JP2004065721A - Game machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To remarkably improve the attractiveness in a game machine such as a pachinko game machine. <P>SOLUTION: A variable display device 14 is mounted almost at the central part in the game board 5 of the pachinko game machine 1. The variable display device 14 has a liquid crystal display part 20 and a center frame 21 disposed surrounding the liquid crystal display part 20. In the center frame 2, a stage part is mounted at the lower part thereof while a transparent or semi-transparent passage cover is mounted at the right part thereof and a ball guide passage which enables the guiding of the game balls B to the stage part is formed on the rear side of the passage cover. The passage cover is provided with a plurality of lens parts which are extended along one section of the ball guide passage while being arranged in parallel. Thus, the players can visually recognize the game balls B passing through the ball guide passage varying in the visual recognition shape through the lens parts. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a gaming machine such as a pachinko machine.
[0002]
Problems to be solved by the prior art and the invention
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as one type of gaming machine, a pachinko machine provided with a gaming board having a predetermined gaming area is known. In pachinko machines, the behavior of a game ball flowing down on the game board surface is visually recognized by the player, thereby improving the interest of the player.
[0003]
In recent years, pachinko machines in which a ball guide flow path for guiding a game ball to a predetermined position is provided on various devices such as a game board surface and a display device have been found. In many cases, the ball guide channel has a cylindrical shape from the entrance to the exit in order to enhance the guiding property of the game ball.
[0004]
In this case, the game ball passing through the ball guide flow path becomes difficult for the player to visually recognize, which may cause the player to feel uneasy, and the interest of the player who enjoys the behavior of the game ball decreases. There was a risk.
[0005]
In order to solve such a problem, there is also a gaming machine in which a part of the ball guide channel is opened to enhance visibility.
[0006]
However, the simple configuration described above can enhance the visibility of the game ball, but is not interesting in that the behavior of the game ball is enjoyed.
[0007]
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a gaming machine capable of improving the visibility of a game ball and dramatically improving interest.
[0008]
Means for Solving the Problems and Effects of the Invention
Means effective for achieving the above object are shown below. The operation and the like will be described as needed.
[0009]
Means 1. Firing means for firing a game ball;
A game board having a predetermined game area in which the launched game balls are guided,
In the game area, a game machine having a ball guide flow path capable of guiding a game ball to a predetermined position,
In at least one section of the ball guide flow path, at least one variable that allows a player to visually recognize a game ball passing through the one section while changing at least one of the shape and size of the viewing mode. A gaming machine comprising visual recognition means.
[0010]
According to the above means 1, the game balls passing through the ball guide flow path can be easily recognized by the player, and can be visually recognized while changing at least one of the shape and the size. Further, since the visual recognition mode of the game ball changes, it is easy to draw the player's attention, and the player can easily recognize that the game ball is passing through the ball guide channel. As a result, the player can visually recognize the game ball that passes while changing the visual recognition mode, so that the interest for the player can be dramatically improved.
[0011]
Means 2. In the means 1, the variable visual recognition means is configured to be visually recognized by the player such that the visual recognition mode of the game ball changes from a large change degree to a small change state as the game ball passes. A gaming machine characterized by: In addition, "the visual appearance of the game ball changes from a large change degree to a small one" means that the visual appearance that the size of the game ball is larger than the real size is changed to the visual size that is approximately the actual size. Change to an aspect. " Alternatively, it may be included that “the size of the game ball changes from a visual appearance that looks smaller than the actual size to a visual appearance that looks almost the same size as the actual size”. In this case, if the variable visual recognition means is provided at least in the vicinity of the lead-out portion of the ball guide channel, the visual recognition mode of the game ball changes to a mode in which it is seen to be substantially the actual size. In a state where the game ball B has returned to the full size, the player can visually recognize the game ball B so as to be drawn out of the ball guide channel. In this case, since the difference in the visual recognition mode of the game balls inside and outside the ball guide flow path is reduced, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable as much as possible.
[0012]
Means 3. In the means 1 or 2, a flow path cover covering at least one section of the spherical guide flow path is provided,
The gaming machine, wherein the flow path cover includes a lens portion having internal visibility formed along the ball guide flow path as the variable viewing means.
[0013]
According to the above means 3, since the flow path cover is provided with the lens portion serving as the variable viewing means, it is possible to prevent an increase in the number of components. Note that “having internal visibility” includes “being transparent or translucent”.
[0014]
Means 4. In the means 3, the gaming machine is characterized in that the lens portion is provided along the entire section or almost the entire section of the ball guide flow path.
[0015]
According to the above means 4, the movement of the game ball can be visually recognized by the player for a longer section, and the continuously changing visual recognition mode can be visually recognized by the player, which further enhances the interest. .
[0016]
Means 5. In the means 1 or 2, a flow path cover covering at least one section of the spherical guide flow path is provided,
The variable visual recognition means is a lens portion extending along at least one section of the ball guide flow path in the flow path cover, and having a plurality of parallel internal visibility.
A game ball can be guided from one lens portion to the other lens portion so that a game ball guided along one lens portion of the plurality of lens portions is guided along another lens portion. A gaming machine characterized by a simple guiding means.
[0017]
According to the above means 5, the game balls are guided stepwise along the plurality of lens portions, so that the player can enjoy various behaviors of the game balls and further enhance the interest.
[0018]
Means 6. In any one of the means 3 to 5, the lens portion may be a convex lens having a convex cross-sectional shape with respect to a longitudinal direction, and a curvature of a surface of the convex lens may be a downstream portion from an upstream portion of the spherical guide channel. A gaming machine characterized in that it is configured to become smaller as heading toward.
[0019]
According to the above means 6, the size of the game ball is visually recognized by the player so as to gradually decrease (to the size of the actual size). In addition, the lens portion may include a substantially planar portion in which the curvature of the surface of the convex lens is substantially equal to nothing. In this case, the game ball visually recognized through the portion is visually recognized in a substantially full size. If the lens portion is provided at least in the vicinity of the lead-out portion of the ball guide flow path, the visual appearance of the game ball changes to an appearance that looks substantially the same size as the actual size, In this state, the player can visually recognize the game ball B as being drawn out of the ball guide channel. In this case, since the difference in the visual recognition mode of the game balls inside and outside the ball guide flow path is reduced, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable as much as possible.
