JP2004033368A - Pinball game machine and slot machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a pinball game machine and a slot machine which improve attractiveness of games by proposing a structure which enhances optical performance effect reducing the number of the light emitting sources in action under the common use of the light emitting sources that enables the admission of lights from the light emitting sources, adapted to admit the lights into the light transmission bodies, into a plurality of end parts of the light transmission bodies. <P>SOLUTION: A light admission means is provided to enable the admission of the lights irradiated from the light emitting sources into a plurality of end parts of the light transmission bodies. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a ball game machine represented by a pachinko game machine and the like, and a slot machine. Specifically, a ball game machine in which a game is played by firing a game ball into a game area formed on the front of a game board, and a game can be started by setting a bet amount for one game, The present invention relates to a slot machine capable of ending one game by deriving and displaying a display result of a variable display device capable of changing a display state, and generating a predetermined prize according to the display result of the variable display device.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally known as this type of ball game machine and slot machine, for example, a game ball is fired on a game area formed on the front of a game board, such as a pachinko game machine. And the display result of a variable display device that can change the display state while setting the bet amount for one game, such as a slot machine, can be started and displayed. As a result, one game is completed, and there is a case where a predetermined prize can be generated according to the display result of the variable display device.
[0003]
Such a ball game machine or a slot machine emits light according to the progress of a game, and there is a type using a light transmitting body that emits light in a linear or rod shape as a device that enhances the effect, and emits light in a wide range. Some of them attempt to enhance the design. In addition, although not in a ball game machine and a slot machine in which an optical transmitter is mounted, a notch is provided in the optical transmitter to disperse the light transmitted through the optical transmitter, and the side circumference of the optical transmitter is Some devices emit light with high luminance from the surface. Further, as a well-known technique, there is a technique in which lamps and LEDs are arranged side by side to irradiate light over a wide area to enhance the light effect.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in such ball game machines and slot machines, in order to reduce the running cost, the number of light emitting sources for making light incident on the optical transmitter is reduced, and the light emitting source is provided only at one end of the optical transmitter. Is provided, the light emitted is weaker in a portion far from the light emitting source, and it is not possible to provide a light effect that enhances the interest of the game.
[0005]
In order to avoid such inconveniences, when light-emitting sources are provided at a plurality of ends of the optical transmission body, the entertainment of the game can be improved by the light effect, but the production cost and the running cost increase. .
[0006]
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and its object is to use a light emitting source for making light incident on an optical transmission body such that the light emitting source is incident on a plurality of ends of the optical transmission body, An object of the present invention is to provide a ball game machine and a slot machine in which the number of light-emitting sources is reduced and a light effect is enhanced while enhancing the interest of the game.
[0007]
Specific Examples of Means for Solving the Problems and Their Effects
(1) A ball and ball game machine (pachinko game machine 101) in which a game ball (pachinko ball) is fired at a game area (game area 107) formed in front of a game board (game board 106) to play a game. hand,
A light-emitting source (light-emitting source LED3 or the like) for supplying light;
An optical transmission body (optical transmission rod 1) for transmitting light supplied from the light emitting source to one end (end 1 ′) to the other end (end 1 ″);
An outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission body is used to change a traveling direction of received light that spreads in a band shape (for example, a region surrounded by the bus and the bus) along a longitudinal direction (a direction in which a bus constituting the outer peripheral surface extends). A first area where an optical path changing portion (processed surface 5 ′) is formed, and a second area where the optical path changing portion is not formed,
The first region and the second region surround the entire periphery of the outer peripheral surface (see FIG. 3 and the like),
There is provided a multi-end light incidence means (see FIGS. 1, 6 and the like) for causing light from the light emitting source to simultaneously enter a plurality of ends of the optical transmission body.
[0008]
According to the configuration described above, light from the light emitting source can be made incident on the plurality of ends of the optical transmission body. Thus, the light effect can be performed in a wide area, the number of light emitting sources can be reduced, and the cost can be reduced. Furthermore, in the first region extending in a strip shape in the longitudinal direction of the optical transmission body, since the optical path changing portion for changing the traveling direction of light is formed, the non-processed outer peripheral surface is arranged facing the player side, Depending on whether or not the processing outer peripheral surface is arranged, a strong light is emitted toward the player to provide an impactful light effect to the player to give a strong impression, or it is radiated directly to the player side Therefore, the effect of reducing the amount of light and realizing an unprecedented indirect illumination light effect can be remarkably exhibited.
[0009]
(2) The multiple-end light incident means reflects light from the light-emitting source on a light-reflecting surface (light-reflecting surface 36 in FIG. 6) and enters a plurality of ends of an optical transmission body (FIG. 6). 32).
[0010]
According to the configuration as described above, in the process of causing the light from the light emitting source to enter the plurality of ends of the light transmitting body, the light is reflected in a plurality of directions by the reflecting member provided with the light reflecting surface, and It can be incident on multiple ends. Thereby, light from the light emitting source can be made incident on the plurality of ends of the optical transmission body by the reflection surface, so that light loss can be reduced.
[0011]
(3) The multi-end light incident means is a colored light transmitting member provided at an end of the light transmitting body or between the light transmitting body and the light emitting source (see filters 87 and 88 in FIG. 10). including.
[0012]
According to the above configuration, in the process of causing light from the light emitting source to enter the plurality of ends of the light transmitting body, the colored light transmitting member can be transmitted. Thereby, the light supplied from the light emitting source can be colored, and the interest of the game by the light effect can be improved.
[0013]
(4) The reflection member includes a light transmitting portion (see the light incident surface 35 in FIG. 10) for transmitting irradiation light from the light emitting source.
[0014]
According to the above-described configuration, since the reflection member includes the light transmitting portion, the reflection member can also be used as a member for producing light, and the interest of the game can be improved.
[0015]
(5) The game can be started by setting the number of bets for one game (for example, inserting and setting medals, pachinko balls, etc.), and the display state is changed (for example, the symbol attached to the reel is changed). One game is completed by deriving and displaying a display result (for example, a stop symbol) of the variable display device that can be scrolled, and a predetermined prize (for example, a big bonus) according to the display result of the variable display device. A slot machine (for example, a slot machine, a slot machine using a pachinko ball, etc.) capable of generating a prize or a small role prize,
A light-emitting source (light-emitting source LED3 or the like) for supplying light;
An optical transmission body (optical transmission rod 1) for transmitting light supplied from the light emitting source to one end (end 1 ′) to the other end (end 1 ″);
An outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission body is used to change a traveling direction of received light that spreads in a band shape (for example, a region surrounded by the bus and the bus) along a longitudinal direction (a direction in which a bus constituting the outer peripheral surface extends). A first area where an optical path changing portion (processed surface 5 ′) is formed, and a second area where the optical path changing portion is not formed,
The first region and the second region surround the entire periphery of the outer peripheral surface (see FIG. 3 and the like),
There is provided a multi-end light incidence means (see FIGS. 1, 6 and the like) for causing light from the light emitting source to simultaneously enter a plurality of ends of the optical transmission body.
[0016]
According to the configuration described above, light from the light emitting source can be made incident on the plurality of ends of the optical transmission body. Thus, the light effect can be performed in a wide area, the number of light emitting sources can be reduced, and the cost can be reduced. Furthermore, in the first region extending in a strip shape in the longitudinal direction of the optical transmission body, since the optical path changing portion for changing the traveling direction of light is formed, the non-processed outer peripheral surface is arranged facing the player side, Depending on whether or not the processing outer peripheral surface is arranged, a strong light is emitted toward the player to provide an impactful light effect to the player to give a strong impression, or it is radiated directly to the player side Therefore, the effect of reducing the amount of light and realizing an unprecedented indirect illumination light effect can be remarkably exhibited.
[0017]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, a pachinko game machine is shown as an example of a ball game machine, but a ball game machine in which a game is played by firing a game ball to a game area formed on the front of a game board. The game can be started by setting the bet amount for one game, and the display result of the variable display device capable of changing the display state is derived and displayed, whereby the one game ends and the variable As long as the slot machine can generate a predetermined prize in accordance with the display result of the display device, the present invention can be applied to other ball game machines and slot machines.
[0018]
First embodiment
FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a light emitting source LED, a light transmission rod, and a connection pipe for connecting the light source LED and the light transmission rod. Note that, here, for general description, a state in which the optical transmission rod 1 is not subjected to processing such as knurling will be described.
