed. Further, the type of information displayed can be changed according to the type of game machine. For example, in the case of a video game, items such as "number of consecutive wins" can be displayed.

The information screen 600 also includes a "game setting details" button 602 and an "alarm setting details" button 6
03, a “OK” button 604, a “data clear” button 605, and an “end” button 606. When the user selects the “Detailed game settings” button 602,
When the “alarm setting details” button 603 is selected by transitioning to the game setting detail screen 700, the alarm setting detail screen 800 is displayed. In addition, the user selects the “OK” button 6
When 04 is selected, the setting entered on the information screen 600 becomes valid, and the set information is stored in the database 300.
6 is stored. On the other hand, when the user selects the "clear data" button 605, all data other than the set data is cleared. The setting data is
For example, game machine setting data such as sound, gripping force, claw size, shape, coin setting, etc., and data configuring the layout screen (store shape, game machine shape).
Etc. are applicable. Data other than setting data is, for example,
The data includes income, payout rate, number of games, number of errors, and the like. In addition, the user clicks the “End” button 60.
If you select 6, the information screen 600 disappears and the main screen 5
Transition to 00.

Although not shown, the information screen 60
It is also possible to provide an "error detail" button at 0. When the user selects the "error details" button, the screen changes to an error display screen that displays the details of the error. This error display screen reads the time when the error occurred, the type of error, the time when the error was released, the work content corresponding to the error, the worker, etc. from the database and displays it.
It also has the function of displaying information on how to deal with it. As a result, the user can grasp the detailed contents of the error and the coping method is displayed, so that the coping with the error can be immediately performed.

FIG. 29 is a view showing an example of the game setting detail screen according to this embodiment. Game setting detail screen 70
0 is a screen for making various settings of the game machine. On the game setting details screen 700, setting conditions to be selected for each setting item 701 are provided in advance. "sound"
Is for selecting the type of BGM being advertised. When the user selects a predetermined BGM, the selected BGM is output by the game machine. "Time system"
Is for setting the time as a time system in which the game method can be played any number of times within the time. "Prize sensor" is for setting the operation period of the prize sensor that detects the payout of the prize, "only during the game" that indicates the period from the start to the end of the game,
"All periods" are provided for the period from when the switch of the game machine is turned on to when it is turned off.
The “height button” is for setting whether to allow the third operation during the game. The third operation means that the prize acquisition game device has three operation buttons, specifically, an X-direction movement button for horizontally moving, and a Y-direction movement button for vertically moving. When a Z-direction moving button for adjusting the height is provided, it is for setting whether or not the user can operate the Z-direction moving button. The "prize characteristic" is for selecting the characteristic of the prize. For example, when the prize is easily broken, the user sets “broken”. When the user selects "broken", the game machine is controlled so that the height at the time of payout becomes low. If the prize is easy to get caught, the user will be "trapped".
Select. As a result, the game machine is controlled so as to perform a hooking prevention operation.

When the user selects the “OK” button 702, each setting entered on the game setting details screen 700 becomes valid and is stored in the database 3006. Also,
When the user selects the “end” button 703, the game setting details screen 700 is erased and the information screen 600 is displayed.
The various setting information set on the game setting detail screen 700 is transmitted to the game machine 400, and the game machine 400 controls the operation of the game machine 400 based on the received various setting information.

The items to be set on the game setting detail screen 700 are not limited to the above-mentioned items, but any information relating to the game machine can be arbitrarily set and changed according to the type of the game machine. can do.

This screen eliminates the need for the user to actually go to the place where each game machine is installed to set each game machine, and thus the setting work can be reduced.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the alarm setting detail screen according to this embodiment. The alarm setting detail screen 800 is a screen for setting alarm conditions for each item 801 and displaying the current value of each item and its condition. Alarm operation and stop is
It is configured so that it can be set for each item. Specifically, the user has [Y
It can be set by selecting the ES / NO] button 804.

The "continuous payout" is for detecting continuous payouts and monitoring the overpayment. “No continuous payout” is for detecting a state in which no continuous payout is performed and for monitoring the amount that has not been paid out.
The "payout frequency (10 times)" is for detecting the number of payouts in the past 10 play periods and monitoring the frequency of payouts.

The “sales status (TOTAL%)” is a ratio to an ideal time-to-sales graph from data clear, and is for monitoring the status of sales. "Sales status (TO
DAY%) "is a ratio to the ideal time-to-sales graph from the start of business on the day, and is for monitoring the state of sales. "Operation rate (%)" is for monitoring the operation rate after data clear.

The "payout rate (number%)" is for monitoring the number-based payout rate from the data clear. The “payout rate (amount%)” is for monitoring the amount-based payout rate from the data clear. “Premium inventory” is for monitoring prize inventory.

The "grabbing rate" is for monitoring the grasping rate. The "lifting rate" is for monitoring the lifting rate. The "lick rate" is for monitoring the lick rate. In addition, in the present embodiment, since “NO” is selected for the setting of “grasping rate” and “lifting rate”, the setting information is not displayed.

The value of each item 801 on the alarm setting detail screen 800 can be calculated using the various means described in the third embodiment.

When the user selects the “OK” button 802, each setting entered on the alarm setting details screen 800 becomes valid and is stored in the database 3006. When the user selects the “end” button 803, the alarm setting details screen 800 is erased and the information screen 600 is displayed.

The items to be set on the alarm setting detail screen 800 are not limited to the above-mentioned items, but can be set arbitrarily and can be changed according to the type of game machine.

Further, in the third embodiment described above, the alarm setting means and the alarm determining means are provided in the main body of the game apparatus, but in the present embodiment, these means are provided on the game machine management apparatus 300 side. Is provided, and the information about the play situation of the game detected by the play situation detecting means is transmitted from the game machine main body through the network. When the game machine management device 300 receives the information on the play status transmitted from the game machine body, it records it in the database 3006. Then, according to the conditions set on the alarm setting detail screen 800, it is determined whether or not the alarm information is transmitted, and when it is determined that the alarm information is transmitted, the layout screen 3 is displayed.
Show alarm on 04.

As described above, the alarm setting detail screen 80
According to 0, since it is possible to immediately grasp the alarm setting information and the state of the game machine at the present time, it is possible to effectively analyze and analyze the installation situation of the game machine based on these information. become. Further, it becomes possible to monitor the situation of the game machine without directly monitoring the game machine in the store. Furthermore, since the user can set the alarm of each game machine in the game machine management apparatus 300, the user can efficiently set the alarm of each game machine in a short time.

[Usage Flow] Next, a flow when the user uses the game machine management system 300 according to the present embodiment will be briefly described. In this embodiment,
It is assumed that the game console management system 300 manages game consoles in a large game store having a plurality of floors.

First, the user performs a work of creating a store shape (in-store area) for each floor. The user selects the "floor design tool" button 5 on the main screen 500 shown in FIG.
When 04 is selected, the layout screen 503 transitions to a creation screen (creation screen). On the creation screen, a shop shape can be created by using various tools having a support function such as design drawing creation work. The user can select a desired shape from a square, a rectangle, an L-shape prepared in advance, or a combination of these shapes, and also can arbitrarily create the shape. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the user has selected “rectangle” as the store shape. In large game stores, the types of game consoles are often placed together on each floor, so the user can create a store shape for each floor while naming each floor “Prize Corner” or “Video Game”. When it is determined to be “corner” and “medal corner”, it is set in the item of the floor selection menu 501.