[0020]
Means 7. Firing means for firing a game ball;
A game board having a predetermined game area in which the launched game balls are guided,
In the game area, a ball guide channel capable of guiding a game ball to a predetermined position,
A game machine having a flow path cover that covers at least one section of the ball guide flow path,
The flow path cover includes a lens portion having internal visibility formed along at least one section of the ball guide flow path,
The lens portion is a convex lens having a convex cross-sectional shape with respect to its longitudinal direction, and is configured such that the curvature of the surface of the convex lens decreases from an upstream portion to a downstream portion of the spherical guide flow path. A gaming machine characterized by being made.
[0021]
According to the above means 7, the game balls passing through the ball guide channel are made visible to the player, and the size is gradually reduced from a size larger than the actual size (to a size of the actual size). Thus, the player can visually recognize the game ball while changing the visual recognition mode. If the lens portion is provided at least in the vicinity of the lead-out portion of the ball guide flow path, the visual appearance of the game ball changes to an appearance that looks substantially the same size as the actual size, In this state, the player can visually recognize the game ball B as being drawn out of the ball guide channel. In this case, since the difference in the visual recognition mode of the game balls inside and outside the ball guide flow path is reduced, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable as much as possible. Further, since the visual recognition mode of the game ball changes, it is easy to draw the player's attention, and the player can easily recognize that the game ball is passing through the ball guide channel. As a result, the player can visually recognize the game ball that passes while changing the visual recognition mode, so that the interest for the player can be dramatically improved. In addition, the lens portion may include a substantially planar portion in which the curvature of the surface of the convex lens is substantially equal to nothing. In this case, the game ball visually recognized through the portion is visually recognized in a substantially full size. Note that “having internal visibility” includes “being transparent or translucent”.
[0022]
Means 8. In the means 7, in the gaming machine, the lens portion is provided along an entire section or almost an entire section of the ball guide flow path.
[0023]
According to the above means 8, it is possible to make the player visually recognize the movement of the game ball in a longer section, and it is possible to make the continuously changing visual appearance mode visible to the player. .
[0024]
Means 9. Firing means for firing a game ball;
A game board having a predetermined game area in which the launched game balls are guided,
In the game area, a ball guide channel capable of guiding a game ball to a predetermined position,
A game machine having a flow path cover that covers at least one section of the ball guide flow path,
The flow path cover is provided along at least one section of the ball guide flow path, and includes a plurality of parallel lens units having internal visibility,
Each of the lens portions is a convex lens having a convex cross-sectional shape with respect to its longitudinal direction, and the curvature of the surface of the convex lens decreases as going from the upstream portion to the downstream portion of the spherical guide flow path. Composed,
A game ball can be guided from one lens portion to the other lens portion so that a game ball guided along one lens portion of the plurality of lens portions is guided along another lens portion. A gaming machine characterized by a simple guiding means.
[0025]
According to the above means 9, the game balls passing through the ball guide flow path are made visible to the player, and the size is gradually reduced from a size larger than the actual size (to a size of the actual size). Thus, the player can visually recognize the game ball while changing the visual recognition mode. If the lens portion is provided at least in the vicinity of the lead-out portion of the ball guide flow path, the visual appearance of the game ball changes to an appearance that looks substantially the same size as the actual size, In this state, the player can visually recognize the game ball B as being drawn out of the ball guide channel. In this case, since the difference in the visual recognition mode of the game balls inside and outside the ball guide flow path is reduced, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable as much as possible. Further, since the visual recognition mode of the game ball changes, it is easy to draw the player's attention, and the player can easily recognize that the game ball is passing through the ball guide channel. As a result, the player can visually recognize the game ball that passes while changing the visual recognition mode, so that the interest for the player can be dramatically improved. In addition, the lens portion may include a substantially planar portion in which the curvature of the surface of the convex lens is substantially equal to nothing. In this case, the game ball visually recognized through the portion is visually recognized in a substantially full size. In addition, since the game balls are guided stepwise along the plurality of lens units, the player can enjoy various behaviors of the game balls and further improve the interest. Note that “having internal visibility” includes “being transparent or translucent”.
[0026]
Means 10. In any one of the means 3 to 9, the lens unit is configured such that a distance from a game ball passing through the ball guide flow path becomes shorter as going from the upstream part to the downstream part of the ball guide flow path. A gaming machine characterized by:
[0027]
According to the above means 10, it becomes possible for the player to visually recognize the game ball so that the size of the game ball gradually decreases with a change in the positional relationship between the game ball and the focal point of the lens unit. In this case, without changing the curvature of the lens portion along the longitudinal direction, it is possible to change the visual recognition mode of the game ball, so that the configuration of the lens portion is further simplified and the molding thereof is more easily performed. Can be.
[0028]
Means 11. Firing means for firing a game ball;
A game board having a predetermined game area in which the launched game balls are guided,
In the game area, a ball guide channel capable of guiding a game ball to a predetermined position,
A game machine having a flow path cover that covers at least one section of the ball guide flow path,
The flow path cover includes a lens portion having internal visibility formed along at least one section of the ball guide flow path,
The lens portion is a convex lens having a convex cross-sectional shape with respect to its longitudinal direction, and a distance from a game ball passing through the ball guide passage toward the downstream portion from an upstream portion of the ball guide passage. A gaming machine characterized in that it is configured to be shorter.