[0019]
First, the light transmission rod 1 used in the present embodiment has a single-layer structure made of an acrylic resin obtained by polymerizing acrylic acid and a derivative, and has a cylindrical shape. It has the property of transmitting light incident from the end 1 ′ of the cylinder to the other end 1 ″. This is because when light transmitted inside the acrylic resin collides with the outer peripheral surface, If the angle from the normal to the surface (so-called angle of incidence) is less than a certain value, for example, if it collides with the outer peripheral surface from the front, the acrylic resin is radiated from the inside to the outside, and conversely, the normal to the outer peripheral surface If the angle from is greater than or equal to a certain value, for example, if it collides obliquely with the outer peripheral surface, it can be transmitted using the characteristic of acrylic resin such that it is reflected inside again and is not radiated to the outside. In the above, an example using an optical transmission rod having a one-layer structure of an acrylic resin will be described. However, the material has a two-layer structure, and the material constituting the inner layer (core material) is more refracted than the material constituting the outer layer (cladding material). Rate is It is configured to be higher and is reflected when it collides with the boundary between the inner layer and the outer layer at a certain angle (so-called critical angle) or more, and radiated from inside to outside when it collides with the boundary within a certain angle It may have a simple structure.
[0020]
The material is not limited to acrylic resin, but may be any transparent material such as plastic, synthetic rubber, or rubber-like plastic. Specific examples include acrylic rubber, acrylic rubber, alicyclic acrylic resin, amorphous polyolefin, chloroprene rubber, diallyl phthalate, silicon resin, silicon rubber, spirane resin, styrene / methyl methacrylate copolymer, norbornene resin, fluororesin, Fluororubber, polyamide, polyallyl sulfone, polyarylate, polyisoprene rubber, polyimide, polyether sulfone, polyether imide, polyester carbonate, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, polyvinyl acetate, polycarbonate, polysulfone, polystyrene, poly Methylpentene polymethyl methacrylate and the like can be mentioned. In the case of a two-layer structure, the material of the outer layer may be a material having a lower refractive index than the material of the selected inner layer.
[0021]
In addition, the light transmission rod is not formed into a hollow shape, but is a solid shape formed into a solid shape with a solid content, and a shape having a cylindrical shape will be described. The shape may be a rugby ball with a central portion clogged, and may be any shape as long as light incident from one end 1 'can be transmitted to the other end 1 ".
[0022]
1A, a light-emitting source LED 3 is provided via a connecting tube 2 'on a light transmission rod 1a having a circular shape and having both ends 1' and 1 "adjacent to each other. The light-emitting source LED 3 emits light. As a result, the irradiated light is incident on the ends 1 ′, 1 ″ of the optical transmission rod 1 without emitting the light by the connecting pipe 2, and the other end opposite to the incident end 1 "and 1 '. In the present embodiment, the light transmission rod 1a, the connection pipe 2, and the light emitting source are inserted by inserting the light transmission rod 1a into the insertion portion 4 provided in the connection pipe 2. The light transmission rod 1a is configured to be integrated with the LED 3. This allows light to be emitted from the circular light transmission rod 1a, whereby light incident from the one end 1 'side of the light transmission rod 1a. On the other end 1 ″ side where the amount of light Light is incident from the end 1 ″ side, and light is also incident from the one end 1 ′ side on the one end 1 ′ side where the amount of light incident from the other end 1 ″ side is small, so that light is emitted. Even when only one source LED is provided, light can be emitted from the entire outer peripheral surface of the circular light transmission rod 1a.
[0023]
In FIG. 1B, the light-emitting sources LED3 are provided on one end 1 'side of the two light transmission rods 1 via a connecting pipe 2', respectively, and the other end 1 "of the light transmission rod 1 close to the light-emitting source 1". A light emitting source LED 3 'is provided on the side of the light transmitting rod 1. By illuminating the light emitting source LED 3, the emitted light is not emitted to the end 1 of the light transmission rod 1 by the connecting pipe 2'. And transmitted to the other end 1 ″ opposite to the incident end. Further, by causing the light emitting source LED 3 ′ to emit light, the light incident on the end 1 ″ of the optical transmission rod 1 is transmitted to the end 1 ′ opposite to the incident end. On the other end 1 ″ side where the amount of light incident from the one end 1 ′ side of the rod 1 is reduced, light is incident from the other end 1 ″ side and is incident from the other end 1 ″ side. Even at the one end 1 ′ side where the amount of light is small, light is incident from the one end 1 ′ side. Therefore, in a state where individual light emitting LEDs are not provided at both ends of each of the two light transmission rods. Even if there is, light can be irradiated from the entire outer peripheral surfaces of the two light transmission rods.
[0024]
2 and 3 are views for explaining a state where the knurling is performed on the optical transmission rod 1 from a side and a cross section. In the present embodiment, knurling is performed by a workpiece having a processing portion having an opening angle of 90 ° V-shape, and hatched portions in the drawing are knurled by the workpiece. Also, a so-called notch is shown.
[0025]
Note that, in the present embodiment, an example in which an optical path changing portion is formed by applying knurling to an unprocessed optical transmission rod afterwards will be described. An optical path changing portion may be formed in advance at the stage of production. In other words, it was obtained by using an injection molding mold having an inner surface having an uneven surface in one direction, heating and melting an acrylic resin pellet, injecting and flowing into the mold, cooling and solidifying. An optical transmission rod may be used. Similarly, in such an optical transmission rod, an optical path changing portion is formed in a first region extending in a band shape in the longitudinal direction.
[0026]
Here, the optical path changing portion (hereinafter referred to as a notch) is a portion formed to change the traveling direction of light in the transmission process in the optical transmission rod, and by colliding with the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission rod. It does not refer to the properties of the material whose light traveling direction is changed.
[0027]
FIG. 2A is a side view of an outer peripheral surface of a portion where the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission rod 1 is knurled. The notch 5 is cut in a triangular shape having an opening angle θ = 90 °. The notch pitch interval is set to be about one fifth (0.2 A) of the outer diameter A of the optical transmission rod 1. The smaller the pitch interval, the larger the amount of emitted light can be. The wider the pitch interval, the smaller the amount of emitted light. Therefore, the pitch interval of the notches can be arbitrarily selected according to the required light amount of the emitted light, so that the notches are cut to about one-fifth (0.2 A) with respect to the outer diameter of the optical transmission rod 1. It is not limited to this.
[0028]
FIG. 2B is a diagram for explaining the traveling direction of light near the knurling provided on the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission rod 1. The arrow in the figure indicates the traveling direction of light in the process of transmitting light from the end to the other end in the light transmission rod 1. Θ indicates a critical angle, and is an angle between the normal 10 on the knurled processing surface 5 ′ and the optical path of the light 11 having a refraction angle of 90 ° before colliding with the knurled processing surface 5 ′. .
[0029]
Here, the critical angle is defined as Snell's law (n ₁ sin θ = n ₂ sin θ ₂ ) Gives the refraction angle θ ₂ = 90 ° is the value of θ. When the light is made to collide so that the incident angle becomes larger than the critical angle θ, the refraction angle becomes larger than 90 °, and the collided light can be totally reflected. By utilizing this property, it is possible to change the traveling direction of the light being transmitted inside the light transmission rod 1. Hereinafter, the traveling directions of the optical paths of the light that has collided with the knurled processing surface 5 'at a value greater than the critical angle θ and the light that has collided with a value smaller than the critical angle θ will be described.
[0030]
The light 12 is light that has collided (incident) with the knurled processing surface 5 ′ at an angle larger than the critical angle θ. Since it collides at an angle larger than the critical angle θ, it is totally reflected and proceeds to the outer peripheral surface side where the notch 5 is not formed. Furthermore, when the collision occurs at an angle smaller than the critical angle θ at the collision point of the outer peripheral surface where the notch 5 is not formed, the radiation is radiated to the outside, and when the collision occurs at a large angle, the light is totally reflected and transmitted inside the optical transmission rod 1. The Rukoto.
[0031]
The light 13 is light that has collided (incident) with the knurled processing surface 5 ′ at an angle smaller than the critical angle θ. Since the collision occurs at an angle smaller than the critical angle θ, the light is emitted to the outside of the optical transmission rod 1.
[0032]
However, as a ratio in the traveling direction of the light that is being transmitted inside the light transmission rod 1, the light that collides with the knurled processing surface 5 ′ at an angle larger than the critical angle θ such as the light 12 is the light 13 It becomes more than the light that collides with the knurled processing surface 5 ′ at an angle smaller than the critical angle θ. This is because the angle of opening of the notch 5 is adjusted, or the inner surface shape of the connection pipe 2 is adjusted (for example, by tapering), and the like. The configuration is such that the ratio of collision with a large value is high.