Next, the user performs the work of determining the shape of the game machine. Specifically, when the user selects the “game console addition button” 506, the tool for adding a game console is ready for use. The user can select the shape of the game machine from the shapes such as ◯ and □ prepared in advance, and can also arbitrarily create the shape. In this embodiment, the user selects and arranges a rectangular shape and an octagonal shape.

Next, the user sets the ID of each newly created game machine. It is necessary to set an ID for uniquely identifying the game machine in the game machine. An ID, a name of the game machine, the number of seats, etc. are set in the game machine through a predetermined screen (not shown). Information set by the user, other information regarding game machines (sales information), and the like are stored in the database 3006 in association with the ID.

After the above settings are completed, the user can display the main screen 500 and the information screen 600 to monitor the status of the game machine, and the game setting detail screen 700 and the alarm setting detail screen 800 can be displayed. hand,
Various settings can be set.

[Storing Various Information in Database] Various information for managing the game machine is stored in the database 3006 when a predetermined event occurs. "Power on", "Power off", "Start of business", "Coin insertion", "Game start", "Game end"
(Game content), "Credit change", "Prize out", "Business suspension (error content, test mode)",
"Change of setting", "change of prize", etc. are applicable. In addition, "power on", "power off", "coin insertion", "game start", "game end (game content)",
The events of "credit change" and "prize out" are based on the operation of the game machine, and when these events are detected by the game machine, the related information is automatically stored in the database 3006. . In contrast,
"Start of business", "Business stop (error content, test mode)", "Change settings", and "Change prizes"
It is based on the user's decision, and related information is stored in the database 3006 based on the information screen 600 and the like described above based on the user's operation.

The various events that trigger the storage of various information in the database 3006 are not limited to the above-mentioned events. Further, the information stored in the database 3006 can be arbitrarily added depending on the type of event.

The game machine management system includes a main screen 500, an information screen 600, and a game setting detail screen 70 described above.
When 0 and the display of the alarm setting detail screen 800 are instructed by the user, various information related to the contents to be displayed on the screen is referred to from the database 3006 and displayed.

[Sales Distribution Map Creation Process] FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the sales distribution map creation process according to this embodiment. When the user selects “sales distribution map” on the display content menu 502 of the main screen 500 (not shown),
On the layout screen 503, a sales distribution chart showing the sales situation of each game machine is displayed. Note that the sales information of each game machine is stored in the database 300 as a prerequisite for creating a sales distribution map.
6, the layout screen 503 is created by the user, the above-mentioned ID is set to each game machine (hereinafter referred to as “object”) shown on the layout screen 503, and various information (including sales information) of the game machine. Is stored in the database 3006 in association with the ID.

When the user selects “Sales distribution map” on the display content menu 502 of the main screen 500, the game machine management system 300 firstly displays the layout screen 503 in a grid (ex. 1m x 1m) with a predetermined size. ) (S20
01), the numerical data of each subdivided area is cleared (S2002). Next, the game console management system 300
Calculates the center coordinates of each object (S200
3). Then, the sales data referenced from the database 3006 is added to the area where the central coordinates of each object exist (S2004).

The gaming machine management system 300 repeats sales addition until all sales data is processed (S20).
05) If it is determined that all the sales data have been processed, the numerical value of each area is visualized in the corresponding color, and the sales distribution map is created by superimposing it on the layout screen 503 (S2006). And game console management system 3
00 is the filtering process for the created distribution map.
(Smoothing) is performed (S2007). Note that the sales distribution map is not limited to such a creation method, and may be created using, for example, an area (area of the shape of a game machine) instead of the representative point.

FIG. 32 is a diagram for explaining the center coordinates of each object. FIG. 32A shows an example of the case where one center coordinate (representative point) is calculated for one game machine. The representative point is calculated, for example, by using the coordinates of the center point held by the object when the game machine is created using the standard tool, and when the user creates it without using the standard tool, It can be calculated using the designated representative points (coordinates).

FIG. 32B shows an example in the case of calculating a plurality of representative points for one game machine. For example, when the game machine is configured to be playable by a plurality of players, a plurality of representative points may be calculated for one game machine. For example, a representative point is calculated for each seat of the game machine. According to this, not only the sales information for each game machine but also the sales information for each seat (1P, 2P, etc.) can be displayed. In this case,
Sales information and the like are stored in advance in the database 3006 in association with seat information. Then, when the user places the cursor on or clicks the game machine arranged on the layout screen 503, a list of seats (1P to 6P) of the game machine is displayed, and when the user selects a desired seat, An information screen 600 that displays information about the selected seat may be displayed. Figure 3
FIG. 2C is a diagram showing a configuration of a selection screen when a representative point is set for each seat.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a sales distribution chart displayed on the layout screen 503 according to this embodiment. In the present embodiment, the sales status of the game machine is “red: 0 yen to 10,00
Three colors corresponding to "0 yen", "green: 10,000 to 20,000 yen", and "yellow: 20,000 to 30,000 yen" are used. Further, the layout screen 503 is divided into a grid shape, and the grid on which the game machines are arranged is displayed in a color according to the sales state of the game machines. This enables the user to obtain a more comprehensive and easy-to-understand distribution map.

The present invention is not limited to the sales distribution chart, and various information (play count, play count,
The number of errors, operating rate, payout rate, etc.) can be developed as a distribution chart on the layout screen 503. This makes it easier to understand the relationship between the game machine and the installation status.

The size of the subdivided area can be arbitrarily changed by the user, for example, 1 meter × 1.
It can also be subdivided into metric grids.

When the distribution map is visualized, it is also possible to use a three-dimensional expression such as contour lines or quarter views instead of colors. By visualizing the distribution map by various methods, it becomes easier for the user to understand the relationship between the game console and the installation status.

If the user can arbitrarily change the size and coefficient of the filter in the filtering process, the difference between areas can be emphasized so that the user can relate the game machine to the installation status. Will be easier to analyze.

The above-described embodiments are examples for explaining the present invention, and the present invention is not intended to be limited to these embodiments. The present invention does not depart from the gist of the invention.
It can be implemented in various forms.

(A) In this embodiment, the main screen 200
Although the installation status of the game machine is displayed by providing the layout screen 503 in which the game machine is arranged in the above, the present invention is not limited to this.
It is also possible to provide a list format screen on the upper screen of 0. Further, the display method of information regarding the game machine is not limited to the display method on the layout screen 503 or the information screen 600, and various information may be displayed in a list format or a graph format, for example. According to this, since various information is displayed in various formats, it becomes possible for the user to select the format that is easy for the user to check the various information and to analyze and analyze the information. It will be easier.

(B) Further, the database 3006 contains
Since the history of various types of information regarding game machines is accumulated, the user refers to information based on an arbitrary past time or period (for example, cumulative operating time for a predetermined period in the past, payout rate, etc.) You can also do it. Also,
A function of predicting values of various information may be provided based on past information and current information accumulated in the database.