[0029]
According to the above means 11, the game balls passing through the ball guide flow path can be visually recognized by the player, and the size thereof is larger than the actual size due to a change in the positional relationship between the game balls and the focal point of the lens unit. The game ball can be visually recognized by changing the visual recognition mode of the game ball so as to gradually decrease from the object (to the size of the actual size). If the lens portion is provided at least in the vicinity of the lead-out portion of the ball guide flow path, the visual appearance of the game ball changes to an appearance that looks substantially the same size as the actual size, In this state, the player can visually recognize the game ball B as being drawn out of the ball guide channel. In this case, since the difference in the visual recognition mode of the game balls inside and outside the ball guide flow path is reduced, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable as much as possible. Further, since the visual recognition mode of the game ball changes, it is easy to draw the player's attention, and the player can easily recognize that the game ball is passing through the ball guide channel. As a result, the player can visually recognize the game ball that passes while changing the visual recognition mode, so that the interest for the player can be dramatically improved. Note that “having internal visibility” includes “being transparent or translucent”. In this case, without changing the curvature of the lens portion along the longitudinal direction, it is possible to change the visual recognition mode of the game ball, so that the configuration of the lens portion is further simplified and the molding thereof is more easily performed. Can be.
[0030]
Means 12. In the means 11, in the gaming machine, the lens portion is provided along an entire section or almost an entire section of the ball guide flow path.
[0031]
According to the above means 12, the movement of the game ball can be visually recognized by the player for a longer section, and the continuously changing visual recognition mode can be visually recognized by the player, which leads to a further improvement in interest. .
[0032]
Means 13. Firing means for firing a game ball;
A game board having a predetermined game area in which the launched game balls are guided,
In the game area, a ball guide channel capable of guiding a game ball to a predetermined position,
A game machine having a flow path cover that covers at least one section of the ball guide flow path,
The flow path cover is provided along at least one section of the ball guide flow path, and includes a plurality of parallel lens portions having internal visibility,
Each of the lens portions is a convex lens having a convex cross-sectional shape with respect to a longitudinal direction thereof, and is directed toward a downstream portion from an upstream portion of the ball guide flow path with a game ball passing through the ball guide flow channel. The distance is configured to be shorter,
A game ball can be guided from one lens portion to the other lens portion so that a game ball guided along one lens portion of the plurality of lens portions is guided along another lens portion. A gaming machine characterized by a simple guiding means.
[0033]
According to the above means 13, the game balls passing through the ball guide flow path can be visually recognized by the player, and the size thereof is larger than the actual size due to a change in the positional relationship between the game balls and the focal point of the lens unit. The game ball can be visually recognized by changing the visual recognition mode of the game ball so as to gradually decrease from the object (to the size of the actual size). If the lens portion is provided at least in the vicinity of the lead-out portion of the ball guide flow path, the visual recognition mode of the game ball changes to a mode in which the game ball is viewed to be substantially the full size, In this state, the player can visually recognize the game ball B as being drawn out of the ball guide channel. In this case, since the difference in the visual recognition mode of the game balls inside and outside the ball guide flow path is reduced, it is possible to prevent the player from feeling uncomfortable as much as possible. Furthermore, since the visual recognition mode of the game ball changes, it is easy to draw the player's attention, and the player can easily recognize that the game ball is passing through the ball guide channel. As a result, by visually recognizing the game ball passing while changing the visual recognition mode, the interest for the player can be dramatically improved. In addition, since the game balls are guided stepwise along the plurality of lens units, the player can enjoy various behaviors of the game balls and further improve the interest. Note that “having internal visibility” includes “being configured to be transparent or translucent”. In this case, without changing the curvature of the lens portion along the longitudinal direction, it is possible to change the visual recognition mode of the game ball, so that the configuration of the lens portion is further simplified and the molding thereof can be performed more easily. Can be.
[0034]
Means 14. In any one of the means 3 to 13, the lens portion may be configured to be tapered from an upstream portion to a downstream portion of the ball guide flow path when viewed from the front of the gaming machine. A gaming machine characterized by:
[0035]
According to the above means 14, since the lens portion is tapered, the limit width at which the game ball can be expanded is gradually shortened toward the downstream portion. Therefore, it is possible to make the player visually recognize the size of the game ball so as to gradually decrease.
[0036]
Means 15. The gaming machine according to any one of means 3 to 14, wherein the lens portion is curved when viewed from the front of the gaming machine.
[0037]
According to the above-described means 15, since the lens portion is curved, the visual recognition mode of the game ball changes depending on the viewing angle of the player. As a result, the viewing modes of the game balls are diversified, which leads to a further improvement in interest.
[0038]
Means 16. In any one of the means 1 to 15, a specific game member is provided in the game area,
The specific game member includes a ball rolling portion capable of rolling game balls, and the ball guide flow path,
A gaming machine, wherein the ball guide flow path is configured to be capable of guiding a game ball flowing down the game area to the ball rolling section.
[0039]
According to the means 16, the configuration of the ball guide channel allows the player to be notified that the game ball is guided to the ball rolling section, and enjoys the behavior of the game ball in the ball rolling section. The player's expectation can be increased. Note that the specific game member includes a center frame surrounding a display device capable of variably displaying identification information.
[0040]
Means 17. In any one of the means 1 to 16, the gaming machine is a pachinko machine. Above all, as a basic configuration of a pachinko machine, an operation handle is provided, and a game ball is fired to a predetermined game area in accordance with the operation of the handle, and the game ball wins a predetermined prize means in the game area. When a specific condition is satisfied, a special game value is given.
[0041]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an embodiment of a pachinko gaming machine (hereinafter simply referred to as “pachinko machine”) will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0042]
As shown in FIG. 1, the pachinko machine 1 includes an outer frame 2 and a front frame 3 provided at a front portion of the outer frame 2 and supported by one side of the outer frame 2 so as to be openable and closable. .
[0043]
A glass door frame 4 is provided on the front side of the front frame 3 so as to be freely opened and closed. A game board 5 is detachably mounted on the rear side of the front frame 3 (in the back of the glass door frame 4 and inside the outer frame 2).