[0033]
From the above, by providing knurling and providing the notch 5, the amount of emitted light can be made different between the outer peripheral surface subjected to knurling and the outer peripheral surface not subjected to knurling, Even if the same light transmission rod 1 is used, the amount and brightness of emitted light can be changed depending on the viewing direction. In other words, the traveling direction of the light that would otherwise be emitted from the outer peripheral surface on which the knurl was applied is changed by the notch 5, so that the amount of light emitted from the outer peripheral surface on which the knurl is applied is reduced by a small amount. And the amount of light emitted from the outer peripheral surface not subjected to knurling can be increased.
[0034]
It should be noted that as the opening angle θ of the notch 5 is larger, light in the transmission process collides with the processing surface 5 ′ at an obtuse angle and is reflected, so that the amount of light radiated from the outer peripheral surface not subjected to knurling is relatively small. More. When the opening angle θ of the notch 5 is small, the light in the transmission process collides with the processing surface 5 ′ at an acute angle, so that the light is radiated to the outside from the outer peripheral surface provided with the knurling, and the knurling is performed. The amount of light radiated from the outer peripheral surface that is not applied is relatively small. Therefore, the setting of the opening angle can be arbitrarily selected according to the required light amount, and is not limited to 90 °.
[0035]
FIG. 3A is a diagram for explaining a cross section of a portion where the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission rod 1 is knurled. The dimensions in the figure indicate the ratio between the notch depth of the notch 5 and the outer diameter. The notch depth of the notch 5 is set to be about eight minutes (0.08 A) of the outer diameter A of the optical transmission rod 1. Note that, as the depth of the notch 5 is increased, the emission range in which light is emitted from the outer peripheral surface on which the knurling is not performed can be relatively widened. Further, as the depth of the notch 5 is reduced, the emission range of light emitted from the outer peripheral surface on which the knurling is not applied is relatively narrowed, but the light transmission possible distance is increased, so that the end of the optical transmission rod 1 is increased. Light is easily transmitted to Therefore, since the setting of the depth of the notch 5 can be arbitrarily selected according to the required light emission range, the depth of the notch 5 is cut to about 8 minutes (0.08 A) with respect to the outer diameter of the optical transmission rod 1. It is not limited to lack.
[0036]
FIG. 3B is a diagram for explaining a cross-sectional shape of the optical transmission rod 1 at a position on the way of optical transmission. In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the middle part of the light transmission is a cross-section including the first region where the knurling is performed and the second region where the knurling is not performed. Not including section.
[0037]
The arrows in the figure indicate the traveling directions of the emitted light. As described above, the amount of light 14 radiated from the outer peripheral surface side not knurled is small, and the amount of light 15 radiated from the outer peripheral surface side not knurled is large. Further, according to Snell's law described above, the light 15 is refracted when emitted from the light transmission rod 1 into the air. Therefore, since the light 15 converges toward the focal point and then proceeds in a diverging direction, it can emit strong light over a wide range.
[0038]
FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of a gaming machine member that performs a light effect using a light transmission rod on which knurling has been performed.
[0039]
FIG. 4A shows a configuration of the gaming machine member 20 used in the present embodiment. The gaming machine member 20 includes a light emitting source LED for supplying light, and a light emitting portion of the light emitting source and a light emitting portion of the light transmitting rod interposed for enabling the light from the light emitting source LED to be supplied to the plurality of light transmitting rods without waste. Connecting members 24a, 24b, and 25 formed in a hollow shape that cover the space between the end portions, and six lights that receive light emitted from each light emitting source LED from the end portion and transmit the light to the other end portion. It comprises transmission rods 21a, 22a, 23a, 21b, 22b, 23b, and a mounting plate 26 for integrally mounting the assembled components to a game machine. The connecting member 25 in the present embodiment relays each of the light transmission rods 21a, 22a, 23a and each of the light transmission rods 21b, 22b, 23b, and emits light near the middle point of the gaming machine member 20. In order to compensate for the decrease in the amount of light from the source LEDs 21 ′, 22 ′, and 23 ′, supplementary LEDs 21 ″, 22 ″, and 23 ″ that supply light to the respective light transmission rods are provided. Light from ", 22", and 23 "is supplied to the light transmission rods 21a and 21b, the light transmission rods 22a and 22b, and the light transmission rods 23a and 23b, respectively. The optical transmission rod used for the gaming machine member 20 of the present embodiment is not a hollow member but a solid member formed in a solid shape.
[0040]
FIG. 4B is an enlarged view of the optical transmission rod 21 used for the gaming machine member 20 when viewed from the mounting plate 26 side.
[0041]
The outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission rod 21a used in the gaming machine member 20 is a first region (hereinafter referred to as a processed outer peripheral surface) in which a region of the optical transmission rod that spreads in a band along the longitudinal direction is knurled. , And a second region not subjected to knurling (hereinafter, referred to as a non-processed outer peripheral surface) complements each other.
[0042]
Here, the region that extends in a band along the above-described longitudinal direction will be described.
The region that extends in a band along the longitudinal direction is a straight line because the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical optical transmission rod 21a is a curved surface drawn by the movement of the straight line (generating line) 27. A region 28 on the outer peripheral surface surrounded by one straight line (bus) 27 and one of the other straight lines (bus) 27 ′ as a boundary. Therefore, even when the cylindrical optical transmission rod is deformed into a curved shape as in the present embodiment, the optical transmission rod does not become a region that spreads spirally. Sometimes, the processed outer peripheral surface and the non-processed outer peripheral surface do not alternately complicate. The range extending in the longitudinal direction may include at least a range that is exposed when the light transmission rod 21a and the connecting members 24a, 24b, and 25 are assembled, and also includes a range of the light transmission rod 21a that is concealed. It may be something. For example, as described with reference to FIG. 1A, it suffices that the range includes the exposed portion of the optical transmission rod 1 excluding the above-described insertion portion 4, and may include the insertion portion 4. In the present embodiment, the range determined in this way is a region that spreads in a band along the longitudinal direction.
[0043]
Further, the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission rod is configured by the processing outer peripheral surface and the non-processing outer peripheral surface complementing each other. That is, there is no possibility that the processed outer peripheral surface is formed over the entire outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission rod or that the processed outer peripheral surface is not formed at all. Further, a half of the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission rod may be constituted by a plurality of processed outer peripheral surfaces and a non-processed outer peripheral surface. For example, a half-peripheral portion of the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission rod is configured by alternately arranging the processed outer peripheral surface and the non-processed outer peripheral surface, or by continuously arranging the processed outer peripheral surfaces adjacent to each other. It may be.
[0044]
Further, the knurling in the present embodiment is performed such that the cutout groove is directed in a direction orthogonal to a straight line (generating line) 27 on the processing outer peripheral surface. The direction of the notch groove is not limited to the direction orthogonal to the straight line (generating line) 27, and the direction of the notch groove may be set in a direction oblique to the straight line (generating line) 27. That is, any direction may be used as long as the light being transmitted collides with the notch and can be totally reflected.
[0045]
As described above, by performing knurling on the outer peripheral surface in one direction, on the non-processing outer peripheral surface side, light whose traveling direction has been changed on the processing outer peripheral surface is emitted, so that strong light can be visually recognized. . In the present embodiment, by arranging the first area in which the optical path changing portion, which is the processed outer peripheral surface (the outer peripheral surface subjected to knurling), is formed toward the gaming machine, strong light is provided to the player. It can be recognized, enhancing the light effect. In addition, on the processing outer peripheral surface side, weak light is visually recognized because there is almost no light emitted by the notch. Further, when the notch is viewed from the side, almost no light can be visually recognized.
[0046]
FIG. 5 is a side view showing the vicinity of the connecting members 24a and 25. The light transmission rods 21a, 22a, 23a, the connecting member 24a, and the light emitting LEDs 21 ', 22', 23 'are integrally mounted on a plywood plate 27 on the game machine side for mounting various game machine members via a mounting plate 26. I have. The light transmission rods 21b, 22b, and 23b are connected to one end of the light transmission rods 21a, 22a, and 23a to which light from the light emitting LEDs 21 ', 22', and 23 'is supplied. In addition, a connecting member 25 capable of supplying light from the supplementary LEDs 21 ", 22", and 23 "is provided on both of the light transmission rods. Light is supplied from the supplementary LEDs 21 ", 22", and 23 "to the other ends of the light transmission rods 21a, 22a, and 23a where the light amount is relatively small. The amount of light to be irradiated can be made constant as a whole, and light production can be performed in a wide area, but production costs and running costs can be reduced. Further, the light transmission rods 21a, 22a, 23a, 21b, 22b, 23b in the present embodiment are arranged such that the processing outer peripheral surface faces the mounting plate 26 side and the non-processing outer peripheral surface faces the player side. Although the surface is oriented in the normal direction of the mounting plate 26, depending on the position at which such a gaming machine member is mounted, the direction of the non-processed outer peripheral surface may cause the player's visual field range and the radiation range of the radiated light to overlap each other. Adjust and set as needed for more directions. For example, when used as a decorative lamp to be described later, by rotating about 20 degrees in the center direction of the gaming machine with respect to the normal direction of the mounting plate 26, it is possible to increase the ratio of the overlapping ranges described above.