(C) Further, as the information about the game machine, it is possible to handle the image and sound around the game machine installed in the store. For example, one or two or more cameras and microphones are rotatably provided on the ceiling or the like so that the entire store can be viewed. For example, when the game machine on the predetermined layout screen 503 is in the alarm state (red) and the user moves the cursor to the game machine, the camera moves in conjunction with this movement,
Take a picture of the state of the game console installed in the store. Also,
The microphone records the state of the game console (environmental conditions). The image captured by the camera and the sound recorded by the microphone are displayed and output on a predetermined screen via the network. Thus, when the user is notified of the alarm state, the user can first check the status of the game machine on the screen and then determine whether to go to the scene. Therefore, even when the alarm is notified, it is possible to save the trouble of going to the scene immediately to see the situation depending on the actual state of the game machine. The video of the camera and the sound of the microphone may be arbitrarily displayed and output according to the user's setting.

(D) Although the crane game machine is managed as an example of the game machine in the present embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this and can be applied to all game machines. The game machine may be one type of game machine or two or more types of game machines.

(E) In the above embodiment, when the game machine management system 300 receives predetermined information from the game machine after the user has set the alarm details on the alarm setting detail screen 800, this information is changed to this information. It has been described that it is determined whether or not the condition of the alarm is met based on the result, and the result is displayed on the layout screen 600. Here, the present invention further has a function of adjusting the state of the game machine to “appropriate (green display)” when it is determined that the state of the game machine is “problem (red display)”. You can also have. For example, when the user sets an alarm regarding the “lick rate” on the alarm setting detail screen 800, the game machine management system 300 sets the value of the “lick rate” as an alarm based on the information received from the game machine. Which of the above (appropriateness, caution, problem) is applicable is determined. Then, when it is determined that the licking rate is “problem”, the state of the corresponding game machine is displayed in “red” color on the layout screen 600, and an instruction to change the gripping force to a predetermined value. To the game console. According to this, the game machine changes the gripping force in accordance with the received instruction, and as a result, it becomes possible to automatically adjust the “lick rate” to fall within the range of the appropriate “green” value. (F) Further, in the above embodiment, the user can perform various settings relating to the game machine, but the present invention further has a function of validating or invalidating the set data under a predetermined condition. Good. For example, when the game machine management system 300 starts to be used, or when various setting data is reset and started to be used, there may be a period of unstable data. For example, if an alarm function is set for the payout rate and a customer who plays the game for the first time gets a prize in one shot, an alarm (problem) is notified by this, and if the customer does not play the game for a while after that. May cause a situation in which an alarm is continuously notified. In addition, the denominator may be 0 depending on the alarm information calculation formula, which may cause a situation in which the alarm is continuously notified. As described above, at the initial stage of using the game machine management system 300, since the system function is unstable, it is necessary to invalidate the data until it becomes stable.
Therefore, in the present invention, a function to switch invalidity / validity of setting data under a predetermined condition is newly provided, and for example, “data is invalidated in advance, and when the number of games is 20 or more, Is valid ”. The condition for switching between invalid and valid data may be set based on a user input, or may be set in the game machine management system 300 in advance.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, highly urgent information such as alarm information can be centrally managed, and the information can be reliably and smoothly transmitted to the manager. As a result, it is possible to avoid the loss caused by missing the alarm information.

Since various information is stored in association with the layout screen 503 which reflects the actual installation status of the game machine, the correspondence between the various information and the game machine can be easily specified.

Furthermore, the administrator can further understand the setting situation, that is, the relationship between the game machine and the installation location of the game machine, and use various information to install the game machine, which has been empirically performed until now. It becomes possible to perform quantitatively. Therefore, it is possible to create a more optimal game machine installation condition, and it is possible to efficiently operate the entire store.

[Fifth Embodiment] In the fifth embodiment (hereinafter referred to as "the present embodiment"), a predetermined plate and the plate can be attached to or detached from the prize acquisition game machine. And a plate receiving portion for providing the prize receiving game device. The color, pattern, characters, shape, etc. of the plate are typically configured to determine the design of the premium acquisition game device and enhance the effect thereof. With this, the plate having the desired color, pattern, character, shape, etc. on the store side can be attached to the prize acquisition game device by simply fitting the plate into the receiving portion of the prize acquisition game device. The design of can be changed arbitrarily to the design desired by the store.

The prize acquisition game apparatus according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 19 to 23. FIG. 19
FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining how a plate is attached to the premium getting game device 100 according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, the six plates 30a, 30b, 30
c, 30d, 30e and 30f are used. That is,
The plates 30a and 30d correspond to the front surface 2a of the housing portion 2, the plates 30b and 30e correspond to the side surface 2b, and the plates 30c and 30f correspond to the side surface 2c. In addition, each plate 30a, 30
Both ends of the b and 30c in the longitudinal direction can be fitted into the receiving portions provided in the prize acquisition game apparatus 100. The store manager or the like uses the door 51 of the plate-shaped member 31a made of transparent resin or glass provided on the front surface 2a of the storage section.
Can be opened in the front direction (sliding sideways in the case of a sliding door) to arrange the prize 3 from the front surface 2a to the inside of the storage unit 2 and attach the plate 30 to each position of the storage unit 2.

FIG. 20 is a view of the prize acquisition game apparatus 100 viewed from above in order to attach the plate 30 to the storage section 2. The prize acquisition game device 100 is
As a receiving portion for fitting the longitudinal end of the plate 30a, a mounting member 35 and a fall prevention member 38 provided on the support column 32b, and a fall prevention member 41 provided on the support column 32a are provided. In addition, the prize acquisition game device 10
Reference numeral 0 indicates a mounting member 37 provided on the column 32a as a receiving portion for fitting the longitudinal end portion of the plate 30b.
And a fall prevention member 40 and a fall prevention member 43 provided on the column 33b. Further, in the prize acquisition game apparatus 100, as a receiving portion for fitting the longitudinal end portion of the plate 30c, the attachment member 36 and the fall prevention member 39 provided on the support column 32b, and the fall prevention provided on the support column 33b. And a member 42.

FIG. 21 is a view for explaining the structure of the mounting members 35 and 36. Since the mounting member 36 and the mounting member 37 are symmetrical, the description thereof will be omitted. As shown in the figure, the mounting member 35 includes a mounting piece 35a for mounting to the extending portion 32b 'of the support column 32b via a screw 44,
It is composed of a pressing portion 35b for pressing the plate 30a, a hinge 35c for applying tension, and a cushion portion 35d in contact with the plate 30a. The store clerk or the like may press the pressing portion 35 before attaching the plate 30a.
b in the state of the dotted line, the one end 30a1 in the longitudinal direction of the plate 30a is inserted between the column 32b and the pressing portion 35b, and in this inserted state, the pressing portion 35b is operated in the direction of arrow A. Add tension. The longitudinal one end 30a1 of the plate 30a is configured to be insertable between the column 32b and the pressing portion 35b.