[0044]
Below the glass door frame 4, an upper plate 6 as a ball tray for storing game balls B is provided. In addition, a lower plate 7 as a ball tray is provided substantially at the center of the lower portion of the front surface of the front frame 3. At the side of the lower plate 7, a game ball firing handle 8 is provided. The handle 8 is connected to a game ball launching device (not shown) as a launching means. When the player rotates the handle 8, the game ball B is launched from the game ball launching device.
[0045]
A plurality of openings are formed in the gaming board 5 by being subjected to router processing. Each opening has a normal winning chucker 11, a variable winning device 12, an operating chucker 13, a variable display device 14, a through display. A chucker 15 and the like are provided.
[0046]
On one side of the game board 5, an inner rail 16a and an outer rail 16b for guiding a game ball B fired by the game ball launching device to an upper portion of the game board 5 are provided. In the vicinity of the lower end of the inner rail 16a, the game board 5 is formed with an out port 17 through which a game ball B is led out. Most of the game balls B flowing down to the lower part of the game board 5 are guided to a ball discharge path (not shown) through the outlet 17. In the present embodiment, the portion of the game board 5 which is surrounded by the inner rail 16a and the outer rail 16b and on which the variable display device 14 and the like are disposed is a game area where the game balls B can flow down.
[0047]
The variable display device 14 includes a liquid crystal display unit 20 as a display and a center frame 21 as a specific game member provided so as to surround the liquid crystal display unit 20.
[0048]
The liquid crystal display unit 20 displays, for example, three display columns of a left symbol column, a middle symbol column, and a right symbol column. Each symbol row is composed of a plurality of symbols as identification information, and these symbols are variably displayed so as to scroll for each symbol row.
[0049]
More specifically, the symbol on the liquid crystal display unit 20 of the variable display device 14 is variably displayed based on the game ball B entering the operation chucker 13 provided below the variable display device 14. Then, when the combination of stopped symbols becomes a specific combination set in advance, a special game value is given. In other words, a jackpot state occurs, and the big winning opening of the variable winning device 12 is in a predetermined open state (specifically, is opened for a predetermined time and a predetermined number of times), so that the game ball B is in a state where it is easy to win. Note that the variable winning device 12 is normally in a state where the game ball B cannot be won or is hardly won.
[0050]
Also, as is well known, a predetermined number of prize balls (game balls) are placed on the upper plate 6 or the lower plate 7 based on the game balls B entering the ordinary prize chucker 11, the variable prize device 12, and the operation chucker 13. B) is paid out. In addition, a large number of nails (however, the symbols are omitted for convenience) are implanted on the game board 5 for appropriately dispersing and adjusting the flowing direction of the game balls B, and various members (such as windmills) are used. Object) is arranged. The nail, the windmill, and the like constitute the guide means in the present embodiment.
[0051]
Next, the center frame 21 will be described with reference to FIGS. The center frame 21 has a front base frame 22 and a rear base frame 23 whose central portions penetrate in the front-rear direction, and has a frame shape as a whole.
[0052]
A substantially rectangular window frame portion 24 corresponding to the liquid crystal display portion 20 is formed at the center of the rear base frame 23. Around the window frame portion 24, a substantially flat upper plate portion 25, a right plate portion 26, a left plate portion 27, and a lower plate portion 28 extend from the front end thereof along the game board 5.
[0053]
The upper plate portion 25 has a left peripheral portion extending upward from the vicinity of the upper left end of the window frame portion 24 and an upper peripheral portion extending substantially from the vicinity of the left end portion of the window frame portion 24 to a substantially central portion in the left-right direction. It is formed along the upper side portion of the window frame portion 24, and the right peripheral portion is formed so as to be inclined downward from near the right end of the upper peripheral portion to near the upper right end of the window frame portion 24. .
[0054]
The upper edge of the right plate 26 is connected to the right edge of the upper plate 25 and inclined downward to the right. The right edge of the right plate 26 extends from the right end of the upper edge to the lower right end of the window frame 24. It is formed so as to be gently curved toward the vicinity of the portion, and has a shape that tapers downward as a whole.
[0055]
The left plate portion 27 has an upper peripheral portion extending leftward from the vicinity of the upper left end of the window frame portion 24, and a left peripheral portion slightly past a substantially central portion in the vertical direction from near the upper end portion of the window frame portion 24. So that the lower peripheral portion is gently curved from the lower end of the left peripheral portion to the vicinity of the lower left end of the window frame portion 24. Is formed.
[0056]
The lower peripheral portion of the lower plate portion 28 has a substantially arc shape that is convex downward so as to be continuous with the peripheral portions of the left and right plate portions 26 and 27.
[0057]
Now, the right plate portion 26 is provided with a right opening 30 penetrating in the front-rear direction. The right opening 30 occupies a considerable area with respect to the right plate 26, and has a shape substantially the same as that of the right plate 26. A right translucent panel 31 having a substantially similar shape to the right opening 30 is attached to the right opening 30. The right translucent panel 31 has a multilayer structure in which a front panel 32, a rear panel 33, and a protection panel 34 having substantially the same shape are overlapped. The order of superposition is such that the protection panel 34, the front panel 32, and the rear panel 33 are arranged from the front. In the present embodiment, each of the panels 32, 33, and 34 is formed of a transparent or translucent resin having translucency. However, the front panel 32 and the rear panel 33 are not limited to resin, and may be made of other materials, such as glass, as long as they are members having translucency.
[0058]
As shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of linear convex portions 35 are provided on the front side (light emitting surface side) of the front panel 32 and on the back side (light incident surface side) of the rear panel 33. . In the present embodiment, each of the linear projections 35 on the front and rear panels 32 and 33 has a substantially semicircular cross section and extends along a predetermined direction. More specifically, on the front panel 32, a plurality of linear convex portions 35 extending along a slope inclined downward by 45 degrees to the left with respect to the vertical direction are arranged in rows. In the rear panel 33, a plurality of linear projections 35 extending along a slope inclined downward by 45 degrees to the right with respect to the vertical direction are arranged in a row. Therefore, in a state where the front and rear panels 32 and 33 are overlapped, the linear convex portions 35 provided on the front and rear panels 32 and 33 are substantially orthogonal to each other. The arrangement pitch of the linear projections 35 on the front and rear panels 32 and 33 is finer than the size of the LED 43 described later.