[0047]
FIG. 6 is a view for explaining a cross-sectional shape of a connecting member 25 which is a component of the gaming machine member 20 described above. The connecting member 25 in the present embodiment relays the light transmission rod 21a and the light transmission rod 21b on the other end side where the amount of light from the light emitting source LED 21 ′ that supplies light from one end of the light transmission rod 21a decreases. The light from the supplementary LED 21 ″ can be supplied to the two light transmission rods 21a and 21b while the light transmission rods 21a and 21b are described here, but the light transmission rods 22a, 22b, 23a, and Since the same applies to 23b, the description is omitted.
[0048]
The connecting member 25 is formed of metal. Therefore, the connecting member is excellent in durability and can be used semi-permanently. For example, when the optical transmission rods 21a and 21b are inserted and removed, the inner surfaces of the insertion portions 31 and 33 are worn, and the light-exchanging portions are used from the worn portions. Inconvenience such as leakage of light emitted from the LED 21 ″ can be prevented.
[0049]
The connecting member 25 has insertion portions 31 and 33 having inner diameters substantially matching the outer diameters of the light transmission rods 21a and 21b and covering the ends of the light transmission rods 21a and 21b. I have. Thus, even when the supplementary LED 21 ″ and the light transmission rods 21a, 21b are inserted into the respective insertion portions 31, 33, they are configured to have the same diameter as each other and to cover the insertion portions 31, 33. Therefore, light can be transmitted at the insertion portion without leaking out.
[0050]
Further, on the inner surface side of the connecting member 25, a hole penetrating from the above-described insertion portion 31 to the insertion portion 33 is provided, and one end of the optical transmission rod 21 inserted into each of the insertion portions 31, 33 is provided. A space surrounded by the light emitting source LED 21 ″, that is, a hollow light transmission path 136 is formed. This prevents an inconvenience that is lost in the process of transmitting the light emitted from the light emitting source LED 21 ″. Thus, it is possible to reliably emit a predetermined amount of light required for the light effect of the game from the light transmission rod.
[0051]
The light transmission path 136 is provided with a light reflection portion 32 for reflecting light from the supplementary LED 21 ″ in opposite end directions of the light transmission rods 21a and 21b, and for efficiently entering the light. The light reflecting portion 32 has a raised shape with a vertex at a position directly opposite to the supplementary LED 21 ″ in order to divide the light from the supplementary LED 21 ″ into two. The light reflecting surface 36 has a gentle curved shape from the apex of the light reflecting portion 32 toward the insertion portions 31 and 33 so that light from "" can be reflected toward the respective ends of the light transmission rods 21a and 21b. Have been. In addition, the light reflection surface 36 in the present embodiment is formed by plating the surface of the light reflection portion 32 to improve the light reflectance. Such plating refers to plating for obtaining a metal surface having an attribute indicating a property of regular reflection of light on the surface of an object. For example, by plating the surface of the light reflecting portion 32 with nickel, copper, silver, gold, or the like, the surface can be finished to a glossy mirror surface and the light reflectance is improved. The light reflecting portion 32 and the light reflecting surface 36 serve as insertion stoppers for keeping the insertion margin of the light transmission rods 21a and 21b constant. To prevent light leakage due to incomplete insertion, to prevent light from the supplementary LED 21 "from being inserted too much, to contact the supplementary LED 21" and to be damaged, etc. The plating is not limited to plating only on the light reflection surface, and plating may be performed on the entire inner surface of the connection member serving as the light transmission path described above. Department And the light emitted from the light emitting source LED / light supplement LED can be efficiently transmitted to the light transmission rod. The light reflectance may be improved by mirror-finish the inner surface of the member.
[0052]
FIG. 7 is a diagram for describing an example of another gaming machine member using the above-described connecting member 25. Note that, also in the gaming machine member described here, an optical transmission rod having a processed outer peripheral surface is used similarly to the gaming machine member 20, and other portions common to the contents described with reference to FIGS. Will not be described.
[0053]
FIG. 7A illustrates a gaming machine member 40 in which a light-emitting source LED 42 is provided via a connecting member 25 on a light transmission rod 41 formed in a circular shape such that both end portions 41 ′ and 41 ″ are close to each other. By only causing the light emitting source LED 43 to emit light, light can be incident on both end portions 41 ′ and 41 ″ of the light transmission rod 41, and up to the end portions opposite to the incident end portions, respectively. The light can be emitted from the circular light transmission rod 41 by being transmitted. As a result, light is incident from the other end 41 ″ side also on the other end 41 ″ side where the amount of light incident from the one end 41 ′ side of the optical transmission rod 41 is reduced, and the other end 41 ″. Even at the one end 41 ′ side where the amount of light incident from the side is reduced, light is incident from the one end 41 ′ side, so even if only one light emitting source LED is provided, it is circular. Light can be irradiated from the entire outer peripheral surface of the light transmission rod 41.
[0054]
FIG. 7 (b) shows one end 44 ′ of the light transmission rod 44 and the other end 45 ″ of the light transmission rod approached, and the other end 44 ″ of the light transmission rod 44 and one end 45 ′ of the light transmission rod. In order to explain a gaming machine member 43 in which light-supplying LEDs 46 and 47 are provided via connecting members 25 to light transmission rods 44 and 45 formed in a semicircular shape so that they can be arranged in a circle by bringing them closer to each other. FIG. By only causing the supplementary LEDs 46 and 47 to emit light, light can be incident on the one ends 44 ′ and 45 ″ and the one ends 44 ″ and 45 ′ of the light transmission rods 44 and 45, respectively. By transmitting the light to the ends opposite to the portions, the light amounts can be complemented, and a constant amount of light can be emitted from the semicircular light transmission rods 44 and 45.
[0055]
FIG. 7C is a view for explaining a gaming machine member 48 in which two optical transmission rods 49 and 50 are arranged to be orthogonal. The light emitting source LEDs 52 are provided on the one end portions 49 ′ and 50 ′ of the light transmission rods 49 and 50 via the connecting member 24, respectively, and the other end portions 49 ″ and 50 ′ which are close to the light transmission rods 49 and 50. The light supplement LED 51 is provided on the “” side via a connecting member 53. By causing the light-emitting source LED 52 and the supplementary LED 51 to emit light, the incident light is transmitted to the end opposite to the incident end. Thus, the light emitted from the supplementary LED 51 can be supplemented from the other end portions 49 ″ and 50 ″ where the amount of light from the light emitting source LED 52 is reduced, and the connection member can compensate the light from the supplementary LED 51. Since the light can be efficiently input into the light transmission rods 49 and 50 by dividing into two, the light amount irradiated from the entire outer peripheral surface of the light transmission rods 49 and 50 can be kept constant while the number of light emitting sources LED is reduced to a small number. In addition, production costs and running costs can be reduced. Here, an example in which the two optical transmission rods 49 and 50 are orthogonal to each other has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the optical transmission rods 49 and 50 may intersect at any angle such as 45 ° or 30 °. In that case, the opening angle of the insertion opening of the connecting member may be adjusted. In addition, the connecting member is not limited to two, and may be configured so that a plurality of optical transmission rods such as three or four can be attached.
[0056]
FIG. 8 is a front view of a pachinko gaming machine 101 provided with a frame lamp similar to the gaming machine member described above.
[0057]
The pachinko gaming machine 101 has an outer frame 162a formed in a vertically elongated rectangular shape, and a front frame which is pivotally supported inside the outer frame 162a so as to be openable and closable and in which the main components of the pachinko gaming machine 101 are collectively provided. 162b, a frame-shaped glass door frame 102 provided on the front upper portion of the front frame 162b so as to be openably and closably supported, a hit ball supply tray 103 below the glass door frame 102, and a hit ball supply tray 103 A surplus ball tray 104 for storing prize balls overflowing from the hitting ball supply tray 103 and a hitting operation handle (operation knob) 105 for firing a hitting ball are provided at a lower portion. A game board 106 is detachably mounted behind the glass door frame 102. A game area 107 is provided on the front of the game board 106. This will be described later with reference to FIG. In addition, two speakers 127 that emit sound effects are provided at upper left and right sides outside the game area 107. Note that, in the present embodiment, an example is described in which the game board 103 is detachably attached to the front frame 162b, and a game area 107 is formed on the game board 103 by attaching a nail, an accessory, or the like. However, a nail or an accessory may be directly attached to the front frame to form a game area.