As a result, the longitudinal one end portion 30a1 of the plate 30a is fitted between the cushion portion 35d and the support column 32b. Also, the plate 30c
Similarly, but in the longitudinal direction one end 30 of the plate 30c
c1 is the cushion portion 36d of the mounting portion 36 and the support column 32b.
It is in the state of being fitted between the cushion portion 46 provided on the extension portion of the. As described above, the plates 30a and 30c have the longitudinal one end portions 30a1 and 30a.
c1 is inserted in a predetermined position, and the pressing portions 35b and 36b
It can be attached by a simple operation such as operating.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing the structure of the fall prevention member 39. The figure shows the structure of the fall prevention member 39 as viewed from the side of the storage section 2. As shown in the figure, the fall prevention member 39 has an L shape and is in contact with the cushion portion 46. The clerk has a plate 30c
21 is inserted between the cushion portion 46 and the mounting member 36, the end portion of the plate 30c parallel to the longitudinal direction is inserted into the plate receiving portion 39a of the fall prevention member 39, and is shown in FIG. The pressing portion 36b is operated. As a result, the plate 30c fitted between the mounting member 36 and the cushion portion 46 is supported by the plate receiving portion 39a of the fall prevention member 39, and thus the plate 30c.
However, it can be prevented from falling.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing the structure of the fall prevention member 42. The fall prevention member 42 is fixed to the support column 33b, and includes a support portion 42a for supporting the other longitudinal end portion 30c2 of the plate 30c and a cushion portion 42b. First, the store clerk or the like inserts the other longitudinal end 30c2 of the plate 30c between the support portion 42a and the cushion portion 42b, and then inserts the longitudinal end 30c1 of the plate 30c into the cushion portion as shown in FIG. It inserts between 46 and the attachment member 36, and operates the pressing part 36b. As a result, with the other longitudinal end 30c2 of the plate 30c inserted between the support portion 42a and the cushion portion 42b, one longitudinal end 30c1 of the plate 30c is placed between the mounting member 36 and the cushion portion 46. Since the plate 30c is fitted to the housing portion 2,
It is possible to prevent falling inward.

Here, the plates 30d, 30e, and 3 are
0f is attached to the lower part of the front surface 2a, the side surfaces 2b, and 2c of the housing portion. Plates 30d, 30e, are provided on the peripheral edge of the bottom portion 35 of the housing portion 2 and on the portions where the columns 32a, 32b, 33a, 33b contact the longitudinal ends of the plates.
And a groove as a receiving portion for 30f (not shown). Store clerks, etc.
The end portions of the plates 30d and 30f parallel to the longitudinal direction are fitted into the corresponding grooves of the bottom portion 35 of the housing portion 2, and the longitudinal end portions of the plates 30d, 30e, and 30f are attached to the corresponding columns 32a. , 32b, 33a, 3
By fitting in the groove of 3b, each plate 30
d, 30e, and 30f can be attached to the prize acquisition game device 100. By thus fitting the plate in the groove, it becomes possible to prevent the plate from falling down inside the storage section 2.

The plate according to the present invention is not limited to the one described in the above embodiment, and the configuration such as the shape and the number of plates can be arbitrarily changed. For example, the shape of the plate is not limited to a rectangle, but may be a trapezoidal shape. Further, the front plate (30a) can be divided into left and right, and the side plates (30c and 30f) can be integrated. Furthermore, the same type of plate 3 is provided on the console 12 for the player to play.
You may arrange 0g (refer FIG. 19).

Further, the configurations of the plate and the receiving portion are not limited to those in the above embodiment, but can be arbitrarily changed according to the shape of the plate and the like. For example, the plate may be provided with a predetermined locking member, and the prize acquisition game device may be provided with a plurality of holes as locked portions corresponding to the locking member.
According to this, by selectively locking the locking member of the plate in the plurality of holes, the mounting position of the plate can be changed and the plate can be prevented from dropping. Further, a groove corresponding to the thickness of the plate 30 is provided in the peripheral portion of the ceiling portion of the accommodating portion 2, a fall prevention member is provided on the column, and the plate is attached by fitting the plate into this groove and placing it on the fall prevention member. It may be that.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the desired plate can be freely attached to the store, so that the prize acquisition game device can be arbitrarily changed to the design desired by the store. . Further, as a result, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the image of the store is destroyed by installing the premium acquisition game device having a design that does not match the image of the store in the store.

Further, conventionally, a dedicated space for fitting a plate made of paper or a resin plate was provided outside the housing, so that the shape of the plate was limited to the shape that fits in the space. . However, according to the present invention, the plate is attached to the inside of the housing for storing the prize, so that it is not necessary to provide the dedicated space as described above. Therefore, the freedom of the shape of the plate increases,
For example, a convex portion may be provided at the lower end of the plate, or the length (height) of the plate in the vertical direction may be increased or decreased.

Further, by making the space for storing the prize and the space for mounting the plate in common, the door for storing the prize and the door for exchanging the plate can be made common. It becomes possible to carry out the replacement work at the same time.

Further, the plate can be attached or detached by simple operations such as insertion of the plate and operation of the pressing portion, so that anyone can easily attach it and the work of attaching the plate becomes an operational burden. Nothing.

Further, conventionally, since a dedicated space for fitting a plate made of a paper or resin plate is provided outside the housing, the shape of the plate is limited to the shape that fits in the space. . However, according to the present invention, the plate is attached to the inside of the housing for storing the prize, so that it is not necessary to provide the dedicated space as described above. Therefore, the freedom of the shape of the plate increases,
For example, a convex portion can be provided at the lower end of the plate, and the length (height) in the vertical direction of the plate can be increased or decreased. FIG. 35 is a diagram showing the external appearance of a prize acquisition game device to which such a plate is attached. As shown in the figure, the plates 30a 'and 30d' are
A character imitating is used as a plate design, and a part of the character projects from the plate. As described above, according to the present invention, since the shape of the plate can be freely designed, a wide variety of plates can be used.

Further, the plate can be attached or detached by a simple operation such as insertion of the plate and operation of the pressing portion, so that anyone can easily attach it and the work of attaching the plate becomes an operational burden. Nothing.

Further, by making the space for storing the prize and the space for mounting the plate common, the door for storing the prize and the door for exchanging the plate can be made common. It becomes possible to carry out the replacement work at the same time.

Further, conventionally, since a dedicated space for fitting a plate made of a paper or resin plate was provided outside the housing, the shape of the plate was limited to the shape that fits in the space. . However, according to the present invention, the plate is attached to the inside of the housing for storing the prize, so that it is not necessary to provide the dedicated space as described above. Therefore, the freedom of the shape of the plate increases,
For example, a convex portion can be provided at the lower end of the plate, and the length (height) in the vertical direction of the plate can be increased or decreased. FIG. 35 is a diagram showing the external appearance of a prize acquisition game device to which such a plate is attached. As shown in the figure, the plates 30a 'and 30d' are
A character imitating is used as a plate design, and a part of the character projects from the plate. As described above, according to the present invention, since the shape of the plate can be freely designed, a wide variety of plates can be used.

Since the plate can be attached or detached by a simple operation such as inserting the plate and operating the pressing portion, anyone can easily attach it and the work of attaching the plate becomes an operational burden. Nothing.

Furthermore, by making the space for storing the prize and the space for mounting the plate common, the door for storing the prize and the door for exchanging the plate can be made common. It becomes possible to carry out the replacement work at the same time.

[Sixth Embodiment] The sixth embodiment (hereinafter, referred to as “the present embodiment”) is a further application to the fifth embodiment, and various plate materials and shapes can be used. The present invention relates to a plate exchange method and a prize acquisition game device that allow a store side to exchange a desired plate in a simpler and less costly manner.