[0059]
Similarly, a left opening 37 is provided in the left plate portion 27, and a left translucent panel 38 is attached to the left opening 37. Since the configuration of the left translucent panel 38 is substantially the same as that of the right translucent panel 35, the description thereof is omitted.
[0060]
On the other hand, various illumination members are attached to the rear side of the rear base frame 23. More specifically, a right side mounting member 40 for arranging an electric decoration member is attached to the back side of the right plate portion 26. The right side mounting member 40 has a locking plate 41 to which the electric decoration member is locked, and a plurality of pillars 42 projecting forward from the locking plate 41. The right-side mounting member 40 is fixed by a predetermined fixing means in a state where the tip of each pillar 42 abuts against the back surface of the right plate 26. Therefore, the decorative member is arranged at a predetermined distance from the right translucent panel 31. In the present embodiment, a right-side LED board 44 having a plurality of LEDs 43 is attached to the front side of the locking plate 41 as an electric decoration member.
[0061]
On the other hand, the left side LED board 45 is similarly attached to the back side of the left plate portion 27 via the left side mounting member 46. Accordingly, the left LED board 45 is also arranged at a predetermined distance from the left translucent panel 38.
[0062]
Further, an upper right side LED board 47 is attached via a right upper mounting member 48 at a rear position above the right peripheral portion of the upper plate portion 25 and the upper peripheral portion of the right plate portion 26. The upper right mounting member 48 also has a locking plate 50 and a plurality of columns 49, and the tip of each column 49 is fixed to the back surface of the upper plate 25 or the right plate 26 in a contact state. I have. The locking plate 50 of the upper right mounting member 48 is disposed so as to be substantially flush with the locking plate 41 of the right mounting member 40. Accordingly, the position of the upper right LED board 47 and the position of the right LED board 44 are substantially the same in the front-rear direction.
[0063]
The front base frame 22 is provided with a fitting portion 51 that fits into the opening of the gaming board 5 at a lower portion thereof, and an upper beam portion 52 that is connected to the fitting portion 51 at an upper portion thereof. The fitting portion 51 is formed along the right peripheral portion of the right plate portion 26, the left peripheral portion of the left plate portion 27, and the lower peripheral portion of the lower plate portion 28, and has a substantially U-shape. A plurality of flange portions 53 disposed on the game board 5 are formed around the fitting portion 51 and the upper beam portion 52.
[0064]
The upper beam portion 52 has both sides extending substantially upward from both left and right ends of the fitting portion 51, and has a substantially arc shape having a central portion projecting upward. On the front side of the upper beam 52, a ceiling 54 projecting forward is provided in almost the entire area of the upper beam 52. An opening 55 through which the game balls B can pass is formed at the top of the ceiling 54.
[0065]
A hanging portion 57 extending inward is provided on the left side of the upper beam portion 52. The lower peripheral portion of the hanging portion 57 extends rightward from the vicinity of the left end of the upper beam 52, gradually curves upward toward the right, and gradually tilts toward the right. Has a shape that is gently curved so as to be substantially horizontal and diagonally lower right, and its right end reaches a position slightly above the lower position of the right end of the opening 55. The right peripheral edge of the hanging portion 57 extending downward from the vicinity of the right end of the opening 55 is inclined obliquely downward to the right from a predetermined position toward the right end of the lower peripheral edge.
[0066]
Various accessories are attached to the front side of the hanging portion 57, and a drive mechanism for driving the accessory is provided on the back side. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, a mounting recess 60 is formed on the back side of the hanging portion 57. A drive transmission member 61 is slidably mounted in the mounting recess 60 in the left-right direction. The drive transmission member 61 includes a vertical portion 62 extending in the vertical direction, a left operating portion 63 extending in the sliding direction to the left (right side in FIG. 6) from the lower end of the vertical portion 62, A right operating portion 64 extending rightward from the upper end in the sliding direction.
[0067]
The longitudinal axis portion 62 is provided with a vertically elongated hole 65 that penetrates in the front-rear direction and is long in the vertical direction. The left operating portion 63 and the right operating portion 64 are respectively formed with a left long hole 66 and a right long hole 67 that penetrate in the front-back direction and are long in the sliding direction. Bosses 69, 70 protruding from the back side of the hanging portion 57 are inserted into the elongated holes 66, 67, respectively.
[0068]
The hanging portion 57 is formed with a substantially arc-shaped left arc-shaped long hole 71 and a right arc-shaped long hole 72 that penetrate in the front-rear direction on the left side of the boss 69 and the right side of the boss 70, respectively, and are long in the sliding direction. Each of the arc-shaped long holes 71 and 72 has an arc shape that is convex downward.
[0069]
A left end slot 73 and a right end slot 74 which penetrate in the front-rear direction and are long in the vertical direction are formed at the distal ends of the left operation part 63 and the right operation part 64 so as to correspond to the arc-shaped long holes 71 and 72, respectively. .
[0070]
A mounting cover 75 that covers the mounting recess 60 and prevents the drive transmission member 61 from dropping is attached to the back side of the hanging portion 57 (see FIG. 2 and the like). The mounting cover 75 is formed with a substantially circular opening 75a penetrating in the front-rear direction corresponding to the position of the vertical axis portion 65.
[0071]
A motor 76 is attached to the rear side of the mounting cover 75 behind the opening 75a. A disk 77 inserted into the opening 75a is attached to the tip of the rotation shaft of the motor 76. On the front side of the disk 77, a bar-shaped convex portion 78 is provided which protrudes forward at a position off the axis of rotation of the motor 76. The rod-shaped convex portion 78 is inserted into the elongated hole 65.