[0058]
On the upper outer periphery of the game area 107, there are provided frame lamps 128a and 128b capable of performing light effects such as lighting and blinking over a wide range according to the progress of the game, and frame lamps 128c and 128d on the left and right sides of the frame lamps. I have. The frame lamps 128a, 128b, 128c, and 128d are respectively composed of the above-described light transmission rod, light emitting source, and connecting members 180, 181, 181 ', and 182 (see FIGS. 4, 7 and the like) for combining these. I have. The connecting member 180 is a member provided to supply the light from the light emitting source LED to the upper end of the light transmission rod 128c. The connecting member 181 is a member provided to supply light from the supplementary LED to the lower end of the light transmission rod 128c and the left end of the light transmission rod 128a. Similarly, the connecting member 181 ′ is a member provided to supply the right end of the light transmission rod 128b and the lower end of the light transmission rod 128d. The connection member 182 is a member provided to supply light from the supplementary LED to the right end of the light transmission rod 128a and the left end of the light transmission rod 128b. As described above, by using the connecting members 181, 181 ′, and 182 that can supply the light from the supplementary LED to the two light transmission rods as means for making the light incident on the light transmission rod, the number of the light transmission rods can be reduced. The light emitting source LED and the light-supplying LED provide the player with a light effect in a wide area, and the other end in which the amount of light supplied from the light-emitting source LED and the light-supplying LED provided at one end is reduced. Since light can be supplemented from the unit side, production costs and running costs can be reduced.
[0059]
Further, in the present embodiment, since the non-processed outer peripheral surface is arranged so as to face the player side, strong light is emitted from each light transmission rod, and light is converged and diffused by the lens effect. In this way, the player can be made to recognize strong light through visual perception. Thus, even when the player is tired of the game and looks at another place, the frame lamp 128 can sufficiently emit strong light within the player's field of view, so that the player can concentrate on the game. It can lead to an interest improvement.
[0060]
In this example, a prize ball lamp 151 is provided at the center of the left side of the glass door frame 102 and is turned on when a prize ball is paid out. Is provided. The lamp and the like may be turned on and off using an optical transmission rod. In the present embodiment, in order to describe a gaming machine in which the front side above the gaming machine is covered with a glass door frame 102, an example in which frame lamps 128a, 128b, and 128c are provided on the glass door frame 102 as the gaming frame. However, the present invention is not limited to this. In a gaming machine in which the front side above the gaming machine is covered with two or more frames, each frame covering the front side as a game frame is formed by an optical transmission rod. A lamp may be provided. For example, for a gaming machine in which the upper front side of the gaming machine is covered by the glass door frame 102 and the front frame 162b, a frame lamp may be provided on the glass door frame 102 and the front frame 162b. Further, it may be provided on either the glass door frame 102 or the front frame 162b.
[0061]
FIG. 9 is a view for explaining a gaming area 107 provided on the front surface of the gaming board 106 of the pachinko gaming machine 101.
[0062]
Near the center of the game area 107, a variable display device 108 having a special symbol display section 109 is provided. At the upper part of the decoration of the variable display device 108, there is provided a decoration lamp 174 that changes the illumination light color depending on the part according to the effect performed by the special symbol display unit 109. The decorative lamp 174 is arranged such that the two light transmission rods are circular so that the ends of the light transmission rods formed in the above-described semicircle are close to or adjacent to each other. The light is supplied from one light source LED to the end of the light transmission rod. Thereby, since light can be emitted from the two light transmission rods by the two light emitting LEDs, a high-impact light effect can be provided to the player over a wide range at low cost, and the interest of the game can be improved. The connection member has the same configuration as that of FIG. 7B, except that the upper connection member is provided with a red LED, and the lower connection member is provided with a green LED. Light may be supplied. Thereby, since the occupation ratio, which is the ratio of the same color occupying from one end to the other end of the light transmission rod, can be changed, it is possible to provide a light effect that can be adjusted steplessly by light to the player. It is possible to further improve the interest of the game. Further, at the lower central part of the variable display device 108, a starting electric accessory 115 constituting a starting winning opening 114, and pass gates 111 are provided on both sides thereof. Further, a variable winning ball device 119 is attached below the starting winning port 114.
[0063]
The start winning ball that has entered the start winning port 114 is detected by a start port switch (not shown). When a hit ball is detected by the starting port switch, the special symbol of the variable display device 108 is variably started, and the appearance of a character, a big hit display, various notices, etc. which are advantageous to the player are displayed, and an effect for exciting the game. Is executed.
[0064]
Further, decorative lamps 125 are provided around the left and right sides of the game area 107 to perform effects such as lighting and blinking over a wide range according to the progress of the game. In the present embodiment, since the decorative lamp 125 has the same structure as the gaming machine member having the connecting member described with reference to FIG. 4 as a component, the same effect as described above can be obtained. Can be.
[0065]
In the game, the shot game ball is shot into the game area 107 by operating the hit ball operation handle 105 for shooting a hit ball, and the game is executed. Further, when the launched game ball wins the starting winning opening 114 or the like provided in the game area 107, the game ball is paid out to the player. Further, the variable display of the variable display device 108 is started, and when a specific display result is obtained, the gaming state (big hit) advantageous to the player is controlled.
[0066]
Next, main effects obtained by this embodiment will be described together.
As described above, the connection member that can make the light emitted from one light emitting source LED incident on at least one of the ends of the plurality of light transmission rods or the plurality of ends of the light transmission rod is used. As a result, light can be made incident from both ends of the light transmission rod to complement each other while minimizing the number of light emitting source LEDs, so that it is possible to provide a light effect with a wide range of impacts to the player, and to enjoy the game. Can be improved. Further, since the light effect can be executed while the number of light emitting source LEDs is reduced to a small number, the number and power consumption of the light emitting source LEDs to be installed can be reduced, and the production cost and running cost can be reduced.
[0067]
As described above, the light reflecting portion is provided in the light transmitting path of the connecting member, and the light reflecting surface is formed by plating the surface of the light reflecting portion. Thus, light emitted from one light emitting source LED is reflected in a plurality of directions by a reflection surface having a high reflectance, so that the light can be branched in different directions, and efficiently incident on the end of the light transmission rod. Can be.
[0068]
As described above, the light effect can be performed by using the light transmission rod having the property of transmitting light and lighting or blinking the game machine in accordance with the progress of the game. By simply providing a light emitting source LED for making light incident on one end or both ends of the light transmission rod, the light incident from the end is transmitted to the opposite end, so that a conventional scattered lamp is used. As compared with the light effect performed by turning on or blinking the light, continuous light can be emitted over a wider range, the visual sense of the player can be stimulated, and the interest can be improved.
[0069]
Further, such an effect is obtained by applying knurling to one outer peripheral surface of the above-described optical transmission rod and arranging the non-processed outer peripheral surface toward the player side or the processed outer peripheral surface so that strong light is emitted. Irradiates the player with a strong impression, or reduces the amount of light radiated directly to the player to achieve an unprecedented indirect lighting effect. It can be more remarkably exhibited.
[0070]
As described above, the knurling is performed by notching the outer peripheral side of one of the optical transmission rods with the workpiece. Thus, by changing the workpiece, it is possible to adjust the amount of light, the brightness, and the emission range of the emitted light, realize various light effects, and enrich the types of light effects. .
[0071]
As described above, the connecting member is formed from metal. Thereby, it is excellent in durability, and for example, it is possible to prevent a problem that a part where the light emitting source LED is inserted is damaged and light is leaked from the damaged part.
[0072]
As described above, the configuration is such that a plurality of optical transmission rods can be attached to one connecting member. Thus, it is not necessary to prepare a number of connecting members corresponding to the plurality of optical transmission rods, and the number of components can be reduced. In addition, since it is possible to assemble simply by attaching a plurality of optical transmission rods to the integral connecting member, it is possible to prevent inconvenience such as scattering of parts.