Generally, since the plate is an important element that determines the design of the prize acquisition game device, it requires a high cost for material and design development and production work. As a result, the plate purchased by the store tends to be expensive. Is. Therefore, for example, even if the shop side tries to replace such a plate according to the prize to be stored, it is often difficult to replace it as desired because the unit price of the plate is high.

[0209] Therefore, in this embodiment, a method is proposed in which the plate is made of an inexpensive material and the plate can be attached by a simple method, whereby the store side can save the cost and in a short time. It allows the desired plate to be replaced.

Further, conventionally, on the side of a seller who sells a prize acquisition game device, a customer who purchases the prize acquisition game device (store side) displays a design member (plate) on which the name of the prize acquisition game device is displayed, that is, If you remove the design material (plate) that is the "face" of the game console, you may be differentiating it from the products of other companies and hinder the advertising effect, so the design plate was firmly fixed. However, on the store side, the sales fluctuate depending on the internal prizes rather than the name value of the prize acquisition game device, so the store's prizes can be appealed throughout the game and the store's individuality can be displayed. Requested a plate. Therefore, in the present embodiment, in consideration of such a request from the store side, the plate configuration and the mounting method are improved so that the design can be easily changed according to the prize inside.

[Structure and Usage of Plate] (a) FIG. 36A is a diagram for explaining the structure and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the plate according to the present embodiment includes a plate main body 36A serving as a design member, and a plate main body 36A.
It is composed of a plate containing member 36B for containing A. The plate body 36A is made of a material that is thin and can be inexpensively produced, and is typically made of paper. Further, characters, patterns, colors, etc. that determine the design of the prize acquisition game apparatus 100 are provided on one side or both sides of the plate body 36A. Housing member 3
6B is formed in a bag shape (pocket shape) and is made of a transparent material (acryl or the like) so that the plate body 36A can be visually recognized from the outside when the plate body 36A is housed.

When the user replaces the plate, the desired plate body 36A is inserted into the containing member 36B, and the containing member 36B with the plate body 36A inserted is attached to the prize acquisition game apparatus 100 (not shown). To attach to the prize acquisition game device 100,
For example, the configuration described in the fifth embodiment can be used.

Further, since the plate body 36A is made of paper and the containing member 36B is made of acrylic or the like,
With the plate body 36A inserted, the storage member 36
Since it is possible to bend B, it is easy to attach B to the side surface of the prize acquisition game apparatus 100.

According to the above, when the user replaces the plate, only the plate body 36A made of an inexpensive material such as paper needs to be replaced, so that the cost required for replacing the plate can be reduced. become able to.
Further, since the plate body 36A only needs to be inserted into the housing member 36B, it can be easily changed. Further, the plate body 36A is displayed in a state of being inserted into the transparent bag-shaped housing member 36B, so that the plate body 36A looks good and dirt and moisture can be prevented.

(B) FIG. 36 (B) is a view for explaining another structure and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. As shown in (B) of the figure, the plate according to the present embodiment is provided with a locked portion 36C in the accommodation member 36B ', and a prize corresponding to the locked portion 36C in the prize acquisition game device 100 (not shown). The stopper 36D is provided.
Specifically, the accommodation member 36B ′ is provided with a hole 36C as a locked portion, and the prize acquisition game device 100 includes:
A hook 36D as a locking portion is provided.

When the user replaces the plate, the desired plate main body 36A is inserted into the accommodating portion 36B ', and the hole 36C of the accommodating member is locked to the hook 36D, so that the accommodating member 36B' can be obtained. 10
Attach to 0.

Here, the back side of the accommodating member 36B 'may have a bag-like structure except for the portion where the locked portion 36C is provided. In such a configuration, the plate main body 36A can be exchanged with the accommodation member 36B ′ attached to the prize acquisition game apparatus 100, which facilitates the work.

The locked portion 36C is the plate body 3
6A may be directly provided. In this case, since the plate body 36A can be directly engaged with the hook 36D of the prize acquisition game device 100, the accommodation member 3
It becomes possible to omit the work of inserting into 6B '.

(C) FIG. 36 (C) is a view for explaining another structure and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG.
A plate 36E made of a material such as paper or cloth is provided with a plurality of locked portions 36E1, and the prize acquisition game device 100 (not shown) has rails as locking portions 36F corresponding to the plurality of locked portions 36E1. 36F1 and a plurality of locking members 36F2 movable on this rail are provided.

When the user replaces the plate, the plate 36E can be attached to the prize acquisition game apparatus 100 by locking the locked portion 36E1 of the plate to the locking portion 36F2. The user
For example, it is possible to create a curtain-like atmosphere by using the plate 36E made of a cloth material, and by expanding or contracting the plate 36E to the left and right, it is possible to create a quirky image.

(D) FIG. 37 (D) is a view for explaining another structure and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3D, the plate 37A according to the present embodiment has a roll shape. Then, a core fixing portion 37A1 for fixing the portion corresponding to the core of the roll, and the plate 37A are fixed along the inside of the accommodation portion of the prize acquisition game device 100 in the accommodation portion of the prize acquisition game device (not shown). A holding portion 37B for winding and a winding portion 37A2 for winding the end portion of the plate 37A are provided.

When the user replaces the plate, the core portion of the plate 37A is attached to the core fixing portion 37A1 of the prize obtaining game device, the end portion of the plate 37A is pulled out, and the end portion is pulled along the inside of the accommodating portion. Finally, the end portion is stopped by the winding portion 37A2 while being moved and fixed by the pressing portion 37B at the corresponding portion. Winding part 37A2
May be configured to be manually wound by the user or may be automatically wound.

On the store side, for example, a plate with various image designs such as a destination guide display of a bus is attached, and a new design is displayed by operating the winding unit according to the type of prize. Therefore, the image can be easily changed.

The length of the plate 37A can be arbitrarily adjusted, and the winding direction can be arbitrarily set to the vertical direction or the horizontal direction.

(E) FIG. 37 (E) is a view for explaining another structure and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. As shown in (E) of the figure, the plate 37C according to the present embodiment allows the user to write characters, pictures, etc. using the dedicated pen 37D, and uses a dedicated eraser (not shown). It is configured so that written characters and images can be erased. Plate 3
7C typically corresponds to a white board that can be rewritten using a predetermined pen like a blackboard.

When the user replaces the plate, he writes the desired design on the plate 37C using the dedicated pen 37D and attaches it to the prize acquisition game apparatus 100. For attachment to the prize acquisition game apparatus 100, for example, the configuration described in the fifth embodiment may be used, or the locked portion 36C described in (b) may be provided.

According to this, since the user can write characters, pictures, etc. by himself / herself, the degree of freedom in design is increased, and it is convenient because it can be erased immediately in case of failure, and the plate can be attached. You can write it as it is, so it is convenient when you frequently change the design.

(F) FIG. 36 (F) is a view for explaining another structure and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6F, the plate 37E according to the present embodiment is provided with an adhesive means 37F for adhering the plate 37E to the prize acquisition game apparatus 100. The adhering means 37F is provided on the longitudinal end of the front side (the surface on which the design is drawn) of the plate, and is configured so as not to be seen by the user when adhered to the prize acquisition game apparatus 100.