[0072]
On the other hand, a plurality of thin decorative panels 80 are attached to the front side of the hanging portion 57, and a plurality of accessories having a spacecraft motif are attached to the front side. A large spacecraft role 81 and a medium spacecraft role 82 are rotatably supported at positions corresponding to the left circular arc slot 71 and the right circular slot 72, respectively. Each decorative panel 80 has a not-shown hole corresponding to the left arc-shaped long hole 71 and the right arc-shaped long hole 72. Further, a small spacecraft role 83 is attached to the right side of the medium spacecraft role 82. A transparent or translucent accessory cover 85 is attached to the front side of the hanging portion 57. The accessory cover 85 has substantially the same shape as the hanging portion 57 and has a concave cross section, and the right wall portion 86 is inclined along the right peripheral edge of the hanging portion 57.
[0073]
Here, components related to the large spacecraft role 81 and the medium spacecraft role 82 will be described in detail. Shaft holes 87 and 88 penetrating in the front-rear direction are formed in the upper portions of the large spacecraft role 81 and the medium spacecraft role 82, respectively. Shaft rods 89, 90 are inserted into the shaft holes 87, 88, respectively. A pair of bearings 91 and 92 for receiving the shaft rod 89 and a pair of bearings 93 and 94 for receiving the shaft 90 are formed on the front side of the hanging part 57 and the back side of the accessory cover 85 so as to face each other. Have been.
[0074]
On the back side of the large spacecraft role 81 and the medium spacecraft role 82, a rod-like shape is formed below the shaft holes 87 and 88 so as to correspond to the positions of the left circular arc slot 71 and the right circular slot 72, respectively. The operating elements 95 and 96 are formed to project rearward. The operating elements 95 and 96 are inserted into the left end long hole 73 and the right end long hole 74 via the left arc long hole 71 and the right arc long hole 72, respectively.
[0075]
When the motor 76 rotates based on the above configuration, the rotation is transmitted to the drive transmission member 61 via the disc 77, and the drive transmission member 61 reciprocates in the left-right direction. Then, the reciprocating operation of the drive transmission member 61 is transmitted to the large spacecraft role 81 and the medium spacecraft role 82 via the operators 95 and 96. The large spacecraft role 81 and the medium spacecraft role 82 reciprocate around the shafts 89 and 90.
[0076]
A notification display unit 100 is attached to a lower part of the hanging part 57 at a substantially central portion in the left-right direction of the front base frame 22. The notification display unit 100 includes a base 101 fixed to the hanging part 57, a translucent lens 102 attached to the front side of the base 101, a covering unit 103 covering the front side of the translucent lens 102, A notification LED board 104 attached to the back side of 101.
[0077]
The notification LED board 104 is provided with a plurality of LEDs 105. A plurality of holes 106 corresponding to each LED 105 are formed in the base 101, and a plurality of pictures corresponding to each LED 105 are formed on the front side of the translucent lens 102. In the covering portion 103, a pattern hole 107 having substantially the same shape as each of the patterns is formed.
[0078]
On the right side of the hanging portion 57, a top plate portion 110 is provided extending from the right end of the fitting portion 51 along the upper peripheral edge of the right plate portion 26. The tip of the top plate 110 is connected to the right end of the hanging portion 57. A monitoring hole 112 penetrating in the vertical direction is formed at a substantially central portion of the top plate 110. As a result, a long window 113 is formed on the right side of the hanging portion 57. The long window 113 is located in front of the upper right LED board 47.
[0079]
An upper right translucent panel 115 having substantially the same shape as the long window portion 113 is attached to the long window portion 113. Note that the configuration of the upper right translucent panel 115 is substantially the same as that of the right translucent panel 31 and the left translucent panel 38, and thus the description thereof is omitted.
[0080]
On the right side of the front base frame 22, a transparent or translucent lens cover 117 having translucency (internal visibility) so as to cover the front sides of the right translucent panel 31 and the upper right translucent panel 115 is provided. Has been attached. The lens cover 117 constitutes the flow path cover in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, the game ball B passing through the opening 55 is guided to the lower part of the center frame 21 by the lens cover 117 and the space surrounded by the right translucent panel 31 and the upper right translucent panel 115. A ball guide channel is formed.
[0081]
The lens cover 117 has, on its front surface, a right lens portion 118 curved along the right inner side of the front base frame 22, a middle lens portion 119 formed along the left side of the right lens portion 118, And a left lens part 120 formed along the left side of the middle lens part 119. Portions of the lens sections 118, 119, and 120 along the ball guide flow path constitute variable visual recognition means in the present embodiment.
[0082]
Each of the lens portions 118, 119, and 120 has an upper end portion that reaches the ceiling portion 54, and the width in the left-right direction tapers downward. The lower ends of the right lens unit 118 and the middle lens unit 119 reach the vicinity of the lower right end of the window frame 24, and the lower end of the left lens unit 120 is slightly higher than the lower ends of the right middle lens units 118 and 119. It is located in.
[0083]
Each of the lens portions 118, 119, and 120 is a convex lens having a convex cross-sectional shape with respect to the longitudinal direction, and is configured such that the curvature of the surface of the convex lens decreases as it goes downward (FIG. 7 (a) to (c)). Note that each of the lens portions 118, 119, and 120 may include a substantially planar portion in which the curvature of the surface of the convex lens is almost nil. In this case, the gaming ball B visually recognized through the portion is visually recognized to be substantially the actual size.
[0084]
In addition, each of the lens portions 118, 119, and 120 is gently curved in the front-rear direction such that the front portion thereof is positioned more rearward as it goes downward. The front part near the upper end of each lens part 118, 119, 120 is located near the front end of the ceiling part 54. The lower ends of the right lens unit 118 and the middle lens unit 119 are located at substantially the center in the front-rear direction of the window frame unit 24, and the lower end of the left lens unit 120 is located near the front surface of the right plate unit 26. .
[0085]
On the left side of the left lens portion 120, a left side wall portion 121 extending rearward from the left side portion is provided. A plurality of linear projections 122 extending in the front-rear direction are formed on the outer surface of the left side wall 121 in a row.