[0073]
As described above, an optical transmission rod whose cross-sectional shape is a perfect circle is used. As a result, it is possible to prevent a boundary of light from being generated because no corner exists. In addition, since the emitted light is converged and diffused so that it can be emitted over a wider range by the lens effect peculiar to the circle, when the non-processed outer peripheral surface is arranged toward the player, the stronger light is recognized by the player visually. When the processing outer peripheral surface is arranged to face the player, the processing surface is flat, so that a lens effect does not occur and a more indirect lighting effect can be exerted.
[0074]
As described above, the light transmission rod is used for the frame lamp 128 of the gaming machine, the decorative lamp 125 and the decorative lamp 174 which are the surface members of the game board. Thereby, the light effect can be radiated over a wide range according to the game effect, and the fun of the player can be improved by incorporating a more dynamic light effect as a part of the game effect. Furthermore, in the former case, not only the player but also the surrounding people can show a light effect, and not only the effect of the game machine but also the effect of the island in the game hall can be performed by the light. Since the light effect is provided at a position close to the player, the light effect can be more easily recognized.
[0075]
Second embodiment
Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the above-described first embodiment, an example has been described in which the light emitted from the light emitting source is connected to the pachinko game machine using the connecting member that transmits the light to the plurality of ends of the light transmission rod. In the second embodiment, an example will be described in which such a connecting member is used for a slot machine or a slot machine using a pachinko ball.
[0076]
FIG. 10 is a view for explaining a cross-sectional shape of a connecting member which is a component of a gaming machine member used in the present embodiment. Note that the same reference numerals are given to the same contents as those of the connecting member described with reference to FIG.
[0077]
The connecting member according to the present embodiment includes a socket stopper member 80 formed of a synthetic plastic resin that does not transmit light, and a front cover 81 formed of an acrylic resin that transmits light. The socket stop member 80 and the front cover 81 are formed so that the connection member is integrated by fitting the protrusion and the recess provided to each other. As described above, since the connecting member in the present embodiment is formed of resin, the molding can be easily performed.
[0078]
FIG. 10A is a diagram for explaining a connecting member capable of performing a light effect using the connecting member. The front cover 81 of the connecting member 82 is provided with a light reflecting portion 83 for splitting light from the supplementary LED 21 ″ in opposite end directions of the light transmission rods 21 a and 21 b and efficiently entering the light. In addition, the surface of the light reflecting portion 83 is plated to improve the reflectance, so that the light reflecting surface 36 is plated with the light reflecting surface 36 so that the light is incident without being reflected. The light incident surface 35 of the connecting member 82 allows the light from the supplementary LED 21 ″ to enter the front cover 81 and irradiate the light from the entire front cover 81. Therefore, in addition to irradiating the light from the supplementary LED 21 ″ from the light transmission rods 21a and 21b, the light can also be radiated from the connecting member 82, and the two light transmission rods 21a and 21b are connected by the member. It is possible to execute a continuous light effect in spite of being.
[0079]
FIG. 10B is a diagram for explaining a connecting member that can be colored with light incident on the optical transmission rod. The front cover 85 of the connecting member 84 is provided with a light reflecting portion 86 for splitting light from the supplementary LED 21 ″ in opposite end directions of the light transmission rods 21a and 21b and for efficiently entering the light. The surface of the light reflecting portion 86 is constituted by the light reflecting surface 36 by being plated to improve the reflectance, and is provided on the connecting member 84 to be provided with the light transmitting rod. A red filter 87 for making the light incident on the ends of the optical transmission rods 21a and 21b red and a blue filter 88 for making the blue light are attached to the insertion portions 31 and 33 for inserting the ends of the light transmission rods 21a and 21b. Can be colored into light of the same color emitted from the supplementary LED 21 ″, a light effect can be performed with blue light from the light transmission rod 21 a, and red light can be performed from the light transmission rod 21 b. It is possible to perform the light effects by light. Note that the color filter in the present embodiment is a transparent thin paper sheet, and uses a colored so-called cellophane. However, the color filter is not limited to this, and may be a dichroic filter, a color filter, a lighting fixture coloring filter, or the like. Any visible light may be used as long as it transmits only light of a specific wavelength and absorbs light of other wavelengths. Further, the filter is not limited to the filter previously attached to the connecting member 84, but may be a filter attached to the ends of the light transmission rods 21a and 21b. What is necessary is just to be in the process until the light from the light emitting source LED 21 ″ is incident on the end of the light transmission rod.
[0080]
FIG. 11 is an overall front view of the slot machine 201. The front door 202 of the slot machine 201 can be opened by rotating a predetermined key inserted into the keyhole of the locking device 253 clockwise. The front door 202 is provided with an upper front decorative frame 208 and a lower front decorative frame 209.
[0081]
The upper front decorative frame 208 includes an upper portion provided with the game effect lamp portions 230a to 230e and the winning symbol explanation display panel 205, a substantially elliptical middle portion provided with the game panel 206 and various display portions, and a game panel. The lower part 206 is formed so as to protrude from the lower part to the front side, and is provided with a medal insertion part 251, various operation buttons 243 to 246, 241 L, 241 C, 241 R, a start lever 242 and the like.
[0082]
The winning symbol explanation display panel 205 is provided with effect frame lamps 271a, 271b, 271c, 271d. Each of the frame lamps 271a, 271b, 271c, and 271d is composed of the above-described light transmission rod, light emitting source, and connecting members 281 and 282 that combine the light transmitting rod and the light emitting source (see FIGS. 4, 7, and 10 (a)). Lights for various effects are emitted. The connecting member 281 is a member provided to supply light from the light emitting source LED to the respective ends of the light transmitting rods 271a and 271b and the light transmitting rods 271c and 271d. This is a member provided to supply light from the optical transmission rods 271a and 271c to the respective ends of the optical transmission rods 271b and 271d. As described above, by using the connecting members 281 and 282 capable of supplying the light from the light emitting source LED to the two light transmitting rods as a means for making the light incident on the light transmitting rod, a small number of the light emitting source LEDs can be used. While providing light effects to the player in a wide area, it is also possible to supplement light from the other end side where the amount of light supplied from the light emitting source LED provided at one end side is reduced, so that production costs and running costs are reduced. Reduction can be achieved. Further, since the connecting members 281 and 282 use a front cover member formed of an acrylic resin that transmits light, light is also emitted from the connecting members 281 and 282. A continuous light effect can be provided, and the interest of the game can be improved.
[0083]
Further, in the present embodiment, since the non-processed outer peripheral surface is arranged so as to face the player, strong light is emitted from each of the light transmission rods, and the emitted light is converged and converged by a refractive index unique to a circle. By radiating a wide area by diffusing, the player can be made to recognize strong light through vision. Therefore, the player can always be alerted.
[0084]
Further, around the frame lamps 271a, 271b, 271c, 271d, the above-mentioned gaming effect lamps 230a to 230e, a lower right diagonal gaming effect lamp 233, and a lower left diagonal gaming effect lamp 234 are provided. ing. As a result, strong light over a wide range can be emitted from the frame lamps 271a, 271b, 271c, and 271d, and a single light can be emitted from each of the game effect lamps so as to make it stand out from the surroundings. The light effect can be enhanced.
[0085]
Below the lower front decorative frame 209, a medal payout hole 254 for paying out a medal as an example of a game medium and the above-described lower speaker portion 259 are formed. A diagonally lower left gaming effect lamp portion 236 is provided diagonally below and below the start lever 242, and a diagonally lower right gaming effect lamp portion 235 is provided diagonally below and to the right of the medal jam release button 246.
[0086]
The game panel 206 has a left reel 204L, a middle reel 204C, and a right reel 204R provided on the main body side of the slot machine 201, and a see-through window through which the decorative light transmission rods 272 and 273 provided between the reels can be seen. 240, small part notification display portions 224, 225, and 226 located above the see-through window 240, and one bet display portion 221 and two bet display portions 222a, 222b, and three sheets located on the left side of the see-through window 240. The bet display units 223a and 223b, the game over display unit 214, the replay display unit 215, the weight display unit 216, the start display unit 217, and the insertion instruction display unit (also referred to as an insert medal display unit) located on the right side of the see-through window 240. ) 218, a credit display unit 211, a game count display unit 212 located below the see-through window 240, and And layouts display unit 213 is provided.