If paper or the like is used as the material of the plate 37E and a tape having an adhesive function on both sides of the tape is used as the adhering means 37F, the plate 37E can be manufactured inexpensively. Also, handling by the user becomes easy.

(G) FIG. 37 (G) is a view for explaining another structure and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. As shown in (G) of the figure, the plate according to the present embodiment is one in which a suction member 37H as a stopper is provided on the accommodation member 36B of FIG. 36 (A).

When the user replaces the plate, the housing member 36B into which the desired plate body 36A is inserted.
Through the sucker 37H.
Attach to.

The sucker 37I may be provided with a hook-like engaging portion 37J, and this engaging portion 37J may be attached to the prize obtaining game apparatus 100 (not shown). The user may set the plate body 36A or the housing member 36B having a locked portion such as a hole,
It can be attached to the suction cup 37I via the hook 37J.

(H) FIG. 38 (H) is a view for explaining another structure and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG.
Plate 3 using magnet 38B as a stop
8A is attached to the premium acquisition game device 100 (not shown). The plate 38A is made of a thin material such as paper.

The shape of the magnet can be arbitrarily used, and the user can use the circular magnet 38B.
The plate 38A may be attached using a plurality of
It can also be attached using a magnet 38C corresponding to the length of the plate 38A. Further, the magnet 38C may be provided in advance in the housing member 36B of FIG.

(I) FIG. 38 (I) is a view for explaining another structure and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG.
A clip 38E is provided as a mounting portion on the prize acquisition game apparatus 100.

The user clips the plate 38D to the clip 38.
Since the plate 38D can be attached to the prize obtaining game apparatus 100 by sandwiching it between E, the plate 38D can be easily replaced. The housing member 36B shown in FIG. 36 (A) may be sandwiched.

(J) FIG. 38 (J) is a view for explaining another structure and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG.
The thumbtack 38G as a stopper is used to attach the plate 38F to the prize acquisition game apparatus 100. It is assumed that a member 38G 'such as a bulletin board is provided at the plate attachment position of the prize acquisition game apparatus 100 so that the user can insert the thumbtack 38G. In addition, the stoppers are the receiving portion 38H and the receiving portion 38.
When it is composed of H ′, the received portion 38H ′ is provided in the prize acquisition game device.

(K) FIG. 39 (K) is a view for explaining another structure and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG.
The plate is composed of a plurality of plate bodies 39A1 ... 39An, and a part of the plate bodies 39A1 ... 39An is fixed by a predetermined stopper 39B so that the individual plate bodies 39A1 ... 39An can be turned up. Has been done.

The user selects the plate bodies 39A1 ... 39A.
By flipping n like a sketchbook, it becomes possible to select a desired design from among different types of designs. The number of plate bodies can be arbitrarily increased or decreased.

For example, when the theme of the plate is "seasonal", the plate bodies 39A1 ... 39An
Has a design corresponding to spring, summer, autumn, and winter like a calendar, and when the theme of the plate is "message system", various messages to the players are drawn on the plate bodies 39A1 ... 39An. There is.

(L) FIG. 39 (I) is a view for explaining another structure and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1I, the plate according to the present embodiment has a plate body 39E which is a design member.
And an accommodating member 39C accommodating the plate body 39E
The accommodating member 39C includes a sheet base 39D1 having an adhesive function and a protective sheet 39D2 made of a transparent material.
It consists of and.

When the user replaces the plate, the protective sheet 39D2 is peeled off from the sheet table 39D1, the desired plate body 39E is placed at the desired position on the sheet table 39D1, and then the protective sheet 39D2 is covered. The plate body 39E is fixed to the sheet table 39D1 by the adhesive function of the sheet table 39D1. The accommodation member 39C can be attached to the prize acquisition game device by using the configuration described in the fifth embodiment.

According to this, the plate body 39E is protected from dirt and moisture by the protective sheet 39D2, and the accommodating member 39C can be used many times by using the sheet base having an excellent adhesive function. So it is very convenient and economical.

(M) FIG. 39 (M) is a view for explaining another configuration and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment. As shown in (M) of the figure, the plate 39F according to the present embodiment is provided with a joining means 39G for joining the plate 39F to the prize acquisition game apparatus 100. In addition, the prize acquisition game apparatus 100 is provided with a joining unit corresponding to the joining unit 39G. That is, the tape-shaped first joining means 39G is provided on the end portion of the plate 39F parallel to the longitudinal direction, and the first joining means corresponding to the first joining means is provided at the corresponding position of the prize obtaining game device. Two joining means are provided in advance (not shown). Velcro tape (registered trademark) can be typically used for the first joining means and the second joining means.

According to this, since the user only has to attach or detach the tape, the plate can be easily exchanged. Note that FIG. 36 (A)
The first joining means may be provided in the housing member 36B shown in FIG.

According to the above, the plate, which is conventionally made of a plate-shaped member such as an acrylic resin, and tends to be expensive,
Since I decided to create it with a paper base that is an inexpensive material,
You will be able to make plates at low cost.

Therefore, the store side can change the design or image of the prize acquisition game apparatus to a desired design or image by exchanging the plates without incurring a great cost. Moreover, since the plate can be easily replaced, the replacement work can be completed in a short time, and as a result, the plate can be replaced during business. Furthermore, by exchanging plates at the same time as a new prize replacement operation, it is possible to change the prize acquisition game device itself to a design or image that matches the prize with the same amount of work as in the past.

Further, since the prize acquisition game device (game machine) and the prize seller can make a large number of plates at a low cost, for example, the prize acquisition game device and the prize are related to the prize acquisition game device and the prize. In addition to creating a design plate, it is possible to provide a service for delivering the product together with the prize acquisition game device and the prize. Here, such a gift is often delivered in the form of being packed in a cardboard box or the like, but according to the present embodiment, since the plate is made of a paper material, it is rounded and put together with the gift. On the other hand, when it is attached to the game machine, it is attached to the plate containing member so that it does not spoil the appearance. For example, when a store purchases a prize, the store is pre-packaged with a design plate related to the purchased prize. It is convenient for Also, a message appropriate to the service content / time, such as "Today ne
w Freebies are available! !! By replacing the plate with
It becomes possible to arouse the interest of the player and improve the sales. On the other hand, by providing a wide variety of plates, the seller side can add value to the conventional products and acquire more customers (stores).

[Other Embodiments] Also, in the present invention, as a part of improving the effect of the prize acquisition game machine,
The rear surface 2d of the housing portion 2 is configured by a plate-shaped member having a mirror surface and a plate-shaped member having a color with high brightness. As the color having high lightness, white is typically applicable. As shown in FIG. 1, a plate-shaped member 2d1 having a mirror surface.
Is provided substantially in the center of the back surface 2d from the bottom portion 35, and the white plate member 2d2 is provided in the upper portion of the back surface 2d from the substantially center thereof. In this way, by incorporating the white color into the back surface 2d, the inside of the storage unit 2 becomes brighter and the prizes arranged in the storage unit 2 look better.
As a result, it becomes possible to make the atmosphere of the whole prize acquisition game apparatus 100 look bright. Further, since the prize 3 arranged in the housing portion 2 is projected on the mirror surface portion of the rear surface 2d, more prizes than the actual number of the prizes 3 are projected on the player's eyes, and such a visual effect is provided. , It becomes possible to excite the player's willingness to challenge for the purpose of obtaining a free gift.