[0086]
The left side wall portion 121 has a portion above the right end portion (the top plate portion 110) of the hanging portion 57 cut out according to the shape of the hanging portion 57 and abuts on the hanging portion 57, and a portion below the right side portion is the right side. It is in contact with the plate portion 26.
[0087]
A step is formed between the right part of the left lens part 120 and the left part of the middle lens part 119, and the middle lens part 119 is located further forward. An intermediate wall portion 123 is formed in the step portion.
[0088]
Similarly, a step is formed on the right side of the middle lens section 119 and the left side of the right lens section 118, and the right lens section 118 is located further forward. A right wall portion 124 is formed in the step portion. Further, a plurality of linear convex portions 122 are formed on the outer surfaces of the middle right side wall portions 123 and 124, similarly to the left side wall portion 121. Note that the lower end portion of the middle wall portion 123 is cut out so that the game ball B can pass therethrough.
[0089]
At the upper end of the left lens section 120, a covering section 125 is provided to cover a gap on the front side between the ceiling section 54 and the accessory cover 85.
[0090]
On the back side of the lens cover 117, a right rib 126 that partitions the right lens portion 118 and the middle lens portion 119, and a left rib 127 that partitions the middle lens portion 119 and the left lens portion 120 are provided. As a result, a right groove 128, a middle groove 129, and a left groove 130 through which the game ball B can pass are formed on the lens cover 117 on the rear side of the right lens part 118, the middle lens part 119, and the left lens part 120, respectively. You.
[0091]
The right rib 126 and the left rib 127 are cut off at the upper part of the top plate 110 and abut on the upper right translucent panel 115, and a part of the lower part is the right translucent panel 31 (protective panel 34). Is in contact with
[0092]
The entire lower region is cut out from a substantially central portion in the longitudinal direction of the right rib 126, so that the game ball B can pass between the right groove portion 128 and the middle groove portion 129. Further, a portion near the lower end of the left rib 127 is cut out, so that the game ball B can pass between the middle groove 129 and the left groove 130.
[0093]
On the other hand, on the front side of the protection panel 34, a guide rib 133 and a regulating rib 134 are provided corresponding to the cutout portions of the right rib 126 and the left rib 127. The guide rib 133 and the regulating rib 134 constitute a guide unit in the present embodiment. The guide rib 133 is formed so as to descend to the right while changing its inclination angle stepwise so that the game ball B can be guided from the left groove portion 130 to the middle groove portion 129. The restriction rib 134 is formed along the up and down direction so as to restrict the rightward movement of the game ball B guided by the guidance rib 133.
[0094]
With the above configuration, the game ball B that has passed through the opening 55 flows down rightward along the right side wall 86 of the accessory cover 85 and is guided into the left groove 130. Here, the player can visually recognize, via the left lens unit 120, the game ball B in the visual recognition mode that is larger than the actual size. Then, the game ball B flows down along the left groove portion 130, and the player visually recognizes that the game ball B gradually decreases while flowing down. Subsequently, the game ball B is guided to the middle groove 129 by the guiding rib 133 and the regulating rib 134. Then, the game ball B flows down along the right groove portion 128 or the middle groove portion 129, and to the player, the game ball B gradually flows down through the right lens portion 118 or the middle lens portion 119 to the full size. It is visually perceived to return. Eventually, the game ball B is discharged from the cutout portion of the middle side wall portion 123 to a stage portion 145 as a ball rolling portion described later. Therefore, while the game ball B passes through the ball guide channel, the visual recognition mode is changed from a mode that looks larger than the actual size to a mode that looks almost the full size, and returns to the full size. In this state, the game ball B is visually recognized by the player so as to be led out of the ball guide channel. In other words, each of the lens portions 118, 119, and 120 is visually recognized by the player such that the visual state of the game ball B changes from a large change degree to a small change state as the game ball B passes. It can be said that it is configured as follows.
[0095]
On the other hand, a decorative cover 138 is attached to the front side of the left plate portion 27 (left translucent panel 38) of the rear base frame 22. The decorative cover 138 is substantially symmetrical with the lower part of the lens cover 117.
[0096]
A recess 140 is formed in the lower part of the fitting part 51 in accordance with the shape of the lower peripheral edge of the lower plate part 28. A guide path 141 that can guide the game ball B toward the operation chucker 13 is formed at a substantially central portion in the left-right direction of the concave portion 140. The guide path 141 is configured such that the rear portion has a width of one game ball B and the front portion has a width of a plurality of game balls B. An opening 142 through which the game ball B can pass is formed at the front end of the taxiway 141.
[0097]
A stage member 145 that covers the recess 140 is attached to a lower portion of the fitting portion 51. The stage part 145 is inclined downward from the left and right ends to the center along the left and right direction, and is further inclined upward toward the center, and the center part in the left and right direction is formed in a convex shape. An inclined portion 146 that is inclined rearward is formed at the center (top portion) in the left-right direction. On the other hand, a guiding groove 147 is formed in the rear base frame 23 at a substantially central portion in the left-right direction of the window frame portion 24 and the lower plate portion 28 so as to correspond to the inclined portion 146. The guide groove 147 communicates with the rear of the guide path 141.
[0098]
With the above configuration, for example, the game ball B discharged from the ball guide flow path rolls on the stage member 145. Some game balls B are guided toward the operation chucker 13 through the inclined portion 146, the guide groove 147, and the guide path 141.
[0099]
As described in detail above, since the player visually recognizes the game ball B passing through the ball guide passage while changing the visual recognition mode, the player simply recognizes the game ball B passing through the ball guide passage. In comparison with the case where the game ball is easily played, it becomes easier to draw the player's attention, and the player can easily recognize that the game ball B is passing through the ball guide channel. As a result, by allowing the player to visually recognize the game ball B passing while changing the visual recognition mode, it is possible to dramatically improve the interest for the player.