[0087]
An effect lamp 291a is provided on the left side of the see-through window 240, an effect lamp 291b is provided on the upper side, and an effect lamp 291c is provided on the right side. Each of the effect lamps 291a, 291b, and 291c is composed of the above-described light transmission rod, a light emitting source, and a connecting member 292 that combines the light transmitting rod and the light emitting source (see FIGS. 4, 7, and 10 (b)). Light is emitted. Each connecting member 292 is a member provided to supply light from the light emitting source LED to each end of the light transmission rods 291a and 291b and the light transmission rods 291b and 291c. As described above, by using the connecting member 292 capable of supplying the light from the light emitting source LED to the two light transmitting rods as a means for making the light incident on the light transmitting rod, the light emitting source LED can be broadened by a smaller number of light emitting source LEDs. While providing light effects to the player in the area, it is also possible to supplement light from the other end side where the amount of light supplied from the light emitting source LED provided at one end side is reduced, so that production cost and running cost Can be reduced. Further, since the connecting member 292 is provided with a filter of a different color for each insertion opening for inserting the optical transmission rod, it is possible to color light incident on each optical transmission rod, Light effects with different colors can be executed by the rod, and the interest of the game can be improved.
[0088]
Each of the decorative light transmission rods 272 and 273 is composed of the above-described light transmission rod, light-emitting source, and a connecting member (see FIG. 4 and the like) for combining the light transmission rod and the light-emitting source. Various effects light is emitted in correspondence with the rotation of 204C and 204R and the appearance. In the present embodiment, since the non-processed outer peripheral surface is arranged so as to face the player, strong light is emitted from each light transmission rod, and the emitted light is converged and diffused by the lens effect. Therefore, it is possible to make the player recognize a strong light visually. Further, the shape of the light transmission rod in the portion that can be seen from the player side is arranged to be a circle, similarly to the reels 204L, 204C, 204R. Thereby, the diagonally upper forward direction from the outer peripheral surface of the light transmission rod near the upper part of the reel, the horizontal forward direction from the outer peripheral surface of the light transmission rod near the middle part of the reel, and the outer peripheral surface of the light transmission rod near the lower part of the reel. Since light is emitted diagonally downward and forward, light can be emitted over a wide range even in the vertical direction, and it is possible to concentrate on the game.
[0089]
The decorative light transmission rods 272 and 273 may be fixed to the main body separately from the reels 204L, 204C and 204R, or provided on the side edges of the reels and driven by the reels. It may be driven to rotate.
[0090]
In addition, around the decorative light transmission rods 272 and 273, the above-described diagonally upper right game effect lamp portion 233, the diagonally upper left game effect lamp portion 234, the right game effect lamp portions 231a and 231b, and the left portion. Game effect lamps 232a and 232b are provided. Thus, the same effect as described above for the frame lamp 271 can be obtained.
[0091]
In addition, each game is set by operating the start lever 242 after setting the number of bets by inserting medals into the medal insertion portion 251 or by operating the BET buttons 243 and 244 when there is a credit. The reels 204L, 204C, 204R start rotating at the same time, and the game is started. After the game is started, when the spinning reel is stopped, each stop button 241L, 241C, 241R is operated. Even when no operation is performed, the reels 204L, 204C, and 204R automatically stop sequentially in a priority order of, for example, 204L, 204C, and 204R after a predetermined fluctuation time elapses, and the stop buttons 241L and 241C. , 241R are turned off in the order of 410L, 410C, 410R.
[0092]
At the time when all the reels 204L, 204C, 204R are stopped, the validity determined according to the bet number among the three stages of the upper, middle, and lower stages of the reels 204L, 204C, 204R visually recognized from the see-through window 240. The presence or absence of a prize is determined by the combination of the symbols located on the winning line. When the bet number is 1, only the pay line in the middle row on the variable display section is a valid pay line. When the bet number is 2, three horizontal pay lines in the upper, middle, and lower rows of the variable display section are activated lines. When the bet number is 3, a total of five pay lines, ie, three horizontal rows and two diagonally opposite rows in the variable display section, are activated lines.
[0093]
The combination of the symbols on the activated line becomes a predetermined specific display mode (for example, three "bells", three "7s", etc.) and a winning (for example, a big bonus winning, a small role) When a prize is generated, various game effect lamp portions including a frame lamp 271 using an optical transmission rod and decorative light transmission rods 272 and 273 blink in a predetermined manner, and a sound effect is output from a speaker. Directing is done. Then, the medals corresponding to the winning are paid out as credits, and the credit number of the credit display unit 211 is added and updated. The payout display section 213 displays the number of payouts. When the number of credits reaches the upper limit (= 50), medals are directly paid out from the medal payout hole 254.
[0094]
As described above, with reference to FIG. 13, an example has been described in which a light effect is produced by radiating strong light using a light transmission rod knurled in a slot machine using a medal as a game medium, but is not limited thereto. It may be a slot machine using a pachinko ball as a game medium (hereinafter referred to as a slot machine using a pachinko ball), and a similar light effect can be achieved.
[0095]
A slot machine using a pachinko ball is a gaming machine of a type in which a predetermined number of pachinko balls are bet on a game by operating a switch, and a predetermined number of pachinko balls are paid out according to the result of the game. Therefore, it has almost the same structure as the slot machine described above, but stores the prize ball discharged from the prize ball discharge port on the upper side of the lower front decorative frame of the front door in order to use the pachinko ball as a game medium. A supply tray leading toward the intake port and a surplus ball tray for storing pachinko balls overflowing from the supply tray are provided further below the lower part.
[0096]
In the game, by operating the BET button, the pachinko balls stored in the supply tray are taken in, and after the number of bets is set, each reel starts rotating simultaneously by operating the start lever, The game is started. Since the game content is almost the same as the game content of the slot machine, the description is omitted.
[0097]
Next, main effects obtained by this embodiment will be described together.
As described above, the color filter is provided in the insertion opening of the connecting member between the end of the light transmission rod and the light emitting source LED. Thereby, the color of the light supplied from the light emitting source LED can be colored, and the interest of the game by the light effect can be improved.
[0098]
As described above, light can be made incident on the light reflecting portion and light can be emitted from the light reflecting portion. Thus, the light effect can be performed not only by the light transmission rod but also by the light reflection unit, and a continuous light effect can be provided to the player by the plurality of light transmission rods and the light reflection unit.
[0099]
In the second embodiment described above, the same technical effect as that of the first embodiment can be obtained for the configuration based on the technical idea common to the first embodiment.
[0100]
Next, modifications and features of the above-described embodiment will be enumerated below.
(1) In the above-described embodiment, an example is described in which an LED is used as a light emitting source that supplies light to an end of a light transmission rod. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a prize ball lamp 151, a ball cut lamp 152, and a game The light used for the effect lamps 230a to 230e may be used to supply light to the end of the light transmission rod. Thus, by preparing one type of lamp, a ball-and-ball game machine and a slot machine can be manufactured, and a large amount can be purchased, thereby reducing costs. Also, at the time of assembling, it is possible to prevent the LED and the lamp from being mistaken, so that the efficiency of the assembling operation can be improved.
[0101]
(2) In the above-described embodiment, an example is described in which one outer circumferential surface of the optical transmission rod is knurled and the non-processed outer circumferential surface is arranged toward the player. However, the present invention is not limited to this. You may make it arrange | position an outer peripheral surface toward a player. Thus, the traveling direction of the light that should be emitted to the player side is emitted from the outer peripheral surface opposite to the light transmission rod, so that the amount of light emitted directly to the player side can be reduced. Further, since strong light is radiated from the outer peripheral surface opposite to the light transmission rod, it is possible to realize an indirect lighting light effect that has not been achieved for the player.
[0102]
(3) In the above-described embodiment, an embodiment has been described in which one light emitting source is provided to one optical transmission rod via a connecting member to supply light, but the present invention is not limited to this. The light emitting sources of three colors may be attached to the individual connecting members, and the connecting members may be configured to supply light emitted from the light emitting sources of three colors to one optical transmission rod. FIGS. 12A and 12B show an example of the connecting member 150, wherein FIG. 12A is a side view and FIG. 12B is a top view of the connecting member 150. In this way, by combining the light emitting sources to emit light, the color of the irradiation light emitted from each of the light transmission rods on which the light reflected by the light reflecting surface of the light reflecting portion is incident can be freely changed to a game state. A matched color can be emitted. In addition, the amount of light, the brightness, and the emission range can be adjusted by adjusting the notch of the optical transmission rod, and the emission color can also be adjusted, so that the interest in the game can be further improved. The control for causing the light emitting source to emit light may be controlled by game control means for controlling the progress of the game or effect control means for controlling the effect of the game. Further, the light transmission rod is not limited to one light transmission rod, and may be a plurality of light transmission rods. Further, one light source may be capable of emitting a plurality of colors.