Any plate-like member 2d1 having a mirror surface and a function of displaying the prize 3 may be used, and a reflection sheet having a mirror-like function may be used. In addition, the white plate-shaped member 2d2 is not limited to white and has high brightness,
In addition, it may have any function as long as it has a function of making the inside of the housing portion 2 look bright. For example, beige close to white or gray close to white may be used.

Further, the proportions of the plate-like member 2d1 having a mirror surface and the white plate-like member 2d2 occupying the back surface 2d are the proportions in which the prize is projected on the mirror surface portion and the inside of the housing portion 2 is brightly projected by the white color. It can be arbitrarily changed according to the size of the prize acquisition game device or the storage unit, the number of prizes stored in the storage unit, and the like. For example, when the prize is placed directly on the bottom of the housing 2, the lower 1/3 of the back surface 2d is a mirror surface portion, and the prize is placed on the table placed on the bottom of the housing 2. In such a case, the back surface 2
About half of d is a mirror surface.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a visual effect as if the grip portion 7 were floating in the air, as a part of improving the effect of the prize acquisition game machine. In other words, the premium acquisition game device displays “UFO C
Where the name "ATCHER (registered trademark)" is widely used among players, it is possible to attract the interest of the player by making the appearance of the prize acquisition game device closer to the image that "UFO catches the prize". become.

Therefore, in the present invention, the structure of the plate member on the rear surface 2d and the structure of the supporting portion 6 are made the same. That is, the plate-like member on the rear surface 2d and the supporting portion 6 are given the same color or pattern or are made of the same material. For example, if the plate-shaped member on the back surface 2d is white, the support portion 6 is made white, and if the plate-shaped member on the back surface 2d is a space pattern, the support portion 6 is also given the same space pattern. If the plate-shaped member on the back surface 2d is a mirror surface, a material that reflects like a mirror is also used for the support portion 6.

This makes it difficult for the player to see the supporting portion 6 while only the grasping portion 7 is visible, so that the grasping portion 7 appears to the player as if it were floating in the air. .

Further, as a method of making the support portion 6 less visible to the player's eyes, the support portion 6 may be made of a transparent material. For example, the plate-shaped member on the back surface 2d is white,
When the material of the supporting portion 6 is transparent, the presence of the supporting portion 6 has less visual effect on the player, and therefore the holding portion 7 appears to be floating in the air.

[0256]

According to the present invention, since the work of changing or removing the spring to change the value of the gripping force is unnecessary, the work for operating the game device is reduced, and the operation efficiency of the game device is reduced. As a result, the operational efficiency of the entire store can be improved.

Further, according to the present invention, vibration is applied to the arm 7a on the insertion port into which the prize is charged, and the opening / closing operation of the arm is performed again. Even if the item is caught, it is possible to encourage the prize to drop, so that it is possible to prevent the store clerk from being called out to take out the prize or causing the player to feel uncomfortable because the prize does not fall. become able to.

Further, according to the present invention, by setting the desired condition in advance on the store side, the alarm information is automatically notified when the play situation of the game device meets the condition. There is no need to constantly monitor the playing status of the game device.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an external appearance of a prize acquisition game device according to each embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the premium getting game device according to each embodiment as viewed from above.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a flow of operations of the premium getting game device according to each embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of a grip portion 7.

5 is a diagram for explaining an internal structure of a grip portion 7 shown in FIG.

6A and 6B are diagrams for explaining a gripping operation of a prize by the gripping portion 7. FIG.

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a gripping operation of a prize by the gripping section 7.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another configuration of the grip portion 7.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a premium getting game device according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a flow of operations of the prize acquisition game device according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the premium getting game device according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the premium getting game device according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a flow of operations of the prize acquisition game device according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a flow of operations of the prize acquisition game device according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a flow of operations of the prize acquisition game device according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an operation flow of the premium getting game device according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a flow of operations of the prize acquisition game device according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a flow of operations of the prize acquisition game device according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a prize acquisition game device 1 according to the present embodiment.
It is a figure for explaining a mode that a plate is attached to 00.

FIG. 20 is a diagram when the premium getting game device 100 is viewed from above.

FIG. 21 is a view for explaining a configuration of mounting members 35 and 36.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a configuration of a fall prevention member 39.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a configuration of a fall prevention member 42.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view showing an external appearance of a conventional prize acquisition game device.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a conventional premium getting game device viewed from above.

FIG. 26 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the game machine management system according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a main screen according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of an information screen of the game machine according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of a game setting detail screen according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of an alarm setting detail screen according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a sales distribution map creation process according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 32 is a diagram for explaining the center coordinates of each object.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a sales distribution chart displayed on the layout screen according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 34 is a functional configuration diagram showing functions of the game machine management system according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 35 is a diagram showing an external appearance of a prize acquisition game device to which a plate according to the present embodiment is attached.

FIG. 36 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 37 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 38 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 39 is a diagram for explaining the configuration and usage of the plate according to the present embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

100 ... Freebie acquisition game device 1 ... base 2 ... Housing 3 ... Freebie 4 ... Premium entry section 5 ... Premium acquisition section 6 ... Supporting part 7 ... Grip 8 ... Fixed rail for traverse 9 ... Movable rail for vertical movement 10 ... Base for prize acquisition unit 12 ... Operation console 13 ... Button switch 13a ... first button switch 13b ... second button switch 14 ... coin slot 15 ... Exit

   ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued front page    (72) Inventor Mitsuharu Fukasawa             1-12 Haneda, Ota-ku, Tokyo Stock market             Company SEGA (72) Inventor Nobushige Ishibashi             1-12 Haneda, Ota-ku, Tokyo Stock market             Company SEGA (72) Inventor Shingo Bank             1-12 Haneda, Ota-ku, Tokyo Stock market             Company SEGA

Claims (32)