[0100]
Each of the lens portions 118, 119, and 120 has a shape that is gently curved so that the front portion thereof is positioned more rearward as it goes downward. That is, at least in a portion corresponding to the front side of the right translucent panel 31, the lens units 118, 119, and 120 are configured so that the distance from the right translucent panel 31 becomes shorter as it goes downward. Therefore, when the game ball B flows down along the right translucent panel 31, the distance between the game ball B and each of the lens portions 118, 119, and 120 becomes shorter as the distance goes downward. Therefore, the size of the game ball B and the focal point of each of the lens units 118, 119, and 120 change from a size larger than the actual size to a smaller size (the size of the actual size). In addition, the player can visually recognize the game ball B while changing the visual recognition mode. Then, in a state where the visual recognition mode of the game ball B has returned to the size of the actual size, the game ball B is visually recognized by the player so as to be led out from the ball guide channel. In this way, the difference in the visual recognition mode of the game balls B inside and outside the ball guide flow path is reduced, so that the player can be prevented from feeling uncomfortable as much as possible.
[0101]
Further, in each of the lens portions 118, 119, and 120, the curvature of the surface of the convex lens decreases as going downward. Thereby, the change in the visual recognition mode becomes more remarkable.
[0102]
With the configuration of the ball guide channel, it is possible to notify the player that the game ball B is guided to the stage section 145, and the expectation of the player who is looking forward to the behavior of the game ball B on the stage section 145 is expected. The feeling can be enhanced.
[0103]
Note that the present invention is not limited to the contents described in the above-described embodiment, and may be implemented as follows, for example.
[0104]
(A) In the above embodiment, the center frame 21 is provided with the ball guide channel. The configuration is not limited to this, and the ball guide channel may be provided in another portion on the game board 5 surface.
[0105]
(B) In the above embodiment, the change in the visual recognition mode of the game ball B by each of the lens units 118, 119, and 120 is a change from a mode that looks larger than the real product to a mode that looks real size. Is not limited to this, and may be any change in the visual recognition mode. In addition, as the game ball B passes, the visual recognition mode of the game ball B is changed from a large change degree to a small change degree so that the player can visually recognize the change. The configuration may be different from the mode. For example, instead of or in addition to the change in the visual appearance of the size of the game ball B, the visual appearance of the shape may be changed (for example, the degree of distortion of the visual appearance may be changed). Alternatively, the configuration of each of the lens units 118, 119, and 120 is changed, and the configuration is such that the size of the game ball B changes from a viewing mode in which the size looks smaller than the real product to a viewing mode in which the size is substantially the same size as the real size. Is also good.
[0106]
(C) Each of the lens units 118, 119 and 120 may be a concave lens instead of a convex lens.
[0107]
(D) In the above embodiment, each of the lens portions 118, 119, and 120 is gently curved so that the front surface portion thereof is positioned more rearward as it goes downward, and each of the lens portions 118, 119, and 120 is formed. The curvature of the surface of the convex lens becomes smaller as it goes downward. The present invention is not limited to this. Each of the lens portions 118, 119, and 120 may have a configuration in which the curvature of the surface of the convex lens is constant and only the positional relationship in the front-rear direction changes along the longitudinal direction. The configuration may be such that the positional relationship in the front-rear direction is constant and the curvature of the surface of the convex lens changes along the longitudinal direction.
[0108]
(E) In the above embodiment, each of the lens portions 118, 119, and 120 is tapered downward, but is not limited to this, and may have a constant width along its longitudinal direction. The configuration may be such that the width increases as it goes downward. However, if the visual appearance of the game ball B is to be changed from a large one to a small one, the configuration in which the game ball B is tapered downward as described above is a limit at which the game ball B can be enlarged. The width is more preferable because the width gradually decreases toward the downstream portion. For example, in the case where the visual recognition mode of the game ball B is configured to be expanded to the full width of the lens unit 118 and the like so as not to keep the prototype, the visual recognition of the game ball B is performed in response to the change in the width of the lens unit 118 and the like. Aspects also vary. That is, the visual recognition mode becomes smaller corresponding to the taper.
[0109]
(F) In the above embodiment, the lens cover 117 has the plurality of lens portions 118, 119, and 120, and the ball guide flow path is in a range where the plurality of lens portions 118, 119, and 120 are formed. It is formed straddling. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a lens cover having a lens portion provided along the entire section or substantially the entire section of the predetermined ball guide flow path may be employed. In this way, the movement of the game ball B can be visually recognized by the player for a longer section, and the continuously changing visual recognition mode can be visually recognized by the player, thereby further improving the interest. be able to.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a front view showing a pachinko machine according to one embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a center frame.
FIG. 3 is a front exploded perspective view showing a center frame.
FIG. 4 is a rear exploded perspective view showing a center frame.
FIG. 5 is a view showing a linear convex portion.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a drive transmission member and the like.
7A is a partial sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 1, FIG. 7B is a partial sectional view taken along line BB, and FIG. 7C is a partial sectional view taken along line CC.
[Explanation of symbols]
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Pachinko machine as a game machine, 5 ... Game board, 13 ... Operation chucker, 14 ... Variable display device, 20 ... Liquid crystal display, 21 ... Center frame, 22 ... Front base frame, 23 ... Rear base frame, 31 ... Right translucent panel, 115: upper right translucent panel, 117: lens cover forming a flow path cover, 118: right lens part forming variable visual recognition means, 119 ... middle lens part forming variable visual recognition means, 120: variable Left lens part, 121 ... left wall part, 123 ... middle wall part, 124 ... right wall part, 126 ... right rib, 127 ... left rib, 128 ... right groove part, 129 ... middle groove part, 130 ... left Grooves, 133: guiding ribs forming guiding means, 134: regulating ribs forming path changing means, 145: stage part forming ball rolling parts, B: game balls.

Claims (1)

Firing means for firing a game ball;
A game board having a predetermined game area in which the launched game balls are guided,
In the game area, a game machine having a ball guide flow path capable of guiding a game ball to a predetermined position,
In at least one section of the ball guide flow path, at least one variable that allows a player to visually recognize a game ball passing through the one section while changing at least one of the shape and size of the viewing mode. A gaming machine comprising visual recognition means.

Images