[0103]
(4) In the embodiment described above, in order to make the light emitted from the light emitting source incident on the light transmitting rod, a hollow shape interposed so as to cover both the light emitting portion of the light emitting source and one end of the light transmitting rod. Although the embodiment in which the light transmission path is provided so that light does not leak outside has been described, the light transmission path is not limited to this, and the light transmission path extends from the end surface of the light transmission rod to the surface of the light source. The light transmission path may be a solid light transmission path in which a substance having a low absorptance (for example, acrylic or methacryl) is provided. Further, the end surface of the light transmission rod may be processed so as to cover the light emitting portion surface of the light emitting source, and may be directly wrapped.
[0104]
(5) In the above-described embodiment, a workpiece having a processing portion having an opening angle of 90 ° V-shape is used when knurling is performed. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Using a workpiece having a portion (see FIG. 13), the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission rod may be knurled. Depending on the shape of the notch, the amount of light emitted, the brightness, and the range of radiation can be slightly varied, so that the effect patterns of the light effect can be enriched. Further, these plural kinds of notches may be processed so as to be randomly included in one optical transmission rod.
[0105]
(6) In the above-described embodiment, the embodiment in which knurling is performed on a light transmission rod having a perfect circle has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and knurling may be performed on an optical transmission rod having an elliptical shape (FIG. 14 etc.). Thereby, it is possible to emit light more suitable for the mounting location. In other words, when it is a mounting location where the luminance and light amount of emitted light should be increased (for example, when it is arranged at the center of the gaming machine), knurling is performed so as to be parallel to the short axis of the ellipse (FIG. 14). (See FIG. 14A.) Also, when the mounting area is to be extended in the radiation range (for example, when it is arranged on the upper, lower, left and right sides of the gaming machine), knurling is performed so as to be parallel to the major axis of the ellipse (FIG. 14). (See (b)). In the former, since the processed surface formed by knurling is wide, the amount of emitted light increases and the luminance increases. In the latter, light reflected on the processed surface is radiated over a wide range by the lens effect.
[0106]
(7) In the above-described embodiment, the knurling is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission rod in one direction in the middle of light transmission, but is not limited to this. A plurality of outer peripheral surfaces such as an outer peripheral surface may be knurled (see FIG. 15). As a result, a larger amount of light can be concentrated and radiated from the outer peripheral surface where the knurling is not performed, but the light radiated directly and indirectly can be further emphasized. In addition, even when knurling is performed on a plurality of outer peripheral surfaces, since knurling is performed on a plurality of outer peripheral surfaces extending in a band shape in the longitudinal direction of the optical transmission rod, processing is performed when the optical transmission rod is viewed from one direction. The outer peripheral surface and the non-processed outer peripheral surface do not alternately complicate.
[0107]
(8) In the above-described embodiment, the embodiment in which the light transmission rod is used as the frame lamp on the front of the game frame or the decorative light transmission rod in the game area has been described. An optical transmission rod is embedded in the decorative surface (see the dotted line in FIG. 16) so that the light radiated from the direct special symbol display unit 109 is completely different from the light emitted from the special symbol display unit 109 to the player. It may be. Thereby, contrast can be provided between the display effect from the variable display device 108 and the light effect from the table decoration, and an unprecedented effect can be provided to the player. Further, the connecting members 53 described with reference to FIG. 7C are arranged at the four corners of the variable display device 108 so that the optical transmission rods arranged on four sides of the variable display device 108 can be connected to adjacent or adjacent ends. And the light from the light emitting source may be incident on a plurality of light transmission rods. Thereby, a light effect over a wide range surrounding the entire circumference of the special symbol display unit 109 can be provided to the player with a small number of light emitting sources, and production costs and running costs can be reduced.
[0108]
(9) In the above-described embodiment, as the opening angle θ of the notch is wider, the amount of light radiated from the outer peripheral surface on which the knurling is not performed is relatively large, and as the opening angle θ of the notch is narrower, the knurling is performed. It has been described that the amount of light radiated from the outer peripheral surface that is not applied is relatively small. By utilizing this, the amount of radiation emitted from the optical transmission rod can be made substantially uniform. That is, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of unevenness due to the difference in the amount of radiated light depending on the distance from the light emitting source in one optical transmission rod. Specifically, the opening angle θ of the knurled notch at a position relatively close to the light source is reduced (for example, 60 °), and the opening angle θ of the notch is gradually increased as the distance from the light source increases. The width may be widened (finally, for example, 120 °). The same effect can also be produced by providing the knurling interval narrower as the distance from the light source increases. The former reduces the proportion of light that collides with the notch at a location relatively close to the light source and radiates to the outside. It is due to the high. The latter is due to the fact that the opportunity to be radiated to the outside by the notch is suppressed at a location relatively close to the light emitting source, and the more opportunities to radiate are generated as the distance from the light emitting source increases.
[0109]
(10) The embodiments disclosed this time are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a light emitting source LED, a light transmission rod, and a connecting pipe.
FIG. 2 is a side view for explaining a state in which knurling is performed on the optical transmission rod.
FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining, from a cross section, a state in which knurling is performed on the optical transmission rod.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a gaming machine member using an optical transmission rod on which knurling has been performed.
FIG. 5 is a side view for explaining an example of a gaming machine member using an optical transmission rod on which knurling has been performed.
FIG. 6 is a view for explaining an example of a connecting member that is a component of the gaming machine member.
FIG. 7 is a view for explaining an example of another gaming machine member using the connecting member.
FIG. 8 is a front view of the pachinko gaming machine viewed from the front.
FIG. 9 is a front view of the gaming area of the pachinko gaming machine viewed from the front.
FIG. 10 is a view for explaining a cross-sectional shape of a connecting member which is a component of a gaming machine member according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a front view of the slot machine as viewed from the front.
FIG. 12 is a view for explaining a connecting member as a modification.
FIG. 13 is a side view for explaining a shape in which the optical transmission rod is knurled.
FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining, from a cross section, a state in which the elliptical optical transmission rod is knurled.
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a state where knurling is performed on a plurality of outer peripheral surfaces of the optical transmission rod.
FIG. 16 is a view for explaining a variable display device in which an optical transmission rod is embedded in a surface decoration portion.
[Explanation of symbols]
REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 light transmission rod, 2 connecting tube, 3 light emitting source LED, 20 gaming machine members, 24 a, 24 b, 25, 53, 82, 84, 150 connecting member, 32 light reflecting portion, 36 light reflecting surface, 128 frame lamp, 101 Pachinko machine, 125 decorative light transmission rod, 201 slot machine, 204 reel unit, 204L, 204C, 204R reel, 241L, 241C, 241R Stop button, 242 Start lever, 243 1 BET button, 244 MAX BET button, 291a, 291b , 291c Direction lamp.

Claims (5)

A ball game machine in which a game is performed by firing a game ball into a game area formed on a front surface of a game board,
A light-emitting source for supplying light;
An optical transmitter for transmitting light supplied to the one end from the light emitting source to the other end,
An outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission body has a first area in which an optical path changing part for changing the traveling direction of the received light spreading in a band shape along the longitudinal direction is formed and a second area in which the optical path changing part is not formed. It is composed of
The first region and the second region surround the entire periphery of the outer peripheral surface,
A ball-and-ball game machine comprising: a multi-end light incident means for simultaneously inputting light from the light emitting source to a plurality of ends of an optical transmission body. 2. The bullet according to claim 1, wherein the multi-end light incident unit includes a reflecting member that reflects light from the light emitting source on a light reflecting surface and enters the plurality of ends of an optical transmission body. Ball game machine. The said multiple end part light incidence means includes the colored light transmission member provided between the edge part of the said light transmission body or the said light transmission body, and the said light emission source, The Claim 1 or Claim characterized by the above-mentioned. 3. The ball and ball game machine according to 2. 3. The ball game machine according to claim 2, wherein the reflection member includes a light transmitting part that transmits light emitted from the light emitting source. The game can be started by setting the number of bets for one game, and the display result of the variable display device capable of changing the display state is derived and displayed, whereby the one game ends and the variable A slot machine capable of generating a predetermined prize according to a display result of a display device,
A light-emitting source for supplying light;
An optical transmitter for transmitting light supplied to the one end from the light emitting source to the other end,
An outer peripheral surface of the optical transmission body has a first area in which an optical path changing part for changing the traveling direction of the received light spreading in a band shape along the longitudinal direction is formed and a second area in which the optical path changing part is not formed. It is composed of
The first region and the second region surround the entire periphery of the outer peripheral surface,
A slot machine comprising: a multi-end light incident means for simultaneously inputting light from the light emitting source to a plurality of ends of an optical transmission body.

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