[Claims] 1. A prize acquisition game apparatus comprising: an arm for gripping an object to be gripped; and a biasing means for biasing the arm in a closing direction, wherein the biasing means biases the arm in a closing direction. A prize acquisition game apparatus, comprising: a biasing unit that generates a force that exerts a force that restricts the force exerted by the biasing unit; 2. An arm opening / closing means for opening / closing the arm is further provided, the urging means is interposed between the arm and the arm opening / closing means, and the limiting portion is provided by the arm opening / closing means. 2. The prize acquisition game apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when is closed, the force for urging the arm of the urging portion in the closing direction is limited so that the urging force is not generated. 3. A force for urging the urging portion in the closing direction when the arm opening / closing means further operates in the closing direction after the arm opening / closing means closes the arm. The prize acquisition game apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the limitation is not applied to. 4. The restricting portion is a pin having a locking portion, the biasing portion is a coil spring having a reduced diameter at an end portion into which the pin is inserted, and the locking portion and the end portion of the pin. The prize acquisition game apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a portion is inserted into the coil spring. 5. The pin is such that the other end of the pin or the other end of the coil spring is
When the arm is moved in the closing direction, the force for urging the arm of the coil spring in the closing direction is limited until the locking portion reaches the end of the coil spring. Item 4. The gripping device according to item 4. 6. A prize acquisition game device for acquiring a prize by an arm that holds a prize, the prize acquisition game device including drop assisting means for promoting the drop of the prize from the arm that holds the prize. 7. A prize acquisition game apparatus for acquiring a prize by an arm holding a prize, the drop assisting means for promoting the drop of the prize from the arm holding the prize, wherein the drop assisting means is the arm. At least one of a vibration process for vibrating the arm on a slot into which the prize is thrown before the prize is dropped from The prize obtaining game apparatus according to claim 6, wherein one of the processes is performed. 8. The fall assisting means performs at least one of the vibration process, the opening / closing process, and the ascending / descending process when it is determined that the prize has not been released from the arm. The prize acquisition game apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, wherein. 9. The fall assisting means, upon receipt of the fact that the prize has not been released from the arm before the prize falls from the arm, performs the vibration process, the opening / closing process, and the ascending / descending process. 8. The prize acquisition game apparatus according to claim 6, wherein at least one of the processes is performed. 10. A method of operating a prize acquisition game apparatus for acquiring a prize by an arm holding a prize, wherein a predetermined vibration is applied on a slot into which the prize is thrown before the prize falls from the arm. A method of operating a prize acquisition game apparatus, wherein at least one of a step of giving to the arm, a step of opening / closing the arm, and a step of raising / lowering the arm is performed. 11. A prize acquisition game device having an arm for holding a prize, and setting means for setting a condition for transmitting predetermined alarm information, and detection means for detecting a play situation of the game device. Based on the condition set by the setting means and the data detected by the detecting means, a judging means for judging whether or not to transmit the predetermined alarm information, and based on a judgment result of the judging means. A prize acquisition game apparatus, comprising: a transmission unit that transmits the predetermined alarm information. 12. The alarm information is at least one of operating rate information, turnover rate information, payout rate information, grip rate information, lifting rate information, and licking rate information. The prize acquisition game apparatus according to claim 11. 13. The transmitting means transmits the predetermined alarm information by a lamp or a buzzer based on the judgment result of the judging means.
Alternatively, the prize acquisition game device according to item 12. 14. A method of operating a prize acquisition game device provided with an arm for holding a prize, the step of setting a condition for transmitting predetermined alarm information, and the step of detecting a play situation of the game device. And a step of determining whether to transmit the predetermined alarm information based on the set condition and the detected data, and transmitting the predetermined alarm information based on the determined result. The method of operating the prize acquisition game device, comprising: 15. The method according to claim 14, further comprising the step of changing an arrangement of the prize acquisition game device or an arrangement of prizes stored in the prize acquisition game device based on the determined result. Operation method of the described prize acquisition game device. 16. A prize acquisition game apparatus having a storage section for storing a prize, and a plate which is arranged in the storage section and serves as a design member, and a mount which is provided in the storage section and which disposes the plate in the storage section. And a mounting section configured to detachably insert the plate. 17. The mounting portion further comprises a member for preventing the plate from falling.
The described prize acquisition game device. 18. A prize acquisition game apparatus provided with a storage unit for storing a prize, wherein the rear surface of the storage unit is composed of a plate-shaped member having a mirror surface and a plate-shaped member having a color with high brightness. A prize acquisition game device characterized by: 19. A prize acquisition game apparatus comprising: a storage section for storing a prize; a grip section for gripping a prize; and a support member for supporting the grip section, wherein the color, pattern, or material of the support member is The prize acquisition game device, which has the same color, pattern, or material as the back surface of the accommodation section. 20. A prize acquisition game apparatus comprising: a storage portion for storing a prize; a grip portion for gripping a prize; and a support member for supporting the grip portion, wherein the support member is made of a transparent material. A game apparatus for obtaining a free gift. 21. A program for causing a computer to realize a predetermined function, wherein the program manages information relating to a game machine and information relating to an installation status of the game machine in association with each other. A program having a function of displaying information about the game machine in association with the installation situation of the game machine based on information about the game machine and information about the installation situation of the game machine. 22. A program for causing a computer configured to transmit and receive predetermined information to and from a game machine to realize a predetermined function, the program including information on the game machine and information on an installation status of the game machine. And a function of managing each of the game machines, and the information about the managed game machine and the game machine when the information about the game machine transmitted from the game machine according to the operating state of the game machine is received. And a function of displaying the received information about the game machine in association with the installation situation of the game machine based on the information about the installation situation of the game machine. 23. The display function is an object showing the game machine on a screen showing the installation situation of the game machine, based on the information about the managed game machine and the information about the installation situation of the game machine. 22. An information display function of displaying predetermined information of information regarding the managed game machine in association with the object arranged on the screen. Alternatively, the program described in 22. 24. The managing function manages a condition for displaying predetermined information included in the information about the game machine in a display mode according to the content of the predetermined information, and the information display function includes: 24. The program according to claim 23, wherein predetermined information included in the information about the game machine is displayed in a display mode determined based on the managed condition in association with an object arranged on the screen. . 25. The information display function, when the object arranged on the screen is designated, displays predetermined information included in information about a game machine indicated by the designated object. The program according to claim 23 or 24. 26. The managing function has a function of receiving setting information regarding a game machine indicated by the designated object when the object arranged on the screen is designated. 26. The program according to claim 21, which manages information about the game machine including the information. 27. A game machine management system, comprising: a game machine installed in a store; and a management apparatus for managing the game machine, wherein the game machine provides information about the game machine to the management apparatus. A first transmitting means for transmitting the information regarding the game machine transmitted from the game machine, a receiving means for receiving information regarding the game machine transmitted from the game machine, the information regarding the game machine received by the receiving means, and the game machine. Management means for managing information relating to the installation status in association with each other, and setting information relating to the game machine based on the managed information relating to the game machine and the information relating to the installation status of the game machine. A game machine management system, comprising: a display unit for displaying the game machine in association with the situation. 28. The game device comprises: an input unit for inputting setting information about the game machine; and a second transmitting unit for transmitting the setting information input by the input unit to the game machine. 28. The game machine management system according to claim 27, wherein the game machine is provided with control means for controlling the game machine based on the received setting information when receiving the setting information transmitted from the management device. 29. A game machine management method in a system comprising a game machine installed in a store and a management device for managing the game machine, wherein the information about the game machine and the information about the installation status of the game machine. And managing the information related to the game machine based on the information related to the managed game machine and the information related to the installation status of the game machine, and displaying the information related to the game machine in association with the installation status of the game machine. A method of managing a game machine, comprising: 30. A prize acquisition game apparatus having a storage section for storing a prize, and a plate which is disposed in the storage section and serves as a design member, and an attachment which is provided in the storage section and in which the plate is disposed. And a plate accommodating member capable of accommodating the plate main body, and the mounting portion detachably mounts the plate accommodating member accommodating the plate main body. A prize acquisition game device having the following configuration. 31. The material of the plate body is paper, and the material of the accommodating member is made of a transparent material so that the plate body can be seen from the outside in a state of accommodating the plate body. 31. The prize acquisition game apparatus according to claim 30, wherein 32. A method of attaching a plate in a prize acquisition game device, comprising: an accommodation section for accommodating a prize; and an attachment section provided in the accommodation section for attaching the plate, wherein a plate body serving as a design member is provided. A plate containing a predetermined plate accommodating member; and a step of detachably attaching the plate accommodating member accommodating the plate body to an attachment portion provided in the accommodating portion. installation method.